Category: AIW

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.

Step into the world of luxury surrounded by a tropical oasis at the all-inclusive Secrets Moxché Playa del Carmen. Immerse yourself in an ambiance unique to the Yucatan peninsula with our seven shimmering pools, plus three man-made cenotes and one interior beach-inspired designed for intimate gatherings. All 485 lavish suites offer a contemporary experience with an earthy feel including luxurious amenities, stunning views, an in-room mini-bar and more! The resort is located within Corasol, a gated residential community with an 18-hole golf course designed by PGA-Legend and a member of the Hall of Fame, Nick Price, Gran Coyote Golf Course, and a mere 40 minutes from Cancun International Airport.

View our: Secrets Moxche Guide & Wedding Packages PDF

Secrets Resorts & Spas

From AMR Collection, for all-adult romance, Secrets Resorts are a great option.

Secrets Resorts & Spas offer adults an extra measure of romance and sensuality in exquisite luxury beachfront settings. Guests immerse themselves in Unlimited-Luxury® where everything is included. This plus elegantly appointed rooms and suites with 24-hour concierge and room services, multiple gourmet restaurants and lounges serving top-shelf spirits, elegant amenities and endless day and evening activities, provide the ultimate backdrop for unparalleled pampering, romantic rendezvous and lasting memories for couples and honeymooners.

The Unlimited-Luxury® experience includes: Limitless access to gourmet à la carte dining options without reservations required Unlimited international and domestic top-shelf spirits Unlimited natural fruit juices and soft drinks 24-hour room and concierge services Pool and beach wait service Daily refreshed mini-bar with soft drinks, juice, bottled water and beer Daily maid service Endless daytime activities and live nightly entertainment Theme parties, oceanfront bars and entertainment venues No wristbands required All taxes and gratuities

The Perfect Guest for Secrets Resorts & Spas:
Adults seeking an extra measure of romance in exquisite and luxurious setting. Desiring upscale accommodations, elegant amenities and excellent services.

Ideal for:

• Honeymoons
• Adults-only weddings
• Anniversaries
• Engagements
• Vow renewals
• Romantic escapes
• Spa retreats

Adults-Only • Romantic • Luxurious • Sophisticated • Elegant

What makes Secrets Moxché in Playa del Carmen unique?

I had the honor of visiting the brand new build, Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen, in the heart of Riviera Maya. The word, Moxche, comes from a tree growing in this area and they have incorporated the wood throughout the property. The attention to every detail is evident from the ocean view the moment you arrive. This resort is 5 minutes north of Playa del Carmen in the gated community of Coracol. It sits right between Royal Haciendas, timeshare place, and Sandos Caracol. It opens on April 18th, 2022. The resort has 483 suites, which are all oversized, starting around 600 square feet.

There is also a tower called “Impressions”, which is a step above Preferred Club. It is sold as a separate hotel. This section, as I keep calling it, since it’s right there, is slated to open August 1st, with 200 additional suites. At Secrets Moxche there’s a huge variety of suites with their standard suites being nicer than suites at its competitors. There are swim out suites, master suites and more. The swim outs went in a new direction with a divider between each room, making it an impressively large private pool on each room. This category is going to be so popular, especially with honeymooners.

The entry level room is a jr. suite tropical view. There are options for a king or 2 queen size beds. The Preferred Club status will get you extra amenities in your room like a stone soaking tub on your balcony, stocked wine cooler, Nespresso machine, daily stocked snacks and the extra bathroom amenities. I love having all these little extras in my room because I seem to forget something and they think of it all. This also gives you access to the rooftop observatory, which I will go into detail about next.

There are 3 rooftops, which they are calling observatories. On top of the main lobby is just for Preferred Club guests. It has an infinity pool, drink and food service. It is jaw dropping. It gives a view of the entire property and the ocean. The observatory on the roof of Impressions has double the size of infinity pool and is closer to the beach for a straight ocean view. The 3rd roof top is for weddings. WOW! It will be the #1 venue for privacy and views. They have also brought over Carolina, from Secrets Akumal, to have the best of the best wedding coordinators for this new property. I’m so excited for our future brides to have this amazing option. It’s going to book up quickly so we need to start reserving dates for now and 2023.

The gastronomy is being taken to a new level with this new resort. There are some similar experiences like The Market which is located off the main lobby with that picture perfect view of the whole property. They also have added new restaurant concepts such as personalized teppanyaki and indoor/outdoor seating at most restaurants. There are new names to restaurants here as well. I think I’m the most excited about Dos Almas which is Mexican Soul Food. I don’t know if I had a favorite food group before I heard of this restaurant but I’m pretty sure I have found it. They also will have a tequila tasting menu and taco bar. Impressions will have 3 restaurants exclusively for their guests but they also have access to all the restaurants on property.

