You absolutely should do a pre-destination wedding planning trip that can hold the key to turning your wedding vision into a reality.
Here are some time-tested tips and strategies to help you make the most of this pre-planning trip. From selecting the perfect venue to building strong connections with the onsite wedding team, who can bring your vision to life, each step will get you closer to making your big day the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
 
Here are some general tips for you to follow to ensure the wedding outcome is unique and will leave a solid impact on all your guests.
 
TIP 1: Visiting a Destination

When choosing a destination for your wedding, prioritize safety, accessibility, and guest comfort. Ensure there are no recent travel warnings, political issues, or health concerns. Consider the feasibility of travel for all guests, especially those with specific needs. 

Discover the must-see attractions, experiences, and sites that your destination has to offer. This will be part of what your guests may enjoy and you want them to create memories while celebrating with you.
 
If golf is on the list, find out your options that are nearby where you and your guests will be staying and ask about setting up a group.

Consider The Weather: Understand the climate of the destination and how it will be around the time of your planned wedding. Always have backup plans in case of bad weather.
 
Consider hosting additional events like a bachelor/bachelorette, a welcome party, or a farewell brunch. Check out locations in the area to host these events and enhance your guests' experience. They can also be held at the resort venue you choose as well.

Tip 2: Visiting The Resort Venue – What to Consider

When scouting for a resort wedding venue, several important factors must be considered. Here are some key things to keep in mind: 
 
● Location: Choose a location that aligns with your vision and is easily accessible to all your guests. If you can find a location that is within 30-45 minutes of the airport, that is ideal, but don’t let that be your sole criteria.

● Ceremony & Reception Locations: Seeing ceremony and reception sites
available at your resort or at an offsite venue is the number one decision to
make on a pre-wedding planning trip. You need to be able to “see yourself” truly having the ceremony of your dreams there.

● Capacity: Make sure the space is right for a group of your size and that the venue's capacity is suitable for both the ceremony and reception
 
● Policies: Ask about the venue's policies on outside vendors, alcohol, decor, music and entertainment, catering, cake, accommodations, insurance, and security

● Accessibility: Check the venue's policy on accessibility and parking situation. If you are inviting people who are more physically challenged, then choosing a location and resort that is easy to get around in, without a lot of hills or valleys, is preferable.

● Indoor vs. Outdoor: Decide whether you want an indoor or outdoor wedding and consider the pros and cons of each option. Obviously, unless the weather is a factor, most people will have their ceremony and reception outside, that’s the main reason you are having a destination wedding however, there are times when you could have the beauty of an outdoor ceremony, with the comfort of a ballroom reception, out of the heat and humidity. It just depends on you.

NOTE: Make sure that the resort you choose does have quality spots for a
backup plan if needed when weather is bad.
 
● Your Guest Experience: The comfort and enjoyment of your guests is also a top priority area. Make sure that the resort you choose will have plenty to offer for all of your family and friends you are inviting to your wedding.
 
Tip 3: Meeting With The Onsite Wedding Team

One advantage of doing a pre-destination wedding visit is being able to meet with the onsite wedding team to see how you relate and communicate with them. Your comfort level of course is of utmost importance when working with a wedding team.
 
Here are some areas to consider during your visit to maximize the productivity of your meeting.
 
1. Prepare a list of questions that include inquiries about menu options, venue capacity, and decor choices.

2. Be receptive to suggestions and recommendations from the onsite team. They possess valuable experience and knowledge about the venue and the local area, which can prove invaluable in making informed decisions. With that said, make sure the team is actually listening to your concerns and needs. If they aren’t now, when they are looking for your business, they really won’t be once you’re signed, sealed, and delivered.

3. Take a comprehensive tour of the venue alongside the team. This will give you a clearer understanding of the space and how it can best be utilized for your wedding.

4. Communicate your wedding vision and preferences. Collaborate with them to develop a plan that aligns with your desires and suits your budget. Again, make sure they are listening to you, not just pushing their own agenda.

5. Ensure that your expectations are transparently communicated. Any special requests or requirements should be clearly articulated to the onsite team.
 
Your meeting should make you feel like you can collaborate effectively with the onsite team to make well-informed decisions for your wedding, resulting in a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your guests.
 
NOTE: Unfortunately the reality is that many of the resort wedding venues have high turnover in the onsite wedding staff. It’s very possible that the team you start with, won’t be the team you end up with as you get closer to your wedding. With that said, I always advise couples to consider hiring a destination wedding consultant to help them with every aspect of their destination wedding, including keeping in constant communication with the onsite team, and any changes that may occur, so that you don’t have to constantly be trying to keep up with it all.

A destination wedding designer will be able to take great notes and quickly jump in to make sure your wedding vision is going to happen, no matter what changes happen with the onsite team.
 
Tip 4: Turn Your Pre-Wedding Planning trip into a Mini Getaway Experience

While a pre-wedding planning trip can be busy, try to enjoy a little break while there.

Take at least one day to relax on the beach, sip some margs, and rejuvenate. The details of your wedding will come together and you won’t plan everything in an entire weekend, so relax!
 
Enjoy your visit and come back excited and energetic to make your final decision and start planning your destination wedding!

Pro tip: have some professional pics taken while there so you can send out the save-the-date cards with a photo of you two at the destination! How cool would that be?
 

Step 1 – Secure the wedding date and time (12-18 months in advance)

Choosing the perfect date and time for your destination wedding is the first big step.

