HitchedAway Audio Guide

Debbie Quain
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How to plan your Caribbean destination wedding with ease.

Season 1

  1. EPISODE 1

    Caribbean Destination Wedding Basics

    If a Caribbean destination wedding is calling your name—but you're not sure where to start—you're in the right place. In this episode of the HitchedAway Audio Guide, I break down the basics: what counts as a destination wedding, how much it really costs, who, pays for what, and the two most popular ways to plan it. Spoiler: one of them might even be free. What is a Destination Wedding, Really? By definition, a destination wedding takes place out of town – someplace where neither the couple nor their immediate family resides.  The destination doesn't need to be on an exotic continent or many time zones away, just ‘away'. Why So Many Couples Choose the Caribbean? Romantic beaches, affordable prices, and relatively short travel times, what's not to love? The Caribbean is still the “it” spot for destination weddings and it's our focus.  It's not the only option for your destination wedding, of course, but we think it's a destination worth adding to your location shortlist. Two Ways to Plan Your Caribbean Destination Wedding You have two (2) ways to host your destination wedding in the Caribbean: 1Wedding Package – You can get hitched at resort or hotel–typically an all-inclusive property–that specializes in hosting destination weddings onsite. You get all the elements for your wedding bundled together as a package for a set price. 2An Offsite/Bespoke Wedding – Have your wedding at an offsite location such as a villa or private venue, perhaps a smaller, boutique hotel where weddings are not a built-in service, but you still have access to local wedding suppliers and professionals who can help create your nuptial vision. The Easy Route: Resort Wedding Packages Because of the popularity of destination weddings, many resorts, hotels and even cruise ships in the Caribbean offer wedding packages. Most of these packages offer options for each area of your destination wedding: choosing a ceremony site, picking a wedding reception menu, selecting flowers and, in most instances, the processing of your marriage license. In fact, many all-inclusive resorts also offer a ‘free' wedding! Resort wedding packages are usually a good deal this is the hassle-free way to plan your big day away. Yes, Some Caribbean Wedding Are Free (Here's How) Many Caribbean hotels and resorts promote “free” weddings.  How is this possible? Hotels make their money when they're full.  If you and your guests stay at a resort for a minimum number of nights, the hotel throws in your wedding ceremony for  ‘free'. Want Something More Unique? Consider an Offsite. If privacy, charm and character are what you're looking for, getting hitched at a hideaway hotel or, perhaps, a private Caribbean villa may be what you're looking for. Without a wedding ‘package' in place, it's safe to say you will spend more with this option.  Your best bet for planning this type of custom destination celebration is to work with a destination wedding planner or a travel agent who specializes in destination weddings. Who Pays for What at a Destination Wedding? Overall, when you compare the associated expenses, most couples spend less on a Caribbean resort destination wedding than the amount they would expect to spend for the same wedding services for a hometown wedding –  i.e. catering, site fees, music, etc. On average, a Caribbean destination wedding costs about 40% less than a traditional hometown wedding in the U.S. While that's a definite plus for your bank account, your attending wedding guests may feel the pinch. If they decide to go, your wedding guests should expect to pick up the tab for: Their round-trip travel expenses (including ground transportation) Their accommodation (usually 3-5 nights) Their own meals (with the exception of the wedding reception) Any travel-related incidentals – gratuity/tips, travel insurance, As you might expect, members of your hand-picked destination wedding party who need to purchase special dresses and suits or tuxedos will have to pay even more! Because of these expenses (and other considerations – time off work, for example) most destination wedding guest lists don't exceed 100.   A typical destination wedding in the Caribbean is an intimate affair with 15 – 20 guests. Remember: You're not expected to pay for guests' travel, lodging and food. If a family member or a friend can't afford or chooses not to spend the money associated with your big day away (or has a fear of flying!), they won't attend. As the hosts of a destination wedding, here's what you're financially responsible for: Your round-trip travel expenses (including ground transportation) Your accommodation (usually 5 – 7 nights) The total cost of your wedding elements – catering, decor, rentals, etc. – either in the form of a resort/hotel wedding package or fees paid to an offsite venue and wedding vendors. Any destination wedding-related activities and gifts for your guests – group tours, welcome bags, etc. Even after factoring in the cost of airfare and lodging, your money goes further with a Caribbean destination wedding. (Yess!) Perks of Saying “I Do” Away from Home Saying ‘I do' in the Caribbean has many wonderful benefits. If you're completely ‘over' the big, traditional wedding brouhaha, but still want to include family and closest friends in your special day you can. The wedding celebration goes on for days (instead of a few short hours). Destination weddings are fun! You and your guests get to combine your big day with an unforgettable vacation. Your island wedding is likely to cost less than a traditional wedding in your hometown. Before You Go… When it comes to your island wedding, be sure to give family and friends enough time to make travel preparations and to request time off work from their employer.  Six months is a good rule of thumb. Also, when you're thinking of where to get hitched away, consider a location that's accessible physically and financially for your wedding guests…unless you're eloping. If you're still not sure whether or not a Caribbean destination wedding is for you, get in touch.  I'm happy to answer any questions you have. Happy Planning!

