Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Planners: Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

destination weddings

Dollars and Dreams: 5 Ways Having a Destination Wedding in Mexico and the Caribbean Can be Cheaper Than a Traditional Wedding”

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Dollars and Dreams: 5 Ways Having a Destination Wedding in Mexico and the Caribbean Can be Cheaper Than a Traditional Wedding"

Love knows no bounds, but your wedding budget might. Does having a
destination wedding save you money over a local wedding? Let’s settle the
score once and for all as we explore the 5 reasons why a destination wedding in
the Caribbean or Mexico might have you saying “I DO!” in a tropical destination
that won’t break the bank!”

Cost-Effective Elegance: Yes, Sometimes Destination Weddings Can be Cheaper Than a Traditional Wedding — Read On

Are you wondering if hosting a destination wedding is cheaper than a local wedding? While many variables are involved in answering that question, hosting your wedding in the Caribbean or Mexico can be surprisingly cost-effective. You can enjoy a luxurious
wedding without breaking the bank with competitive wedding packages and all-inclusive options. Imagine saying your vows with the ocean as your backdrop, all within a budget that leaves room for an unforgettable honeymoon. Plus, there are many benefits you will receive for hosting a wedding group at a resort, making your budget go further, and even including some bells & whistles that would
never be included in having a traditional wedding – yay!

One-Day Celebration VS A Mini Vacation: Yes, Destination Weddings Can Save You Money When You Consider the Value — Read On

When planning a local wedding, there are the usual costs to pull everything together for a ONE-DAY event. With a destination wedding, for a similar or lower cost, you can transform your special day into a whole weekend of celebration, turning into a mini-vacation for you and your guests. From welcome parties to beachside brunches,
create a weekend wedding itinerary filled with unforgettable moments, making your wedding an experience to cherish.

Here is an example weekend wedding itinerary that many of my couples do:
· Thursday evening: All-white welcome party on the beach (where
everyone wears white – it is great for photos)
· Friday: Private catamaran cruise for your group (or other group
activity)
· Friday night: Themed rehearsal dinner for all guests (theme idea –
Mexican Fiesta)
· Saturday: Wedding, cocktail hour, dinner reception
· Sunday: Farewell brunch

Tailored Wedding Packages: Yes, You Can Get So Much More For Your Money With a Destination Wedding

Compared to a traditional wedding, you can usually find some great destination wedding packages at resort wedding venues in the Caribbean and Mexico that will make your wedding exceptional and save you money over a traditional wedding. These packages are inclusive, making planning more straightforward, and often include expert coordinators, ensuring every wedding detail is perfect. This allows you to focus on enjoying your special day. Whether you dream of a barefoot beach ceremony or a
garden celebration, a package suits your vision. Using a qualified destination wedding travel agent who knows the resorts and their packages can quickly help you know where to have your destination wedding and match you with the appropriate Cancun wedding packages, Jamaica wedding packages, Cabo wedding packages, or whichever destination is best for your wedding.

Simplify your Guestlist: Celebrating Your Wedding With Your Closest Family And Friends:

A big reason to host a destination wedding over a traditional one is to trim down your guest list to only those who matter most to you. It’s a natural process that keeps the “per person” cost of a traditional wedding down. Also, many wedding couples ask if they are supposed to pay for their guests to attend their destination wedding. The answer is no. Your guests are generally expected to pay their way to your destination wedding. This also means that you should be mindful in choosing a quality
destination wedding location that is financially doable for your guests.

Unforgettable Experiences for Guests You Just Can’t Get From A Traditional Wedding:

When you do a destination wedding, you can treat your guests to more than just anwedding – offer them a group experience they’ll never forget, like dune buggy riding, golfing, a catamaran cruise, snorkeling, visiting a volcano in St. Lucia, exploring the ancient ruins in Tulum or Chichen Itza, the Caribbean and Mexico provide a backdrop of unforgettable experiences. Now your wedding becomes a joyful celebration shared with loved ones, creating memories they will discuss for years to come.