It wouldn’t be a Secrets without an amazing spa and Secrets Moxche is no exception. The spa is located in a quiet section to the front of the property (further from the beach) with an impressive entrance with banyan trees. There are 16 cabins and 6 master cabins. There’s a his and hers side with sauna and steam room with an outdoor area for everyone. The outdoor area has an impressive hydrotherapy area with all the water massage you could hope for. I almost enjoy the spa experience before the massage more than the actual massage so I can’t wait to get back here and try it out.

As I brag to being a “honest, tell it like it is” travel agent I want to address the beach. This is going to be a hurdle for those that are die hard perfect beach lovers. This stretch of beach is not known for perfection and is prone to seaweed especially during the spring and summer. Secrets Resorts have always been diligent about cleaning to the best of their ability but mother nature sometimes is a real witch. If this is a deal breaker for you then I would encourage you to come November – February. I do want you to hear me out though. This resort is exceptional. They have overly over compensated with tons of pools. One of them even has a sandy beach so you can put your toes in the sand without ever stepping outside the resort. They have 2 natural cenotes on property too which are cool and refreshing. There are also multiple pools with swim up bars.

Have I talked you into this yet? I am hard to impress and I was giddy. Every time I turned the corner I was like saying, “Oh wow I love that. I want my house to look like that! How did they do that? Where did they shop?” and on and on. If you’re an avid all inclusive traveler we decided this is a mix between Atelier and Unico 2087 which makes is even more perfect.

We spend our trips touring hotels so we can be the best travel agents possible. We would love to help you plan a vacation to Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen. It’s one of a kind.

Endless romance AWAITS!

We want to make sure you fall in love with your destination wedding location and the resort that matches your vision for your perfect destination wedding package!

We understand those extraordinary moments, the ones that truly take your breath away, the ones that stay with you forever. Whether it’s the first time you see one another as you walk down the aisle, or the view from the beach where you celebrate that special anniversary or renew your vows.

All Inclusive Weddings assists in making those stunning experiences, creating lifelong memories for you to love and cherish. We are honored to be a part of your celebration because you deserve an experience as amazing and unique as your love.

WHAT MAKES THE PERFECT DESTINATION?

Selecting your destination is the first step in planning a trip to celebrate your romantic milestone. You want a location that sets the tone for your special occasion and represents the love you have for one another. If your celebration includes more than just the two of you, also consider a place your guests will cherish – loaded with all-inclusive luxury and exciting activities.

DESTINATION DECISION MAKERS

BUDGET: No need to break the bank. Determine what you are willing to spend. We will work with you and your chosen destination resort to create a one-of-a-kind experience within your budget.

BACKDROP: It doesn’t have to be a fantasy! Visualize your dream location and choose a destination that meets your unique criteria.

STYLE: Beach breezy? Nature lovers? History buffs? Define your style as a couple and select a complementary destination.

SEASONALITY: Are you celebrating a certain date? Is there flexibility? Some destinations have great promotions during low seasons.

Viva MÉXICO!

EAST COAST

The eastern coast of Mexico bordering the Caribbean Sea is home to the popular resort destinations of Cancun, Riviera Maya and the island of Cozumel. This region on the Yucatan Peninsula offers some of the best and most romantic beaches in the country, championship-caliber golf courses and an incredible mix of ancient Mayan and traditional Mexican culture — it’s a place every couple will want to experience.

TIME ZONE:
Eastern Std. Time (GMT-5)

KNOWN FOR:
Snorkeling, Cenotes, and Mayan Culture

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Cancun, Cozumel, Riviera Maya, Tulum

PACIFIC COAST

The sparkling sapphire sea, majestic mountains and cactus-dotted desert landscapes make the Mexican Pacific Coast one of the most beautiful destinations. Luxury resorts, top-notch Mexican cuisine, world-class golf, exciting nightlife and adventures in nature are just a few of the many reasons to celebrate your special occasion here.

TIME ZONE:
Mountain Std. Time (GMT-7)

KNOWN FOR:
Golf, Scuba Diving, Whale Watching and Sport Fishing

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Huatulco, Los Cabos, Nuevo Vallarta, Puerto Vallarta, Riviera Nayarit

Discover THE CARIBBEAN

ST. MARTIN

This elegant island shares the cultures of two countries. To the south is the Dutch side, with its cosmopolitan capital of Philipsburg, duty-free shops, glitzy casinos and nightspots. To the north is the French side with its chic boutiques, cafés and amazing views. Couples can discover it all and each other in St. Martin.

TIME ZONE:
Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)

KNOWN FOR:
Festive Nightlife, French Cuisine and Outdoor Markets

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Anse Marcel, Maho Beach, Orient Bay, Phillipsburg, Simpson Bay

CURAÇAO

Slip away to Curaçao, a Caribbean paradise that thrills and inspires. From delicious local eats and exciting outdoor excursions to a wealth of cultural gems throughout the area, this destination appeals to everyone on your guest list.

