destination wedding

Free Destination Wedding

January 8, 2021 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

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.

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:

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.
The guest list is smaller. Everyone will not travel to a destination wedding for so many reasons.
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:

On-site wedding coordinator
Flowers for at least the bride and groom
A limited amount of time with a photographer (usually an hour)
A cake
Your choice of music-but the music will be played by a system
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.

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.

Benefits of Having a Legal Ceremony Before Your Destination Wedding

September 4, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

5 Gift Ideas for Destination Wedding Guests

August 28, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

5 Gift Ideas for Wedding Guests

The act of giving gifts convey different messages; however, at weddings, it conveys a message of gratitude to the guests. A ‘thank you’ to your guests for sharing one of the most critical milestones in your life with you.

Therefore, giving your guests a valuable wedding gift is a must. Here are five wedding gift ideas for guests that can be perfect for your wedding destination.

Swag bags

Swag bags are one of the fashionable yet functional wedding gifts for guests at a destination wedding. Opening a single gift is exciting. How much more if it’s a bag full of mixed goodies— impressive, right? Swag bags can be filled with snacks, local wines or liquors, beach gear, hangover remedies, and more.

Related:When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

Creative Photo-booth

We always find ways to capture and preserve our best memories. One good way to do so is by taking pictures. Wouldn’t it be lovely to make it fun and enjoyable?

Photo booths give more excitement to whoever sees it. Guests can easily pose in different sceneries with wacky props. They can take home a beautiful photo, making your wedding more memorable.

Artisan soaps

Soaps are essential for our bodies. We use it every day and take it wherever we travel to.

Handmade artisanal soaps are perfect for wedding gifts to guests.

Because of its handy size, it can easily be stored. It can do well with any wedding theme, may it be outdoors or summer. You can purchase different mini soaps in local stores.

Or make it your own to suit your taste. You always have the option to add whatever scented oil or herbs that you want. Just remember to keep it all-natural to prevent allergies.

Related: Buy Handmade Soaps

Art Souvenir

If you are one of those couples who want to get married as quickly as possible after the engagement, you seriously need a destination wedding planner. Aside from relieving you of the stress of arranging things in a rush, their expertise and efficiency will make sure that no important thing will be left behind.

Time

One of the valuable gifts a couple could give to its guests is their time. Aside from material things, couples must also consider intangible things. Time is indispensable; therefore, we must treasure every moment.

You can spend time with your guests through island tours, intimate group dinners, wine tasting, and more.

Wedding guests must be adequately accommodated in-exchange for their time and effort in going to your wedding.

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

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5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

August 14, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

Most of us want to achieve that solemn and intimate destination wedding, just like what we see in the movies, free from interruption and any nuisances. Children can indeed be the life of the party. However, when tantrums start to kick in, they are sometimes uncontrollable. Adults-only resorts will help you achieve the destination wedding you have dreamed of.

Blue Bay Villas Doradas- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Billowy blue curtains, tall ceilings, and copper-colored hanging lanterns will greet you the moment you enter the resort. The cold towels and free welcome drinks make an excellent first impression to guests.

However, the best thing about this resort is its proximity to the Gregorio Luperon International Airport (POP) and public facilities. From their spa to the fitness center, tennis courts, beach bar, and sauna, Blue Bay has complete facilities that will surely cater to your needs.

Check Out Sandals Weddings

Sandals Royal Caribbean- Montego Bay, Jamaica

Imagining your dream wedding will take you to cloud nine. However, you can not avoid thinking about the unknowns and unforeseen events. Sandals Royal’s signature is their professionalism in planning and organizing destination weddings.

They take over in almost everything from pre to post-wedding. You will also get to enjoy the water activities and zip line adventure. Enjoy continental breakfast in bed and afternoon tea as you surround yourself by the Montego bay and tropical gardens.

Riu Palace- Baja California, Mexico

Riu Palace Baja California sits in front of the stunning El Medano beach on the south of the Baja California peninsula. Upon entering the lobby, you will notice the greyish earth-tone and wood finish of walls and furniture which go well with the yellow lights.