Destination weddings often come with all-inclusive packages that can be more
budget-friendly than planning a traditional wedding with various vendors. Many resort wedding venues offer bundled services, including catering, decor, and even wedding coordination, helping you save on individual expenses while giving you and your guests a mini vacation you just can’t replicate with a traditional wedding. If you are currently trying to plan or figure out your destination wedding or aren’t sure if a destination wedding is right for you, schedule a free 30-minute destination wedding strategy session with me by clicking the link below. Remember, this isn’t just any vacation; this is your wedding, and It must be perfect!

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Destination Wedding Checklist: 5 Expert Tips on How to Plan Your Destination Wedding

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Destination Wedding Checklist: 5 Expert Tips on How to Plan Your Destination Wedding

Cheers to saying “yes” to the dress and deciding to get married in paradise! Now, as
you dive into the exciting realm of planning your destination wedding, I’m here to guide
you through five essential tips on how to plan a destination wedding in Mexico or the
Caribbean. Let’s unravel some of the most important intricacies of destination wedding
planning together, making sure your special day is as stress-free and magical as can
be.

Choose a resort that is a good fit for YOU and YOUR guests' needs:

One of the top questions you can get in your head or hear from others is “Are
destination weddings selfish?” The answer is obviously “NO”, but one way to show
your guests that you are thinking of their comfort and enjoyment is to select a resort
wedding venue * that will meet the diverse needs of your wedding group. Account for
dietary restrictions, physical limitations, and children’s requirements. Knowing these
details ensures your chosen location caters to everyone, making the overall experience
enjoyable for all.

Ensure smooth travel with airport shuttle service:

There’s nothing worse than traveling for hours, finally landing at the airport, and then
not having a ride available to take you to the resort as quickly as possible. Arranging
roundtrip airport shuttle service for your guests is a game-changer. Don’t leave it to
chance or your guests; take the initiative to guarantee stress-free travel from the
airport to the resort. Avoid the hassle of last-minute arrangements and start your
wedding celebration on a positive note.

Recommend guests arrive two days before the wedding:

Give your guests the gift of time by suggesting they arrive two days prior to the
wedding. This ensures any unforeseen travel hiccups won’t jeopardize their
attendance. By planning ahead, you mitigate the risk of guests missing your special day
due to travel delays.

Guarantee your guests have a room by holding rooms in advance:

I know of a wedding couple, who did not hold rooms for their destination wedding, and
the resort sold out before most of their wedding group could book at the resort she
had chosen. NOT GOOD! Securing a block of rooms at the resort not only ensures your
guests have accommodation but also comes with perks like free upgrades and events.
By taking control of room reservations, you avoid potential booking errors and
capitalize on cost-saving opportunities.

Make your life easier by working with a destination wedding travel agent:

For the ultimate stress-free experience, collaborate with a destination wedding travel
agent who excels in both travel logistics and wedding planning. Their expertise, connections, and first-hand knowledge can save you time, and money, and offer unique
venue recommendations, ensuring your destination wedding is a dream come true.

Bonus Tip: Don't Book Your Wedding Directly With the Resort:

This bonus tip goes along with Tip number 5. Avoid the pitfalls of booking directly
with a resort!* Believe me, many couples try it, but they usually quickly regret it with
poor communication and complex contracts that make you liable for just about
EVERYTHING! Let a destination wedding travel agent take this off of your shoulders.
They will navigate complex contracts, secure room blocks, and ensure your guests’
specific needs are met, preventing potential headaches and financial penalties.

Destination wedding planning is a tapestry woven with intricate details. By addressing
these aspects in advance, you will set the stage for a stress-free & seamless wedding
away. 

Let a destination wedding travel agent handle the logistics, leaving you free to
savor the excitement of creating unforgettable memories on your special day.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed and would like to get your destination wedding
all figured out, then I encourage you to use this link to schedule a free 30-minute
strategy session* with me today and let’s see if we can get your destination wedding
figured out so that you can focus on the fun of your BIG DAY instead of the stress!
Save Your Spot Now!

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“How to Choose The Best Travel Agent For Your Destination Wedding”

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How to Choose The Best Travel Agent For Your Destination Wedding

The world is your wedding venue, and choosing the best destination wedding travel agent is like picking the perfect travel partner for the most important journey of your life. But how do you ensure that your chosen planner will turn your dream wedding into a seamless reality?

Asking the following five questions before hiring your destination wedding planner will help you find that perfect maestro:

What services do you include?

