When considering hiring a destination wedding travel agent, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure they can meet your needs and expectations. Here are some key questions to consider.

Qualifying Questions for a Destination Wedding Travel Agent

• Experience and Expertise
• How many destination weddings have you planned?
• What is your experience with planning weddings at my chosen destination?
• Can you provide references or testimonials from past clients?
• Are you familiar with the local customs and traditions at my destination?
• Services Offered
• What specific services do you offer for destination weddings? (e.g., venue selection, guest accommodations, transportation, activities)
• Do you have relationships with preferred vendors at my destination?
• Can you assist with obtaining necessary permits or licenses?
• Will you be available to coordinate on-site during the wedding?
• Budget and Costs
• What are your fees, and how are they structured?
• Are there any additional costs or hidden fees I should be aware of?
• Can you provide a breakdown of estimated costs for different aspects of the wedding?
• How do you handle unexpected expenses or changes in plans?
• Communication and Customer Service
• How often can I expect to hear from you during the planning process?
• What is your preferred method of communication?
• How do you handle emergencies or last-minute changes?
• Are you available to answer questions or provide assistance outside of regular business hours?
• Legal and Insurance Considerations
• Do you have liability insurance to protect me and my guests?
• Are you familiar with the legal requirements for weddings at my destination?
• Can you assist with any necessary paperwork or documentation?

By asking these questions, you can gain a better understanding of the agent’s qualifications, services, and ability to meet your specific needs for a successful destination wedding.

What People Search for in a Destination Wedding Travel Agent

• Expertise and Experience: They want an agent specializing in destination weddings with a proven track record.
• Personalized Service: They seek an agent who listens to their vision and offers tailored recommendations.
• Destination Knowledge: They desire an agent with in-depth knowledge of popular destinations and local customs.
• Vendor Relationships: They appreciate agents with established relationships with reputable vendors.
• Budget-Friendly Solutions: They look for agents who can help them plan within their budget and negotiate favorable deals.
• Guest Experience: They want an agent who considers the needs and preferences of their guests.
• Peace of Mind: They value agents who offer comprehensive services and provide a sense of security.

Ultimately, people searching for a destination wedding travel agent are looking for a partner who can help them create a dream wedding experience that is both beautiful and stress-free.

At All Inclusive Weddings, we have been handling all the ins-and-outs of destination weddings since 2002! We have been in business since 2013. Contact us to learn more!

As you’re probably already seeing, planning a wedding is like a full-time job. There are definitely some fun parts to it, but if you’re working or going to school or busy with family, the whole process can get overwhelming in a hurry.

I want to let you know: you don’t have to go through the process of planning a wedding and honeymoon alone. You don’t have to plan a huge romantic getaway on your own, as well as studying or going to your job or doing all the other things that require your time and attention.

I know the feeling. I’ve been there. I know you worry about the cost of the honeymoon, and you have very real time constraints in your life. I hear you loud and clear. And you don’t have to struggle with planning this honeymoon or destination wedding alone.

I am here to help, and here’s why:

• I know what goes into planning all this out, because I’ve done it myself, personally and professionally. As a travel expert, I have planned hundreds of destination weddings, honeymoons, and vacations. I have a robust network of contacts at different resorts and destinations. This allows me to be your point person, to accommodate special requests, to troubleshoot the nitpicky stuff — so you don’t have to.
• I love what I do. I love to help other couples who are in the same position I was. I am passionate about travel and sharing it with others, because I see how it brings people closer together and how it opens us up to beautiful, expansive experiences.
• My Integrity and experience. I’ve been a travel expert for years, and I believe in being straightforward and transparent with my suggestions. I respect your budget, and that means I will not upsell you or suggest something that is not a good fit for you.
• I help you make sense of it all. Based on your personality and needs/wants for your honeymoon, I give you custom-tailored options. Every resort is different; they all cater to a different clientele, and they all have a different vibe. My team and I take this process seriously. One of us has already been to each resort, scoped it out, taken detailed notes, made connections — and that means I can tell you with confidence, which one is a good fit for you.
• I will not cost you more. I do charge a small planning fee to get started working with you, however, by working with me you will save well above and beyond the cost of my planning fee versus planning your trip yourself.

