Planning an international wedding with guests from several countries

Language, travel and RSVP dates that work for everyone – and how to bring two cultures together at one party.

Mikaela & Houssem · 10 min read · Updated 12 Oct 2026

We got married with guests from several countries ourselves, and learned that most of it comes down to planning ahead. Guests travelling far need more time, clearer information and someone to ask. Here's what we wish we'd known from the start.

1. Choose a date with travel in mind

Check public holidays, school holidays and religious festivals in every country your guests come from – not just Sweden. A long weekend here can be an ordinary working week somewhere else, and during some religious holidays it's hard for guests to travel.

2. Send the save the date early

Nine to twelve months ahead is right when guests need to fly. That gives them time to request leave, book tickets at a good price and – if needed – apply for a visa.

3. A website in several languages

Write the essentials in every language your guests speak: dates, times, addresses, RSVP and dress code. A short version in each language is better than a long one in only one. Ask a native speaker to read it through.

4. An RSVP date that works for everyone

Guests travelling far often need to reply later, once they've booked leave and travel. Choose a slightly later RSVP date, or two: an early one for guests in Sweden and a later one for those travelling.

5. Travel and accommodation

• Say which airport is closest, and how to get there from it.
• Suggest accommodation in different price ranges, close to the party.
• Explain what's obvious to you but not to others: how public transport works, how to pay, that it can be light until midnight in June.
• Arrange transport between hotel and party if you can, so nobody has to drive.

6. Explain the traditions

What feels obvious to half the party can be completely new to the other half. Explain briefly on the website or in the programme: why guests kiss the couple when one of them leaves the table, what a toastmaster does, or what happens at a henna night or a zaffa.

7. Language on the day

Choose toastmasters who between them speak both languages, and ask speakers to give a short summary in the other language. At dinner the seating plan makes a big difference – read more in A wedding seating chart that makes every guest feel welcome.

8. Food and drink

Ask about dietary preferences in the RSVP and remember there may be religious or cultural reasons behind them. Have alcohol-free options that feel as festive as the champagne, and label what's being served.