TIME ZONE:
Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)

KNOWN FOR:
Colorful Skyline, Island Cuisine, Diving and Dutch Influence

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
East End, Jan Thiel, Pietermaai Smal, Westpunt, Willemstad

Dive into the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Dominican Republic has picture-perfect beaches and every kind of activity and entertainment imaginable. From a catamaran to Soana Island, to the rich history and heritage at Santo Domingo’s Zona Colonial, couples find the perfect backdrop for their special occasion in the Caribbean region.

TIME ZONE:
Atlantic Standard Time (GMT-4)

KNOWN FOR:
White Sand Beaches and Merengue

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Cap Cana, La Romana, Macao Beach, Puerto Plata, Punta Cana, Uvero Alto

Experience JAMAICA

Beyond the sand, Jamaica has soul-stirring beauty with lush forest along misty mountain peaks and hidden waterfalls. A fusion of smoky, fresh and tropical island flavors await your discovery. Couples find themselves swaying to the soothing, rhythmic music the country is famous for. Friendly smiles and open arms welcome you under the warm island sun. Jamaica is a treat for all the senses.

TIME ZONE:
Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

KNOWN FOR:
Reggae, Rich Culture and White Sand Beaches

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Kingston, Montego Bay, Negril, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio

Adventure in CENTRAL AMERICA

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica’s motto, pura vida, is a way of life that has the country ranked as one of the happiest and the greenest countries in the world. Tucked between the countries of Nicaragua and Panama and the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, Costa Rica is a land of incredible biodiversity with volcanoes, cloud forests and tropical wildlife, national parks — ideal for adventure-loving couples.

TIME ZONE:
Central Std. Time (GMT-6)

KNOWN FOR:
Rainforests, Adventure and Biodiverse Wildlife

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Arenal, Cahuita, Corcovado, Gulf of Papagayo, Playa Copal, Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero

PANAMA

Best known for its landmark canal, Panama wows with Instagram-worthy backdrops for your celebration, including lush rainforests, mountain cloud forests and 3,500 miles of Pacific and Caribbean coastline. There are more than 1,500 islands off the Panama coast, making it a cocktail of ecological wonders, rich history, fine dining, culture and nightlife. Create an experience for your guests that is utterly unique.

TIME ZONE:
Eastern Standard Time (GMT-5)

KNOWN FOR:
Panama Canal, Natural Beauty and Vibrant Culture

POPULAR LOCATIONS:
Bocas del Toro Islands, Casco Viejo, El Valle de Anton, Panama City, Playa Bonita, Santa Catalina

Other Popular All Inclusive Wedding Locations

FALL IN love WITH OUR recommended locations! There are so many to list! Other popular locations can include: Turks and Caicos, The Bahamas, Grenada, Barbados, Antigua, Saint Lucia and so much more!

Know your destination? Explore the ideal resort brand for your romantic milestone! Finding a resort that matches your unique style as a couple will make the occasion even more special.

FREE WEDDINGS AT SELECT LOCATIONS!

We can help you find the perfect location for your destination wedding! How do you know if a place is right for your special day? Answering the following questions can help. How many rooms does the hotel have, and how many are available for the days you want? What types of guest rooms are available? What facilities does the hotel or resort have for a wedding? Does the hotel or resort have a standard wedding package? Can it be customized? Do you have an on-site coordinator?

Please contact us today at All Inclusive Weddings to learn more about our locations and services!

Dot your ‘I’s’ and cross your ‘T’s’ with our guide to destination wedding etiquette!

You said, “yes” to forever. Then, you started imagining your big day in a romantic locale. Now, you’re probably trying to figure out how you can get all of your friends and family there while keeping a smile on their face.

With all the components that go into a destination wedding, the stress can be overwhelming. From organizing a guest list to making sure everyone knows where to be and when, staying on cloud nine might feel like a constant struggle.

But, fear not – no matter how many guests you have coming and what their expectations are, we’re here to make sure you have a stress-free celebration that everyone will talk about for years to come. After all, just because weddings can seem complicated doesn’t mean they have to be – it’s all in your approach and preparation.

More interested in seeing a cost / pricing guide for all-inclusive destination weddings? Check out our Destination Wedding Cost – Packages Pricing Guide!

We’ve gathered all the tips, tricks and insight from our experience in the industry to walk you through the entire journey from start to finish before you even pack your bags. So, go ahead and trade your worries for joy knowing you’ll have everything you need to give your guests the time of their lives at your destination wedding.

You will notice all-inclusive destination weddings open up many features not possible with a traditional wedding, but they have their own challenges you need to keep in mind. Going through my own destination wedding in Puerto Vallarta, our romance travel agency, All Inclusive Weddings, was born out of wanting to help other couples navigate the difficulties, and communicate what’s actually involved!

Websites have soared in popularity over the past few years and for good reason – guests have all the information they need in one accessible location, freeing up the time that would be spent answering countless calls and texts. Creating a website is also a great opportunity to tackle the often-touchy subject of finances – give your guests a gentle heads-up on what they’re expected to pay for, so no surprises come up later on.