Your honeymoon or destination wedding is more than a vacation. It should be intimate, thoughtfully planned, filled with romantic details that make you feel pampered, relaxed, and totally taken care of. More than just memorable, it should be magical!

If you’re ready to let go of the stress of trying to Do It All, just reply to this email today, and let’s work together!

P.S. Follow us on Facebook and check out our travel tips and ideas.

5 Essential Steps to a Fabulous Destination Wedding on Any Budget

Planning a destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort can feel like a dream come true, offering romance, relaxation, and the opportunity to celebrate in paradise. The great news? You can pull off a breathtaking wedding on any budget! Here are five crucial steps to help you achieve just that:

1. Choose a Destination that’s Easy to Access

Your dream location can significantly impact your budget, especially when it comes to travel. While exotic, remote locations are alluring, they often come with high airfare and longer travel times, which can pose challenges for both you and your guests. Instead, consider beautiful destinations that are more accessible and affordable to fly into.

A travel expert can help you find stunning yet affordable locations that may not be well-known but offer an incredible experience. Beyond convenience, always choose a location that you truly love, reflecting your style and personality. It’s your special day, and you’ll want to remember it with joy!

2. Maximize Wedding Credits and Perks

Many resorts offer wedding credits, discounts, or even free events based on the number of rooms your guests book. These credits can be used towards various wedding costs, including accommodation, government fees, or special extras like champagne toasts or sunset cruises. Some resorts may even offer a free wedding or honeymoon depending on the size of your group!

Similar to frequent flyer miles, some wedding perks are much better than others. A travel agent specializing in destination weddings can help you choose a resort that offers the best deals, ensuring you make the most out of these perks.

3. Be Flexible with Your Wedding Date

Choosing to have your wedding during the week, rather than on a Saturday, can lead to significant savings. Many resorts offer lower rates for weekday weddings. Since your guests are likely already planning time off to attend your wedding, holding the event mid-week can make scheduling easier while reducing costs.

4. Opt for Local Flowers, Food, and Favors

Shipping or traveling with flowers, food, or wedding favors can be costly and complicated. Some locations even have restrictions on importing certain items. Save yourself the hassle by choosing locally sourced flowers, foods, and favors that reflect the charm and uniqueness of your destination.

Not only does this cut costs, but it enhances the overall wedding experience. Imagine your guests savoring local wines, coffees, or candies as their wedding favor – a true taste of the destination that they can take home.

5. Leverage Your Travel Agent for Negotiating Perks

Your travel agent is a valuable asset when it comes to negotiating group contracts with resorts. This can translate into fantastic perks such as room upgrades, private parties, or special discounts based on the number of guests you bring.

Make sure your guests book their accommodations through your travel agent so their reservations count towards the group minimum. This ensures you don’t miss out on the benefits your agent negotiated. Some resorts even charge the couple for guests who don’t book within the group block, so it’s essential to communicate this clearly with your guests.

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By following these steps, you can plan the destination wedding of your dreams, no matter your budget. Whether you’re looking for hidden gems or unique ways to save, your wedding can be both beautiful and affordable. Let your travel agent guide you through the process to ensure everything goes smoothly and stress-free.

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For more personalized advice and expert guidance, schedule your free Dream Wedding Planning Session at All Inclusive Weddings.com. Let’s bring your dream destination wedding to life!

Check out our Sandals Resorts Wedding Packages and our Sandals Resorts Wedding Planning Guide.

When you think about romance travel, destination weddings and honeymoons probably come to mind. These are wonderful travel options, but there can be so much more to romance travel! There are vow renewals, anniversary celebrations, engagement getaways, babymoons, familymoons, and even proposal trips. Any time you want to celebrate the love in your life, you can find a vacation to help you commemorate the occasion.

You may also think that these trips or experiences just aren’t made for you, but love is for everyone, and so is travel! We have agents who focus in so many different areas, including those with physical abilities and challenges.

PHYSICAL ABILITIES

Our physical abilities can often serve as a barrier in travel, but with the right knowledge and people in your corner, everyone can experience the world around them. The anxiety of traveling with a wheelchair or other aides can be daunting; however, finding the right experience makes all the difference.

