Hi doll! Planning your dream wedding can be burdensome, especially when
you're looking for the perfect resort venue in the Caribbean or Mexico. It can be quite challenging to find the ideal spot that checks all the boxes that you are looking for.
 
When you stumble upon that dream venue, your first instinct might be to pick up the phone and book directly with the resort. It seems like the most logical thing to do since you are in cloud nine, right? After all is well, hold on a minute! Let me share a few things to consider beforeyou make that decision based solely on cost or personal preferences.
 
Here are some of the reasons, I recommend avoiding booking your destination wedding directly with the resort.

Let's dive in and discover why it's not the best idea:
 
You Might End Up Spending More

Sure, you might think that booking directly with the resort will save you some dollars,
but that's not always the case. Resort managers are aware that it's a one-time deal
with you, so they may try to maximize their profits.
On the other hand, a Destination Wedding specialist  will have solid
connections with resort management and can often score special rates, discounts, and
package deals that aren't available to individual customers. They can help you compare
prices across different resorts and make sure you get the best value for your money.
 
You Could Get Slammed With Fees

​It is so upsetting to see couples get blind-sided with fees based on the group contract which will increase the costs of their destination wedding. Essentially, when rooms are held for a group, there are attrition dates and cancellation penalties.

If you don’t pay attention to those and have empty rooms in the group, or if your guests cancel their room when there are cancellation penalties, couples can be stuck holding the bag and have fees they weren’t expecting. You can check my blog about the cost of a destination wedding.

This is why most destination wedding couples will learn from the mistake of others and choose to work with a travel advisor who specializes in destination wedding and group travel.
 
You'll Be Left with Stressful Tasks

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, especially when it's a destination wedding.

While the resort will take care of the wedding-specific infrastructure, there are dozens of other aspects to manage. Juggling all these tasks from afar can be incredibly stressful.
 
Hiring  a destination wedding specialist can alleviate much of that stress. They can handle the logistics, coordination, and communication with the resort, allowing you to focus on taking care of your loved ones and ensuring their comfort and enjoyment during the wedding preparations.
 
You'll Miss Out on Personalized Service & Experience

Keep in mind that the resort might be handling your wedding along with a dozen other unrelated events at the same time. The best they can offer is a dedicated wedding planner, but that doesn't really qualify as a personalized service.

A destination wedding specialist can work closely with you to understand your dream wedding ideas and preferences. They'll customize the event to reflect your style, theme, and budget, ensuring that all the details are taken care of. They can also connect you with top-notch photographers, decorators, and entertainers to make your wedding experience truly memorable.
 
You'll Be Busy Troubleshooting on Your Big Day 

No matter how meticulously you plan your event, unforeseen hiccups may happen at critical moments. And when they do, in some cases the resort may leave you to handle them on your own.
 
Having a dedicated Destination Wedding Specialist by your side can be a real lifesaver in such situations. They've dealt with similar cases before and know how to quickly troubleshoot problems, ensuring that your wedding day runs smoothly.
 
Communication Issues May Cause Problems

​Let's face it, the customer service at some exotic and remote destination wedding resorts isn't always as speedy as we'd like. If you need to communicate changes or get information to help with your planning, reaching the right people quickly can be a challenge.

Booking directly with these resorts may lead to communication difficulties. They might not respond to your emails promptly, and if you manage to get them on the phone, they might keep you waiting until you're frustrated.

On the other hand, a Travel Agent who is a Destination Wedding Specialist knows how to connect with the right person quickly and relay your messages effectively. They might even have local contacts to make sure everything is set up perfectly for your big day.
 
In conclusion, while booking your destination wedding directly with the resort might seem tempting at first, there are better options out there. It's essential to consider the advantages of working with a Destination Wedding Specialist.

Their expertise, local knowledge, and ability to negotiate deals can lead to
cost savings and a more personalized wedding experience.
If you are in the middle of trying to figure out your destination wedding, or just feel like you need a helping hand. Hit the easy button, and schedule a free 60-minute consultation with me today. I will do my best to help you make your dream wedding a reality.

