 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  Don't carry your luggage if you can have an 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  Enjoy your morning coffee served by your Butler! 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!
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 Gazebo ceremony location Photo courtesy of Hilton Rose Hall 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  Koh Thai restaurant at The Fives Beach Resort and Residences 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  Photo courtesy of Sandals Resorts. English Royalty wedding inspiration by Sandals and Beaches Resorts 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  Beach ceremony at Jewel Punta Cana. Photo courtesy of Playa Resorts 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  Happy couple on their destination wedding! Photo courtesy of Junior Cruz (photographer) 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  Take your guests on a Catamaran snorkeling tour like this one, Catamaran El Mexicano. Photo courtesy of Weddings by Lomas 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  Just married couple enjoying their reception! Photo courtesy of Junior Cruz 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  Destination wedding guests enjoying the party! Photo courtesy of Junior Cruz I suppose this is really just a summary of all the benefits I’ve shared, but I need to emphasize that you can get so much more for your money with a destination wedding. Between the wedding packages, the inclusions with the all-inclusive rate, the fact that it is less stressful, and all the amenities, it is a slam-dunk value!
Not to mention that your honeymoon is all wrapped into it - if you want. Whether you stay a few extra days or transfer to another resort in the area, your travel dollar goes beyond the wedding. In case you need it, I wrote an article about how much a destination wedding costs, you can check it out here. There's no question that the idea of an all-inclusive vacation can be very appealing for your destination wedding. The idea of getting everything you need for your destination wedding in one place can seem almost too good to be true. But it is possible! The best all-inclusive resorts will want to give you a worry-free experience from start to finish. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and want to ensure you get the best value for your all-inclusive destination wedding, I’d be delighted to chat with you. Below is a link to schedule a complimentary Discovery Session - no strings attached!  Photo courtesy of Hilton Playa del Carmen. Couple in their ceremony location 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)  Honeymooners enjoying the calm waters of the ocean. Courtesy photo Asad 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)  Horse back riding in Aruba. Photo courtesy of Wings Global Media 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)  Enjoy a romantic couples massage near the ocean at El Dorado Seaside. Photo courtesy of El Dorado Seaside by Karisma 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)  Rainy day on the Caribbean 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:  Couple enjoying the floating bridge in Curaçao. Photo courtesy of Curaçao.com 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.  Couple enjoying their honeymoon at Secrets Resorts. Photo courtesy of Secrets Resorts In conclusion, the Caribbean and Mexico offer a variety of weather conditions throughout the year, from hot and sunny to warm and rainy. Regardless of when you choose to visit, there's always something to see and do. So, plan your trip accordingly, manage your expectations, have some fun games and conversation starters on the ready for when you’re hanging out at the lobby bar, and make the most of your honeymoon vacation...rain or shine!
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and want to ensure you cover all your bases with your honeymoon planning, I’d be delighted to chat with you. Below is a link to schedule a complimentary consultation - no strings attached!  Your destination wedding here! Photo courtesy of Jewel Punta Cana Resort. 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!  Photo courtesy of Jewel Paradise Cove While the dry season is safer bet for a weather-friendly Caribbean or Mexico wedding, it’s not a guarantee. Rain and wind can still occur. Additionally, it's essential to note that it's also peak tourist season. This means that flights and accommodation are likely to be higher than at other times of the year. Bummer, I know. Based on my experience, the most popular months to have a destination wedding are in May and November. This would be considered “shoulder season” where you aren’t really dealing with the higher “peak tourist” prices, but also don’t have as much concern with the weather. Hooray!  Photo courtesy Wyndham Alltra Riviera Nayarit The struggle there is that the dates at the best resorts and venues book very quickly. So, if you want to plan a destination wedding in May or November, do not waste time or you’ll end up compromising on the venue. So, what happens if the dry season months don’t work well for you and you are hosting your destination wedding in the Summer or Fall months, when hurricanes could develop? First, let me put your mind at ease. Just because it is “hurricane season” doesn’t mean that a hurricane will develop. Also, there are some destinations that are “safer” during the tropical season, so don’t throw in the towel quite yet!  Rainy day in the Caribbean. Photo Marina Abrosimova Here are 5 ways to help avoid having your big day ruined by a storm, here are some tips on how to plan a destination wedding regardless of the season. 1. Choose your wedding date wisely As mentioned above, the best way to avoid hurricane season when planning your destination wedding is to choose a date outside of the peak months. If that isn’t possible, consider these general rules of thumb... Hurricane season runs from June to November, with the most active months being August, September, & October. If possible consider a wedding in June, July, Mid to Late November, or even early December. 