How to Plan a Wedding in Sri Lanka

Ranked among Asia's top destination wedding hubs, Sri Lanka offers couples the chance to say "I Do" in some of the most breathtaking locations in the world. Home to white, sandy beaches, five-star resorts and mangrove forests, the sheer variety of locations available makes hosting a wedding on the island an exciting prospect for the affianced. Here are some practical tips on how to plan the ultimate wedding ceremony on the Emerald isle.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to planning the most important event in a couple's life, one cannot take chances with the timing. This is especially true when hosting a celebration on a tropical island such as Sri Lanka as the weather needs to be perfect regardless of whether one is planning to have an outdoor event or an indoor party. The best time to tie the knot in Sri Lanka also coincides with the peak tourist season from December to April as this is when sunny skies prevail over the island. Avoid organising weddings between May and October as this is when the monsoon rains dominate the local weather reports. Timing is also crucial for anyone who's organising a destination wedding overseas as invites also need to be sent as soon as a date has been selected. This is so your guests can have plenty of time to secure visa, buy airline tickets, and make other arrangements to attend the nuptials.

Location, Location, Location

The stunning beach capitals on the island are often the most sought after venues for couples as these oceanfront locations provide dramatic backdrops for their big event. Aitken Spence Hotels and countless others often have both garden and beachfront areas dedicated for weddings due to the popularity of beach weddings. But a wedding in Sri Lanka need not necessarily be held on the beach as there are luxurious ballrooms and event spaces even in resort hubs on the coast and especially in the capital Colombo. The hills of Nuwara Eliya and Kandy have also coveted wedding locations thanks to the mountains and tea estates that dot these regions.

Secure Vendors

The next step in the planning process is finding the right service providers for your big day and Sri Lankan online wedding resources can be invaluable in this regard. From securing the right caterer, band, florist and decorator to even purchasing wedding rings from local jewellers, online wedding directories based in Sri Lanka can help couples narrow down their choices. It is crucial to make a phone call or email the vendors when you have found your match and to reserve their services with a down payment as most of the best photographers, videographers, caterers and florists in Sri Lanka can be difficult to secure.

Explore Attire Options

One of the true advantages of a destination wedding is the ability to make your own rules with regards to clothing options as a ball gown and a tuxedo need not be your only two choices. Couples can go minimalist for a beach wedding and find comfortably classy attire that's perfect for the outdoors or they can explore different cultures and dress traditional Sri Lankan or Indian bridal attire.

Wedding Packages Vs Wedding Planners

Most resorts and hotels in Sri Lanka will have curated wedding packages that not only include the cost of the wedding clothing but also food and beverages as well as entertainment. Some will even include a brief honeymoon at the same location or affiliate hotel. Couples on a budget may find this option attractive as it saves one the trouble of finding vendors but those who wish to enjoy a more personalised event may find that a local wedding planner will be better equipped to bring their desires to life.