When vacationing within the United States, travelers are guaranteed certain protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This requires all places of public accommodation to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to enjoy their services and facilities.

When traveling internationally, it can be more challenging to choose hotels, transfers, and travel packages that are going to be accommodating. Accessible Travel Solutions provides travelers with accessible tours, transfers, group travel, and land packages.

Whether you’re looking to travel domestically or internationally, working with a travel agent will help you plan the experience that is best for you. They can suggest cruise lines that offer accessible cabins, complimentary beach wheelchairs, and wheelchair accessible pools and water features. They can also help you determine which suppliers have braille signage and menus that can be provided digitally for screen-reading software.

AUTISM SPECTRUM

In the United States, 5.4 million adults are on the autism spectrum and businesses are adapting to serve this vast market. The travel industry is no exception. Cruise lines Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line have programs and resources in place for travelers with Autism.

Royal Caribbean’s programs include opportunities for children, teens, and adults alike. This includes Autism-friendly films and activities. If you’re looking to have a cruise wedding, Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line both offer a variety of wedding packages.

Beaches, which is known for providing spectacular weddings, honeymoons, and vow renewals, also offers all-inclusive accommodations for visitors with Autism. Although their programs are mostly focused on children, these can open doors for couples looking to share their special day with loved ones.

Travel agent Marie Smith’s advice is to “Find a travel advisor who specializes in planning travel for those with special needs. Look for those that display the Certified Accessible Travel Advocate credentials.”

LGBTQ+

For members of the LGBTQ+ community, there are a few additional considerations that go into planning a trip. Matt Wahlgren, travel advisor with Matt Travel, believes “It’s important members of the LGBTQ+ community use a travel advisor that understands their unique concerns and safety. The laws and social acceptance of gay travelers varies from country to country. A good travel advisor will inform you of these differences upfront to make sure you’re comfortable with your travel plans.”

Once you decide which type of experience you want and where you want to go, the fun really begins. Whether you’re looking to tie the knot or mark an important milestone together, there are companies that want to help. Atlantis Events is known for the cruises they charter, but they also have resort options. Brand G also offers LGBTQ+ vacation experiences and are most known for river cruises and land-only tours.

Numerous opportunities are out there for everyone to love travel and to travel with love. We all deserve to see and experience the world! There are professionals ready to help plan your next adventure.

Our Destination Wedding Package Services include:

• An initial consultation/strategy session
• Set up wedding date and time
• Arrange a pre-planning trip if desired
• Negotiate the best possible group contract
• Destination, venue, hotel & honeymoon research
• Travel bookings for all your guests
• Setting up transportation to and from your resort/airport for all guests
• Payment scheduling and reminders for you and your guests
• Accept payment plans from you and your guests when needed
• Documents and tips/reminders sent out to you and all your guests
• Status calls/consultations
• 24-hour customer service for all guests during travel
• Wedding website for guests to get details and RSVP
• Destination management services in location for all guests (should any problems arise)
• Wedding Timeline including to-do lists to keep bride and groom on track

We research the venues for you, but when you’re working with any travel agency for a destination wedding, it’s good to keep the following in mind:

• Venue capacity
• Level of privacy
• Venue availability

Where do you envision your ceremony:

• Garden
• On the beach
• Oceanfront
• Sky Deck
• Chapel
• Roof-top
• Garden gazebo
• Over-the-water wedding chapel
• Some resorts offer private offshore islands, like Sandals Royal Caribbean and Sandals Royal Bahamian
• There are so many options!

And where do you envision your reception:

• Oceanfront terrace
• Poolside
• Private rooftop
• Garden
• Beach
• Ballroom (climate control)
• There are so many options!

We find the resort that resonates with you and your personality. You can even be a specialist for just one brand.

All Inclusive Collection: Hard Rock and Unico
Hard Rock resorts is for modern travelers who are fans of music and are looking for something stylish,
contemporary and unique.