THINGS TO INCLUDE ON YOUR SITE

FLIGHT INFO
Direct visitors to sites where they can get deals on airfare

TRAVEL TIPS
Share your personal suggestions for effortless travel.

LODGING
Encourage your guests to stay at the venue by providing your group code.

YOUR STORY
Get everyone excited by sharing your love story along with any sentimental pictures.

INSIDER TIPS!

TIP 1: Use A Template

No need to start building from scratch. There are plenty of sites that are setup and ready
to fill in with your personal flair.

TIP 2: Introduce Your Wedding Party

Give your wedding party a shoutout by including their photos and a brief bio on your site.
Since they are the ones assisting you throughout the week, this will give your guests some
familiar faces to turn to for questions, while you and your other half are busy socializing.

Your website will be full of personal information, times and dates, so keep it all
secure with a password requiring visitors to sign in before viewing any content.

Now that your website is created, let your guests know to mark their calendar with a Save-the-Date card. For destination weddings, it’s best to give as much notice as possible – between nine and 12 months heads-up is appropriate. This may seem too far in advance, but remember your guests
need to evaluate travel costs and take time off.

Don’t forget the plus one – Typically, those in the wedding party get a plus one, but consider your other guests’ relationship statuses – long-term and live-in partners may expect to come along. Be clear
exactly who the invitation is addressed to, so recipients don’t extend it at their discretion

When traveling abroad, endless details can overwhelm your guests. Creating an itinerary that includes meet-up times, locations and contact information will allow everyone to get everywhere stress free. A good rule of thumb is to list any event that you have covered. Your guests can relax knowing these activities won’t cost anything extra.

Strength in numbers – Having a wedding team to help you with planning will ease worry and resolve confusion. Many all-inclusive resorts even offer a dedicated “entourage” when you book your
wedding at any of their resorts.

With all your details finalized, it’s finally time to get those formal invitations in the mail. You should aim to send these two to three months before your wedding date, as you want to provide ample time to tie-up any loose ends.

BEACHWEAR OR BLACK TIE?

DRESS CODE

List your expected dress code for the rehearsal dinner and ceremony. Nobody likes showing up under or overdressed, especially when a change of clothes could be thousands of miles away.

RSVP DETAILS
Don’t forget to give your guests a deadline to respond by. Otherwise, you could be waiting for responses, delaying your final accommodations. In your formal invitation, you should also include the actual location of your venue, rather than just the country or city – guests will appreciate having solidified details.

INSIDER TIPS!

TIP 1: Match Your Themes

Pick a theme that complements the overall look and style of your wedding. A ceremony in the garden may call for a floral invitation, while a seaside wedding may work well with pastels.

TIP 2: Mention Dietary Restrictions

Include a section that allows guests to check off any preferences or allergies, so you can plan special arrangements accordingly.

After months of planning, days of preparing, and hours of traveling, your guests have finally arrived for your big day, so make them feel at home! This is the perfect opportunity to thank them for coming with a welcome kit in their rooms. Local snacks and beer, sunscreen, water, and an itinerary are essentials for your destination wedding.

GO ON A GROUP OUTING

The Caribbean has much to offer in the way of fun. We think Island Routes Caribbean Adventures is one of the best ways to get around. Live life on the wild side with ziplining and raft excursions, or dip into the Caribbean vibe with local music or festivals.

INSIDER TIP!

Capture the Moment – Bring a disposable camera on your group adventure and capture the day. These photos are awesome keepsakes for you and your guests to hold on to.

When the festivities are over and it’s time to say goodbye, the emotions can really set in. Take advantage of being with your loved ones with a final hoorah. Brunch on the beach is an awesome way to hangout with everyone, reminisce about the week, and show your appreciation before they head off.

A smooth destination wedding is all about taking care of your guests’ needs and making them feel appreciated. A little bit of planning can go a long way to keep your guests smiling the entire trip.

NOW IT’S TIME TO TURN YOUR WEDDING INTO AN UNSTOPPABLE PARTY!

LOGISTICS OF LOVE

When planning your destination wedding, don’t forget all the details that come along with international marriage. Each island has its own specific requirements, but here are some things to keep in mind:

• Confirm your destination’s residency requirements. Many islands in the Caribbean have laws regarding how long you must be there before an official marriage ceremony can be performed. Remember this, as it may affect your travel window.

• If you’re looking to have a religious ceremony, reach out to your wedding planner to find possible options. Depending on the island and venue, you’ll want to see what accommodations are available.

• Double-check your documents because each island requires its own specific set of paperwork to officiate a marriage. When in doubt, check with your wedding planner and the local government to make sure you’re good to go.

• Make copies of all required documents and keep a set in your carry-on. In the event your luggage gets temporarily misplaced, you’ll still have everything you need.

To learn more, contact us at All Inclusive Weddings today! In business since 2013, we can make sure your destination wedding or other romance travel is a success!