Enjoy the view of the sun, sand, and the whales enjoying the Pacific ocean from your room terrace. Also, you will get to enjoy their four-themed restaurant, which includes Indian, Japanese, Italian, and Steakhouse cuisine.

Related: How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Secrets Papagayo-Costa Rica

This all-inclusive customizable adult-only resort stands in the heart of the Gulf of Papagayo. Spend the best days of your life in the glittering beach of Papagayo Peninsula with your loved one. The sea breeze blows through your hair, and the gulf shines as you walk down the aisle, feels like a dream come true. However, you can also opt for an intimate garden wedding if you want to!

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana-Montego Bay, Jamaica

Your stay in a resort couldn’t get better without palm trees, a captivating white sand beach, luxurious rooms and a sunset viewing infinity pool. If you’re opting for a luxurious experience and peaceful surroundings, then Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana perfectly suits your needs. Admittedly, this is a place that would efficiently cater to your dream destination wedding.

It is also ideal for couples who desire a grand wedding ceremony free from children. Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana sits adjacent to Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana on the alluring shores of Juanillo beach. They

The resort only accepts three weddings per day to give their valued guests a more private ceremony. They also warmly welcome LGBT and same-sex marriages.

What’s excellent about Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana is that you’re free to choose any day of the week to spend your wedding. And they share and provide great customizable wedding packages as well as comfortable accommodations for you and your guests.

Which resort would you like to make your adult-only destination wedding to happen? Have you made up your mind already? Feel free to plan your dream destination wedding with Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda.

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5 Destination Wedding Myths

August 7, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

5 Destination Wedding Myths

Planning your dream destination can fill you up with lots of mixed emotions and thoughts. You want it to be as perfect as fancy wines and multi-layered flower-studded cake. However, as you overthink, you might get overwhelmed with a lot of information piling in front of you.

We have listed down some of the destination wedding myths you must not believe. Declutter your mind from unnecessary data. If you find it hard to distinguish facts from fiction, worry not, and check them out here:

Myth #1 You have to carry all the burden of planning and organizing.

Fact: Nowadays, many wedding destination agencies will save you from the stress brought by organizing your wedding. Leave this task to them. However, you must be clear in describing your dream wedding to them.

Never forget to check from time to time to know whether the things that are done are in line with your expectations. Also, never forget to convey to them your budget for the wedding to avoid overspending. It is best if you ask a quote from them.

Myth #2 You'll be in-charge of your guests, including their expenses.

Fact: Brush that thought off from your head. You indeed need to welcome and bid your guests farewell. However, it is not necessarily required to be with them all the time. They will understand you.

You have invited them to a beautiful place with excellent activities to try. Therefore, most of them will have the initiative to explore the area. Plus, each of their expenses is not your worry anymore. Shouldering everyone’s accommodation will be burdensome to the newlyweds pocket.

Myth #3 You can't have an intimate wedding at beach resorts.

Fact: You can choose to have an intimate wedding on beach resorts. There will be resort venues who will be as solemn as you want it to be since some of the sites are designed solely to accommodate you and your guests.

Related: How to Travel With Your Wedding Dress

Myth #4 Destination weddings are expensive.

Fact: Destination weddings can be as affordable as you want it to be. Some resorts offer under $10,000 exclusive wedding packages. What’s interesting is that some of the expensive package’s amenities are also present in the affordable ones. You have to be wise and strategic in finding this kind of package.

Myth #5 This kind of wedding is just for small groups.

Fact: Destination weddings can also be for large groups. You can invite as much as you want since there are present private island or resort accommodations that are willing to cater to the number of guests that you have.

Now that we have filtered fact from fiction, are you confident enough to plan your destination wedding? Get rid of these destination wedding hoaxes and start painting your dream wedding to reality with Honeymoons & Vacations by Vonda.

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9 Must Do’s When Planning a Destination Wedding

July 31, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

9 Must Do's When Planning a Destination Wedding

A marriage is the union of two people which celebrates their love. It is another milestone in life that you would want to spend it in a special place. It would be worth remembering if you put much love and effort in preparing your very own destination wedding.