​When it comes to having a bucket list honeymoon, Costa Rica offers the whole package. Romantic resorts, mountain climbing, water sports, beach activities and surfing are just some of the exciting honeymoon features of this gem in Central America.
 
Stunning Scenary in Every Direction:

If you are an active and adventurous couple, then Costa Rica is for you, because this country encourages eco-tourism, such as hiking, zip-lining white-water rafting, and snorkeling. You can even try your hand at diving in vibrant coral reefs.
 
Romantic Accommodations Abound:

Costa Rica provides a variety of romantic accommodations, including premium resorts that offer every conceivable luxury. Many boutique hotels and secluded eco-lodges are ready to serve your every need.

Couples can relax and enjoy private beach picnics, candlelit dinners, and sunset cruises. Costa Rica offers a fine blend of adventure, relaxation, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, making it an excellent choice for a memorable honeymoon.
 
Here are some top areas to explore while planning a honeymoon to Costa Rica.
 
La Fortuna

​True happiness can be experienced in the Monteverde cloud forest, where small groups can embark on canopy bridge tours and enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of the national park.

The rainforests of Costa Rica are home to more than 900 different bird species and a diverse array of monkeys and sloths, making animal sightings an assured experience and an opportunity for relaxation. It also helps reduce stress levels, allowing visitors to enhance their overall sense of well-being.
 
Wellness Through Yoga and Meditation

Finding wellness through yoga has become quite popular in Costa Rica. You can relax the mind and body through yoga sessions in Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean surroundings.

Rustic, open-air studios in the Playa Cocles village integrate into the Zen experience, which allows vacationing yoga enthusiasts to have a relaxing time.

The Southern Pacific region of the country is establishing a leadership role in promoting wellness activities. Surf camps and yoga teaching centers provide accommodations, allowing enthusiasts to improve their hobbies. These havens, surrounded by organic community gardens, offer a comprehensive wellness experience, especially for those who visit Quepos, Uvita, Dominical, or Ojochal.

The options include enjoying guided meditations near waterfalls in Bajos del Toro, indulging in a soothing massage at luxurious resorts, and snorkeling alongside the diverse marine life in Cahuita National Park's coral reef.
 
Wellness Through Food

Food also plays an integral part in the wellness journey. Costa Ricans are experts in creating delectable meals using the freshest ingredients, adhering to the farm-to-table trend.

The local Central Market in San José offers a way to connect with the earth with a vibrant assortment of locally grown fruits and vegetables. The weekend farmers' markets throughout the country offer seasonal items. Local sodas (small takeout stands) offer daily menus that change every day to showcase the distinct flavors of each region.
 
I’m sure you can see why Costa Rica is a honeymoon paradise. You really can’t go wrong honeymooning in this tropical paradise. The landscapes are exquisite and the natural beauty will take your breath away. All it takes is a little bit of planning and you're sure to get perfect shots that will earn congratulations from your family and friends.

If you’re trying to figure out your own bucket list honeymoon, but are struggling and on information overload, feel free to schedule a free 60 minute consultation with me today, and let’s get your honeymoon on the “done” list. 

There are many reasons why couples choose to have a destination wedding
and the Caribbean Islands are always a popular choice for a dream wedding.
 
Let’s face it, the Caribbean Islands offer stunning natural beauty with their
pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush tropical landscapes. But if you are looking to have a legal destination wedding, then I highly suggest you check out these 7 amazing locations
 
The Caribbean islands are the top choice for weddings, as couples can enjoy a warm and tropical climate year-round. They can enjoy various outdoor activities, such as beach parties, sunset ceremonies, and water sports, to add an element of excitement and fun to the wedding festivities.

They provide the perfect wedding backdrop guaranteed to provide a memorable experience for couples and their guests.
 
WHY CONSIDER THE CARIBBEAN?

The Caribbean has a diverse range of wedding venues to match couples' varying preferences and budgets. You can host your wedding in any of the luxurious resorts and private villas or choose the charming beachfront gazebos.
 
Many All-Inclusive Resort Options

The Caribbean offers numerous resort options that offer all-inclusive wedding packages. They include accommodation, meals, beverages, and wedding management services, and some even offer extra perks like spa treatments or day trips. 
 