More Information

As far as the expectation of who pays for what at a destination wedding, if you arrange the event and you expect your guests to attend, you typically pay for it! This means if you have a reception after, the resort will charge you usually based per person or per table. This is a cost you would not anticipate your guests paying. The groom has plans for a zip line excursion with his groomsmen? This would be an event paid for and covered by the groom / the wedding party hosting.

There are ways you can help lower your guests bill at the resort of your choosing. One of the ways is finding and working with a great travel agency / travel agent, who knows the ins-and-outs of group contracts. There are even airline discounts offered for blocked group travel.

More interested in seeing a cost / pricing guide for all-inclusive destination weddings? Check out our Destination Wedding Cost – Packages Pricing Guide!

It’s safe to say, every bride has felt heart-fluttering giddiness just thinking about the love of her life getting down on one knee to pop the question. Some envision it in the quiet recesses of their home, while others see it on the beach at sunset.

Wherever your big moment happens, be sure to revel in every second of it! Then, when you can’t get enough of celebrating the news, consider extending the excitement with an engagement-moon.

Skyrocketing their way to popularity, engagement-moons are the perfect place to spend quality time together and even recreate an engagement photoshoot. Capturing a solid photo during your real proposal can be difficult in all of the excitement, so hiring a professional photographer during your travels is a great alternative.

Not only will you walk away with an entire collection of cherished memories to share with friends and family, but you’ll be working with killer backdrops and a stress-free atmosphere.

One more thing: we recommend detaching from technology for a bit to avoid any post-proposal pressure and get a great, personal reset that will have you well-rested and ready for the wedding planning process!

Embrace the island with an adventurous photoshoot that speaks to the lush scenery!

Being able to celebrate this amazing moment with my best friend and the love of my life, while in such a beautiful place, made this the trip of a lifetime. the staff and people we met at sandals south coast made us feel like family from the moment we walked in. because of them, it’s a trip we’ll never forget. thank you sandals for making this special moment in our lives that much more memorable
-Sarah Jessop & Tyler Lafontaine, Chicago Illinois

All Inclusive Weddings was born out of the idea that destination weddings aren’t just about choosing a location, it’s about the experiences shared with friends and family while exploring the destination. We want to introduce you to the wedding aisle you’ve always dreamed of and surrounded it with the beauty and warmth of the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico and more locations!

Our services offer brides and grooms endless opportunity, while our expertise and wealth of experience run deep as the seas!

Whether you’re saying ‘I do’ on a bluff overlooking the ocean or under the canopy of a carefully manicured garden, you’ll have all the knowledge needed to revel in your big day.

Weddings in Paradise!

It’s inspiration without limitation.

We hope to be your number one resource for all-inclusive destination weddings, so join us as we set out to assist you and the one you love in the tropics!

Every great love story begins with an epic journey. Join All Inclusive Weddings as we introduce you to white-sand beaches, swim under rushing waterfalls and traverse lush terrain to discover and explore real dream weddings and exotic backdrops that set the scene.

The idea of a beautiful, exotic venue is probably the main reason you picked, or are considering, a destination wedding. Somehow, each inspiration accomplished the impossible feat of further enhancing the idyllic backdrops. Like a strand of pearls adds to a classic gown, shimmering lights strewn across lush tropical gardens and a dramatic, white frame arbor against the blue horizon lended to the beauty of the surroundings.

Likely one of the toughest decisions you’ll have to make throughout the process is selecting the ceremony and reception venues. A white-sand beach aisle? A gazebo in a tropical garden? A sunset bluff overlooking the sea? An Over-the-Water Serenity Wedding Chapel? The good news is you have plenty to choose from and it seems impossible to go wrong. You can even upgrade to a twilight hour ceremony or an off-site location.

A destination wedding is a getaway to share with your closest family and friends that is filled with multiple days of events manifested from pure imagination. Can’t you picture it—A tropical welcome party, an intimate and romantic rehearsal dinner, or an epic las

You can be as involved or laissez-faire about the process as you want. They’re ready to handle every single detail and create an entire itinerary filled with adventure, romance and relaxation, so all you have to worry about is soaking up every special moment in the Caribbean sun.

With a destination wedding, we highly advise and it is the most popular option – get all documentation created in your state of US local residence. As an option, all required document work can be completed in your home state, except for the official signature from the bride, groom and witness. If you would like, you then take the marriage documentation with you on your destination wedding trip, and sign during the wedding reception. When you return from your trip, you can turn the documentation in, and you are officially married.

However, if required, here are the documents required by country. All advise mentioned on this site can change at any moment, so please contact us for the latest requirements.