2. Research the weather patterns Each destination has different weather patterns during hurricane season, so do your research before choosing a location. Some islands or regions may be more prone to hurricanes than others. For example, the northern Caribbean islands are at higher risk than the southern ones. Consider speaking with a travel agent who specializes in weddings to help you pick the right time and location.  Your destination wedding group. 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  Photo courtesy of Hyatt Ziva Puerto Vallarta Regardless of the date of your wedding, it's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather.. When booking your venue and vendors, ask about their contingency plans in case of inclement weather. For example, some resorts may have indoor facilities or covered areas that can serve as backup locations for the ceremony or reception. It’s always a bonus when you love the back-up venue as much as your chosen outdoor venue. 5. Stay updated on weather forecasts If you're planning a wedding during hurricane season, be sure to stay informed about any potential tropical storms or hurricanes that could impact your wedding plans. Sign up for weather alerts, monitor weather websites, and keep in touch with your vendors and venue. Be prepared to make changes if necessary and I advise to make a swift decision, getting the advice of the onsite wedding team, if things are not looking promising on your wedding day. If the wedding team at your venue advises you to change to an indoor venue due the weather report, and you choose to move forward with an outdoor event, they will likely have you sign a contract. If weather does disrupt the wedding there will be a fee to set up the wedding decor again in the back-up location.  Photo courtesy of Hilton La Romana In conclusion, the best time of year to have a destination wedding in the Caribbean or Mexico is during the dry season, between December to April. It's the perfect time to enjoy the region's stunning beauty, indulge in outdoor activities, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and want to ensure you cover all your bases with your destination wedding planning, I’d be delighted to chat with you. Below is a link to schedule a complimentary consultation - no strings attached!  Honeymoon couple enjoying their swim-up suite 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. Let’s uncover five reasons to use a travel agent for your honeymoon. 1. Knowledge of a variety of honeymoon properties:  Photo courtesy of Secrets Bahia Mita Surf & Spa 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 All of these details are vitally important when it comes to having a great honeymoon experience 2. The Best Honeymoon Packages:  Honeymooners enjoying a couples massage 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:  Romantic candlelight dinner for you and your husband 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:  Romantic breakfast in your room Your honeymoon consultant can make sure you and your new spouse are wowed upon arrival from the minute you step foot on your resort by... a. Personally contacting the resort concierge and sales team to notify them that they have VIP honeymooners arriving. b. Sharing any special requests that you may have with the appropriate team member to make sure they are implemented! (It’s not just a comment on a booking that we hope gets seen). c. Following up on the honeymoon amenities to ensure you receive them. 5. Skipping the 1-800-wait-on-hold and crossing your fingers that you get the help you need.  Avoid long hours waiting on the phone 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.  Happy honeymooners that plan their special trip with a travel agent Planning your honeymoon is one of the most exciting parts of your wedding planning process; however, it can also be extremely stressful. There are many options available to you and many decisions to be made. But don't worry, using a honeymoon travel specialist to help you along the way will make this process seamless and stress-free!
If you’re in the midst of planning your honeymoon and feel like you’re stuck and not getting very far, I encourage you to use the link below, to schedule a free 60-minute discovery session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for an amazing honeymoon! Remember this isn’t just any vacation, this is the start of your new life together!  A happy couple in their Destination Wedding -Photo Jonathan Borba When considering your destination wedding – planning a destination wedding is more than just deciding where you'll hold the ceremony. You also need to consider whether you'll have a legal or symbolic wedding. Knowing the difference between what a legal and symbolic wedding ceremony are can make a big impact on your travel plans, and ultimately on your wedding day. So, let's explore this subject and see what the differences are – and if you have any questions about this topic, don't hesitate to reach out! Destination Weddings Are More Popular Than Ever In the past couple of years, destination weddings have experienced a surge in popularity. So much so that the trend is making its way across to those who would otherwise not have considered it. If you're planning to get married in a different country, you will probably be faced with the decision between a legal and symbolic wedding and may be wondering, “what the heck is a symbolic wedding?” or, “is a symbolic wedding legal”, or “what’s the difference between a symbolic ceremony and a civil ceremony?” This article is going to give you the deets on both a legal (civil) destination wedding ceremony and a symbolic destination wedding ceremony so that you can decide which is best for you. What is Required For a Legal Ceremony Away?  Photo: Katarina Dragon - Couple signing their legal wedding document Documents You May Need Just like you would experience in your State, there will be documents and proof of identity required, along with any licensing fees. Some countries require notarized copies of your passport, divorce decree, or legal name change. Others will require translation of the documents into their language.
same day.
