How to Plan a Maldives Destination Wedding

As the go-to location for destination weddings in Asia, it's difficult to conjure up a more magical venue for a celebration of love. Newly engaged couples looking to host the wedding of their dreams in the Maldives, however, will find that there are just as many challenges to executing the perfect event as there are advantages to picking such a pristine location. From timing the nuptials to finding local service providers, here are some guidelines for planning a beautiful wedding in the country.

Wedding Season Vs Travel Season

Couples who wish to enjoy their big day in the Maldives must first choose the right time of year for the ceremony. Although the island nation is a charming holiday hotspot for most of the year, there are periods of rain and inclement weather that must be avoided in favour of clearer days. As a rule of thumb, the best time to host a wedding in the Maldives also coincides with the archipelago's peak travel season. Indeed, the months between December and March are when sunny skies are guaranteed in the Maldives so why not plan your wedding during such a period?

Finding the Perfect Venue

While couples can organize indoor, outdoor, and beach weddings in the Maldives, it is important to narrow down the theme before searching for resorts or beaches online.  Those on the lookout for a ballroom or an indoor space suitable for a large gathering will find that Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and other resorts offer event venues that fit the bill. Couples who want to organize a beach wedding, on the other hand, will need to choose a beach from among the countless islands in the Maldives. Some aspects to look out for when searching for an idyllic beach location are whether the area provides privacy for an intimate ceremony and if there's room to set up a marquee in case the weather does not hold. The Maldives also offers couples the chance to say "I Do" in exotic locations such as inside its underwater chapel, in underwater restaurants and even on a scuba diving expedition.

Wedding Packages

Newly affianced couples will find that most resorts in the Maldives also offer wedding packages that include perks such as wedding attire, a master of ceremonies and a buffet meal. These all-inclusive wedding packages are suitable for couples in a hurry or those who do not particularly care to personalize their big day with bespoke elements. Overall, tying the knot with a resort package is far more affordable than organizing a ceremony that's personally meaningful so it is really a matter of preference and your wedding priorities.

Secure Local Wedding Vendors

Some resort bases in the Maldives will be able to provide services other than catering and decor while others may only be able to provide the event space and not much else. This is why couples must look into local wedding vendors including beauticians, photographers, bands, musicians and videographers. As with everything, reading recent reviews online is crucial to picking the right vendor for your nuptials as not all wedding vendors in the Maldives are equally efficient or reliable.

Wedding Outfits

Whether you intend to throw a grand party indoors or want to take your vows with the ocean waves crashing in the foreground, choosing wedding attire in the Maldives can be tricky. Although couples can go native by selecting Maldivian wedding attire, those who opt for Western-style clothing options should keep the country's tropical climate in mind. This means silk, tulle and similarly humid fabrics are out and that breezy and airy materials must be used for your wedding looks.

Send Invites in Advance

After deciding on your guest list, it is crucial to send out the invitations at least a month or two ahead of time. This is due to the fact that your guests must make travel arrangements to attend a wedding in a foreign country. Advanced notice will also let those who are unable to attend RSVP weeks ahead so you can invite other friends or family members instead.