Gen Z and Millennials opting for destination weddings as a way to cut costs while also travelling
While destination weddings might seem like something just for Kardashians or nepo babies, they're actually becoming pretty commonplace even among us normal folk.
In fact, a recent Skyscanner survey found almost 3 in 5 respondents (58 per cent) are considering or have had a destination wedding. Among Gen Z, that soars to 70 per cent.
And it's not just those in the higher tax brackets doing so - most people are opting to tie the knot overseas because it comes with a cheaper overall price tag.
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Destination weddings are becoming increasingly attractive for young Aussies. Supplied
Skyscanner's 'Destination I Do' survey found that overwhelmingly, budget efficiency is the main driver behind destination weddings. Over three-quarters (77 per cent) of Aussies who want an international wedding cite cost as a major factor, finding that it often comes with a more attractive price tag.
Australian couple Bree and Alex are one of many who have gone ahead with a destination wedding - they held a ceremony in Sicily in May.
"It felt like something straight out of a movie," Bree tells 9Travel. "So different from anything we would find in Australia."
"We ultimately chose Italy because we were always drawn to the historic venues that have been transformed into museum-hotel-wedding locations."
Though the couples' love for travel inspired their international wedding, they found multiple perks from holding the ceremony overseas.
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Bree and Alex tied the knot in Sicily. Supplied
Bree says that the value was amazing. Supplied
Destination weddings offer value for money
"The value we received in Italy was unmatched," Bree says. "The quality of the food, wine, and entertainment was beyond anything we've ever experienced. We were able to create an event that felt both luxurious and authentic, making the entire day far more special than anything we could have achieved at home for the same investment."
She also says that the natural beauty of the historical building right on the water where they held the ceremony meant they didn't have to fork out for elaborate decor.
"The natural backdrop and surrounds allowed us to prioritise the culinary experiences and entertainment for our guests... and focus on more meaningful details."
Having a destination wedding also meant a naturally smaller guest list, making the celebration more intimate and personal, as well as more affordable, Bree adds.
"As busy adults, we rarely, or never, get the chance to enjoy a family holiday, so bringing all our friends and family together in such a beautiful and remote location for an extended celebration felt truly unique - almost nostalgic," she says.
Destination weddings usually have a smaller guest list, so are more intimate and personal. Supplied
A honeymoon and a ceremony in one
Another perk of getting married overseas is that you can just tack your honeymoon onto the end of your trip, without having to pay for more flights.
Bree and Alex travelled around Italy and Greece after their wedding. "It was the perfect way to keep the celebration going and soak up the European summer," she says.
"It was also a lot of fun to see our guests travelling after the wedding and running into each other in all different locations - it felt like the party never really ended."
Bree does recommend looking into hiring a local wedding planner, especially if you're going somewhere with a language barrier.
"The biggest challenge was transporting my very large bridal gown through three separate international flights - a logistical detail worth considering!"
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Beaches are a popular choice for destination weddings. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Budget destination weddings
If you're planning a destination wedding, you'll want to give your guests as much notice as possible so they can get their finances sorted.
Or, if you're flexible with your wedding dates, Skyscanner's 'Cheapest Month' feature helps you see the average monthly price and cheapest time to book.
"Destination weddings are a big deal. It's an investment from both friends and families to attend," says Jarrod Kris, Skyscanner Travel Expert.
"When looking to book a destination wedding, it's a good idea to tell your guests to sign up to Skyscanner's Price Alerts as it's a great way to keep on top of price changes to your favourite destination, meaning you'll be the first to know about any price drops and they can get excited about your destination wedding," he said.
