Destination Wedding: What to book first?

[shimmer]

I really have no idea where to start. We have chosen a date, May 2, 2009 (or b/n 1-5th, we are willing to change to get the vendors we want) in Maui.

I think I have sorted out who I want for most things, I just don''t know where to start or even if it''s too early. The things I need to book

-ceremony/reception venue (same place)
-officiant
-photographer
-music
-flowers
-cake
-flight/accommodations
-hair/makeup person

Is there an order this is supposed to be done in? Any help will be much appreciated, thank you!

 

[brazen_irish_hussy]

Find your venue first. Many will provide most of what you need (cake, phtographer, flowers, etc). It also sets the tone for the rest of your wedding and they may have approved caterers, etc.
I would say, although in a place like Maui it may be different, that the flowers, cake and hair/make-up can be done a little later since they don''t usually book up as fast. However, if there is one of these you are set on, screw the order and do what you want.

Flights is entirely subjective. Are you waiting for a deal or trying to take advantage of points before they expire? Things like that will have a major effect on when you book so keep that in mind.

 

[Missrocks]

I am getting married in Maui also! I know FS, Kea Lani, and Grand Wailea don''t book more than a year in advance. And whichever place we pick, the "wedding coordinator" handles all the other bookings (photography, video, ect..) So I can''t really book anything until June of this year because my date in June 6, 2009.

Where were you thinking of for location?

 

[shimmer]

Date: 2/26/2008 10:41:55 PM
Author: Missrocks
I am getting married in Maui also! I know FS, Kea Lani, and Grand Wailea don''t book more than a year in advance. And whichever place we pick, the ''wedding coordinator'' handles all the other bookings (photography, video, ect..) So I can''t really book anything until June of this year because my date in June 6, 2009.


Where were you thinking of for location?

I was looking at the Seawatch, I think that''s the name. I have seen it recommended on the knot. I like the fact that they have everything in one, nice garden-y spot for ceremony (with chairs), beach for pictures and restaurant for the reception. It looks really simple as far as planning goes...that''s what I need for a DW!

brazen, I would like to wait to book the flight for a good deal. Then I have more $$ for the wedding band

Any advice on when to book flights to Hawaii from Canada??? I am a major advance planner, so I can''t wait too long or I''ll go nuts

I don''t think I''ll have enough airline points by then, it takes me forever to get those.

Thanks for all of your help so far!!! I have just been intimidated to actually call and book, it''s so far away from now and I have changed my mind so many times!