So, you’ve decided on a destination wedding. But how and where do you begin planning? Consider taking a trip to the destination of your choice 10 to 12 months prior to tour resorts, discuss wedding packages and plan group excursions.
“Visiting your destination in the initial planning phase gives you an opportunity to experience multiple resorts before making your final decision and paying the deposit,” said Nicole Czechowski, Leisure and Luxury Travel Specialist, The Travel Team. “You’ll also have time to do some preliminary planning with the on-site Sales & Catering manager.”
When you work with The Travel Team, professionals like Nicole can help you narrow your resort choices down before you visit your destination.
“I always start by asking clients when they’d like to get married, if they want a tropical location, if they’re looking for all-inclusive resorts and what kind of price-point is suitable for their guests. All of this information helps me identify the right resorts to consider and provide reliable pricing information,” said Nicole.
She likes to give clients airfare and accommodation estimates for three, five and seven night trips. Sharing this information with your guests will help them decide if they can attend, and for how long.
Here are a few things to do during your destination experience trip:
- Scout ceremony locations. Whether you’re going for beachfront, poolside or on the lawn, make sure you walk around each venue to identify ideal places to say “I do.”
- Meet with the Sales & Catering manager. Each resort will have a variety of wedding packages based on your group size and reception needs. After the ceremony at an all-inclusive, guests can head straight to bars or restaurants at no extra cost, but if you’d like tables set-up and a special meal served you’ll be charged for those services.
- Decide between a symbolic or legal ceremony. It’s often easier to have a symbolic ceremony to avoid legal hassles. If you want to make it official, the Sales & Catering manager can help you meet local requirements.
- Discuss wedding themes and vendor referrals. The resort will provide a list of reputable vendors and show you samples of their work.
- Visit the excursion kiosk. The resort’s excursion desk offers access to local attractions and experiences. If you want to take your guests zip lining or on a catamaran rehearsal dinner cruise, the excursion representative can give you all the information you need.
- Act like a guest. Take in all the resort has to offer. Find out what it’s like to be a guest there. Sample the food, view a variety of rooms, swim in the pool and interact with staff. All of this will help you pick the best venue to host your wedding.
- Lock it in. Once you know your date of choice is available at the resort you’ve selected, lock it in with a deposit before you leave.
Once you get home, make a call to Nicole at The Travel Team to secure best flight pricing and book hotel blocks for guests. Don’t forget, part of The Travel Team’s commitment to stress-free travel planning is our ability to manage all of your guests’ travel needs for you. From pricing and reservations to itineraries and travel documentation, leave the details to us.
