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Why Couples Are Choosing Vietnam for Their Destination Weddings – Wedding Planners Share Their Inputs
Wedding Planning - May 6, 2025
Over the past few years, Vietnam has quietly emerged as a preferred destination for Indian weddings as it offers a seamless blend of culture, coastal beauty, and value. This Southeast Asian gem has captured the imagination of couples seeking something distinctive yet accessible with its pristine beaches, heritage venues, and warm hospitality. In this feature, we asked top wedding planners to share why Vietnam is becoming the canvas for unforgettable Indian celebrations, and how it caters effortlessly to the needs of modern families looking to celebrate love meaningfully yet in style.
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa
Nestled along the pristine shores of Khem Beach, JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa offers Indian couples a stunning setting for their destination wedding. Once a 19th-century French university, the resort has been thoughtfully reimagined into a luxurious haven. Its diverse venues, from the grand ballroom to serene beachfront spaces, provide versatile backdrops for various wedding ceremonies. Ms Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares her take on the property as a seasoned Indian destination wedding planner who has had a first-hand experience orchestrating weddings at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa.
WeddingSutra: What makes Vietnam’s mix of stunning views and unique venues like JW Marriott Phu Quoc perfect for a dream wedding?
Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares, “Vietnam offers a beautiful combination of natural beauty and architectural charm. From emerald green mountains and terraced rice fields to golden beaches and colonial-era towns, every backdrop feels like it’s straight out of a postcard. Venues like JW Marriott Phu Quoc elevate this charm further — the property is known for its whimsical, university-inspired design by Bill Bensley, luxurious beachside settings, and world-class hospitality. Couples can exchange vows with panoramic ocean views, host chic receptions in opulent ballrooms, or plan sunset dinners on a private beach — all in one venue.”
WeddingSutra: With so many destinations to choose from, why are couples increasingly picking Vietnam for their big day?
Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares, “Couples are gravitating towards Vietnam for its perfect blend of exotic charm, affordability, and authenticity. Unlike saturated wedding destinations, Vietnam offers fresh appeal with diverse landscapes — be it the beaches of Da Nang, the limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay, or the French colonial vibe of Hanoi. Add to that a growing portfolio of luxury resorts, seamless visa processes, and a warm, welcoming culture, and it’s no surprise that Vietnam is becoming a favourite for couples seeking something unique yet deeply memorable.
WeddingSutra: How do local vendors and planners work together to make a wedding in Vietnam feel both luxurious and personal?
Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares, “Vietnam’s wedding industry has grown rapidly, with planners and vendors attuned to the expectations of international clients. Local florists, caterers, decorators, and entertainment teams often collaborate with global planners to blend traditional Vietnamese hospitality with modern, luxurious experiences. From custom-crafted lantern installations to fusion menus and heartfelt local touches like ao dai welcome ceremonies or traditional drum performances — the execution feels personal, authentic, and high-end, all while celebrating the couple’s unique story.”
WeddingSutra: Is Vietnam a cost-effective option for couples looking for a destination wedding without compromising on luxury and experience?
Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares, “Absolutely. Vietnam offers exceptional value for money. Luxury resorts, beachfront villas, and premium services come at a fraction of the cost compared to other popular destinations like Bali, Italy, or Thailand. This allows couples to splurge on elevated experiences, such as spa welcome hampers, fine dining menus, or curated guest activities, without stretching their budget. Plus, the overall lower costs mean couples can afford a longer celebration or a more elaborate setup, making Vietnam a smart and stylish choice for destination weddings.”
WeddingSutra: Parasha and Abhishek’s wedding was truly picture-perfect. What made you and them choose JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa in Vietnam?
Shikha Sharma of The Select Weddings shares, “Parasha and Abhishek’s families had already experienced several destination weddings in popular locations like Thailand and the UAE. This time, they were looking for something unique and off the beaten path—somewhere that would offer their guests a fresh and unforgettable experience. That’s when we suggested the beautiful island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam.
And JW Marriott Emerald Bay is a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel.
The resort is styled as a former 19th-century academy turned luxury beach resort. It’s a perfect blend of French Colonial architecture and Victorian elements. The resort is an immersive experience, a journey through time and imagination.