A Legal Ceremony is Nothing to Worry About: Don’t let this scare you! Some countries are super easy to get legally married in. It all varies, so I generally advise my clients to do what is best for them based on the country they decide to get married in.
The moment you say “I Do” in front of your friends and family is the real deal. You won’t have to decide which day to celebrate your anniversary. In my book, it’s kind of cool to say you were legally married in “Mexico” A Symbolic Ceremony:  Symbolic Destination Wedding-photo Jonathan Borba Second, let’s discuss the mystery of the symbolic wedding and what you need to know. Essentially, a symbolic wedding looks and sounds just like a civil wedding, it just isn’t legally binding. It is like a commitment ceremony or a renewal of vows.
2. Not as much paperwork 3. No residency requirements 4. No translation of documents 5. Ceremony can be officiated by a family member or friend  Dominican Republic Destination Wedding - Photo Junior Cruz In the end, each couple should do what it feels is right for them. Unless you absolutely need to have a legal ceremony for your destination wedding, such as in some Catholic weddings, there is no wrong answer here. The most important thing to remember about your destination wedding ceremony, is to do what will make you and your soon to be spouse most happy. A destination wedding is supposed to be a celebration of your love, so make it as hassle free & wonderful as possible.
If you are in the midst of planning your destination wedding and feel like you’re stuckand not getting very far, I encourage you to schedule a free 60-minute discovery session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for an amazing destination wedding! (Legal or Symbolic) It's no secret, that for many people the honeymoon is the most exciting part of their wedding. If you're planning your wedding in the near future, you'll want to check out this list of the top 7 honeymoon trends for 2023. These top trends will give you a good idea of what the future of “honeymooning” will look like in 2023 and beyond! 1. Planning earlier than before:  Make sure you plan your honeymoon earlier Before the pandemic, it was customary for a couple to book their honeymoon around 6 months out, but as the world has opened up again, many couples are doing what I call “revenge travel!” for all of the lost and postponed trips couples have had to deal with these last two years. In 2023 there will be higher demand and lower inventory, which also drives up prices. BOTTOM LINE: The sooner you can discover the destination & resort you want for your honeymoon, and book it, the better! 2. Premium on Service:  Choose a romantic candle light dinner In 2023, couples will be putting a premium on pampering, luxury, and service. They are looking for great value. Not a low price, but a honeymoon that includes extra touches of service, [link to June 2022 Content Hero Post on top honeymoon packages or similar post on honeymoon packages] such as a private airport shuttle, having a butler welcome you with a refreshing drink and moist towel, and then entering your honeymoon suite to see a chilled bottle of champagne, with gourmet snacks waiting for you as you enter your honeymoon suite. 3. Bucket List Stays & Experiences:  Sandals Royal Barbados front beach suite In 2023 couples are looking to do a “bucket list” experience for their honeymoon. More and more couples are expecting their honeymoon to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, (you can check my previous blog about how much it actually cost to go on a luxury honeymoon), including staying in an over-the-water bungalow, a luxury honeymoon suite, or even renting a private yacht. Many couples now want their honeymoon to include some type of archaeological tour or visit to historical landmarks or cities. PRO TIP: If you don’t quite have the budget for a full 7 or 14-night stay in an over-the-water bungalow, then I always suggest to my clients doing a split stay. Maybe start your honeymoon off with a bang at the more expensive “WOW” factor room, and then finish your honeymoon in a room that allows your whole honeymoon to fit your budget. 4. Group Moons!  Have fun with your friends in your honeymoon No, this isn’t a honeymoon for swingers, but many couples who had to postpone their weddings or honeymoons during the pandemic want to make up for the missed opportunities to travel, as well as now being new parents. They still want a big fun celebration, and therefore they are now bringing their closest family and friends to join them to celebrate with them on their honeymoon. 5. Focus on Health & Wellness:  Enjoy farm to table meals Many couples will be planning their honeymoon with a focus on rejuvenating both mind & body. These honeymoons will include an itinerary of farm-to-table food experiences, eating at local fresh food restaurants & markets, as well as pampering spa treatments, sunrise yoga sessions, meditations, and activities that promote all-around health and vitality. 6. Honeymoon Registries:  Let your family and friends contribute to your honeymoon With rising inflation, and couples looking to have an above-average honeymoon experience, many couples will create a honeymoon registry or fund that their family and friends can give as a wedding gift to help them pay for their dream honeymoon. 7. Consulting with a Honeymoon Consultant  Couple in a Zoom call with their Honeymoon Specialist In 2023, couples will consult and hire a honeymoon specialist to help them make sure they are getting everything they want and the maximum value out of their honeymoon. Couples are busier than ever before as they work, start their family, buy a new home, and try to fit in time for each other, all while trying to plan their wedding. It’s worth the investment to spend a little extra to get their honeymoon planned right, and take the stress & frustration of planning the perfect honeymoon off of their plate!