Amazing Local Hospitality

Above all, the Caribbean is known for its wonderful hospitality, vibrant culture, and friendly community. Couples can mingle with the locals and immerse themselves in the islands' unique traditions, music, and cuisine, creating a truly memorable and authentic wedding experience.
 
NOTE: If you aren’t sure whether or not to have a legal destination wedding, you should read my article on The Difference Between Having a Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremony.
 
Here Are The Top 7 Caribbean Islands For a Stress-Free And Easy Legal Destination Wedding
 
The Islands of Bahamas

The Turks & Caicos Islands present an upscale ambiance distinct from other Caribbean destinations. The place comprises 40 stunning islands, including 8 inhabited ones. The Turks & Caicos epitomizes beauty and elegance—features couples look for while planning a destination wedding. Among these islands lies a true gem called the Grace Bay beach, which ranks among the best in the world.

Best Time: December to April.

​Residency Period: 48 hours. Does not include the day of arrival, weekend, or holidays.
So in this case, you will need to be in Turks & Caicos for two full business days, before you can get married legally. If you arrive on a Saturday or Sunday, your first residency day will start on Monday, which means you could get legally married as soon as the Wednesday of that week or later.
 
Applying For a Marriage License
 
The following fee and documents will be required to apply for your marriage license in Turks & Caicos.

Marriage License And Administrative Fee: 400 USD

​Documents Needed
 
● Original birth certificate
● A valid passport or driver's license.
● Court-issued concluding divorce rulings (if applicable).
● Death certificates with corresponding marriage certificates.
● 21 years is the legal age to get married.
● Couples less than 21 years of age must have written consent from both parents.
 
St. Lucia

Puerto Vallarta has a well-established tourist infrastructure, with numerous upscale resorts, beachfront hotels, and high-end dining options. The picturesque setting includes a well-designed and modern oceanfront. The majestic Sierra Madre Mountains to the city's east are popular attractions.

While the natural scenery is incredible, Puerto Vallarta also offers a wealth of other attractions. You will have a wonderful time exploring its streets, savoring delectable local cuisine, browsing through unique boutiques, and reveling in the vibrant nightlife at its famous nightclubs. Notably, the city has some of the friendliest people on Earth.

The place is a honeymoon paradise for the various things you can do together. Let’s explore some of them:
 
Exploring The Malecón Boardwalk

Puerto Vallarta offers breathtaking beauty in its ocean, buildings, flowers, and people.

However, the awe-inspiring experience of watching the sunrise with your partner is of a different level. Watching the sunrise may not seem exciting and unique, but Puerto Vallarta makes it one. You must witness it firsthand to understand why this one makes it to the must-do list.
 
Whale Watching - Don’t Miss This One

Whale watching can be easily among the unforgettable memories you gather while on a honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta. Witness the mesmerizing beauty of humpback whales in Banderas Bay while savoring the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
 
Choose a good tour guide who can take you to picturesque sea-level locations, providing an up-close encounter with humpback whales in their natural habitat. Get some fantastic clicks from unique vantage points, offering a perspective rarely attainable in the natural world.
 
The whale watching season in Puerto Vallarta commences in December and extends until March. Occasionally, whales can be spotted as early as November or as late as May. The best time to observe humpback whales is during January and February.
 
A Day Trip to Tequila - Do It If You Love Mezcal

The journey from Puerto Vallarta to Tequila in Jalisco is around three hours by car. It may be a bit of a distance for honeymoon couples to drive on their own. But taking a tequila tour, with the added bonus of a scenic drive through the breathtaking countryside, is an experience you must not miss for anything.
 
Tequila and mezcal enthusiasts can check for reliable operators that offer day trips and the opportunity to visit a couple of tequila factories. You can explore the charming town alongside. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also find some excellent local restaurants serving the best delicacies. Explore that too!
 