Hard Rock Highlights:

• Family friendly
• Resort Credits for spa, golf, tours
• Top shelf liquor
• Contemporary Accommodations
• 24hour room service
• Awesome Entertainment
• Fun & Upbeat Atmosphere
• Phenomenal Pools
• Great Kids program

Unico Hotel Riviera Maya:
A curated all-inclusive experience for adults only. Unico is ideal for sophisticated travelers seeking culture immersion in a relaxed modern day luxury setting.

Unico Hotel Riviera Maya Highlights

• Adults only
• Unlimited resort credits
• Gourmet a la carte dining – no reservations required
• Top shelf liquor & great mixology
• Authentic luxury suites
• 24-hour room service
• Pool and beach wait service
• Daytime and nightly entertainment
• No wristbands
• Fantastic spa

AMResorts: Secrets, Dreams
Secrets Resorts & Spas offer adults romance and sensuality in luxury beachfront settings.
Dreams Resorts & Spas offer unlimited luxury for couples and couples with children in fabulous beachfront locations.

Secrets & Dreams Highlights

• Secrets is adults-only
• Dreams is family friendly
• Unlimited Luxury
• Gourmet a la carte dining – no reservations required
• Top shelf liquor
• Elegantly appointed rooms and suites
• 24hour room service
• Pool and Beach wait service
• Daytime and Nightly Entertainment
• No Wristbands

Karisma Resorts: Azul and El Dorado
El Dorado Resorts & Spas offer adults an authentic Mexican luxury experience with an emphasis on the culinary arts.

Azul Resorts offers couples and families an unique and unforgettable luxury vacation with an emphasis on gourmet food and excellent service.

El Dorado & Azul Resort Highlights

• Gourmet Inclusive- no reservations required
• Premium libations
• Authentic & modern rooms and suites including overwater bungalows
• 24hour room service
• Pool and Beach wait service
• Daytime and Nightly Entertainment
• No Wristbands
• Beach Beds
• Toddler program at Azul
• Unique activities like greenhouse tour, cooking classes, tequila tastings
• Awesome pools

Playa Resorts: Hyatt Ziva and Hyatt Zilara
Hyatt Ziva (for families) and Hyatt Zilara (for adults) cater to upmarket discerning travelers who want a five-star all-inclusive experiences.

Hyatt Ziva & Zilara Highlights

• High Quality cuisine
• Top Shelf Spirits
• Luxurious Accommodations
• 24hour room service
• Genuine Hospitality
• Daytime and Nightly Entertainment
• Best Oceanfront Locations

Sandals Resorts: Sandals & Beaches
Sandals (for couples) and Beaches (for everyone) are located on exquisite beaches in the Caribbean and offer a luxury included experience with the most inclusions of any all–inclusive brand on the market.

Sandals & Beaches Highlights

• Sandals is adults only
• Beaches is family friendly
• Gourmet Dining
• Premium Liquor and Quality house wines
• Lavish Accommodations including overwater villas and bungalows
• Highest level of personal service
• Excellent Water sports program
• Daytime and Nightly Entertainment
• Best Beaches
• No tipping

Are you considering a destination wedding but don’t know where to begin with the planning? As experienced and highly specialized wedding travel agents, that’s where we come in! A wedding travel agent will take care of the details, sort logistics, and manage travel arrangements for you and your guests. When you have a professional travel advisor and wedding planner team – all that’s left to do is make decisions and get excited!

Another item to consider in your planning – Your wedding photos are something you will cherish forever. One of the many perks of destination weddings is the location, especially when it comes to pictures. Your destination’s stunning natural landscape will provide you with the perfect backdrop for your wedding day photos. Destination weddings mean that you are surrounded by picture-perfect locations for photos.

Your wedding is a chance for your two families to spend time together getting to know each other. A destination wedding can really be a big group family vacation! Rather than having everyone drive-in for a weekend for a wedding at home, spend a week relaxing at a tropical destination.

TIP #1

Your wedding is one of the few times in your life that all of your friends will be together in one place, so why limit it to only a day?

A destination wedding is a great chance for you to spend time with all of your favorite people, especially if you haven’t seen them in a while. Spend the days before your wedding exploring the destination with your guests and enjoy the time together to reconnect. The fun doesn’t have to end on the wedding day, either. Combine your destination wedding with your honeymoon for the ultimate holiday with your loved one.