And trust me, it's not as easy as picking a date for a local wedding when you can pop into venues on a Saturday afternoon. That's where a destination wedding specialist, like yours truly, comes in handy. We'll help you find the ideal wedding venue that suits your style and budget, so you don't waste time scrolling through endless options. Not securing your date and time is one of the top mistakes I see wedding couples make
when trying to plan a destination wedding. I recommend you to read my blog about the benefits of choosing all-inclusive resort for your destination wedding
 
Step 2 – Get a group contract set up (As soon as the venue is selected)

Once you've nailed down your wedding date and time, it's time to secure a group contract. This contract ensures that all your guests have a room at the same rate, making everyone's stay seamless and enjoyable.

As a destination wedding specialist, I personally work with a travel supplier (vs booking directly with the resort) to set up the group contract, as it simplifies the process and ensures you get the best deals.
 
Step 3 – Send out Save the Date invites (Give guests as much time as possible, at least 6 months, preferably a full year)

With the wedding date and group block secured, it's time to spread the excitement by sending out Save the Date invitations. Make sure your invites include all the essential details, and if you're working with a destination wedding travel specialist, we can set up a wedding website where your guests can easily reserve their rooms. Plus, when your guests book with group you can earn some fantastic perks like free rooms and
upgrades.

Step 4 – Pre-wedding planning (6-9 months before the wedding)

Now comes the in-between phase, where you've got some time before the big day.

Here are some tips to make the most of it:

- Consider a pre-wedding planning trip to your chosen destination, taking advantage of any discounted rates.
- Research fun group activities like a catamaran cruise to keep your guests entertained.
- Remind your guests to RSVP by reserving their rooms with a low deposit.
- If you're hiring a photographer/videographer not on the resort's preferred list, plan for the outside vendor fee, or consider having someone from the U.S. attend as a guest to avoid it, but we aware that some resorts won't allow it.
 
Step 5 - Start planning the wedding (Between 4-6 months from the wedding)

Even if your resort isn't ready to dive into the nitty-gritty details just yet, start planning by creating a Pinterest board with your wedding inspirations for decor, colors, and flowers. When the time comes, you'll be crystal clear about your preferences. Other planning decisions include menu selections, photography packages, and music for the reception.

Step 6 – Final Payments and Transfers (60 – 75 days before travel)

Approximately two months before the big day, it's time to make final payments for room reservations. Don't forget to gather your guests' flight details, so transportation can be coordinated smoothly. Double-check those itineraries to ensure they match their room dates, as discrepancies can arise if you wait until the last minute. If you work with a destination wedding specialist like me, this task will be on my plate. ;)
 
Step 7 – Tips, reminders, and travel documents, oh my! (2 weeks before travel)

As the wedding day draws near, send out travel documents via email about two weeks before the trip. Ask your guests to review them thoroughly and notify you of any questions or discrepancies. Provide them with tips and reminders for a stress-free trip, including details on online check-in, shuttle services, gratuities, and emergency contacts. Again, this is something I can easily take off your plate.

Phew, we've covered it all! Planning a destination wedding may seem daunting, but with this timeline and the guidance of a destination wedding specialist, you'll be well-prepared to create the wedding of your dreams in paradise.

Love knows no constraints, and neither should your destination wedding. In a world where couples are seeking unique experiences that reflect their personalities, destination weddings have taken on a new dimension. It's time to redefine your wedding journey by adding personalized touches, creating cherished memories, and turning your special day into an adventure of a lifetime. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting custom destination weddings that celebrate your love story.
 
Destination weddings have gained popularity over the years for several reasons. Many couples find them appealing and yearn to have the best experience on the biggest day of their lives.
 
Destination weddings offer many unique advantages over traditional weddings. They exude a captivating romance, enabling the couple to savor their special moments together without having to fret over intricate logistics.

However, one of the core reasons for the growing popularity of destination weddings, apart from the ones mentioned above, is the ability to customize the wedding.
 
Destination Weddings Redefined

Modern couples are now able to redefine their destination wedding, transforming it into extraordinary and memorable wedcation. With today’s focus on customization and personal style, you can now add incredibly personalized touches to your destination wedding experience. Today’s savvy couples seek epic and once-in-a-lifetime wedcations for themselves, their loved ones, and their friends.

Destination wedding services are not just about arranging weddings in the best Instagram locations nowadays. They are also about planning highly customized group vacations that are guaranteed to stick as one of the most memorable days in the lives of those on the guest list.

Destination wedding specialists are now transitioning into comprehensive travel concierges, extending their services beyond the bride and groom to cater to the needs of the entire guest list.
 
Taking Creativity A Step Ahead

Today’s destination weddings are focused on prioritizing unique and unparalleled experiences for wedding couple, as well as all of their guests. They seek highly personalized and detailed celebrations and are willing to experiment with creative approaches.

Today couples are opting for weddings that are not only highly customized but also meticulously detailed, reflecting their individuality and love story.

This shift is driven by a desire to infuse their special day with a unique touch and a willingness to explore innovative approaches to celebrating their union.
 
Customization Can Take Your Wedding Experience To Another Level

Customization plays a significant role in today’s destination weddings, with couples focusing on tailored experiences, such as unique and well thought out menus to exciting & unique entertainment such as beachside performances to interactive activities, today’s couples are shaping their destination wedding into exactly what they want, without sacrificing anything.
 
Coming from a generation of online shoppers and influencers, the goal is to strike a balance between a healthy wedding budget and creating an Instagram-worthy event.

This often involves seeking unique features like a special resort venue or a rooftop ceremony to take the wedding experience to another level.
 
What Elements of Your Destination Wedding Can Be Customized
 
Wedding Venues

Many resorts and venues offer personalized wedding packages that can be tailored to your unique preferences and budget. These packages often include accommodation, ceremony and reception venues, catering, and other services. New services can be added on request if you want to spring some surprises on the guests.
 
Unique Decor and Themes

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.

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

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!

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 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

​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?

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:

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

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:

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!

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:

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!