This question may seem basic, but it’s the cornerstone of your destination wedding planning journey. Beyond the obvious—venue selection, resort location, travel logistics, and vendor coordination—ensure you discuss finer details. Does the destination wedding travel agent handle legal requirements for your chosen destination? Are they well-versed in local customs? Will they assist with guest travel arrangements? Clarity on services ensures your celebration unfolds seamlessly against the backdrop of your chosen paradise. 

What is your communication style?

Effective communication is the key to any successful relationship, including the one you share with your destination wedding planner. Understanding their communication style—whether it’s through the laid-back charm of emails, old-school phone calls (gasp!), or the personal touch of video conferences—is crucial. Consider time zones if you’re planning a destination wedding in a different country. You want a planner who keeps you in the loop, respects your preferences, and ensures that every decision aligns with your vision.

What is your availability?

Destination weddings require meticulous planning, and you want a wedding planner who is as dedicated to your special day as you are. Clarify their availability during the planning process. How often can you expect updates on your wedding in paradise? Knowing your planner’s availability ensures that you’re not left in the dark and that adjustments can be made promptly if needed.

Are you the owner or an employee of a your destination wedding travel agency?

Understanding the organizational structure of your wedding planner’s business is essential. Some planners operate independently, while others are part of a travel agency. Knowing this can impact the level of personal attention and flexibility you receive. If they are part of a seasoned crew in a travel agency, inquire about autonomy.  This insight helps you gauge the extent of personalization and customization you can expect.

If they are independent, you’ll likely find the service to be more hands-on and personal because the destination wedding specialist has more control over how many couples they work with and thus has more ability to give better overall service. 

How many destination weddings do you do per year?

Quality over quantity is a mantra worth remembering when it comes to destination wedding planners. While experience is valuable, you also want to ensure that your planner can devote ample time and attention to your celebration. A planner handling an overwhelming number of weddings may face challenges providing the personalized touch your event deserves. Strike a balance between experience and dedication to make your wedding truly exceptional.

As you embark on the adventure of planning your destination wedding, remember that these questions aren’t just about gathering information; they’re about finding a partner who shares your passion for creating an unforgettable celebration. Your dream destination wedding is on the horizon, and with the right planner, it’s destined to be a masterpiece of love and joy.

As someone who’s witnessed the magic of destination weddings unfold, I can attest that the right planner can turn your dreams into reality. So, ask away, choose wisely, and get ready to say ‘I do’ in the most extraordinary way.

If you’re ready to kickstart your journey, schedule a free 30-minute strategy session with me by clicking the button below. Remember, this isn’t just any vacation; this is your destination wedding and It has to be perfect! 

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Planning A Destination Wedding? This is When You Should Start

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Planning A Destination Wedding? This is When You Should Start

It’s the day you’ve always imagined – a destination wedding filled with love and adventure. But, before you get lost in the dream, let’s answer the vital question: “How far in advance should I book and plan my destination wedding?” Our friendly guide is here to help you navigate the path to ‘I do’ in paradise.

If you’re dreaming of saying “I do” in a stunning destination wedding, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been helping couples like you plan their dream weddings in paradise for over a decade, and I’m here to share some advice on how far in advance to book and plan your destination wedding. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this exciting journey together!

Step 1 – Secure the wedding date and time (12-18 months in advance)

Choosing the perfect date and time for your destination wedding is the first big step. And trust me, it’s not as easy as picking a date for a local wedding when you can pop into venues on a Saturday afternoon. That’s where a destination wedding specialist, like yours truly, comes in handy. We’ll help you find the ideal wedding venue that suits your style and budget, so you don’t waste time scrolling through endless options.  Not securing your date and time is one of the top mistakes I see wedding couples make when trying to plan a destination wedding.  

Step 2 – Get a group contract set up (As soon as the venue is selected)

Once you’ve nailed down your wedding date and time, it’s time to secure a group contract. This contract ensures that all your guests have a room at the same rate, making everyone’s stay seamless and enjoyable. As a destination wedding specialist, I personally work with a travel supplier (vs booking directly with the resort) to set up the group contract, as it simplifies the process and ensures you get the best deals.