TIP #2

Have you ever wondered how to fly with a wedding dress? To check it, or not to check it. That is the real question!

When planning a destination wedding, your bridal dress will probably be one of the most valuable items you will have to transport. Luckily, most airlines let you fly with your dress as a carry-on, and some even recommend it. The airline crew will be just as excited as you are, and they are usually very accommodating in helping you make sure it stays safe during the flight.

TIP #3

Are you considering a destination wedding in the Caribbean? If so, the time of year you choose to get married matters!

The weather in the Caribbean is notoriously beautiful, but if you go at the wrong time, you run the risk of bad weather spoiling your day. Winter to early spring is the ideal time to plan your destination wedding. It’s not as hot and humid during this time, and you will avoid the highly unpredictable hurricane season!

TIP #4

One of the added perks of having a destination wedding is getting to know the local culture. Make your celebrations even more unique by incorporating a traditional local ritual into your wedding festivities. Not only will it be meaningful to you, but your guests will also enjoy taking part in a fun new celebration.

TIP #5

Are you getting married in a city or a popular destination? If so, I’ve got a tip to make your wedding pictures both fun and unique!

Some of your destination’s iconic places are also probably the most crowded, and that’s okay! Make the crowds part of your picture. You may even come across some friendly bystanders who will join in on the fun to help you capture the perfect shot!

TIP #6

Plan a wedding fit for a princess when you use an old castle for your venue. All over Europe, grand estates are available for rent and make the perfect backdrop to your fairytale wedding. Most places even have enough rooms on the grounds for your guests so you can all spend time enjoying your big day together!

TIP #7

By the time you finish planning a destination wedding, you will feel like an expert on the location. But your wedding guests might not feel the same.

As the wedding date gets closer, be sure to help your guests with weather and clothing advice for the week. Giving them helpful advice about what to pack not only for the events but for activities around your destination will be a welcomed packing tip!

TIP #8

Are you considering a destination wedding but don’t know where to begin with the planning? That’s where I come in! A travel advisor will take care of the details, sort logistics, and manage travel arrangements. When you have a professional travel advisor and wedding planner team – all that’s left to do is make decisions and get excited.

TIP #9

Trying to decide which sweet treat to serve at your destination wedding? How about all of them!

Rather than having one cake, consider a dessert bar made up of local sweets from your destination. You and your guests will enjoy sampling the various treats, and you can still have a traditional cake made as well. Having a dessert bar is also a great way to incorporate the local culture into your wedding!

TIP #10

Just like planning a local wedding, you’ll want a place where you and your bridal party can get ready for your big day. With so much to think about the day of your wedding, having a space where you can all hang out and get ready will help you relax and enjoy the day. As a travel advisor, I’ll work directly with your venue to ensure you and your bridal party are taken care of!

TIP #11

Does planning a destination wedding make you feel overwhelmed?

Planning a wedding shouldn’t feel like an endless mountain of tasks. It should be a fun and enjoyable experience! As a professional travel advisor, I am here to streamline and organize the planning process for you. I’ll take care of all of the details, so all you have to do is make a few decisions and enjoy!

TIP #12

When you think of a destination wedding, what do you picture?

While most people envision a tropical beach, it’s worth considering a charming European location. From enchanted castles to charming villas, Europe is filled with dreamy destinations that would be perfect for your fairytale wedding. Whether you want something small and intimate or an extravagant formal affair, your perfect venue could be closer than you think!

TIP #13

How are you showing up to your wedding? If you haven’t thought about it yet, here are a few ideas!

Depending on your destination, you can make a really exciting entrance. From a horse-drawn carriage through a charming European town to a stylish boat in the Caribbean and even a hot air balloon, there are plenty of ways for you to make an entrance no one will forget!

TIP #14

The next question after ‘When are you getting married?’ is usually ‘Where?’ Is it going to be your hometown, theirs, the city you met, the city where you currently live?