Imagine walking slowly down the aisle mesmerized, along with the rhythm of a sweet song. While the aromatic air of foreign land caresses your face, what else could go wrong?

Here are nine tips to ensure your destination wedding is enchantingly perfect:

Research is a must.

You must have enough knowledge of a place. Especially if you are looking forward to holding your most awaited day there. Pictures from the internet are not always trustworthy.

It is highly advised to do a site visit first, feel and see the place for yourself. Roam around with your loved one. Do you feel like you belong? Can you imagine the place to be magical?

You don’t have to do all the planning by yourself, seek help from professionals. While adjusting with your surroundings, you can meet up with specialists. They are great people who excel in the field of destination weddings for years.

Related: When to Hire a Destination Wedding Planner

Consider your budget.

Consult with your partner. Know how simple or elegant they would want your ceremony to be. Through this, you can be open with one another as well as knowing your limitations.

Being married is equal to having responsibilities. Planning your future together is more important than just planning your wedding. Therefore, you must know how to weigh things according to their worth.

If you’re on a budget, prepare wisely. Think outside the box; look for better ideas to make your wedding worthwhile. After all, what’s important is that you’re both satisfied and happy with your destination wedding.

Save the date.

A wedding away from home is usually dimmed as exciting, as it is. Once your union feels special, people get excited alongside you. Let them mark their calendars red and feel pumped up.

Inform your family and friends of the wedding date in advance. It is preferable to send invitations two to three months prior to the event. It will give your guests an allowance to ready themselves, such as saving and handing out a leave beforehand.

Remember, this can also be their chance to take a break from their usual routine. A getaway everyone deserves.

Related: 10 Best US Honeymoon Destinations

Reward yourself.

Stay in contact with the planners that you’ve hired. They may be away from you, but hey, thanks to technology, communication becomes more comfortable. Make yourself clear about what you envision.

Describe every detail to the specialists precisely. Express yourself thoroughly so that everything goes as planned. Prepare everything at home.

Make sure to get everything ready weeks before you fly to your destination. Trick yourself that the wedding is the reward of all your hard work and sleepless nights.

Don't Worry About It!

Now’s not the time to frown. Problems and small discrepancies in an event can’t be avoided. Perfect moments don’t exist, remember? You make it happen.

This wedding is supposed to be your pre-honeymoon gathering. Your very own getaway with the love of your life. Little problems shouldn’t be tolerated to get in your way.

Learn to enjoy every bit of it. Leave your worry behind. Gaze at your marriage ceremony with a tremendous amount of positivity and start your married life with a smile.

Organize an itinerary.

Welcome your guests with radiance. Hold a dinner party for those who were able to come. This is also the time for you to explain house rules and your list of itineraries.

Tell them of everything in detail they would need to know. Especially if there are any rehearsals and changes. Make your flow of events go smoothly.

Although you don’t have to entertain your guests all the time. Paradise will surely tempt them to look around. Let them enjoy their vacation as well as you enjoy yours.

Follow the dress code.

Afterall, everything depends on you. If you feel like an elite in the Great Gatsby or a royal going to a ball, go for it. No one can dictate you on your special day.

But, keep in mind that you are traveling. So, pack a wedding dress and a tuxedo that is suitable for travel. Dressing appropriately is a must.

Following the dress code is often forgotten. You also have to match your clothes to the concept and venue for the event to take place. If you’re going to the beach, a maxi dress or polo shirt that makes you elegant and comfortable is enough.

Show appreciation

You and your guests have come a long way just to celebrate your love. Show them your utmost appreciation and gratitude by providing some of their needs. If you’re on a beach, give them a pair of slippers each, snacks, and water.

Lighten the mood by giving postcards or setting up a photobooth. Let them know that each one of them is given importance.

Have some alone time with your new spouse.

The main highlight is the honeymoon after the ceremony. If you decide to run away from the busy resort or the buzzing streets, now’s your time to relax. Clear your mind and unwind.

Feel every bit of butterflies flying in your stomach. Cherish your alone time as newlyweds with your husband or wife. Make every moment memorable and intimate.