Clearly, in 2023, you will have more honeymoon options at your fingertips than ever before. A suggestion to future wedding couples everywhere is to consider some of these trends without sacrificing what’s ultimately important to you for a romantic and pampering honeymoon. These may be 2023 trends, but old-fashioned romance never goes out of style! If you are in the midst of planning your honeymoon and feel like you’re stuck and not getting very far, I encourage you to use this link, to schedule a free 60-minute discovery session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for a relaxing & trendy honeymoon! A beautiful destination wedding will be one of the highlights of your marriage celebration! But every year, there are new trends and shifts in destination wedding travel. After compiling and analyzing data across various sources, and seeing the new requests that have come from my own destination wedding couples, I have predicted that these are going to be the top seven destination wedding trends of 2023. 1. Plan EXTRA EARLY:  Couple planning early their Destination Wedding Before the pandemic, it was customary for a couple to reserve their wedding resort venue and room block around 12 months out, but as the world has opened up again, many couples are finding resort and venue space filled up for the dates they originally want. In 2023 and beyond, expect higher demand and lower inventory, which also drive up prices. Check my blog about Destination Wedding Costs Couples are now looking at least 15 months out in order to get the room inventory & pricing that they need. BOTTOM LINE: The sooner you can discover the destination, wedding venue, & resort you want for your destination wedding, and reserve your date, the better! 2. Toes NOT in The Sand  Photo: Amar Preciado| Wedding at a chapel In 2023, brides are looking to get married in an Instagram-worthy location, with a breathtaking backdrop, but they DON’T want their feet in the sand. Many destination wedding venues now are putting in beautiful above-the-sand platforms, sky weddings, garden gazebos, and over-the-water gazebos which are growing in popularity. 3. Exclusive Private Experiences:  Fire dancers In 2023 couples are looking to do private, exclusive experiences with their wedding groups, such as private receptions to welcome their guests complete with a mixologist who creates a special cocktail for just your group. Couples are also scheduling their own private events such as fire shows, beach parties, tequila or rum tasting, and even a private tour or excursion for just your wedding group. 4. Over The Water Ceremonies!  Photo credit: Sandals South Coast Wedding Chapel As I mentioned above, more and more wedding couples don’t want their feet in the sand, but they still want the breathtaking backdrop. One way to achieve this is to have an over-the-water ceremony. Many resorts now contain wedding venues that are built over the water. This not only gives the normal amazing view but also adds a 3-dimensional beauty to the ceremony. 5. Focus on Incorporating Cultural Traditions:  Mayan wedding ceremony Photo: Amar Preciado Many couples will be incorporating local & cultural traditions into their destination wedding experience for both them and their guests! Today’s couples want to do more than just have a “wedcation” they want to give their entire wedding group an authentic experience with the location they have chosen for their destination wedding! 6. Including Local Cuisine & Cocktails:  Preparing Mezcal - traditional Mexican drink Along with my previous trend of including cultural traditions in their wedding, many couples also include local cuisine and cocktails in their wedding events. For example, in Mexico, there is a special liquor called Mezcal. Couples will hire a mixologist to use a liquor like that in creating a cocktail native to the location they are getting married in. In addition to a cocktail, they may also include some type of authentic delicacy on their menu.