If you’re having trouble deciding between locations, settle the debate with a destination wedding. Choose a location that is new and exciting and will be fun for you to explore. It will forever hold a special place in your lives as the place you got married and can be a place you revisit on your anniversary!

TIP #15

Choosing a season is equally as important as choosing a destination. Paris in the spring, the Caribbean in the winter, or England in the summer are all very different from their opposite seasons. When you choose your destination, you also get to pick your perfect season. If you know you want to be married in the fall, I can help you decide which destinations would be best for you!

TIP #16

Your wedding photos are something you will cherish forever.

Many years down the road, you’ll look back at your photos and be reminded of that magical day. One of the many perks of destination weddings is the location, especially when it comes to pictures.

Your destination’s stunning natural landscape will provide you with the perfect backdrop for your wedding day photos.

TIP #17

Destination weddings mean that you are surrounded by picture-perfect locations for photos.

With so many gorgeous spots, it can be hard to decide which ones to choose!

Along with your wedding venue, I can help you select the best photo opportunities for you and your loved one on your special day.

TIP #18

Big, lavish weddings aren’t for everyone.

If you are a couple who is looking for a wedding that reflects your easy-going style, then it’s time to consider a destination wedding.

You can keep the ceremony as small, intimate, and casual as you want with a destination wedding.

TIP #19

If spending time with family and friends is an integral part of your wedding festivities, consider planning a destination wedding.

With everyone staying at the same, or nearby, resort, you can see your guests as much as you’d like before, during, and after the big day.

The beauty of a destination wedding is that your guests get to enjoy a little vacation as well!

TIP #20

Are you recently engaged and beginning the search for the perfect venue?

How about out of the country and somewhere exotic!

Sometimes you have to think a little outside of the box when it comes to wedding planning, and you might just find that a destination wedding is an answer to all of your questions!

TIP #21

I know you want every aspect of your wedding day to be perfect.

From the dress to the flowers and especially your bridesmaids, you want to be surrounded by things and people who make you feel special.

There’s no reason why your venue shouldn’t fall into that category as well!

Choose a destination for your wedding that is exceptional and will provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.

TIP #22

Do you want to plan a tropical destination wedding without the hassle of passports and customs?

Look no further than Puerto Rico!

This US territory is not only stunning, but it is a short flight from the US and does not require US citizens to have a passport to visit.

This means you can travel worry-free to the tropical paradise of your dreams.

TIP #23

It’s okay to be worried about guest attendance for a destination wedding.

While it seems like a big ask to have people travel across the world for your big day, you might be surprised to know how many guests will jump at the opportunity!

A destination wedding is a great excuse to take a vacation and explore a new destination, like the Greek Isles.

Your guests will love your destination just as much as you do!

TIP #24

Like with any wedding, there is still a fair amount of planning that goes into a destination wedding.

Trying to sort the details with your venue from a different time zone can be tricky, but that’s what I’m here for!

I’ll make sure no details of your wedding are overlooked, no matter where in the world you choose to get married!

TIP #25

If you’re torn between a destination wedding and celebrating your heritage with wedding traditions, I can help you to blend the two.

Destination weddings don’t mean you have to leave your wedding traditions behind.

You can still have the best of both worlds when you plan a destination wedding.

TIP #26

Your wedding is an event you want to share with all of your close friends and family, and a destination wedding is no exception.

Budgets shouldn’t have to hold anyone back from attending.

That is why I provide you and your guests with multiple options for hotels, resorts, etc., that will accommodate all budgets!

TIP #27

Your wedding is a chance for your two families to spend time together getting to know each other.

Why not combine your wedding with a family vacation?

Rather than having everyone drive-in for a weekend, spend a week relaxing at a tropical destination.

A destination wedding gives your families plenty of time to relax and connect, all while celebrating your big day.

TIP #28

Part of what makes destination weddings memorable is the location.

Embracing your destination’s natural beauty, culture, and traditions will make your day extra special.

Whether that’s wearing leis in Hawaii during your ceremony or having Polynesian music and dancers at your reception in Tahiti, you’re sure to remember those moments.

TIP #29

Flowers can be one of the most expensive aspects of your wedding, especially if they are out of season and need to be flown in.