The good thing about a destination wedding is that you don’t have to plan again for your honeymoon. It’s already considered as a buy one take one package! You can go to a nearby town or a separate suite exclusive for the two of you.

Watch the mesmerizing sunset while sitting in the sand. Your fingers intertwined with one another. With both of you looking forward to a life together forever.

Let us help you with your destination wedding planning. Contact us now, and we will be sure to deliver the destination wedding of the century!

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How To Travel With Your Wedding Dress

July 17, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

How To Travel With Your Wedding Dress

Celebrating your wedding in your dream destination is beyond magical. The music when you walk down the aisle, the touch of silky linen on your skin, and the smell of freshly picked flowers while you are in your wedding dress will make your fairytale dreams come true.

However, one major struggle of destination wedding brides is ensuring that they don’t damage their wedding dress while travelling. So, we put together tips that will help you ensure that the most important dress of your life will stay beautiful on your big day even while you travel.

Check them out here:

Choose a wrinkle-free fabric.

Wrinkles on cloth will always be untidy to look at. For your wedding dress, choose a wrinkle-free fabric like tulle. It is lightweight, soft, and it still keeps its shape. Also, if tulle will have slight wrinkles, a bit of steam will straighten back the fabric. Lace and crepe can also be your other option since fold lines go well with these kinds of cloths.

Don't put your dress inside a suitcase.

Folding your dress inside a piece of luggage will not give you peace of mind, especially if you check-in your luggage. Always think that things might not go well, and you don’t want your dress to be stained, damaged, or worse get lost with your baggage.

Take Your Gown as a carry-on

Carry-on is the best option for your problem. You can lay your dress on top of the baggage in the overhead compartment or ask a flight attendant to hang it inside their closet. Make sure that you cover the dress with a garment bag to protect it from stains and thread runs.

Related: 8 Reasons to Have a Destination Wedding

Buy an airline ticket for your dress

Yes, you heard it right! You can buy a spare seat for your dress if you want to ensure that it stays in shape throughout your boarding. You can also make use of the extra baggage count that goes with the ticket for your dress.

However, if your budget won’t permit this option, you can always try and push your luck. Ask a flight attendant if there is a place or even an empty seat where you can lay your dress flat.

Give it extra care during ground travel.

When riding a car to your destination, make sure that you place your dress in the trunk without crumpling it. It is suggested that the dress rests on top of the luggage. Better yet place it on your lap or the empty seat next to your if there’s any.

Bring a hand steamer and a sewing kit.

Your sewing kit can save you from ruining your big day because of snagged threads and other things that might go wrong with the fabric. Despite the precautions you made on your travel, it is normal for your dress to still have wrinkles. If you have a handy cloth steamer with you, a crumpled garment will not be a problem.

Call and give the airline and resort a heads-up about your dress.

Never forget to tell them that you have a wedding dress with you. Some airlines give special service for passengers who have fragile or valuable luggage. If you don’t have any portable steamer with you, you can contact the hotel management beforehand if they have a press and steam service for your gown.

Just follow these 7 tips on How to Travel with Your Wedding Dress, and you’ll never go wrong. So, are you ready to travel to your dream destination wedding? If so; let Honeymoons and Vacations by Vonda help you get started on your wedding planning journey.

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How & When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

July 3, 2020 by Kavonda Rogers Leave a Comment

How & When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

The preparations for a destination wedding can be quite different from the usual. This type of marriage needs intense planning to avoid missing the critical details, from choosing the perfect venue, reception, theme, guests and in sending the invites.

Getting the correct timing and ways to send invites for a destination wedding is crucial. You have to be meticulous and on point in doing it. You don’t want to miss out on any beloved guests and give them ample time to prepare for your big day.

With the amount of things to do, it is essential to keep them organized and laid out. So, here are 5 essential steps to follow in sending destination wedding invites:

Establish Your Personal Website

Creating a personal website is helpful in terms of communication. Establish a personal website where you can update your guests regarding important dates, locations, dress codes, and other essential details.

A personal website makes communication a lot easier and faster. Ensure that you make this as soon as you finalize the wedding date and destination. This will give your guests time to prepare and clear out their schedule for your wedding day.

