In the hustle and bustle of wedding planning, it can be easy to lose focus on what is important – namely the connection with your partner. Between looking for suppliers, choosing flowers and finding The When you’re getting dressed, sometimes making time for the person you’re marrying falls by the wayside. But don’t feel bad: It happens to the best of us, and there are ways to refocus your attention on your future spouse before you walk down the aisle. Chief among them? Early weddings.

Earlymoons are a growing trend where couples go on a honeymoon trip to relax and recharge before the big day. They gained popularity in 2017 when Pippa Middleton and James Matthews took an unconventional getaway to St. Barts before their spectacular London wedding. Since then, more and more couples have looked to travel as a way to reconnect in today’s hectic world. Earlymoons offer people a chance to rest, recharge and enjoy some quality time before the wedding festivities begin. “Think of earlymoons as an opportunity to start the festivities before the actual celebrations and get a head start on the festivities as a couple,” says Laure Hitzig Clavette, an experienced wedding planner and catering director.

Whether you’re lounging on a tropical beach, exploring a romantic European city, or cozying up in a rural retreat, an earlymoon will ensure you’re mentally and emotionally ready to say “I do.” This short, relaxing trip will help you reconnect with your partner amidst the chaos of wedding planning, making it a must-do for all couples. Ready to book your ticket? Here’s what you need to know.

What is an early moon?

Quite simply, an earlymoon is an opportunity for couples to pause and reconnect before their wedding day. No matter how supportive you are, wedding planning can be all-consuming and the focus can quickly wander from the relationship itself. According to Clavette, this pre-wedding getaway allows the soon-to-be-weds to spend quality time together and refocus their attention on being in love.

What the actual earlymoon will look like depends entirely on the couple – but the purpose is always the same: to serve as a much-needed break from the intensity of wedding planning and to give each person the opportunity to rekindle their connection and focus on what’s really important.

When you should plan and make an early trip

Since you want to make your early moon as relaxing as possible, this trip after You’ve completed your most important wedding tasks. Choose a week or weekend where you can step away from work and planning, and really use the time to slow down. “The (wedding planning) process usually gets more intense in the last few months,” says Clavette. “All the major decisions are usually made a year or more later; the venue, the outfits, the photographer, and the decor. If all the short-term details are sorted out in a timely manner, it’s a good time to take a break.” Basically, you should start your journey two to three months before the big day.

If the thought of abandoning wedding planning altogether makes you nervous, Clavette has seen many couples turn the planning itself into an early wedding. “At the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, we often host destination weddings, and often couples will come to sample their menu and make a whole weekend of it,” she says. “They can enjoy the resort amenities before the wedding weekend when they’re celebrating with all of their guests.”

What you should know before planning an early moon

When planning an earlymoon, the goal is for you and your partner to truly unwind and enjoy each other’s company. That means couples should choose a relaxing location with experiences that don’t require extensive planning or added stress, Clavette advises. It’s also important to choose a place that brings genuine joy and allows you to unwind from the daily grind and focus entirely on having a fun and meaningful time.

On a budget? Clavette recommends finding an early travel destination that will give you the most joy without putting a strain on your finances. So if a long-distance trip isn’t possible, a vacation with an overnight stay, a special dinner, and romantic touches can be just as refreshing. “Vacations are so underrated. They’re simple, stress-free little pleasures that we could all use a little more of,” Clavette says. Plus, you can always save the more elaborate plans for the honeymoon.

The best early moon ideas to consider

When planning an earlymoon, always remember that the experience should be tailored to your and your partner’s shared interests and passions. Even small, thoughtful gestures – like a weekend trip to a place you’ve always wanted to visit or a surprise evening filled with activities you both love – can be incredibly meaningful.

Still don’t know what to do? Here are some of our favorite ideas to ensure you make the most of your final months of engagement.

Luxury resort break

Spend a few relaxing days at a luxurious resort, whether it’s on the beach, in the city, or tucked away in wine country. Enjoy the amenities, pamper yourself with spa treatments, and dine on fine dining. This option is perfect for couples who want to relax in style and enjoy each other’s company without distractions.

Picturesque B&B getaway

Escape to a charming bed and breakfast. Think cozy rooms, a leisurely breakfast and exploring nearby attractions. This environment allows you to relax and spend quality time together in a more intimate atmosphere.

Holiday stay

For those who prefer to stay close to home, a vacation at home can be just as relaxing. Book a nice hotel, explore local attractions, or just spend time together in a different environment. It’s an easy way to break out of the routine without the stress of long-distance travel.

Wellness retreat

A wellness retreat is an excellent choice for couples who want to recharge physically and mentally. Enjoy yoga sessions, meditation, healthy cuisine and holistic treatments. It’s the perfect way to prepare for the wedding with a clear mind and healthy body.

Theme Park Adventure

For the fun-loving couple, an adventure at a theme park might be the perfect early bird. Spend a few days at a resort where you can enjoy thrilling rides and plenty of nostalgic moments – all while enjoying plenty of luxurious amenities. It’s a playful way to bond and relax before the wedding day.

No matter where you go, an earlymoon is ultimately about taking a moment to appreciate your partner before the hustle and bustle of the wedding day begins. So take a deep breath, choose your perfect getaway, and enjoy every moment together before you say “I do.”