Can’t get to the dream location? Bring the location to you! An absolutely incredible group of vendors has teamed up to show you how to plan a destination wedding in your own backyard! Really, any close-to-home venue would work well to set the stage for your at-home travel moment. For this shoot, vendors chose a charming beach in Greatstone, Kent, UK. However, if you follow their lead with gorgeous details, intentional styling, fun foods and decor, you can bring those destination vibes anywhere! The massive team of pros included host, Nicola Dixon Photography, coordinator, LW Events, stylists Blonde Army and The Collect Co, and assistant Dandelion Celebrations. Shoot photographer Lynn Shapiro shares:
We wanted to provide inspiration for destination weddings in a local setting. We couldn’t go to Tulum, so we brought Tulum to the the South Coast of England. Our vision was editorial lifestyle on the beach, with luxe, storytelling, destination vibes and ceremony and reception inspiration. We were thrilled to use a real couple as our model couple, and to showcase lots of gorgeous dreamy inspiration in both decor and dresses.
Are you ready to dream up and design your own at-home destination style wedding? Let’s go!
Set the Stage
A first impression is always important. Give guests a feel for the wedding theme, style and color palette with an invitation suite like this beauty from Smith and the Magpie.
Pick the perfect location close to home that has the destination vibes you’re looking for. Vendors wanted a Tulum feel for the day, so they chose a local beach. Some other ideas? For a Parisian vibe, look for a chic cafe or elegant ballroom. For Italian vibes, look for a cozy vineyard or sweeping backyard field. You can transform any blank slate space with destination-inspired decor.
Models got their sparkle on with gorgeous Tilly Thomas Lux jewelry for the day.
Decorate Destination Style
Sass Flower absolutely nailed the muted, Tropical vibes with this incredible floral arch! Seriously looks like it could be plucked from the shores of Tulum! When you plan a destination wedding at home, make sure to think about colors and textures that can transport your guests to your desired locale.
Plan a Destination Wedding At Home
When it comes to an at-home destination wedding, attire is key! Think about the dream dress you’d wear abroad and go. for. it!! This bohemian, Grace Loves Lace gown is the perfect mix of beachy and stylish!
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Emily Hawkes Hair and Amy George Makeup combined their talents to complete the beachy babe bridal look!
Serve the Right Food
Is your dream destination famous for a certain food or drink? You better be sure to serve it up for your reception guests! Taste can definitely transport you to another time and place!
This beautiful bride rocked a second Alena Leena at The White Closet dress for the reception. If you’re looking for your own destination bridal gown, be sure to see more Beach Wedding Dresses for Every Bridal Style.
Plan a Destination Wedding in the Backyard
Can’t find the perfect local venue with the destination vibes you’re looking for? Transform your own backyard into an oasis! Vendors used Mia Sylvia linens to create a beautiful haven at home!
Natural fibers and textures definitely add to the beachy Tulum aesthetic. Think about textures and patterns associated with your dream location and bring those into your rentals.
Never let travel restrictions, logistics or funds stop you from hosting the wedding of your dreams! A big thank you to this awesome vendor team for showing exactly how to plan a destination wedding at home. We can’t wait to see couples take this idea and run with it!
photography: Lynn Shapiro Photography // venue name: Greatstone, England, UK // florals: Sass Flower // wedding dress: Grace Loves Lace // hair stylist: Emily Hawkes // makeup artist: Amy George Makeup // paper goods: Smith and the Magpie // linen rentals: Mia Sylvia // models: Francesca Cosh and Rob Green // second dress: Alena Leena at The White Closet // workshop host: Nicola Dixon // attendee coordinator : LW Events // lead stylist + hired decor : Blonde Army // assistant stylist + hired decor : The Collect Co // setup assistant : Dandelion Celebrations // jewelery: Tilly Thomas Lux