Best Times To Go Honeymooning In Puerto Vallarta

If you're planning a honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta, it's important to consider the best times of year to visit. Here are some factors to consider: 6 reasons to have your honeymoon in Mexico

Weather
 
The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is during the dry season, which runs from
November to April. Expect sunny skies and warm temperatures. May to October is the
rainy season, so be prepared for afternoon showers and higher humidity.
 
Crowds
 
The high season in Puerto Vallarta is from December to March when tourists generally flock to the area to escape the winter weather in their home countries. Do you prefer a quieter and less crowded atmosphere? Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to November.

If you are trying to find the perfect wedding dress for your destination wedding, then look no further. I want to share with you some of the latest
styles of destination wedding dresses for 2023. Here are just a few latest
styles that will surely make you look unbelievable and, most importantly,
comfortable on your big day.
 
We know that finding the perfect dress can be a challenge, but don't worry, we've got your back. We've put together a list of stunning dresses that are sure to turn heads and make your wedding day unforgettable.
 
Check out these beautiful Styles:
 
1. One-Shoulder Modern Gown With Chiffon Jeweled Waistband - This modern gown is perfect for brides who want to make a statement. The jeweled waistband adds a touch of glamour and sparkle to the overall design.

3. Lace Wedding Dress with Off-the-Shoulder Straps - A classic bridal gown with elegance and style for the bride who wants a fitted bodice and sweetheart neckline. The off-the-shoulder straps add a touch of sophistication and romance.
This gown is perfect for a traditional and stylish look that can be accessorized to match your personality.

Here are some tips for selecting a dress that is perfect for a beach destination wedding in the Caribbean:

6 Tips on How to Find Your Perfect Destination Wedding Dress
 
1. Consider the fabric: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like chiffon, lace, or organza. These fabrics will help keep you cool and comfortable in the tropical climate.
 
2. Embrace the elements: When selecting a beach wedding dress, keep in mind the sand, sun, and sea. Choose a dress that is easy to walk in. Consider a dress with straps to keep it secure and avoid a wardrobe malfunction in the sea breeze.
 
3. Be mindful of the length: A long train or full skirt may be beautiful, but it's not practical for a beach wedding. A shorter hemline or a high-low style will allow you to move around freely and enjoy the beach setting.

4. Add some tropical flair: Consider incorporating some Caribbean-inspired
elements into your dress. You could opt for a dress with a bold floral pattern or add a tropical flower to your hair.

5. Consider getting one dress for the ceremony and one for the reception. Dancing the night away under the stars sounds romantic, but it can get really hot. A short party gown will be perfect for your outdoor reception.

6. Don’t forget the shoes: Skip the high heels and opt for a pair of flats or sandals that are comfortable and easy to walk in on the sand.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll be sure to select a beach wedding dress that is perfect for your Caribbean destination wedding.

In conclusion, destination wedding dresses combine elegance, beauty, charm, and comfort. These stylish designs fuse fashion and formal wear, making them the best of both worlds.

If you are planning a destination wedding some of these suggestions may help you to select a gown that you will love for years to come. By the way, if you’re in the midst of trying to pull your destination wedding altogether, but you aren’t quite sure how to make it happen, feel free to schedule a free 60-minute Discovery Session with me, and I will do my best to get you headed in the right direction. Click on the link below  to schedule Now!

Tipping might be a hazy topic in your mind — you've done it before, but you aren't sure how tipping works when it comes to planning your honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort. In addition to that, how do you know if tipping is appropriate in certain situations or not welcome at all?

So, to help you figure all this out, I have prepared this quick post for your benefit
 
Do You Have Tip?

Before we dive into the specifics, allow me to answer one of the most frequently asked questions:

Do I have to tip at an all-inclusive resort, or are the gratuities included at an all-inclusive resort? 
The rate at an all-inclusive resort includes gratuities. So, the resort will divvy up a certain portion of your per-night rate amongst the team members.

While resorts don’t tell you how much, many of the team members are there for 12 hours or more per day every day. It is a pretty grueling schedule where they could potentially work nine days in a row and then have two days off.

What the resort gives them isn’t equivalent to the amount of work they put in.