Rather than paying to have your flowers shipped hundreds of miles, why not go straight to the source.

Having a destination wedding means you have access to local flowers that may be specific to your destination.

Just imagine having a beautiful bouquet filled with exotic flowers!

BONUS TIP!

After months of wedding planning and wedding events, a honeymoon is just what you need to relax and enjoy married life.

But a honeymoon is just one more thing to plan. When you have a destination wedding, you get the luxury of planning the ceremony, reception, and honeymoon all at once.

If you have guests coming, you can choose to stay at the same report or a different one if you want more privacy.

Ready to contact us and learn more about organizing your dream destination wedding? In 2022, destination weddings now account for just over 25% of the US wedding market.

Weddings and vacations, they are both great generators of excitement. Mix the two together, and you can start planning for something truly special. Destination weddings are growing in popularity as couples choose to tie the knot in majestically unforgettable style.

Destination Wedding Statistics & Inspiration

On average, couples getting married abroad will stay at their destination for 7 days, with guests staying on average for 4 days. Some couples choose to change resorts for their honeymoon. This way, if needed, they have more privacy from the rest of their party after the wedding. Along with the resort, in the Caribbean and Bahamas, it’s not uncommon for couples to change islands between their destination wedding and honeymoon. This gives them a completely fresh local, to experience both.

In 2022, the average cost of a destination wedding can be cheaper overall, compared to upwards of $30,000 average for domestic weddings.

May is the most popular month for a destination wedding, followed by June and July. This is important to remember in your budget planning, as May, June, and July can be the high season in your destination, which means it can be the most expensive time to book.

In 2022, destination weddings now account for just over 25% of the US wedding market.

Why people choose a destination wedding?

Destination weddings cost far less than those held domestically.

It is more likely to stand out, and be a unique experience and wedding that you and your guests will never forget.

It’s often much easier, as people opting for destination weddings will almost always involve the services of a travel agent, who based on your needs, will have the best recommendation for destination, resort, time of year, and relationships with on-site wedding planners.

There is a hugely romantic and exciting feel to getting married in an exotic location. For your guests as well! The excursions alone, mean you’re spending more time with your friends and family doing things you might not have access to at home. For example, zip-lining, sailing, horse back riding, rock climbing, spas / massages, cenotes, whale watching, the list goes on and on!

Instead of just 1 special day, the celebrations can be extended across several days. South Asian / Indian wedding celebrations are known to last from a week to 2 weeks!

The scenery of your destination will likely present the opportunity to get some beautiful media – video and photographs, for you and your guests.

It is much easier not to invite unwanted guests, who would expect or require an invite to a wedding held domestically.

Organizing a Destination Wedding

A destination wedding travel agency can help guide you through all of the following!

1) As a couple, brainstorm and come up with a wide-ranging list of possible wedding locations.

2) Whittle this down to a shortlist by going into further detail about the finer pros & cons of each location you’ve selected.

3) Make a final choice on your destination, and enlist the help of a wedding travel agency to book that location.

4) Decide who will be invited to the wedding. Once you have final numbers, organize the travel arrangements.

5) Select a theme for the wedding, whether it’s an overriding color scheme or a theme based on something such as a famous TV show or film.

6) Get yourselves and the wedding party sized up for everything that you will wear on the day of the wedding.

7) Complete any admin tasks related to the wedding, this can be taken care of by a travel agent wedding planner if you’re unsure about some of the finer legal points.

8) Organize the food. Selecting the cuisine that’s indigenous to the country of your wedding adds to the destination wedding vibe, or at least have a few similar options.

9) Organize the finishing touches, such as music, cake, make-up and photography.

10) Enjoy every minute of your perfect destination wedding, starting from when you get to the airport!

Tips for Organizing Destination Weddings

Have an on-site wedding planner. We organize someone for you! They typically are an employee of the resort and have 100s, if not 1000s of destination weddings under their belt. There are some specifics which they can do with ease, but would likely cause you enormous hassle if you took them on yourself. However, only enlist their help for jobs that very much require their expertise.

Find out about the legalities of getting married in the destination of your choice.

Carefully consider what travel plans (flights, connecting transfers, etc.) would be most convenient for you and your guests.