    19 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Sandals Resorts: A good idea for your wedding?

    If you've ever thought about vacationing in the Caribbean, chances are you've come across Sandals Resorts – the iconic,all-inclusive luxury brand known for its romantic getaways. What Makes Sandals Resorts So Special? Forget what you think you know about all-inclusive resorts.  When it comes to Sandals Resorts, you're in for a completely different experience. Sandals proudly calls itself Luxury Included—and it delivers. This five-star, adults-only resort chain offers all the features you'd expect at this level: Gourmet dining Lavish accommodations Premium-brand wine and spirits Professional, attentive service Optional butler service Pristine grounds and top-notch maintenance Want a butler? You got it. Crave a spa-style bathroom? Done. And best of all? It's all included. Seriously—you can leave your wallet in your suitcase. (Tipping isn't allowed.) Here are five (5) things you should know about this ultra-stylish, all-inclusive Caribbean chain of resorts. 1. Sandals resorts are for Couples…only! Thinking of heading to Sandals with your BFFs? Think again. These resorts are designed exclusively for two people in love. That means: No singles No kids No double beds Each room comes with one bed, and every activity—from dining to lounging—is tailored for couples. If you're traveling with friends or family, Beaches (the sister brand) is your best bet. 2. Sandals Resorts are on the Caribbean's Best Beaches At Sandals, “location, location, location,” is more than a tagline—it's a promise. Every Sandals resort is located directly on a stunning stretch of beach, with warm turquoise water just steps away. Each property is designed to bring you closer to the water's edge.   And true to the Luxury Included experience, all water and land sports are included and unlimited during your stay. Snorkeling, paddleboarding, sailing—it's all part of the package. 3. Sandals Makes Wedding Planning Simple (and Beautiful) Dreaming of a destination wedding? Sandals has you covered. Exchange vows on the beach, in a tropical garden, under a romantic oceanfront gazebo, or even inside an over-water wedding chapel! Each Sandals resort features unique ceremony locations and on-site wedding planning pros. The in-house wedding team offers customizable styles and decor to make your celebration feel ike you. And because every property is all-inclusive, it's one of the easiest ways to host a wedding in paradise. 👉🏼 Quick heads-up:Sandals is a couples-only, adults-only resort, but there are a few exceptions for weddings: A limited number of single guests may be allowed to stay onsite (check with your planner). Children are not allowed to stay at Sandals, but may be permitted to attend the wedding ceremony and reception for a limited number of hours, depending on the resort. If your guest list includes lots of singles or families with children, Beaches (Sandals sister brand) may be a better fit—it offers the same luxury experience, but with a more flexible guest policy. ✨ Bonus: Already married? Sandals also offers Retie the Knot vow renewals for couples celebrating milestone anniversaries or simply ready to say “I do” all over again. 4. Sandals Thrives on Details & Perfection Founder Butch Stewart was known for his obsession with excellence—and it shows. From the moment you arrive at a Sandals resort, you'll notice the difference: Carefully curated architecture Thoughtful touches in every room Personalized service that feels…well, personal Sandals is also known for innovation.  Case in point? They were the first to bring over-the-water bungalows to the Caribbean—at their Montego Bay location. The brand continues to set the bar high for other all-inclusive resorts to follow. 5. Sandals Resorts are Located in the Caribbean—Only! Unlike other resort brands that span the globe, Sandals stays true to its roots. Founded in Jamaica, Sandals remains exclusively Caribbean. You'll find Sandals Resorts in: Jamaica Saint Lucia Antigua Grenada Barbados The Bahamas Curacao Saint Vincent & The Grenadines Beaches Resorts (the family-friendly sister brand) are currently in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos (with more on the way!).

    18 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Is a Destination Wedding Right for You? | Episode 3

