How to Plan a Destination Wedding Without the Stress

A destination wedding sounds like a dream - beautiful location, mini holiday vibes, and an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. But let’s be real: it can also feel a little overwhelming at first.

The good news? With the right approach (and the right people around you), planning a destination wedding can actually be simple and seriously fun.

Here’s how to pull it off without the stress.

1. Choose a Venue That Does the Heavy Lifting

The best thing you can do for a stress-free destination wedding? Pick a venue that handles a lot for you.

Think packages, coordination support, recommended vendors, accommodation guidance, styling help - you want a venue that’s used to hosting couples from out of town and can take the guesswork out of it.

At Braeside, we’ve worked with couples from all over Australia (and the world!) to bring their wedding day to life without the stress of constant travel or hundreds of back-and-forth emails.

2. Give Yourself (and Your Guests) Time

Destination weddings often require a little more planning and notice than a local one. Try to lock in your venue early and give guests at least 8-12 months' notice so they can plan leave, travel, and accommodation.

If you’re heading to the Gold Coast, share tips about where to stay, what to do in the area, and any group activities you might have planned. It makes everything feel more like a mini holiday than just a one-day event.

3. Stick With Local Vendors

Flying in vendors adds cost and complexity. Instead, choose talented locals who know the area, the venue, and the logistics like the back of their hand.

Bonus: most destination venues (like us!) have curated vendor lists based on experience, professionalism, and style - so you won’t be starting from scratch.

4. Plan a Pre-Wedding Catch-Up

For destination weddings, a welcome dinner or relaxed drinks the day before is a great way to kick off the celebrations. It gives everyone a chance to connect before the big day, especially if your guests don’t all know each other.

It also takes the pressure off the wedding day itself - you’re not rushing to greet everyone in one go!

5. Keep it Simple Where You Can

If you’re getting married away from home, lean into simplicity. Fewer moving parts = fewer chances for things to go wrong.

Focus on what matters most to you. Whether that’s stunning florals, a great photographer, or a long shared meal under the chandeliers - everything else can be scaled back.

You don’t need to over-style or over-schedule. The destination itself is part of the magic.

6. Do a Virtual Tour (or Three!)

If you can’t make it in person during the planning process, make the most of video calls and virtual walk-throughs. A good venue will happily jump on FaceTime or send you updated photos and videos of the space, styling, layout, and more.

At Braeside, we love showing couples around virtually - it helps you feel confident in your decisions, even if you’re planning from afar.

Planning Your Gold Coast Destination Wedding?

We’ve helped couples from across the country plan their dream day right here at Braeside Estate - and we’d love to do the same for you. From trusted vendors to local tips and styling support, we’re here to make the entire process as smooth and joyful as possible.

Reach out to book a tour (in person or virtual) and start planning your Gold Coast wedding today.

Images @laurenjoyphotography