Consider taking out wedding insurance to protect against unforeseen obstacles, natural disasters affecting your destination.

Confirm the dates, and notify your guests as early as you can. They will need to plan for taking time off work, as well as saving up for the wedding. 9 months is a good ball park.

Visit your proposed destination to get a first-hand opinion of whether or not it is suitable for your wedding vision.

Ensure that you have arranged any essential documents, valid passports, visas, birth certificates, affidavits / statutory declarations.

Ready to take the next step?

We have been booking destination weddings since 2002. At All Inclusive Weddings, we offer free consultation! Please contact us today to learn more.

• The best time to get married
• Insider secrets to free perks
• The one thing that will make or break your budget

1) Choose a destination that it is easy and affordable to fly into
The destination you choose can often make or break your budget. You might be dreaming of an uber-exotic out-of-the-way destination for your special day, but that might also mean uber-expensive flights and uber long travel days which may end up being a hinderance for you, your fiancé or your guests.

On the other hand, there are plenty of locations that are uber-exotic, but for a variety of reasons are
surprisingly easy and affordable to get to. A professional travel expert (like me!) can be a great guide to finding these not so well known locations. Please don’t forget to also pick a location you love. Regardless of your budget, this is your wedding, your special day, and you want to have nothing but joy-filled memories of this special day. Choose a location that you absolutely love and that appeals to your aesthetic, way of life, and look and feel of your wedding. You want your guests to go home feeling like the entire event was completely your style!

2) Take advantage of wedding credits and other perks offered at your destination

Did you know that hotels and resorts that cater to destination weddings will offer you wedding credits based on the number of rooms booked for your event? Did you know that it’s even possible at some destinations to have your wedding or honeymoon completely free based on the size of your group?

Wedding credits can be applied towards your costs, such as your accommodations, local wedding related government fees, or extra special perks like a fine bottle of champagne or a romantic catamaran trip around the island. Just like airline miles and credit cards perks, some are much better offers than others. A travel agent who specializes in Romance Travel can help you choose a property that will give you the most wedding credits based on the number of rooms booked.

3) Be open to getting married during the week, as opposed to a Saturday

Many venues offer lower rates for weekday weddings. You and your guests are already likely taking some time off for the wedding, so planning a destination wedding during the week is typically much easier than trying to schedule a traditional wedding during the week.

4) Choose flowers, food and favors that are easy to find locally

Shipping or traveling with your flowers, food or wedding favors is expensive and can be a real hassle. You might even run into restrictions when it comes to fresh flowers or foods depending on where you are traveling. Forget the hassle and choose these items that are unique to your destination.

Choose flowers, food and favors that are easy to find locally Part of the beauty and fun of a destination wedding is choosing flowers, food and favors that match the theme of your destination, to design the entire experience for you and your guests to be immersed in the locale.

Local souvenirs make the perfect favor for destination weddings. Find a local, high-end gift shop that sells tasteful souvenirs or consider giving local delicacies – wines, coffees, nuts, candies…
almost every location has some culinary treat that they are known for – with a quick online search or phone call to your wedding travel agency, you can come up with a wonderful, memorable wedding favor your guests will love.

5) Talk to your Travel Agent about negotiating special upgrades and perks based on the size of your wedding

…and make sure your guests understand how to book under your contract.

Your Travel Agent is an invaluable resource to you when it comes to negotiating group contracts with destination wedding venues. What this means for you is freebies and concessions such as upgrades, parties, etc. for booking a certain number of rooms.

You want to communicate with your guests and make sure they book with your Travel Agent so that their travel is booked properly and will count towards the guaranteed minimum number of guests that your Travel Agent negotiated for you so you don’t lose your perks.

There is nothing worse than negotiating a killer deal with a resort based on the number of guests you will have, only to get there and realize it was all for naught since half of your guests didn’t book their rooms under your contract! There are some resorts that now even charge the couple for guests that don’t book inside the negotiated group contract. Ouch!

As your destination wedding travel agency, we can help you communicate this clearly to your guests and you have our word that they will be treated to the exact same luxury experience that I will provide you.