Choosing Your Destination Wedding Location Based on Your Personality
Destination weddings are for the couple who wants to actually live their day. The ones who crave presence, a little adventure, and a wedding that feels special instead of stressful. If that’s you, I already love you! As a destination wedding photographer, I know that choosing your destination wedding location can feel overwhelming. I mean, there are so many beautiful spots… How can you ever choose between them?!
That’s where I come in. I’ve photographed weddings in all kinds of locations, and I’ve seen firsthand how different places feel on a wedding day. My job is helping you choose a destination wedding location that lets your personality breathe, your day unfold naturally, and your experience feel calm, meaningful, and like you!
How to Choose the Destination Wedding Location That Fits Your Personality
Each destination wedding location I’m bringing up has its own unique personality, just like you do! And the key? Finding the one that complements yours.
Here are some of my most frequented spots as a destination wedding photographer, each with its own quirks, vibes, and charm!
Mexico: For the Couple Who Loves a Good Celebration
Mexico is stunning every time. I seriously can’t get enough of a wedding here! Mexico calls for celebration, so it’s the perfect spot for the couple who loves fun, vibrance, and a party that lasts all night long.
Mexico has a ton of beautiful Catholic churches that make stunning spots for a wedding ceremony, and then wide-open outdoor spaces (with some beautiful architecture) for the reception.
When I think of a Mexico destination wedding, I think mariachi bands, drinks flowing, and full dance floors. They always feel carefree and full of joy, and it couldn’t be better for the couple who want their wedding to be the celebration of the year.
Mexico Destination Wedding Venues I love:
St. Lucia: For the Couple Who Wants Bliss
St. Lucia is one of those places that’s jaw-dropping without you ever having to lift a finger. The views here honestly do all the work for you, and it’s such a serene environment that your day feels easy to just exist in. It’s the kind of destination wedding location where you don’t feel rushed or overstimulated; you just get to be.
If you’re the kind of couple who loves nature and being outdoors, peaceful breezes, and simple beauty, St. Lucia might just be the one for you. You’re probably super laid-back and just want to focus on what really matters in the day: your love for each other! This usually results in an intimate wedding that feels warm and easy.
St. Lucia destination wedding venues I love:
Italy: For the Effortlessly Elegant Couple
Italy is an incredible destination wedding location for couples who want their day to feel elevated without being overdone! It’s timeless, romantic, and naturally cinematic.
If you want beautiful details, incredible food, and a wedding that feels like one long, meaningful dinner with your favorite people, Italy might be your place. As a destination wedding photographer, I love Italy for couples who want their wedding photos to feel elegant, but still authentic. No distractions. Just you, your people, and the landscape around you!
Italy destination wedding venues I love:
Montana: For the Outdoorsy Couple
Is nature your happy place? Would you spend all of your time in the mountains if you could? Does your idea of a good time sound something like taking a hike and watching the sunset from the top of a mountain? If you answered yes to any of these, a Montana destination wedding is calling your name!
My Montana destination wedding couples always share one thing in common: they feel most at home when they’re surrounded by gorgeous natural scenery. And Montana brings it, like no place else. So if that sounds like you, let’s do it!
A bonus of getting married in Montana? No passport required. It’s quite a bit easier to plan travel for you and all of your favorite people when you don’t have to do it internationally!
Montana destination wedding venues I love:
Glacier National Park (perfect for elopements!)
Other Destination Wedding Locations I Love
There are so many destination wedding locations that fit different personalities and priorities. These are a few other places I love photographing destination weddings, depending on the kind of experience couples want!
Greece is a gorgeous destination wedding location, perfect for the couple who wants a little bit of elegance, a little bit of fun, and a whole lotta beauty.
Napa Valley brings dreamy lighting, European-esque outdoor dinner parties, and blissful days, perfect for the couple who wants understated elegance.
France is one of the most romantic places on Earth, and getting married here is a perfect idea for the couple who wants traditional romance (and a little bit of a rom-com feel).
And the good news is: you don’t have to figure it out alone. As a destination wedding photographer, I’ve shot weddings in so many locations, so I know how different places feel. And I bring that expertise to help you find the perfect one that fits your story the best.
Who A Destination Wedding Just Feels Right For
If you’re sitting here thinking, “Should I plan a destination wedding?” My answer will always be yes! Destination weddings are a great way to add culture, personality, and extra charm to your day. It’s something a little different and super special, which, trust me, you deserve for your wedding.
My couples that choose destination weddings typically choose them because they want their weddings to feel set apart from tradition, because there’s a place that’s special to them, or because they want a good reason to go on a trip (love that for them)! But here’s your sign: you can also choose to have one just because. Just because it feels right to you. Just because you love to travel, so why not make your wedding all about it?
Whatever it is, I’m happy to get away with you!
Ashley Olafsson | Destination Wedding Photographer
Your wedding is all about being true to who you are. It’s about living in the present, showing off your personality, and more importantly, starting forever with the love of your life. Whether it’s right at home or halfway across the globe, I’m in!
If choosing a destination wedding location feels overwhelming, that’s completely normal. You don’t have to figure it out alone. As your destination wedding photographer, I’ll help you think through locations, logistics, and what will actually feel best for you.
Let’s discover your perfect destination wedding location together. Inquire here and tell me all about your story, and I’ll help you find your perfect match!
Find more wedding inspiration on my Pinterest and from these other blog posts:
An Intentional California Destination Wedding Told Through Documentary Style Wedding Photography
The Comprehensive Guide to Boston Elopements: Elopement Locations, Tips, and Ideas
Client Love: “Ashley is the most professional, communicative, and incredible photographer. She actually takes the time to get to know you and your partner and learn what’s important to you as a couple. She makes you feel special, sends a welcome gift, and truly just goes above and beyond the entire process. My husband and I did a destination wedding, and Ashley made it easy for us. She worked within our budget to create the best wedding package. She was so responsive and got back to us within hours (if not a day or two) when we had questions. She is kind, present, and makes you feel so special. Not to mention her photos are outrageously gorgeous. Our sneak peeks were in our inbox within a few days! Ashley is top-notch and you’ll be making a mistake if you don’t choose her for your big day. I can’t say enough good things about her, and of course, our photos. We love you, Ashley, thank you for everything!!” - Stephanie
