Deciding on Size

A solid first step is to decide roughly how 
many guests you want to witness your vows.

A destination wedding for 20 guests is a very different event from one for 120.  The planning is also very different:  size affects what type of resort to book, how much guest-coordinating you need to do, and ultimately, the money you spend.  The information below may come in handy when it's time to finalize that guest list.  

THE INNER CIRCLE WEDDING

WHO  Up to 30 people:  just the two of you, your families, and your very closest friends.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW  A tiny gathering is by far the easiest type of destination wedding to plan.  There are fewer travel plans to keep track of, and you’ll be able to spend quality time with everyone.  If you choose this type of gathering, it is a good idea to plan a post-wedding party back home so that the rest of your friends and family can share in the celebration.

THE FRIENDS & FAMILY WEDDING

WHO  30-80 people:  friends, extended family, a few co-workers.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW  This is the most common size for a Destination Wedding.  With more than 50 guests, your wedding will truly feel like a celebration, complete with a busy dance floor and enough people to stay up late to after-party with you.  

THE EVERYONE WEDDING

WHO  80-200 people:  everyone you want to invite, including your parents’ friends, business associates and extended families.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW  Coordinating details for 80-200 guests or more is a serious enterprise, but the fun of having everyone you can imagine present at your wedding and the surrounding celebrations will more than make up for the extra work required. 

Antulang's Advice:  

While enjoying the resort before the wedding, you’re bound to make casual plans with friends and family (“if anyone wants to join us, we’re having drinks by the pool at sunset”).  Be certain to inform the resort  staff or your coordinator that you aren’t paying for everyone.  This way they can be responsible for keeping separate tabs or collecting payment from each individual, sparing you an awkward situation.

Some data was sourced from The Knot Guide to Destination Weddings.
Photos are courtesy of Antulang Beach Resort & guests.