JAMAICA
• Residency period: 48 hrs. (includes
weekends and holidays).
• Notarized copies of BOTH bride and
groom’s valid government-issued
Passport photo ID or Driver’s License.
• All copies of documents must be
notarized and mailed to our Miami
office. Please note that Notary’s
commission must be valid until after
the wedding date.
• Notarized copies of BOTH bride and
groom’s state-issued birth certificates.
• Notarized copy of all previous divorce
decrees, all pages of court certified final
judgment for BOTH bride and groom
(if applicable).
• Notarized copy of former spouse’s
state-issued death certificate and
related notarized marriage certificate
(if applicable).
• Notarized copy of legal adoption papers
or legal name change (if applicable).
• Notarized copy of legal translation
of all documents to English along with
notarized documents in original
language (if applicable).

Please note that documents will not be
returned. Documents must be received
in our office at least 60 days prior to your
arrival date for wedding confirmation.
Please note that in the event that all
applicable required documents are not
received by our Miami office we will not
be able to perform the wedding.
• Please mail notarized documents to:
WEDDING DOCUMENTS C/O DT BUSINESS SERVICES
5000 SW 75TH AVENUE, SUITE 111, MIAMI, FLORIDA 33155
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees are $95

BAHAMAS

Residency period: 48 hrs. (two business
days, NOT including day of arrival,
weekends or holidays);
• All original documents with certified court
seals must be hand carried to the island.
• Country-issued passports and state issued birth certificates for BOTH bride
and groom.
• All previous divorce decrees, all pages
of court certified final judgment for
BOTH bride and groom (if applicable).
Former spouse’s state-issued death
certificate and related marriage certificate
(if applicable).
• Legal adoption papers or legal name
change (if applicable).
• Legal translation of all documents to
English along with documents in original
language (if applicable).
• Please note that documents will not be
returned. Documents must be received
in our office at least 60 days prior to your
arrival date for wedding confirmation.
Please note that in the event that all
applicable required documents are not
received by our Miami office and/or
original documents are not hand carried
to the resort (where applicable), we will
not be able to perform the wedding.
• Please uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees
are $310.

ANTIGUA

Residency period: 48 hrs. (must include
one business day, NOT including holidays);
no Sunday weddings.
• All original documents with certified court
seals must be hand carried to the island.
• Country-issued passports OR stateissued birth certificates for BOTH bride
and groom.
• All previous divorce decrees, all pages
of court certified final judgment for
BOTH bride and groom (if applicable).
• Former spouse’s state-issued death
certificate and related marriage certificate
(if applicable).
• Legal adoption papers or legal name
change (if applicable).
• Legal translation of all documents to
English along with documents in original
language (if applicable).
• Please note that documents will not be
returned. Documents must be received
in our office at least 60 days prior to your
arrival date for wedding confirmation.
Please note that in the event that all
applicable required documents are
not received by our Miami office
and/or original documents are not hand
carried to the resort (where applicable),
we will not be able to perform the wedding.
• Please uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees
are $288.

SAINT LUCIA
Residency period: 72 hrs. (three business
days, NOT including day of arrival, weekends
or holidays); no Sunday weddings.
• All original documents with certified court
seals must be hand carried to the island.
• Country-issued passports and stateissued birth certificates for BOTH
bride and groom.
• All previous divorce decrees, all pages
of court certified final judgment for
BOTH bride and groom (if applicable)
Former spouse’s state-issued death
certificate and related marriage
certificate (if applicable).
• Legal adoption papers or legal name
change (if applicable).
• Legal translation of all documents to
English along with documents in original
language (if applicable).
• Express Wedding: Residency period 48hrs/
2 business days (excludes day of arrival).
Fee of US$341 is due at the time of booking.
• Please note that documents will not
be returned. Documents must be
received in our office at least 60 days
prior to your arrival date for wedding
confirmation. Please note that in the
event that all applicable required
documents are not received by our
Miami office and/or original documents
are not hand carried to the resort
(where applicable), we will not be
able to perform the wedding.
• Please uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees
are $270.

BARBADOS
Residency period: 48 hrs. NOT including
weekends or public holidays.
• All original documents with certified court
seals must be hand carried to the island.
• Country-issued passports and stateissued birth certificates for BOTH bride
and groom.
• All previous divorce decrees, all pages
of court certified final judgment for BOTH
bride and groom (if applicable).
• Former spouse’s state-issued death
certificate and related marriage certificate
(if applicable).
• Legal adoption papers or legal name
change (if applicable).
• Legal translation of all documents to
English along with documents in original
language (if applicable).
• Please note that documents will not be
returned. Documents must be received
in our office at least 60 days prior to your
arrival date for wedding confirmation.
Please note that in the event that all
applicable required documents are not
received by our Miami office and/or
original documents are not hand carried
to the resort (where applicable), we will
not be able to perform the wedding.
• Please uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees
are $325.