Step 3 – Send out Save the Date invites (Give guests as much time as possible, at least 6 months, preferably a full year)

With the wedding date and group block secured, it’s time to spread the excitement by sending out Save the Date invitations. Make sure your invites include all the essential details, and if you’re working with a destination wedding travel specialist, we can set up a wedding website where your guests can easily reserve their rooms. Plus, when your guests book with a group you may earn some fantastic perks like free rooms and upgrades.

Step 4 – Pre-wedding planning (6-9 months before the wedding)

Making that dream wedding come to life can cost so much. Laying out your budget plan intended for your wedding to your planner will put everything in balance. With a destination wedding planner, you are guaranteed that all expenses will fit in your budget, and alternatives will not damage your big day.

Planning a destination wedding is not easy. You want everything to be perfect and will turn out to be as what you have imagined. Knowing that there will be someone who will help you run errands and make sure your dream day actualizes eases the stress.

Step 5 - Start planning the wedding (Between 4-6 months from the wedding)

Even if your resort isn’t ready to dive into the nitty-gritty details just yet, start planning by creating a Pinterest board with your wedding inspirations for decor, colors, and flowers. When the time comes, you’ll be crystal clear about your preferences. Other planning decisions include menu selections, photography packages, and music for the reception.

Step 6 – Final Payments and Transfers (60 – 75 days before travel)

Approximately two months before the big day, it’s time to make final payments for room reservations. Don’t forget to gather your guests’ flight details, so transportation can be coordinated smoothly. Double-check those itineraries to ensure they match their room dates, as discrepancies can arise if you wait until the last minute. If you work with a destination wedding specialist like me, this task will be on my plate. 😉

Step 7 – Tips, reminders, and travel documents, oh my! (2 weeks before travel)

As the wedding day draws near, send out travel documents via email about two weeks before the trip. Ask your guests to review them thoroughly and notify you of any questions or discrepancies. Provide them with tips and reminders for a stress-free trip, including details on online check-in, shuttle services, gratuities, and emergency contacts. Again, this is something I can easily take off your plate.

 Phew, we’ve covered it all! Planning a destination wedding may seem daunting, but with this timeline and the guidance of a destination wedding specialist, you’ll be well-prepared to create the wedding of your dreams in paradise.

Your journey to a destination wedding filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories starts now. Armed with the above information, you should have a great start to plan your destination wedding like a pro! 

Take the next step and schedule a complimentary consultation with us. Now, it’s time to take the next step. If you’re ready to turn those dreams into plans, and you want a little help with putting your destination wedding together, then schedule a complimentary consultation with me today. I have a few openings left this month!  I  can’t wait to be a part of your journey to ‘happily ever after’!  Just click the button below to schedule a consultation now!  Together, we’ll bring your dream wedding to life in the most spectacular way possible.

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Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding in the Dominican Republic: A Bride’s Ultimate Guide

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Planning Your Dream Destination Wedding in the Dominican Republic: A Bride’s Ultimate Guide

Hey there, lovely brides-to-be! 💍 Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of emotions, right? Excitement, stress, joy—sometimes all within five minutes! Now, if you’ve got your heart set on a destination wedding, say, in the dreamy Dominican Republic, girl, you’re in for a treat. From breathtaking beaches to stunning resorts, the Dominican Republic is nothing short of paradise. 🌴

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Why the Dominican Republic?

So why choose the Dominican Republic? Imagine saying “I do” with your toes in the sand, facing the sparkling Caribbean Sea, surrounded by your nearest and dearest. Pure magic, am I right? Plus, the DR (as us frequent fliers like to call it) is more affordable compared to other Caribbean destinations. That means more budget for that Vera Wang gown you’ve been eyeing.

Start Early: Timing is Everything

First things first, you’ve got to start planning at least a year in advance. Trust me, you’ll need that time to scout locations, book flights, and get all the legal stuff sorted. Not to mention, you need to give your guests plenty of heads-up so they can mark their calendars and save up for the trip.

Resort Hunting: Location, Location, Location

TRS Turquesa Resort

When it comes to resorts, you’re spoiled for choice! The Punta Cana area is the cream of the crop, featuring luxury resorts with all-inclusive wedding packages. Imagine having everything taken care of: the ceremony, the reception, the cake, and even the honeymoon suite. One popular choice is the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana.