With that said, I highly encourage tipping where you feel led. The resort you travel to and the level of service you have paid for (concierge or butler for example) will affect what you should prepare for regarding gratuities. Determining gratuity expectations is something I assist my clients with as they prepare to travel.
​
Let’s get down to some specifics regarding tipping for your all-inclusive honeymoon vacation.
 
The airport porter

An airport porter is someone who will assist you with your luggage once you are in destination. While this could be a bit annoying, a porter at the airport may swoop in and can sometimes aggressively start helping you with your luggage.

You can certainly decline their assistance, but if you decide to let them help, please give them a tip. $3-$5 is reasonable depending on how much luggage you have.

Porters are generally independent and are not employed by the airport, so they work for tips.

My theory is to support those who are willing to show up and do something to make a living for their families.
 
Airport shuttle driver

​The driver that takes you to and from your all-inclusive resort is not employed by the resort.

Please be prepared to tip this person for the ride each way. Something that most people don’t factor in is the time involved. Please consider the distance that the driver has to go to get you to your resort and then turn around and head back to the airport for their next assignment.
For short distances $5 is sufficient, for longer drives (1.5 hours or more), consider giving at least $20. If it takes them 1.5 hours to get you to your resort, that is a 3 hour roundtrip investment of their time.
 
The Bellhop

Hooray! Welcome to the resort.
As you step out of the transportation vehicle, the first resort team member who will assist you is the bellhop. He or she will check your luggage and give you luggage tags while you head to the lobby to check into the resort.
Once you are checked in, your bellhop will escort you to your room and will likely share some details about the resort and where things are located, as well as share a few features with you regarding your room.
Depending on the time invested with you, a $5-$10 tip is recommended.
 
Concierge or Butler Service

If you’ve opted in for a higher level of service at your all-inclusive resort, come prepared to tip.

If your concierge sets up your dinner reservations or helps you with an issue your room is having, don’t feel compelled to dish out cash.

However, if the concierge sets up a special dinner with some surprise touches or goes out of their way to get you something to make your stay special, be sure to tip according to their time invested.

Butler service is a bit more hands on generally, but some resorts will have butlers that are really more like concierge.
In the case that you have a hands-on butler that is available to you via a cellphone and he or she is in charge of everything your suite needs (managing and communicating with other staff members), setting up your dinner/spa/golf/ reservations, serving you any meal in-suite, saving you chairs at the pool or beach, then this personal level of service should be a per day tip.
 
I suggest a minimum of $20 per day depending on how much you utilize your butler. Again, keep in mind any situations where the butler has gone above and beyond to make your stay and experience special.

So overall, anticipate having $10 for small one-off experiences from a concierge, and a minimum $150 for a week of butler service.
 
Waitstaff

​Imagine you are sitting at the beach enjoying a book or good conversation, and a beach waiter asks what you’d like to drink.

You order your beverage of choice, receive it in a few minutes, and quickly realize you have $0 on you. This is pretty typical as most of us head to the beach or pool with only the essentials, especially since we often leave our beach bags unattended from time to time.

First, don’t feel compelled to have cash on you when you are enjoying the resort. If you don’t feel comfortable with that, it is okay. Like I said at the beginning, the gratuities are technically included in your all-inclusive rate.

If possible, always have a few dollars on you for tips like this. A bartender, pool, or beach waiter will keep the drinks coming for $10 but will also happily accept $1 or $2 per drink.

At a restaurant where you are served buffet style, again, don’t stress if you don’t have cash. Since they likely assisted with beverages, you can leave $2-$3 if you want.

If you are being served at an a la carte restaurant, consider tipping more. Again, base this on the level of service and the quality of the dining experience. If it was a several-course meal and white-glove service, dish out a bit more. Maybe $20 in this situation. If it is a burger joint, maybe leave $5.
 
Housekeeping

As we wrap this up, we can’t forget about housekeeping. Simply said, these resort team members work diligently every day and generally are paid the least.
It’s so nice to come back to a freshly cleaned room, isn’t it? I suggest leaving $5-$10 per day for your housekeeper at an all-inclusive resort.
 
