If you’re planning a destination wedding, then you know that one of the biggest sacrifices you make for the ceremony of your dreams is having everyone you know and love there to witness it. Sometimes it’s just not possible – between health issues, work constraints, and financial difficulty, some friends and family may not be able to make it. But that doesn’t mean they have to miss out entirely. Here are a few ways to include the guests who can only be with you in spirit:

Live Video

If your guests can’t be there to see it with their own eyes, this is certainly the next best thing. Services like IdoSteam, Marry Me Live, and My Streaming Wedding make it easy by offering equipment rental, Do It Yourself guides, and all the technical stuff like hosting and bandwidth so you can focus on your big day.

After Party

Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it, too? Enjoy the best of both worlds by tying the knot with an intimate group of friends and family in the exotic locale of your choice, then fly home and throw a reception for the whole crowd. Your guests will understand if you keep the costs to a minimum, and you’ll have a chance to share pictures, video, and stories from the big day.

Video Stream

If live video doesn’t work, don’t fret. You can always stream a video after-the-fact for your friends and family back home to enjoy at their leisure.

Personal Touches

If you’re looking for a more sentimental way for your guests to be involved in the ceremony, ask them send personal trinkets – photos, letters, advice, stories from their own marriage and/or travels – to have with you on your big day. You can incorporate them into your décor, vows, and entertainment, read them for the wedding video, and respond with personal messages of your own.

Don’t let distance keep you from the wedding of your dreams – use it to inspire creativity. How will you include guests in your destination wedding?