So, you’ve decided on a destination wedding in Guernsey. Bravo! You’re officially one of those enviable couples getting hitched in a spot so beautiful that even the seagulls might shed a tear. However, destination weddings aren’t all Instagram sunsets and champagne toasts. There’s a lot to plan. Fear not, this checklist will help you navigate everything from the venue to keeping your Uncle Bob from smuggling a suitcase full of local gin as a wedding favor.

Here’s your ultimate to-do list to ensure your Guernsey wedding goes off without a hitch (except the part where you get hitched, of course).

1. The First Steps: Secure the Basics

It’s official—you’re going to make everyone pack their bags and fly (or ferry) to Guernsey! But before you start dreaming of sunset photo shoots, let’s handle the crucial stuff.

- Book Your Venue Early
This is Guernsey, after all—an island known for its rugged cliffs, romantic beaches, and charming stone churches. But it’s also small. There are limited venues that tick all the boxes, so make sure you book your dream location yesterday. Whether you’re eyeing an intimate garden ceremony at The Bella Luce or a grand event at Les Caches Farm, securing the venue is priority numero uno. Trust me, you don’t want to wait until the last minute and end up getting married in a parking lot.

- Lock In Key Vendors
Before you spend hours creating your Pinterest board, secure the essentials: photographer (yes, me!), wedding planner (optional, but highly recommended for destination weddings), and caterer. These vendors can book up fast, especially during the wedding season. And if you think your cousin who once took photos at a barbecue can handle your wedding photography, let's just say you’ll regret it when your wedding album has blurry shots of someone's elbow and a perfectly focused picture of a seagull.

- Guest List: Keep It Manageable
Destination weddings tend to be smaller (thankfully). Guernsey’s charm is its intimacy, so your guest list should follow suit. The island isn’t equipped for large 200-guest blowouts. A cozy group of your nearest and dearest will also make your wedding feel more personal and relaxed. And let’s be real, fewer guests = fewer opinions.

2. Save the Date and Invitations: Timing Is Everything

- Send “Save the Dates” Early
A destination wedding means your guests will need to plan ahead. The earlier you send out your "Save the Dates," the better chance people have of working around their own schedules. Aim to send them out 9-12 months in advance, with invitations following 3-4 months before the big day. Your guests need time to clear their calendars, book flights, and make accommodations. Plus, they need time to shop for wedding-appropriate island attire (a.k.a. fancy but wind-proof).

- Include Travel Info
Your invitations should do more than tell people when and where to show up. Provide a mini travel guide—best flights to take, ferry schedules, and suggested accommodations. Bonus points if you throw in a map of the island and some restaurant recommendations. Guernsey’s charming B&Bs or seaside hotels like The Old Government House or St. Pierre Park Hotel are crowd-pleasers. Oh, and be sure to mention if the venue is outdoors so people don’t show up in stiletto heels (there’s nothing romantic about sinking into wet grass).

3. The Legal Stuff: How to Make Your Guernsey Wedding Official

- Make Sure It’s Legit
While the idea of exchanging vows on a Guernsey cliff sounds romantic, no one wants to discover their marriage isn’t legally binding. The good news? Guernsey allows non-residents to marry, but there are a few hoops to jump through. You’ll need to contact the Greffe (Guernsey’s version of a town hall) to register your intent to marry. You’ll also need valid passports, birth certificates, and a signed declaration of single status. Start this process early to avoid any stress.

- Residency Requirement?
Unlike other destination wedding hotspots (we’re looking at you, France), Guernsey doesn’t require a residency period before you can tie the knot. So, you and your partner can breeze in, say your “I do’s,” and then head off on your honeymoon. Just be sure to arrive at least a few days early to finalize paperwork and have a final consultation with your vendors. You can learn more about all the technical legal parts over on the government website.

4. The Venue Hunt: Picking the Perfect Spot

Guernsey is packed with stunning venues. Do you want to get married at a centuries-old castle? Done. Maybe a serene garden? No problem. Here are a few popular spots to consider:

For couples dreaming of a waterfront wedding with stunning views but no sandy feet, St. Peter Port offers some incredible venue options. While you can’t quite say your vows on the High Street (though, I’m sure the cobblestone charm would make for unique photos), there are two amazing venues just a short stroll from the historic harbor that offer panoramic views of the town and ocean.

- Castle Cornet
How do you feel about saying your vows in a 13th-century castle overlooking the sea? Castle Cornet is iconic and offers some breathtaking views of the English Channel—just imagine those wedding photos!

- The Old Government House (OGH)
The OGH is a five-star hotel that blends Guernsey’s rich history with modern elegance. Perched on a hill overlooking the harbor, it’s one of the island’s most sought-after wedding venues. Whether you want a sophisticated indoor reception or a chic garden ceremony with St. Peter Port as your backdrop, the OGH offers options that feel luxurious yet intimate. It’s perfect for couples looking for a venue with both charm and convenience, as you can head down to the harbor for post-ceremony photos or just wander its gorgeous grounds for those romantic portraits.

- Le Cotils
Another incredible venue, Le Cotils offers sweeping views of St. Peter Port and the neighboring islands. It’s a versatile venue with beautiful indoor spaces and sprawling gardens, making it ideal for any type of wedding. The view from the lawn, which overlooks the harbor and sea, is truly breathtaking—especially at sunset. After the ceremony, your photographer can whisk you down to the harbor for some urban-meets-seaside shots before returning to Le Cotils for a relaxed and elegant reception.

