Once everyone has arrived or is enroute to the destination,
they are (somewhat) the couple's responsibility. This does not mean that the
guests cannot fend for themselves and do things they enjoy but it is only
courteous to make sure everyone is comfortable. And since the bride and groom
may be busy, the best man and maid of honor can help by taking care of some or
all of these duties.
Guests should be met at the airport. Any guests that were not on the same
flight as the couple should be met at the airport when their plane arrives and
be taken to the resort or hotel. Obtaining a taxi or some form of transportation
can be daunting in a foreign country. Add to the unknown, some drivers take
advantage of tourists so it is best to have someone at the airport who has
already made the travel arrangements to the location.
An Itinerary should be created and handed out to all guests. The schedule
will let the guests know what events will take place over the course of the
trip. It allows them to prepare their clothing and make arrangements to sightsee.
Also, if the couple has booked specific tours for everyone to take as a family,
then these will be added to the itinerary in addition to the wedding specific
events. When you're having a beach wedding, make sure to plan in some beach time! People bring their beachwear
and bikinis to use them! ;-)
Welcome Favors are appropriate. Most people find little tokens of
kindness enjoyable. A treat may be left at the check-in counter or something may
be waiting in the room for the guests. For example, the couple might have
personalized key fobs made to remember their wedding day left at the counter to
be given to the guests to hold their hotel room keys. Another nice favor is a
fruit basket with local treats. The bride and groom might also make arrangements
with the location in advance for souvenirs of a local nature to be given to the
guests. Just remember that whatever you give must be small enough to come home
easily or must be edible or consumable.
Include Everyone. This is where a destination wedding is different than a
local wedding. At home, a couple may have a large guest list but at a
destination wedding, there will more than likely be only a few people. Everyone
should feel welcome enough to attend all events together. It is not necessary to
force guests to participate with the crowd but everyone should know that they
are invited to eat at the same time and have drinks and mingle. Destination
weddings tend to be more personal as everyone does many things as a group.
Do Not Make Your Guests feel Awkward about Money. Food and non-alcoholic
beverages should be supplied by the couple. Many locations will offer
all-inclusive arrangements to the couple to make this easier. The location may
automatically have special packages that include a choice of food as well drinks
and some alcohol. In any case, make sure the staff and guests are clear that you
are responsible for certain things. Of course, if guests choose to eat at
outside restaurants or go places on their own, the bride and groom are not
responsible for outings.