Planning a wedding is an exciting endeavour sparking questions like what will you wear? Who will you invite? And most importantly, where will it be held? Before you start sending out your save-the-dates, be sure to look over our essential list for planning the perfect destination wedding.

The Destination

There’s no doubt about it, Las Vegas has an undeniable energy: from the enchantment of the lights on The Strip at night, to the natural desert landscape and gorgeous geography beyond the shops and resorts, it’s a sight to behold and an ideal destination for a wedding. With more sunshine than almost any other state and virtually no rainy season — unlike many tropical destinations — Vegas is made for matrimonial magic. There are endless options for venues and world-class dining that is guaranteed to impress every foodie in attendance, as well as myriad activities and even the option of tacking on a luxurious honeymoon to the end of your trip. Whether you’re planning an intimate affair or inviting everyone in your address book, this city knows how to host the wedding of your dreams.

Tip: Be sure to plan at least one scouting trip ahead of time to check out venues, hotels for your guests, do a few menu tastings and meet with potential vendors.
 

The Dress

Choosing what you’ll wear on your wedding day is one of the most pleasurable decisions of planning your big day. If you’d rather not have to pack more than the essentials, consider shopping while on a scouting trip. There are countless boutiques such as Brilliant Bridal, Bridalxoxo, Couture Bride and Bowties Bridal, or break with tradition and find your perfect dress off the rack at one of the many luxury brand stores in The Shops at Crystals or The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. For those who’ve already found their dress, be sure to invest in a reliable method of transporting it; the garment bag it came in may not be ideal for long-distance travel. Invest in a more durable option and ask the flight attendants if there’s space to hang it up onboard, or opt for a combination travel-storage box, perfectly sized for overhead bins.

Tip: Rentals aren’t just for tuxes anymore, you can easily rent a wedding dress (and have it tailored) and then simply enjoy the beautiful photos and memories without having to store it forever.
 

The Guestlist

Before you ask anyone to stand up with you on your big day, inform them of your choice of a destination wedding. Your friends and family may not be able to travel for your wedding due to financial reasons, work or family commitments, or even limits on their allotted vacation time—although they’re more likely to RSVP “yes” if your wedding is being held in sunny Las Vegas.

Tip: Since your nearest and dearest are making the journey, be sure to plan a few additional (optional) group activities. Book tickets for WOW: World of Wonder, the internationally acclaimed, family-friendly spectacular at Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino. Find time to explore the stunning street art throughout Downtown Las Vegas, and make a brunch reservation at Border Grill so everyone can tuck into Yucatan eggs Benedict or sweet cinnamon roll pancakes (and maybe a few morning-after mimosas) to refuel post-celebration.

The Venue

Hotels offer so many amazing options for hosting a unique wedding ceremony and a fabulous reception. There are iconic venues like Paris Las Vegas, vintage gems like Golden Nugget, sophisticated locations like SLS Las Vegas or off-Strip options like Green Valley Ranch — take your pick for an unforgettable destination wedding site.

Tip: Many hotels and resorts supply on-site wedding planners to ease the entire process. Take advantage of their experience and local knowledge to help with your nuptial arrangements.

The Gift

It’s traditional to have a gift or welcome bag for your guests as a thank you for making the trip for your special day. While some may consider the custom outdated, simple items such as postcards, water, sunscreen and sunglass are useful while visiting Nevada. It’s also thoughtful: guests may have forgotten to pack sunglasses and can always use a reminder to stay hydrated. Make them feel appreciated by including a local treat like gourmet Ethel M Chocolates or decadent macarons from Jean Philippe Patisserie at Bellagio.

Tip: Include a more detailed itinerary of all events, including optional group activities, as well as contact info of a go-to person (other than yourself) in case guests have questions, and keep gifts small, being mindful of limited luggage space.

No matter the size of your wedding, length of your visit or time of year you choose to tie the knot, the Entertainment Capital of the World is the perfect place to say “I do” in style.