Hire from the start! A mistake couples make is booking a venue without a planners support, later to find out it’s not compatible or the best choice & they are locked in. You don’t have to hire local to that destination, but you do need one with destination experience particularly in that area. Customs, etiquette, etc are important to know. Price depends on location. I’d say start at 15% of what you think your budget is. (We don’t expect you to get it right, that’s our job). Best of luck! ♥️

A wedding planner MUST fit in your budget even if it ends up just being a day of coordinator. Destination brides should look into at least 6-12 month wedding coordinator but ideally 12 months. I’m a Hawaii wedding coordinator prince ranging from $2500-$5k depending on guest count, venue, and coordination start date. I am on the mid-lower range as far as other coordinator rates in Hawaii. Hope that helps 😊

Aww thanks @natalie.blooms for the shoutout! @lindseycarlene I would love to chat with you and let you ask any and all wedding planning questions. I offer free consultations and have some amazing destination planning package deals for 2025 & 2026 brides! My website is www.kristinesmithdesigns.com and there’s a button on the homepage to book a consultation.