The Destination Wedding Issue featuring Tika Sumpter

Though we knew 2022 was set to be the year of the wedding boom, no one could have predicted how all types of celebrations—including those that require guests to travel across the country or world—would return in such a big way. Yet, with half of the year behind us, we can affirm that destination weddings aren’t just back: They’re on the rise. And it makes sense why. After nearly two years at home, away from the vast majority of our loved ones, what we all crave is connection and experience. What better way to achieve that than with a destination wedding? So, as our team began brainstorming ideas for our fifth digital issue, created in partnership with lab-grown diamond innovators Grown Brilliance, we chose to celebrate the triumphant return of the destination wedding.

First things first: We needed a cover star, and as luck would have it, actress Tika Sumpter was already busy at work planning her stunning oceanfront wedding in Mexico. Like so many couples, Tika and her now-husband Nick James were eager to celebrate their marriage in a way that would let them prioritize time with their family and friends, and a weekend-long getaway was the perfect way to do just that. As Tika told me, the couple had just one overarching goal for their nuptials, and that was to show their loved ones the very best time: “It was almost like a gift for them to really love where they are, love being together, and just have a really great time,” she said. As you’ll see in our cover story, which has all of the details from their picturesque ceremony and reception, they delivered on their goal—and then some.

It’s worth noting that destination weddings aren’t just beautiful beachfront or mountaintop affairs; they’re celebrations that require even more legwork and planning than a typical wedding. That’s why we set out to help answer some of the biggest questions both couples and guests face when planning and attending destination weddings. Whether you’re searching for location or décor inspiration, need advice on dress codes, or are struggling to decide how many events you really need to host or attend, we’re here to help. Pack your bags and buckle up—it’s about to be a gorgeous ride.

— Gabriella Rello Duffy, Editorial Director