7. Consulting with a Destination Wedding Expert: In 2023, couples are choosing to consult with a destination wedding specialist to help them make sure they are getting everything they want and the maximum value out of their destination wedding. The reason is that wedding couples are busier than ever. as they work, finish school, start their family, and possibly move to a new home, all while trying to find some time for each other. Today's couples believe it is worth the investment to spend a little extra to get their destination wedding planned right and take the stress & frustration of planning their destination wedding off of their plate! What will these destination wedding trends mean for you? Well, I hope they will help you to make the Destination Wedding of your dreams today. These 7 trends are only going to get more popular, as couples continue to push the envelope for a more unique experience for both them and their guests. And hopefully, it will at least give you a few ideas that you didn’t even know you wanted! If you are in the midst of planning your destination wedding and feel like you’re stuck and not getting very far, I encourage you to use the link below, to schedule a free 1-hour strategy session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for an amazing & trendy destination wedding! Congratulations! You found The One, got engaged, and are in the midst of planning your wedding & honeymoon. YAY! After all of the stress & time of planning your big day, having a much-needed pampering & romantic vacation sounds fabulous right? It will be assuming you have these 8 essentials in place! This honeymoon planning guide is exactly what you need to have a honeymoon that will truly be fabulous! Ok, so let’s jump into these six destination wedding essentials! 1. Create a “Honeymoon Wish List”  Just engaged couple! Before you do any honeymoon planning, you and your future spouse need to take some time to make a list together of what you both are hoping to get out of your honeymoon. I call it a “honeymoon Wishlist” Is gourmet food important to you, do you prefer ala cart vs. buffet restaurants? Do you care more about having a stunning honeymoon suite, or are you ok with the standard room? Are you both wanting a beautiful long stretch of swimmable beach, or are pools more important to you? What type of excursions would you like to enjoy? You will want to have at least some of these settled before you start researching destinations and resorts. 2. Don’t Base Your Decisions Soley on Recommendations! Recommendations are great, but you have to remember that you are a completely different couple than they are. What is great for one couple, may not be great for you! Your honeymoon is pretty important, you don’t want to take a chance on having an underwhelming or poor experience. It’s fine to take a recommendation, but use it as a starting point, not your end point. And PLEASE, don’t go to Trip Advisor until you’ve narrowed your selection of honeymoon resorts down to two or three options! 3. Do this instead  Couple planning their honeymoon Remember that list I told you to create in point number 1? Once you have that list made, you’ll want to start thinking about past travel experiences, both good and bad... What did you like or love about a trip you took, or what did you dislike or hate, about a past vacation or getaway? Add these to your “honeymoon wishlist”. Now you will be ready to move on to point number 4. 4. Make a List of Potential Honeymoon destinations  Choose where to go on your honeymoon Now it’s time to start making a list of potential honeymoon destinations! Use your honeymoon wish list to help you narrow down destinations that offer what is on your list, then make a list of potential honeymoon resorts. You may enjoy reading my article on How much does it cost to go on a luxury honeymoon. 5. Research Possible Honeymoon Resorts in Your Targeted Destinations  Antalya, Turkey Once you have a couple of honeymoon locations chosen, then it’s time to figure out which resort or location fits you the best . Here is very important to take in count your "must have" for your honeymoon. A honeymoon specialist would be a great help on this step. 6. Get a New Email For Only Wedding Related Conversions  This is a great way to stay organized and not miss any type of important communication about your honeymoon. I always suggest that you create a special email address exclusively for your wedding & honeymoon. This way all of your wedding correspondence & conversations will be in one spot! Believe me, this will save you so much time and probably money in the end. The last thing you want is to miss a confirmation email that your honeymoon resort suite is almost sold out, booking because it was sandwiched between emails from Beach Body & your Grandmother’s cataract surgery! 7. Consider Getting a New Credit Card That Earns Miles As long as you are going to be charging your wedding expenses, you mind as well earn some reward miles to help you pay for your honeymoon, or at least pay you back for booking your honeymoon. This is a great time to open a new credit card that will earn you miles or points for future or even current travel. You could actually get a discount on your airfare if you play your credit cards right! 8. Consider working with a Honeymoon Specialist  Me at a local Bridal Show If you want to ensure that your honeymoon won’t be a disappointment, as well as, reduce the stress and frustration you may feel when trying to plan this all on your own, it may be worth it to invest in hiring a honeymoon specialist. A properly trained honeymoon specialist or designer knows how to take your honeymoon wishlist, and quickly narrow down destinations & honeymoon resorts, that will be perfect for both of you! They will also make sure that you receive ALL the honeymoon amenities & perks you will qualify for as well.