GRENADA
Residency period: 72 hrs. (three days,
including weekends and holidays prior
to applying for license) and one-three
days for application of license.
• All original documents with certified court
seals must be hand carried to the island,
except for express weddings.
• Country-issued passports and stateissued birth certificates for BOTH bride
and groom.
• All previous divorce decrees, all pages
of court certified final judgment for
BOTH bride and groom (if applicable).
• Former spouse’s state-issued death
certificate and related marriage certificate
(if applicable).
• Legal adoption papers or legal name
change (if applicable).
Sworn affidavit or letter from a Notary Public:
must be on a letterhead with applicable
notarized, seals etc. attesting that neither
party has not been previously married.
• Legal translation of all documents to
English along with documents in original
language (if applicable).
• Express Weddings: Residency period
48 hrs./1 business day. Fee of US$190 is
due at time of booking. Notarized copies
of all documents that apply along with the
Marriage License Application Form, must
be sent to the mailing address below:
WEDDING DOCUMENTS C/O DT BUSINESS SERVICES
5000 SW 75TH AVENUE, SUITE 111, MIAMI, FLORIDA 33155
• Please note that documents will not be
returned. Documents must be received
in our office at least 60 days prior to your
arrival date for wedding confirmation.
Please note that in the event that all
applicable required documents are not
received by our Miami office and/or
original documents are not hand carried
to the resort (where applicable), we will
not be able to perform the wedding.
• For Non-Express Wedding, please
uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees are $180

CURACAO
Residency period of 72 hrs (includes day
of arrival, weekends, and holidays; DOES
NOT include day of wedding) Wedding
Days: Monday – Saturday. No Weddings
on Sundays or Holidays.
• Wedding Information and Processing Form.
• Letter of Authorization form.
• Letter of Intent form (Must include
2 different dates and time of day for
ceremony, along with signatures and
email addresses of both parties).
• Original Birth Certificate with an
Apostille/legalization from Netherlands
embassy or designated competent
authority in your country of residence
for bride & groom in long/complete form
only (not older than 1 year).
• Notarized copy of a valid passport
for bride & groom with an Apostille/
legalization from Netherlands embassy or
designated competent authority in your
country of residence.
• Original Divorce Decree with an Apostille/
legalization from Netherlands embassy or
designated competent authority in your
country of residence, if applicable for
bride & groom (not older than 6 months)
Proof of single status via the Registrar
Office in your area for bride & groom
(not older than 6 months) and with an
apostille/legalization from Netherlands
embassy or designated competent
authority in your country of residence.
• Original Death Certificate with an
Apostille/legalization from Netherlands
embassy or designated competent
authority in your country of residence, for
either one or both of you are a widow/
widower, you need to provide the relevant
documents (death certificate), not older
than 6 months.
• Witness Request Form.
Copy of valid passport of up to 6
witnesses. Witnesses must be 21 years
of age or older.
Form must be signed by wedding
couple and list the full names of up to 6
witnesses along with their mailing address
and DOB (date of birth).
If copies of witness passports are not mailed
with documents, the wedding couple may
hand-carry the copies and hand to the
Wedding Manager upon check-in.
If couple is traveling with less than the
required number of witnesses, the wedding
couple must check off box in “Witness
Request Form” acknowledging and noting
the number of witnesses attending.
Please note: the Resort will provide up
to six (6) witnesses and submit required
documents on the couple behalf if
necessary and requested via the form.
• Original documents other than in Dutch or
English need to be translated into the Dutch
language (i.e. a French or Spanish document
must be translated into Dutch, not English).
• ALL Original Documents MUST have an
Apostille/legalization from Netherlands
embassy or designated competent
authority in your country of residence.
• Documents MUST be received in our
(Miami, FL or UK) office at least 3 months
prior, and no more than 6 months prior to
your arrival date for wedding confirmation.
• Please mail required documents to:
WEDDING DOCUMENTS C/O DT BUSINESS SERVICES
5000 SW 75TH AVENUE, SUITE 111, MIAMI, FL 33155
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees are $500

**Within two weeks after the Civil Registry Office has received and
examined the documents, the couple will receive a message stating
that all documents submitted are in order. If not, the document
corrections will be communicated, and it is then determined
whether the planned wedding date and time is still feasible.
Please Note: In the event all applicable required documents are not
received by our Miami, FL or UK Document Office within the time
frame requested, we will not be able to perform the legal wedding,
at which time couple may decide on a Symbolic ceremony

CURACAO
SYMBOLIC WEDDING

Residency period of 48 hrs (includes day
of arrival, weekends, and holidays; DOES
NOT include day of wedding) Wedding
Days: Monday – Saturday. No Weddings
on Sundays or Holidays.
• Symbolic Information & Processing Form
• Copy of valid country-issued passports
or government-issued driver’s license
for both parties
• Documents must be received in our office
at least 60 days prior to your arrival date
for wedding confirmation.
• Please uploaded documents to:
HTTPS://SANDALS.COM/WEDDINGS/DOCUMENTS-UPLOAD/