For something more intimate, check out resorts in La Romana or Puerto Plata. These spots offer a quieter setting but still have all the amenities you need. Boutique hotels like Casa de Campo in La Romana offer a more personalized experience.

Legalities: Dotting the I’s and Crossing the T’s

Navigating the legal aspects of a destination wedding can be tricky. You’ll need a valid passport, birth certificate, and a few other documents. Some resorts offer legal guidance as part of their wedding package. I can’t stress this enough: consult the Dominican Consulate’s website or speak with a legal expert to ensure you’ve covered all your bases.

Weather Watch: Sun, Sea, and a Slight Breeze

Dominican Republic Beaches

The DR has great weather year-round, but aim for December to April, which is the dry season. You don’t want a downpour to be an uninvited wedding guest!

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words: Hiring a Photographer

Don’t rely solely on resort photographers. It might cost a little extra to bring a photographer from home, but these photos will last a lifetime. It’s totally worth the splurge.

Guest Logistics: Making It Easy for Them

Think of your guests when planning. Some resorts offer group discounts, which is a godsend for family and friends. Include a little welcome bag with local goodies and essential info upon their arrival.

Book, Book, Book: Secure Those Reservations

Aim to have everything booked at least 9-12 months in advance, including flights, hotels, and vendors. Resorts get booked quickly, especially during peak season.

Alright, beauties, that’s my quick rundown for planning your dream wedding in the Dominican Republic. Remember, this is your special day, and with the right planning, it’s going to be a tropical fairy tale come true! 🥂💕

We are here to help you.  Contact us now, and we will be sure to deliver the destination wedding of the century!

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Free Destination Wedding

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Free Destination Weddings

You probably already know that all-inclusive resorts provide all the beverages (adult ones too) and all the food you can hold during your stay.  This is the reason these types of resorts are so popular.  Did you also know that some of the same all-inclusive resorts offer free destination weddings as well?  The true question becomes whether those free weddings are worth it.  That is what will be laid out in this blog post.  Hold on tight because we are going to explore free weddings at all-inclusive resorts.

Free Destination Wedding by Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda

Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings

Before laying out all the information of a free destination wedding there are certain things you must understand about destination weddings in general.

First is that destination weddings are different from traditional weddings in many ways.  The differences worth mentioning are:

  1. Receptions are not common in destination weddings. Many resorts offer them, but they are often pricey and just not needed.  Most resorts offer a dinner at one of the restaurants for the couple and their guests.
  2. The guest list is smaller. Everyone will not travel to a destination wedding for so many reasons. 
  3. You are in a different country and the wedding customs and traditions there may be very different from where you live.

I just needed to point these things out before continuing.

Free Destination Wedding Packages

In my many years of experience planning destination weddings I have come to the realization that no two resorts have the same free destination wedding package offerings. I have even seen resorts in the same brand family have totally different destination wedding packages altogether.  So, there can be no assumptions made when it comes to the offerings included in a free destination wedding package.

There are some common denominators between the majority of resorts that offer free destination weddings.  They are the following:

  1. On-site wedding coordinator
  2. Flowers for at least the bride and groom
  3. A limited amount of time with a photographer (usually an hour)
  4. A cake
  5. Your choice of music-but the music will be played by a system
  6. Dinner with your guests (depending on your wedding size it may be private or semi-private

I know that can leave a lot to be desired but considering you are eliminating two of the biggest components of a wedding (venue and food) the savings add up fast.  This is why many couples are attracted to the free destination wedding option. If you want to know more about the Pros and Cons of a Destination Wedding check out this blog post. 

What are the requirements for this free destination wedding?

Once again this is where there is no common vein from resort to resort.  Yet, many resorts have taken their lead from the leader of all-inclusive resorts brands (Sandals Resorts) and offer what I call a Sandals free wedding package.

In order to have a free wedding at Sandals resorts the couple needs to stay at the resort for at least seven nights. 

Many resorts have followed this trend, but some resorts will only require a five night stay instead of seven.  Other resorts will require that the couple and their guests collectively have a certain number of nights.  This number can range from 10 to 40 nights.  Please note this is for the group.  So, if 10 guests stay at least 4 nights each the requirement is met.