These venues offer the perfect balance of historic Guernsey charm and contemporary wedding sophistication, all while keeping St. Peter Port’s picturesque harbor close by for your dream wedding photos.

If you’re envisioning a beach wedding in Guernsey, you're spoiled for choice. The island boasts several beautiful beaches, each offering its own unique atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed, seaside ceremony. Just remember, the beaches are public spaces, so while you can set up signs politely asking for some space during the ceremony, you may have a few friendly passersby. Think of it as adding a bit of local flavor to your big day!

Here are a few popular options for beach weddings:

- Cobo Bay
Cobo is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with its stunning sunsets and clear waters. This beach is ideal for an evening ceremony, where the soft light of the setting sun will create a magical atmosphere for both your vows and your photos. Its smooth sand and long stretch of shoreline give plenty of room for a ceremony setup, but be prepared for the occasional beachgoer stopping by to admire your beautiful day.

- Vazon Bay
Vazon is one of Guernsey’s largest beaches, offering wide-open space and dramatic views. It’s perfect for couples looking for a vast, breezy beachfront location that feels expansive and open. While it’s a popular spot for surfers, early morning or late afternoon ceremonies will give you a bit more peace and quiet.

- Fermain Bay
For something a bit more secluded, Fermain Bay is a hidden gem. Tucked away and surrounded by cliffs, this small pebbled beach feels private and intimate, even though it’s public. The walk down to the beach adds a sense of adventure, and the natural setting is perfect for couples who want a rustic, untouched vibe.

- Petit Bot Bay
If you’re after a charming, smaller beach with dramatic cliffs and lush greenery surrounding it, Petit Bot Bay offers a romantic, cozy option. The mix of greenery and sea views gives your wedding a unique island feel, and it’s perfect for couples who want something off the beaten path.

Pro Tip: No matter which beach you choose, it’s a good idea to put up a few friendly signs around the ceremony area, asking beachgoers to kindly give you a bit of space. While you can’t prevent the public from being around, most people are more than happy to respect the occasion. You may even get a few well-wishers clapping as you walk down the aisle—it’s all part of the island’s charm!

5. Wedding Prep and Final Details: Don’t Forget These Essentials

- Plan for the Weather
Guernsey weather is like a moody teenager—unpredictable. One minute, the sun is shining, the next, it's a full-blown drizzle. Make sure you have a Plan B for your ceremony and reception. Many venues offer indoor/outdoor options, so you can move the party indoors if needed.

- The Importance of Lighting
Great lighting makes all the difference when it comes to photography. If you’re having an outdoor wedding, think about the time of day and where the sun will be positioned. Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is magical for photos. And if your reception goes into the night, consider string lights or lanterns for that soft, romantic glow that photographers (like me) love to work with.

- Transport for Guests
Guernsey is small but spread out. Consider arranging transport for guests, especially if they’re not familiar with island driving. Booking a shuttle service from their hotel to the venue and back will not only ease logistics but also ensure no one gets lost trying to navigate Guernsey’s twisty lanes.

6. Photo Inspiration: Capturing Those Picture-Perfect Moments

You’ve chosen Guernsey for your wedding, so let’s make the most of its stunning landscapes. From the sun-kissed beaches to dramatic cliffside views, here are a few photo op ideas to capture the beauty of your big day:

- The Iconic Coastline
Get those breathtaking couple shots with the wild, windswept cliffs as your backdrop. Not only does the coastline offer dramatic scenery, but the light bouncing off the ocean creates a natural glow that’ll make every photo frame-worthy.

- Rustic Countryside
If you’re after a more intimate vibe, head inland to Guernsey’s lush countryside. Imagine walking hand-in-hand through fields of wildflowers or posing in front of stone farmhouses.

- Historic Landmarks
Places like Castle Cornet or the ancient forts scattered around the island add a touch of history to your wedding album. You’ll feel like royalty standing in front of centuries-old stone walls.

7. Final Advice: Your Wedding Day in Guernsey

So you’ve planned your dream Guernsey wedding. Now, on the day itself, relax! Take in the beauty around you, let the local charm set the mood, and trust your vendors to do their jobs. It’s your day, after all. And with the right planning, it’s going to be unforgettable—for you, your guests, and your photographer (me!) who can’t wait to capture every magical moment.

Destination Wedding Checklist: Everything You Need for a Flawless Guernsey Wedding

1. The First Steps: Secure the Basics

2. Save the Date and Invitations: Timing Is Everything

3. The Legal Stuff: How to Make Your Guernsey Wedding Official

4. The Venue Hunt: Picking the Perfect Spot

5. Wedding Prep and Final Details: Don’t Forget These Essentials

6. Photo Inspiration: Capturing Those Picture-Perfect Moments

7. Final Advice: Your Wedding Day in Guernsey

GET IN TOUCH.

Destination Wedding Checklist: Everything You Need for a Flawless Guernsey Wedding

1. The First Steps: Secure the Basics

2. Save the Date and Invitations: Timing Is Everything

3. The Legal Stuff: How to Make Your Guernsey Wedding Official

4. The Venue Hunt: Picking the Perfect Spot

5. Wedding Prep and Final Details: Don’t Forget These Essentials

6. Photo Inspiration: Capturing Those Picture-Perfect Moments

7. Final Advice: Your Wedding Day in Guernsey

Capturing the Quirks of Portland with a Zenza Bronica

Rain and Romance: A Cozy Anniversary Shoot at Ladies Bay

GET IN TOUCH.