At the end of the day, you want your honeymoon to be your reward after all of the stress, and time you spent planning your wedding. By taking this honeymoon planning guide to the heart and putting these 8 steps in place, you can ensure that your honeymoon experience will be everything you hoped for, as well as one of your fondest new memories as a couple. If you feel like you need a little help planning your honeymoon or just want this lifted off of your shoulders, then I encourage you to use this link, to schedule a free 60-minute discovery session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for your honeymoon dreams to come true! Congratulations on your engagement! This will be one of the happiest times of your life, as you start planning your destination wedding! But thinking of everything you need to pull together to host a destination wedding can be overwhelming. There areso many different things that you will have to manage for everything to run smoothly. How do you make the choice of location, venue, transportation, and all the other things that you need to concern yourself with? This destination wedding survival guide is just what the doctor ordered to help you fit all of the pieces together perfectly for a smooth and wonderful destination wedding in paradise. Let me share with you these six destination wedding essentials! 1. Get Started Right Away  Happy couple planning their destination wedding In today’s post-COVID environment, dates & availability are booking up faster than ever before! Many couples are eager to finally say “I DO!” in an amazing location, just as they had hoped before the pandemic! Now dates are booking up fast, so don’t procrastinate, start researching resort wedding venues & availability now! 2. You Don’t Have To Know It All You may think you have to know everything about planning a destination wedding before you begin, but that’s simply not true! You don’t need to have it all figured out to get started. The two most important things you need to start working on is making a list of potential destinations you would like to get married, and then, a list of potential resort wedding venues to hold your wedding & wedding group at. You may enjoy reading my article on Considering a Destination Wedding in Mexico?. 3. Consider doing a Pre-wedding planning trip  Couple going to try their selected hotel Hey, Who doesn’t like the samples at Costco, before you buy a 12-pack of hot chocolate bombs? Right? Once you have a destination wedding location chosen, then it’s time to figure out which wedding venue & resort to have your ceremony and host your group. One of the most effective ways to choose a wedding resort & venue is to visit it first before you decide. In fact, many resorts offer special “wedding visit” packages to encourage you to visit their resort, hoping you will choose them for your destination wedding. 4. Get a New Email For Only Wedding Related Conversions  Create your exclusive wedding email In order to have a successful destination wedding, you have to be organized. I always suggest that you create a special email address exclusively for your wedding & honeymoon. This way all of your wedding correspondence & conversations will be in one spot! Believe me, this will save you so much time and probably money in the end. The last thing you want is a confirmation email requesting you to verify your wedding date & time at the resort, and you miss it in a crowded inbox sandwiched between emails from Peloton & your uncle’s gallbladder surgery! 5. Consider Getting a New Credit Card That Earns Miles  Get a credit card that gives you miles As long as you are going to be charging your wedding expenses, you might as well earn some reward miles to help you pay for your travel. This is a great time to open a new credit card that will earn you miles or points for future or even current travel. You could actually get your airfare paid for if you play your credit cards right! 6. Consider Working With a Destination Designer or Specialist  Me helping couples with their destination wedding If you want to ensure that your destination wedding will be planned correctly, and reduce the stress and frustration you may feel when trying to plan this all on your own, it may be worth it to invest in a destination wedding designer or planner. A destination wedding planner or designer knows the ins and outs of a destination wedding and has plenty of experience setting up wedding groups, negotiating contracts, and managing all of the logistics for you and your guests.
They will also make sure that you receive ALL the amenities & perks you will qualify for as well. Things that many resorts won’t tell you unless you ask. At the end of the day, you want your destination wedding to be a celebration that everyone will remember! (In a good way) By taking this survival guide to the heart and putting these 6 steps in place, you can ensure that your destination wedding experience will be everything you hoped for, as well as one of your fondest memories as a couple. If you feel like you need a little help planning your destination wedding lifted off of your shoulders, then I encourage you to use the link below to schedule a free 1-hour discovery session with me! I would be honored to help you figure out everything you need for your dream wedding to come true! |
Rossana TaylorBilingual English -Spanish Travel Agent 
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Agent is not a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. Florida Seller of Travel Reference Number ST37113. Iowa Seller of Travel Reference Number 960.
Washington Seller of Travel Reference Number UBI 602 775 122
Agent is not a participant in the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. Florida Seller of Travel Reference Number ST37113. Iowa Seller of Travel Reference Number 960.
Washington Seller of Travel Reference Number UBI 602 775 122