Spring is a season of new beginnings—flowers bloom, the air warms, and romance is everywhere. It’s no wonder so many couples dream of a spring destination wedding. But while the idea is enchanting, the costs can add up quickly.
Good news: With smart planning and a few savvy choices, you can have the spring destination wedding of your dreams without blowing your budget. Here’s how to make it happen!
1. Book a Resort With an All-Inclusive Wedding Package
One of the easiest ways to save big is by choosing an all-inclusive resort wedding package. These bundles typically cover everything—venue, food, drinks, accommodations, entertainment, even a wedding coordinator—all for a flat, predictable price.
Benefits of an all-inclusive package:
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Lower overall costs
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Simplified planning
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Built-in discounts on multiple services
Drink service options to consider:
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Open Bar: Unlimited drinks, but at a higher flat cost
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Cash Bar: Guests pay for their own drinks
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Consumption Bar: Set a budget or time cap, then switch to cash bar if needed
Pro Tip: Resorts like Sandals, RIU Hotels, and Hyatt Ziva offer destination wedding packages starting under $2,000 (The Knot).
2. Combine Your Wedding and Honeymoon
Why pay for two trips when you can combine your wedding and honeymoon at one stunning location?
Advantages:
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Save on travel expenses
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Unlock exclusive resort deals
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Simplify post-wedding logistics
Look for honeymoon perks like room upgrades or spa treatments. Some top resorts offer discounted extended stays for newlyweds (Brides.com).
Pro Tip: Visit your chosen resort beforehand to ensure it offers the activities and ambiance you want for both your wedding and honeymoon.
3. Trim Your Guest List to Save More
A smaller guest list equals lower costs across the board—meals, chairs, tables, décor, and more.
How to reduce your guest list:
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Invite only close family and friends
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Host a casual reception party back home for everyone else
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Offer a livestream option for those who can’t attend (services like LoveStream make it easy)
A more intimate setting also makes your wedding more meaningful and relaxed.
4. Choose an Off-Season Date or a Weekday Wedding
Springtime is gorgeous, but peak travel weeks like Spring Break and Easter drive up resort costs. If you can be flexible, you’ll save big by choosing an off-peak date.
Money-saving date ideas:
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Book during the shoulder seasons (early March or late May)
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Hold your wedding on a weekday (Monday–Thursday)
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Host a morning or early afternoon ceremony for lower venue rates
According to WeddingWire, weekday weddings are often up to 30% cheaper than Saturday events!
5. Work With Local Vendors Instead of Bringing Your Own
Hiring local vendors saves you money on travel, lodging, and transport costs for your team.
How to find reputable local vendors:
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Ask your resort or planner for recommendations
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Search Instagram using destination-specific hashtags (e.g., #PuntaCanaWeddingPlanner)
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Check reviews on Google, Yelp, or wedding-specific sites like The Knot and WeddingWire
This not only cuts costs but also ensures your vendors are familiar with the local area, making setup and logistics much smoother.
6. Embrace DIY and Digital Options
You don’t have to DIY everything, but a few personalized touches can stretch your wedding budget further.
Affordable DIY ideas:
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Create digital wedding invitations with Canva
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Replace paper signage with a digital welcome sign
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Make your own welcome bags using local goods
Simple, elegant DIY elements can make your destination wedding feel even more special—and save you hundreds of dollars.
7. Limit Pre-Wedding Events and Extras
While it’s tempting to plan lavish rehearsal dinners, excursions, and farewell brunches, focus on quality over quantity. Instead of trying to host a full itinerary, pick one or two meaningful experiences.
Budget-friendly pre-wedding ideas:
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Welcome bonfire or beach party
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Group snorkeling adventure
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Casual brunch instead of a formal send-off
Keeping events casual saves money while still giving guests unforgettable memories.
Final Thoughts: A Dreamy Spring Destination Wedding—Without the Big Bill
With smart decisions and careful planning, you can enjoy a stunning spring destination wedding on a budget. From choosing an all-inclusive resort to trimming your guest list and using local vendors, every small decision adds up to big savings.
Remember: It’s not about how much you spend—it’s about celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic to you.