At many resorts they offer additional perks and amenities for larger groups.  For example, at Sandals you can receive a free Catamaran boat cruise for your entire group by having a certain amount of nights.  For many resorts this is just the beginning. 

pros and cons of destination weddings

Is it worth it?

Yes and no. 

Yes, if you are on a tight budget and simply want to get married in an exotic location.  Also, if you can stay the required number of nights it also makes it an easy decision.  For resorts who require a block of stays across the group; you need to ensure you have enough family and friends willing to travel with you.

The answer is no if you have a larger budget and desire a more customized wedding.  There are still numerous packages available to accommodate couples who desire more.  Another thing to consider is if you have a small number of guests attending your wedding.  If you guest count is small you might not meet the required number of room nights.  If you do not meet the room requirements your wedding will not be free.

Do you think a free destination wedding is for you? If you are having a destination wedding and this post helped you, please let me know in the comments below.

Pros and Cons of a Destination Wedding

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Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings

Before we dive into the pros and cons of a destination wedding let’s define a destination wedding.

According to TripSavvy  a destination wedding is a wedding that takes place away from the couples’ hometown. 

As a Destination Wedding Planner, I tend to be a bit more specific about my definition.  A destination wedding is a wedding that takes place one hundred or more miles from the location the couple calls home.   

No matter which definition you choose to use the bottom line is it is a wedding away from your home. 

Personally, I love the idea of a destination wedding (which is why I have been planning them for ten years).  Yet, you should understand that there are pros and cons to having a destination wedding. 

If you are trying to decide whether a destination wedding is the perfect wedding option for you then keep reading. Since I am a person who always tries to end things on a happy note, we will tackle the cons of destination weddings first.   

Pros and cons of destination weddings

Cons of a Destination Wedding

You Will Probably Need a Passport

The majority of destination weddings take place in Mexico and the Caribbean.  There is also an increase in European destination weddings as well.  Unless you plan to stay within the confines of the continental United States, Hawaii or Puerto Rico you will need a passport to get to your location. 

This is also an added cost if you do not already have a passport.  This will also be a hurdle for your guests as well. 

Destination Wedding Family Drama

In the spirit of full transparency destination weddings are far from the norm.  Only around 25% of couples worldwide have a destination wedding.  For this reason, many people are not used to a non-traditional wedding.  Not to mention a wedding where they pay to attend instead of the couple paying for them to attend. 

If you have a family that is not huge into travel you will find yourself in a whirlwind of destination wedding family drama.  People will question why “you can’t do what everyone else has done” or “where am I supposed to find money to go to Mexico”.

This is the point where many couples give up the dream of a destination wedding.  They don’t want to fathom the fact that their loved ones can’t or won’t attend their wedding.  Also, another side to the family drama may be relatives who can not travel due to age or health reasons. 

Destination Wedding Legal Requirements

When you have a wedding at home it is easy peasy.  You go to the courthouse or city hall and apply for your marriage license.  After receiving the marriage license you have a ceremony and mail it back to the government.

In the destination wedding world things are not that easy.  If you chose to have your wedding at a resort, then the destination wedding packages they offer will include the marriage license process.  They resort planners will make sure that you meet all the legal marriage requirements for your chosen country.

If you choose to marry outside of a resort, then you will need to hire a local wedding planner or a destination wedding planner in the United States.  These professionals can help educate you on the country’s wedding requirements and how you can get those requirements fulfilled. 

pros and cons of destination weddings

Pros of a Destination Wedding

Destination Weddings are Budget Friendly

Did you know the average wedding in the USA is over $26,000?  In my entire traditional wedding planning career, I have never planned a wedding that was less than $12,000 and I’m in the Southern USA. 

On the other hand, the average destination wedding cost around $8,000.  Not to mention they tend to throw in the amazing views for free.  This means that is you are a couple on a tight budget a destination wedding may be the best bet for you.

It is also common for couples to qualify for free destination weddings at certain resorts.  Many times, the requirements are a certain number of nights stay or having a certain number of guests attend and stay at the resort.

All- Inclusive Wedding Packages

My absolute favorite place to plan a wedding is at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean.   Why?  I love these destinations because their wedding packages include everything you need to have an amazing wedding. 