TURKS
& CAICOS
• Residency requirement: 48 hrs, must
include two (2) business days (day of
arrival and weekends NOT included).
• State issued birth certificate and copy
of the driver’s license OR passport.
All pages of all court certified final divorce
decrees with judge’s signature. Divorce
Decrees MUST have the following written:
“Final Decree”, “Final Judgment” or
“Dissolution of Marriage”.
• State issued death certificates with
related marriage certificates Legal name
change or legal adoption documents
if applicable.
• Two (2) Notarized Affidavits of Spinster
ship/Bachelorhood, (a sworn statement
indicating either party has never been
married) one to be mailed in and the
other are to be hand carried to the
resort with original documents.
• Affidavits notarized must be dated
and notarized within 90 days prior
to the wedding date.
• An original notarized sworn affidavit
referring to documents specifically
may also be provided to accompany
photocopy of document.
• A late fee of US$150 will apply for all
documents received within 21 days prior
to the arrival date.
• Please mail via courier service Notarized
Copies (with the valid notary’s original
ink signature & stamp) of the required
documents for both the bride and groom
at least 60 DAYS prior to the arrival date.

Couples must hand carry all original
state issued and/or court certified
documents with raised/embossed seals
and stamps plus a copy of the Spinster
ship/Bachelorhood affidavit to resort.
• All Documents for both bride & groom
must be submitted with a completed
Wedding Information Form.
• Notarized Affidavit from either parents
or legal guardian must be provided
in order to marry in Turks & Caicos
if under 21 years of age.
• All required documents are due
60 days prior to travel for all islands.
• A legal translator must translate all
documents in a foreign language
to English. Both versions must be
submitted.
• Please mail notarized documents to:
WEDDING DOCUMENTS C/O DT BUSINESS SERVICES
5000 SW 75TH AVENUE, SUITE 111, MIAMI,
FLORIDA 33155
• Mandatory marriage officiant and
government documentation fees
are $400.

Is my wedding legal in the country where I reside?

Yes, your marriage is legally binding in the country where you reside. You should inquire
with your local government regarding name change procedures and other marital legalities.

Are medical and or blood tests required to get married?
Blood tests are not required.

When will I receive my marriage certificate?
Your marriage certificate will be sent within the following time frame:
Jamaica: 6-8 weeks,
Turks & Caicos: 8-10 weeks, Antigua: 4-6 weeks,
St. Lucia: 6-8 weeks, Bahamas: 8-10 weeks,
Grenada: 2-3 weeks and Barbados: 2-4 weeks.
Curacao: 4-6 weeks (in Dutch); 6-8 weeks

When do I finalize my wedding details?
Details should be finalized 60 days prior to arrival. Don’t worry, you’re not on your own for this, your wedding planner will guide you through the journey.

Is there a fee for the use of a personal wedding planner?
In line with our Luxury Included® philosophy, every bride and groom have their own personal Wedding Entourage including a wedding planning team as part of the complimentary wedding inclusions.

What are the different types of ceremonies I can choose from for my wedding?
Customarily, a non-denominational minister presides over our wedding ceremonies but if you wish to inquire about having a non-religious ceremony or religious ceremony (an additional cost may apply) please consult with your wedding planner.

Are there any special inclusions for weddings with a group of rooms?
Nearly every all-inclusive resort offers a number of exclusive bells and whistles for wedding parties that book five rooms or more. Please contact us to hear more information!

Can I get married at a different resort than where I am staying?
It is required that you get married at the same resort where you are staying.

Who will assist me once I arrive?
Your event planner at the resort will be excited to meet you and will be instrumental in making your dream day a reality.

What are the wedding venues at the property?
Most of our resorts offer beach, garden, and gazebo locations. The location is chosen during the planning process but can be changed (based on availability) at your on-site resort consultation.

What is the best way to travel with a wedding dress?
Arrangements for transportation of a wedding dress should be discussed directly with your airline carrier.

Are tuxedo rentals available on the island?
Some resorts have contact information for local formal wear providers (varies by island). However, we do not offer tuxedo rentals at the resort. Keep in mind; due to the warm Caribbean climate grooms may want to consider a lightweight suit.

What wedding cake flavors are available?
You have a choice of vanilla, chocolate, Caribbean fruit, red velvet, brownie or carrot. Vanilla, chocolate and carrot flavors and vanilla fillings are also available in gluten free, dairy free, sugar free and vegan options. Special flavors can be ordered for an additional cost. All orders must be submitted within 60 days prior to arrival.

Can I add an additional tier to my cake?
A 4” tier may be added to our 8” and 6” profile. Custom orders beyond that size may be accommodated at an extra cost.

Can I bring my own wedding décor items and favors?
Rest assured, we have everything you need to celebrate your dream wedding your way! We do not recommend bringing décor items and favors, as there are customs regulations that will require you to pay taxes and duties on these items or they could be confiscated if deemed commercial items. Along with customs fees, you could be subject to additional baggage fees based on the weight of the items. If you decide to bring favors and/or décor with you, please note that there will be an applicable set-up fee for these items.

Please contact us with your destination wedding planning needs for full details and to discuss any specific décor or favors you would like to have!