Quick caveat
If you are planning an all-inclusive honeymoon to Sandals Resorts, gratuities are not accepted except for butler service. So, a Sandals honeymoon will not have the same gratuity guidelines at the resort as I’ve mentioned above, but you can still tip the porter and shuttle driver as they are not Sandals employees.
 
The best thing to do, is to budget tipping into your overall honeymoon budget.

Ultimately, the decision to tip is yours to make, but I've offered a few facts about tipping during your honeymoon at an all-inclusive resort that I hope you have found useful in your decision & budgeting. I hope it helps you have a safe and happy honeymoon!
If you want to learn how much a honeymoon can cost you, click here to read my blog about it!
 
If you’re tired of googling every question you have regarding your honeymoon planning, I’d be delighted to chat with you. Below you will find a link to schedule a complimentary discovery session - no strings attached!

When it comes to your destination wedding, choosing a resort venue is one of the most important decisions you'll need to make. And don't be surprised if you get overwhelmed with all of your options — it's natural. And how do you know if you should host at an all-inclusive resort or another resort type? I think you will find this article helpful as you try to find the perfect resort for your destination wedding.
 
If you’re planning a destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort, you will want to keep reading, because this article is all about how hosting your destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort benefits you.

​Let’s get to it!
 
1. All-inclusive inclusions

You may be wondering what is included at an all-inclusive resort. The all-inclusive rate includes the accommodation, all food, all beverages (including alcohol), taxes, fees, and gratuities.
​
So, you can stroll into a restaurant, sit down, open up the menu, order two different meals (because you can’t decide), have as many margaritas as you want, and mosey out when you’re done. So, when it comes to hosting a destination wedding group, the all-inclusive option is a huge win for your wedding guests as they know the cost upfront and don’t have a surprise bill at check out!
 
2. The Wedding Packages

Wedding packages will vary as well as the inclusions, but all-in-all, the wedding packages at all-inclusive resorts are very inclusive and a great value. Especially when you factor in that you have a full wedding planning team at your service to design your dream wedding in paradise.
I love how customizable the all-inclusive wedding packages are and the fun touches that can be offered to bring your wedding vision to life. There are even packages available that guarantee you are the only wedding for the weekend, or unique exclusive experiences for a full wedding weekend itinerary. How cool is that?
 
3. The Venue Options

This may be the reason why you are considering a destination wedding - those Instagrammable backdrops!

I think the beauty of hosting your destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort are the choices.

You could host a welcome cocktail reception, an all-white party, a beach bonfire, a rehearsal dinner, your wedding & reception, and a farewell breakfast all at the same resort, but at different venues giving you completely different styles and experiences.
 
When I consult with clients, the vision for the wedding and all of the private events is a big part of our discussion. Keep in mind that there will be venues that will not work for your group based on the capacity, so be flexible.
 
4. Less Stress

Imagine that all you and your family have to worry about on the day of your wedding is getting ready and showing up! No worrying about setting up, no exhausting late nights tearing down and cleaning up, and no worries about anyone driving home after the celebration. Ahhhh...pure bliss.

While you will have decisions to make before your wedding, once you arrive, you’ll have a final meeting with the wedding team and they will take it from there. You seriously can just relax and have fun with your guests knowing that it will all come together, and it will be more amazing than you ever imagined.

You can focus on each other instead of a list of things to do. You can focus on your guests and create memories with them. 
 
5. Having a Wedcation

If we all took inventory of the weddings we’ve been to over the years, some will be more memorable than others.

When your friends and family look back at your wedding, they will always remember it. They will have fond memories of celebrating with you for several days rather than getting five minutes of your attention on one day.

They will remember how fun it was when you all went on the catamaran cruise, played beach volleyball, did shots at the pool bar, went dancing at
the discotheque, had a spa day, went golfing at an amazing course overlooking the ocean, and played the silly games with the resort entertainment team.
 
They will remember the great conversations playing late-night card games and all the “had to be there” moments.

A destination wedding is so much more than a wedding, it truly is a wedcation. And you don’t have to schedule every waking moment. That’s the beauty of the all-inclusive - your guests can decide how they want to spend their time and everything they need will be at their fingertips.
 