Danang Marriott Resort & Spa
Set along the calm shores of Non Nuoc Beach, Danang Marriott Resort & Spa offers Indian couples an inviting setting to celebrate their special day. With thoughtfully designed venues, attentive service, and a deep understanding of Indian wedding traditions, the resort provides a seamless blend of comfort and cultural sensitivity. Mr. Dhinesh of Dated Luxury Weddings, an expert wedding planner who orchestrated Bhisham and Heena’s wedding at Danang Marriott Resort & Spa, tells us why the venue is ideal for Indian couples planning to host an unforgettable destination wedding in Vietnam.
WeddingSutra: What unique venue options did the Danang Marriott offer for Bhisham and Heena’s celebration, considering their vision for the event?
Mr. Dhinesh of Dated Luxury Weddings shares, “At Marriott Da Nang, every space can be tailored to blend Indian opulence with the quiet romance of Vietnam’s coastline. The grand ballroom offered a regal setting, complete with mandap-inspired centrepieces, rich drapery, and immersive AV systems for traditional performances. For a more natural setting, the private beach had the potential to host barefoot pheras beneath a floral mandap, followed by a sunset cocktail hour with Vietnamese-inspired delicacies. The poolside could also be transformed into a dreamy soirée with floating candles and starlit cocktails, while the tropical garden courtyard sets the mood for a lantern-lit dinner under the open sky.”
WeddingSutra: How can couples incorporate Vietnamese traditions into their wedding?
Mr. Dhinesh of Dated Luxury Weddings shares, “Vietnamese elements can elevate the wedding’s cultural richness without overshadowing Indian traditions. Here’s what couples can incorporate –
| Tea Ceremony (Lễ Trà) | Áo Dài Attire | Folk Music and Dance | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| When: Ideal for the welcome lunch or pre-wedding brunch. How: The couple serves tea to elders while dressed in áo dài (bridal red/gold for the bride, navy/silver for the groom). One can also include a short script explaining the ritual in English/Hindi for guests. |
Pre-Wedding Shoot: Swap lehenga/sherwani for custom áo dài in Hoi An’s ancient town.
Bridal Party: Outfit bridesmaids/groomsmen in pastel áo dài for the tea ceremony. Hoi An Excursion: Host a Lantern Boat Dinner for close family on the Thu Bon River (30 mins from Da Nang). |
Đàn Tranh (Zither): Tunes from this regional instrument during cocktail hour or as the bride walks down the aisle.
Lion Dance: A vibrant opener for the reception, which symbolises luck and prosperity. |
WeddingSutra: What’s the best time of year to get married in Vietnam in terms of weather and availability?
Mr. Dhinesh of Dated Luxury Weddings shares, “For Indian couples considering Vietnam for their destination wedding, the ideal window is January to August. The peak season from January to April offers pleasant weather (24–30°C), golden-hour light, and lush surroundings, though it comes with higher rates and requires early bookings. The shoulder season from May to August is warmer (28–35°C) but more budget-friendly, with better vendor availability; however, shaded setups may be needed for outdoor events. September to December is best avoided due to the risk of typhoons and heavy rainfall, particularly in central Vietnam.”
WeddingSutra: What’s your top piece of advice for couples planning a wedding in Vietnam?
Mr. Dhinesh of Dated Luxury Weddings shares, “Da Nang in Vietnam offers a thoughtful mix of convenience, beauty, and value. Start by choosing the right season—January to August brings stable weather and clear skies. Selecting the right venue is equally important. Danang Marriott Resort & Spa’s private beach suits a traditional ceremony by the sea, the ocean-facing ballroom works well for larger gatherings, and the garden courtyard allows for a quiet, open-air celebration. Less crowded than Bali or Phuket, Da Nang provides strong infrastructure, trusted hospitality, and scenic settings. With the right approach, your wedding can reflect Indian traditions in a setting that feels both special and effortless.”
From the pristine beaches of Phu Quoc to the cultural charm of Hoi An and the coastal appeal of Da Nang, couples are increasingly drawn to these locations for unique and memorable celebrations. Leaving Indian couples and their families spoilt for choice, Marriott has diverse venue options to suit a range of wedding styles and sizes. These include Sheraton Phu Quoc Long Beach Resort, which offers idyllic beachfront settings; Renaissance Hoi An Resort & Spa, known for its serene beachside location near the historic town; and Sheraton Grand Danang Resort & Convention Centre, which features expansive indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for both intimate and large-scale celebrations.
Thinking of saying “I do” in Vietnam? Click here to know more.