All-inclusive resorts also have several packages so you can choose what fits your wedding style.  If you want to get married at the beachfront or even in a garden, they have you covered.  Most destination wedding packages are based on guest count. 

I also love the fact that once you arrive you can keep your wallet in the suite safe because everything is included.  So, whether you want to have a glass of champagne to celebrate or dive deep into your favorite dish. . . it’s included in your cost.

This is also a great way to convince those family and friends who may be on the fence about attending.  Nothing motivates people than knowing all their meals and adult beverages are included.

Smaller Guest List

According to Brides.com the average destination wedding has around 48 guests. In my experience this is right on the money.  Most of my clients have a minimum of 10 guests and as many as 60.  Yet, the average is usually 40-50 guests.

The reason that destination weddings are smaller is because guests tend to eliminate themselves from the celebration.  Whether it is because of family obligations, financial reasons etc. guests will not be able to attend. 

This is great for you as the couple because it lowers your wedding costs.   With guests eliminating themselves it helps avoid touchy subjects like family pressure to invite guests you may not want at your wedding.  (i.e. your grandmother’s best friend of forty years who you don’t even remember). 

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You Are Already on Your Honeymoon

One of the major perks of a destination wedding is after you get married there is no need to catch a flight because you are already on your honeymoon.  In addition to the destination wedding incentives you have received know you will receive honeymoon incentives.  Double Win!!!!

In general, most guests will leave the day after your wedding or at the most the next business day.  This means now you have the time to celebrate and explore the destination as a couple. 

You can participate in excursions throughout your location.  You can enjoy that couples massage by the beach.  The options are endless. The best part you didn’t have to incur any additional costs.

Do you think a destination wedding is for you?  In most cases the pros of a destination wedding highly outweigh the cons of a destination wedding.  If you are having a destination wedding and this post helped you, please let me know in the comments below.

8 Tips to Choose the Perfect Wedding Theme

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8 Tips to Choose the Perfect Wedding Theme

Many years ago most couples debated over what colors to have for their wedding.  Now themed weddings are the norm.  Most couples now want wedding that are unique and reflect their relationship.  If you are considering a wedding theme and having a hard time deciding then read on.  We have help!

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Even if you have months to prepare for your big day, you have to start early to plan and organize your wedding. However, it can be difficult to decide which theme works best for you and your partner. The more you check the internet or wedding magazines for styles and inspirations, the more confused you become. Fret not. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right wedding theme for you.

Prefer Video: 3 Tips for Getting Married in Mexico

1. Discuss and brainstorm with your partner

The big day is about two individuals uniting as one. Therefore, it should center around things that matter to both of you. Think of a special date, place, or interest you share in common. What are your personalities like? Are you laid-back, preppy, classy, adventurous, or funny? Do you have certain favorites such as movies, books, music, or art?

2. Size of your wedding

marriage-3961061_1280

Do you plan to have an intimate wedding or do you want to celebrate the big day with a long guest list? Do you want a small chapel wedding or a big church wedding? Or maybe you want to skip that and have a chic and simple city hall wedding.

Related: How to Travel With Your Wedding Dress

3. Consider the date and season

The season has an impact on the possibility to have the celebration in certain destination, the seasonality of flowers for decor and if they are available in your location.  You may also consider if your chosen resort will be able to prepare the food you may request for the menu. 

4. Visit locations

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If you your bucket will allow visit one of the destination wedding resorts you are considering for your wedding.  The staff will often take you to all the wedding sites they have on property.  This way you can know if your chosen them will fit those locations. 

5. Think of the event’s formality

Depending on how formal you imagine your wedding would be, this dictates the type of wedding theme that will suit you, from the dress code to the decor.

6. Keep in mind your budget

Stay realistic and conceptualize your wedding within your budget. It is also wise to build potential budget scenarios for different themes and always have a wedding calculator.

7. Think of motifs or color schemes

Pick your favorite hues and balance them with those that complement the location and season. You may also choose timeless colors and motifs that will never go out of style.

8. Do your research

There are so many wedding themes out there that might confuse you. Understand the similarities and differences. This might even spark ideas for which themes you would like to combine.

No matter which wedding theme you pick, choose one that strongly resonates with both you and your partner. Don’t just follow a trend… own yours.

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