6. All The Amenities

If you were on the fence about a destination wedding, my guess is that I have you leaning toward a destination wedding. Well, hold on to your hats, ‘cuz it’s getting even better!

When set up correctly, hosting a group at an all-inclusive resort comes with a ton of benefits, freebies, and amenities.

This will vary by the size of your group, time of year, and any promotions, but let me share a few examples of what you can earn: free rooms, free events like a welcome cocktail, room upgrades, free wedding packages, honeymoon amenities like a candlelight dinner or breakfast in bed, and more. Learn more about planning a destination wedding here!

Here’s the scoop - many couples don’t understand how this works, so they just let their guests know when and where the wedding is so that they can book their trips. The problem is that if your guests all book on their own, you won’t earn any of the amenities you should have.

Don’t let that happen to you! Consult with an expert. 
 
7. The Overall Value

When people think of a tropical honeymoon, they most likely picture the sunny beach flanked by the crystal blue Caribbean sea. This gets most people want to start planning a trip to the Caribbean or Mexico's Riviera Maya. The waters are warm and inviting, the white sand is soft and welcoming — there's no better way to spend your honeymoon! But what type of weather should you expect? What are the climate patterns? And when is the best time of year to go? These questions and more will be answered in this article.

Let's take a closer look at what you can expect for weather in the Caribbean and Mexico based on the seasons.
 
Winter (December to February)

The winter months in the Caribbean and Mexico are characterized by warm and pleasant temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. This is the peak tourist season, and you can expect crowded beaches, busy resorts, and higher prices.
 
While the risk of hurricanes is low during this time, there's still a chance of rain. However, it's usually short-lived and shouldn't affect your plans too much. The water temperature in the Caribbean is cooler during the winter months, making it less ideal for swimming. For example, the Bahamas and surrounding islands will have colder water during this time of the year.
Also, certain areas in the Caribbean & Mexico can still have cooler temperatures, so it is best to talk to an expert to get the weather you are desiring.
 
Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to honeymoon in the Caribbean and Mexico as temperatures rise slightly, and crowds start to thin out. The average temperatures range from mid-70s to low 90s Fahrenheit, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring.
While the chances of rain and humidity increase, it's still not enough to affect your plans significantly. The water temperature starts to warm up, making it more inviting for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. The best value for your money is booking your honeymoon towards the end of April through May, as prices begin to dip as high travel season is coming to
a close.
 
Summer (June to August)

Summer is the hottest season in the Caribbean and Mexico, with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to mid-90s Fahrenheit. It's also the beginning of the rainy season, with tropical storms and hurricanes more likely to occur. However, the risk is relatively low in June and July but increases in August.
Despite the rain, summer is a popular time for honeymooners looking for budget-friendly options and less crowded destinations. The water temperature is warm and perfect for water sports.
 
Fall (September to November)

Fall can be an ideal time to travel to the Caribbean and Mexico as the crowds dwindle, and prices begin to drop. Temperatures remain warm, ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, but the chances of hurricanes in September into October are usually the highest.
So your best value for the money is in the fall, but your chance of having some less than ideal weather is higher.
While fall is considered the low season, you can still enjoy a sunny and beautiful honeymoon if you plan accordingly.
The water temperatures are still great for swimming, and water sports as well.
 
Where to travel during hurricane season:

​If your honeymoon travel dates are during hurricane season, especially August - October, there are destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico that are located outside the “typical path” of a hurricane.
You may want to consider speaking with a honeymoon consultant like myself who specializes in honeymoons to the Caribbean and Mexico to help you pick the right location for you.
The best locations in The Caribbean to travel to during hurricane season are Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao.
The best location in Mexico to travel to in hurricane season is Los Cabos.
Hurricanes can still occur in these locations but it is very rare.
 
