Destination Wedding Guests - How to turn them down respectfully

Credit: Sandals Weddings (details below)


Couples usually find it difficult to decline guests for their destination wedding especially if they desire a small and intimate event, perhaps 50 persons or less. Communicating this could be difficult and it requires sensitivity, tact and clear communication. Ask your destination planner for help if you need, that's why they are there. 


Here are 8 steps on how you could respectfully handle this task. 

1. Address it early

This prevents them from feeling avoided, offended or ignored with the 'rumors' of your destination wedding. Address it as soon as possible, ideally when sending out Save-The-Dates or early in the planning process. 


2. Be clear in your communication 

While there is no need to go into too much detail, you should clearly express the reasons for your decision. This could range from budget constraints, the size of the venue or even the desire for an intimate ceremony.


3. Be personal with your communication

Communicate your decision personally, either face-to-face or through a phone conversation. This personal touch shows that you value your relationship with the guest and that you regret your position. 


4. Be sure to express your regret

Undoubtably, you truly regret that they won't be able to attend and you should communicate it by emphasizing that the decision is a difficult one, how much you value their presence and wish they could be there. 


5. Let them in on the excitement

Don't be afraid to talk about the event and highlight the plans. Share the exciting itinerary for the wedding week or weekend and express hope that you can celebrate together in another way, perhaps in a local gathering or post-wedding celebration.


6. Get them involved

If possible, suggest alternative ways for them to be involved or celebrate with you. This could include participating in pre-wedding planning and organizing activities such as researching, dress shopping, or any other activity you deem appropriate. 


7. Invite them for a destination holiday

If they express disappointment, offer information about the destination and recommend places to stay or things to do and leave an open invitation so they could choose to visit independently. Your destination wedding planner could assist with their comfort and appropriate accommodation, along with activities for them on request. You might still be able to spend quality time with them and they could even participate in some destination activities with the rest of the group.


8. Do not blame or apologize excessively

There is no need to make it sound like a burden. While it's important to express regret, avoid excessive apologies, keep a positive tone and focus on the excitement of the upcoming celebrations. Do emphasize that you value your relationship regardless of their inability to be there.


Remember, the key is to be honest and polite. Handle the situation with grace and you'd find that most guests will actually appreciate your openness. This will likely help to maintain a positive relationship even if they can't attend your special destination wedding.

Until next time, thank you for visiting our blog. If you feel like we left out something or you'd like to read about a particular topic, feel free to comment below and we'd be sure to touch on. 


About Sandals Weddings

Whether you prefer an intimate elopement or a grand affair, you deserve a little bit of luxury. Enjoy romantic private suites, pre-wedding events, wedding day and honeymoon experiences. Let's help you find the perfect destination for your perfect event. Select from the Bahamas, Barbados, Antigua, Grenada, St. Lucia, Curacao, the spanking new Sandals St. Vincent opening 2024 or one of the seven all-inclusive Sandals resorts in Jamaica. No matter your style or destination dream wedding idea, there is a Sandals all-inclusive resort that is right for you. 

xoxo

RedCarpet Honeymoons and Destination Weddings


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Certified Destination Specialists | Wedding and Event Professionals | Authorized Travel Advisors and Concierge


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