Related: Perfect Destination Wedding Invites

Send Your Save The Date Cards

When you decide to have a destination wedding, months or a year before the big day, you should have already sent your Save the Date cards. This is the point where your final date, location, and guests are all laid out. You can utilize your website to save the date or opt for the traditional mailing of save the date cards to your guests.

Save the date cards should be informative. Opt for a fresh and straightforward design that would not contrast with your overall wedding theme. Include all the important details like the wedding date, location, and the URL of your website.

Related: How to Choose a Destination Wedding Planner

Provide Constant Updates On Your Website

Update your website from time to time to keep your guests in check with changes in the essential details. This will also signify that your website is active and that your guests can rely on it for communication.

Send The Formal Invitation

The fourth step is sending your formal and in paper wedding invitation. By this time, guests already have a solid foundation for your wedding details from the website and save the date cards. Invitations should be sent 2-3 months before your wedding.

Your formal wedding invitation is a symbol of your warm invite to your chosen guests. Make sure to transmit the feeling of love and connection through your invitations. The overall design and layout will speak volumes to those who will receive it. Incorporate your theme and fresh colors that will take part in the unification of your love.

Set Your RSVP Deadline

It is vital to set the deadline beforehand of your RSVP to confirm the total guests that will be attending. Align the period that would not overlap any important dates in your preparation. The deadline for an RSVP depends on the corresponding deadlines of other matters in your preparations.

Ensure to give a good 4-6 week time for guests to decide. The layout for your RSVP is also essential. It should have straightforward queries and answers you need from your guests. Have it simple and can be included in your formal wedding invitation.

Committing to someone for better and for worse is life-changing. You do not want your special day to have an epic turn of events, especially if it is a destination wedding. Following the provided steps, you are guaranteed to be a step closer to your dream wedding.

Destination wedding invites are a part of the whole conceptualizing and actualization process of your big day. It is a reflection of your dedication and the effort you put in to achieve the best. Show your guest how your wedding means to you through your invites. With the help of the great artists from minted, your wedding invites are guaranteed to be as beautiful as the love you share with your partner.

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

destination wedding

Free Destination Weddings

Pros and Cons of Destination Weddings

Free Destination Wedding Packages

What are the requirements for this free destination wedding?

Is it worth it?

5 Gift Ideas for Wedding Guests

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Swag bags

Creative Photo-booth

Artisan soaps

Art Souvenir

Time

Spread the Word!

5 Amazing All-Inclusive Resorts for Your Destination Wedding

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Blue Bay Villas Doradas- Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Sandals Royal Caribbean- Montego Bay, Jamaica

Riu Palace- Baja California, Mexico

Secrets Papagayo-Costa Rica

Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana-Montego Bay, Jamaica

Spread the Word!

5 Destination Wedding Myths

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Myth #1 You have to carry all the burden of planning and organizing.

Myth #2 You'll be in-charge of your guests, including their expenses.

Myth #3 You can't have an intimate wedding at beach resorts.

Myth #4 Destination weddings are expensive.

Myth #5 This kind of wedding is just for small groups.

Spread the Word!

9 Must Do's When Planning a Destination Wedding

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Research is a must.

Consider your budget.

Save the date.

Reward yourself.

Don't Worry About It!

Organize an itinerary.

Follow the dress code.

Show appreciation

Have some alone time with your new spouse.

Spread the Word!

How To Travel With Your Wedding Dress

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Choose a wrinkle-free fabric.

Don't put your dress inside a suitcase.

Take Your Gown as a carry-on

Buy an airline ticket for your dress

Give it extra care during ground travel.

Bring a hand steamer and a sewing kit.

Call and give the airline and resort a heads-up about your dress.

Spread the Word!

How & When to Send Destination Wedding Invitations

By Kavonda L. Rogers

Establish Your Personal Website

Send Your Save The Date Cards

Provide Constant Updates On Your Website

Send The Formal Invitation

Set Your RSVP Deadline

I’m Kavonda L. Rogers and I’m a Certified Travel Agent who specializes in Destination Weddings, Honeymoons and Group Travel in Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Spread the Word!