Just Because It’s Hurricane Season Doesn’t Mean One Will Happen:
As we wrap this up, it is normal to be concerned about a hurricane ruining your honeymoon, but I always tell my honeymoon couples that just because it is hurricane season doesn’t mean that a hurricane will develop.
The beauty of today’s technology is that you can know well in advance if a tropical storm or hurricane is on a path to “hit” your destination. Getting quality travel insurance is advised to protect your investment in case you have to postpone, or even leave your destination early.
My personal advice is to manage your expectations and decide that you won’t let anything ruin your honeymoon experience as you have control over how you respond.

When it comes to planning a destination wedding, the Caribbean and Mexico are popular choices. With their beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant culture, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for a dream wedding.
  
Let’s jump into the weather you can expect for your destination wedding in the Caribbean or Mexico based on the time of year that you travel.
If you want to know the best time of year to have a destination wedding in the Caribbean and Mexico, it is between December to April. This is the region's dry season when rainfall is minimal, and the temperature is mild and comfortable, averaging around 78 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Hello sunshine!

3. Consider wedding & travel insurance

Wedding insurance can provide a financial safety net in case of a hurricane or other natural disaster. It can cover unexpected expenses such as cancellations, postponements, or rescheduling fees. It's important to note that not all wedding insurance policies cover natural disasters, so be sure to read the fine print before purchasing a policy.
 
Travel insurance is recommended for you and your guests. In case the weather prevents you from arriving to your destination, or requires you or your guests to depart early, it will protect your investment. Travel insurance is always recommended, but during the tropical season, it is much more imperative, so I encourage you to encourage your guests to have the right coverage.
 
4. Have a backup plan

There's no denying that planning a honeymoon can be a daunting task. Where do you go?
Who do you trust? What if it isn't as good as what's shown on the website? These are just some of the questions couples will ask themselves when they try to find the perfect location for their honeymoon. These are just some of the reasons you should work with a honeymoon travel specialist to plan & book your honeymoon.
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Let’s uncover five reasons to use a travel agent for your honeymoon.
 
1. Knowledge of a variety of honeymoon properties:

Honeymoon travel specialists have knowledge of a variety of destinations & resort brands that are a cut above other types of resorts & properties for an amazing honeymoon. 

Resorts that will offer you...
a. Privacy
b. Romantic extras like candlelight dinners and a couple’s massage
 c. Perks/amenities
d. Romantic & pampering suites
e. Amazing spa experiences
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All of these details are vitally important when it comes to having a great
honeymoon experience
 
2. The Best Honeymoon Packages:

A honeymoon travel consultant knows the best honeymoon packages that will enhance your honeymoon and the requirements to qualify for them! I invite you to read my blog about 4 Insider Tips for picking the perfect honeymoon destination

Too often, couples think that they can show up and receive the honeymoon amenities without understanding the qualifications or how to set it up in advance. Unfortunately, they are highly disappointed when they don’t get any of the perks and that is a sour way to start your happily ever after.
 
3. Setting Up Special Experiences:

A honeymoon travel consultant not only can do all of the above, but also will recommend, design, & set up unique and special experiences for your honeymoon.
Note: If you are working with a “honeymoon specialist” who doesn’t guide you or recommend special experiences for you to enjoy on your honeymoon, then you are working with the wrong person.

Here are a just a few of the special experiences a honeymoon specialist can design and set up to take your honeymoon from good to AMAZING!
 
● Set up a private upgraded transfer with VIP service.
● Schedule a couple’s massage/breakfast in bed/picnic on the beach.
 ● Set up off-site excursions, like a cultural tour, ziplining, swimming with
dolphins, rum tasting, and so much more
● As well as many other recommend must-do activities, & sites to see, or
places to eat that you can only experience in your area.
 
4.Giving You VIP Status:

Let’s face it, we’ve all experienced the 1-800 “call center” with the random agent who doesn’t know you or your honeymoon from Adam! You’re just a number to these types call centers, and the last thing you want is for an error to happen during your honeymoon planning. A true honeymoon consultant will be with you from start to finish and care about you and every detail of your honeymoon. They will listen to what you want in a honeymoon experience so that they can recommend a destination and resort that is the perfect fit for you, Every question. Any special requests? Even needs you may have while in your destination or after your honeymoon is complete. Let’s face it, no online booking engine is going to do that.