    Every couple's dream wedding looks a little different. But, if you're craving something less “standard” and more you, a destination wedding might be the perfect fit. ✨At a Glance A destination wedding may be right for you if: You're not conventional (and don't want to be) Timing is tight—but you still want a beautiful wedding You're on a budget (and yes, destination weddings can cost up to 40% less) You're completely “over” the stress of planning a local celebration. You love to travel! One or both of you have been married before You want to keep your guest list small and intentional You'd rather elopt—just the two of you Toss out Tradition Destination wedding are made for couples who want to do things their way. Even receiving the invitation signals this wedding will be different (and that's a good thing). There are no rules—just the legal guidelines of your chosen destination. Get Hitched in Less Than a Year Unlike traditional weddings that often require 12-18 months to plan, many Caribbean resorts open their availability just 12-15 months ahead. That means a destination wedding can be planned in as little as three months—especially if you're open to flexibility. Spend Less (Really) Caribbean destination weddings can cost as much as 40% less than a traditional hometown wedding. Your dollars stretch further in the islands—especially at resorts offering bundled packages, on-site vendors, and built-in guest experiences. Stress Less, Celebrate More The word “wedding” can trigger stress. But the phrase “destination wedding”? That's got fun written all over it. With curated packages, fewer decisions, and built-in coordinators, it's all been done for you. (You just show up and sparkle.) You Love to Travel This one's a no-brainer: If you love exploring the world, why not start your marriage with an adventure? Bonus: If your guests are scattered around the globe, everyone's traveling anyway—might as well be somewhere amazing. Encore Weddings Welcome If one (or both) of you have been married before, a destination wedding is a beautiful way to start this chapter your way. Whether it's including your children in the ceremony or simply skipping the formalities you did the first time—this is your redo, refined. Less Guests, More Meaning Not everyone will be able to make the trip—and that's okay. Destination weddings naturally narrow the guest list to those closest to you. If you've ever felt pressured to invite people out of obligation, this is your elegant way out. Let's Elope! Want to slip away and tie the knot in peace? The Caribbean is made for moments like these. Whether it's just the two of you or a few handpicked guests, eloping in paradise comes with stunning backdrops and zero stress. 🤔 But Before You Dive In… Here are a few things to consider: 👀 Nothing's Familiar From hairstylists to venues, you'll likely work with vendors you've never met befort. If you're used to being 100% in control, you'll need to lean into trust—and find the right planning partner 📜 Is It Legal? Most Caribbean countries welcome weddings, but each has different residency requirements and paperwork timelines. (Or, you can marry legally at home and make your destination wedding symbolic. Easy.) 💰 Guest Costs Still Count You might save money—but your guests are investing in the experience. That means flights, time off, and hotel stays. And for you, there are still costs for: Welcome dinners Excursions Reception meals Post-wedding brunches Depending on your guest count, those extras can add up. Let's Plan Your Wedding Away Whether you're ready to go all-in or just need a few ideas, I'm here to help.

    26 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    How to Create a Budget for your Destination Wedding

    Even if money is no object, having a clear spending plan is essential. Planning a Caribbean destination wedding? Amazing choice! But before the menus, thes music, or the flowers, let's talk about something a little less glamorous (but absolutely necessary): your budget. Start with the Basics Sit down with your fiancé and create a wedding budget.  No cheating. No guesswork. This is your roadmap. Be honest about what you can truly afford. If you're not prepared, costs can exceed expectations no matter the destination. And here's the big question:How much can you spend on your wedding without going into debt for years to come? Why You Need Wedding Budget  Weddings are often one of the top three most expensive life events–after buying a home or raising kids. The difference? No one asks you to prove you can afford it. That makes it easy for things to go sideways, fast. Pro tip:Talk openly about money. if that conversation is difficult now, it might be a sign to slow down (just sayin'…). So, How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost? Your destination wedding can be as grand or small as you want. When comparing a Caribbean destination wedding to a hometown wedding in the US, it’s possible to pay 40% less for your island celebration. You could have a small destination wedding at all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean for 10 people for around $6,000. Two Main Options: 1) An all-inclusive Resort or Hotel 2) Private villa, Boutique Property, or Offsite Venue Each has different costs, expectations, and levels of convenience. What You'll Likely Pay For As the couple, you're financially responsible for: Your travel and accommodation All wedding-related expenses: wedding reception menu, ceremony site fees, photography, cake, wedding wardrobe, marriage license fees, etc. Guest activities – excursions, welcome gifts, etc. Subsidized travel for VIP guests (if you choose) Prioritize What Matters What's most important to you?  Is it the food? The photos? The guest experience? Spend more on those, and trim back elsewhere. How to Keep Track of It All Create a separate wedding account – savings, special credit card (great if you're collecting points!) If you're getting money from parents, stash it away in this account Funnel a percentage of every paycheck in to the account Money-Saving Tips  Keep your guest list small – invite a small group of people Avoid high-end destinations that is not a favorite for wealthy tourists (e.g. St. Barts, Barbados) Go all-inclusive – you and guests pay a flat price for food, room, drinks and activities. Bonus: Many resorts will offer free wedding perks if your group stays for a certain number of nights! Final Thoughts A modest budget doesn't make your destination wedding less special–it makes it intentional. When you're honest about your finances and clear about your priorities, you're already winning. 👉 Remember: How much can you spend on your wedding without putting yourself in debt for years to come?Answer that truthfully, and you're well on your way to a celebration that feel just right. Need help planning?: Schedule a free consultation here. I'd love to help you create a stress-free, joy-filled celebration in paradise. Happy Planning! ♥

    27 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    Choose a Date for your Destination Wedding

    Choosing the right date for your destination wedding is important. The date affects how you approach the planning process, which in turn influences the vision you have for your wedding. The date also influences how much you pay for travel and which guests can attend. How Many Days? A typical destination wedding lasts 3-4 days or over a weekend You may need to shorten or extend the number of days depending on travel/distance. As the hosts, typically, the couple arrive at the destination before their guests. Destination wedding planning time You need time to plan your wedding! Be realistic!  A year is a good rule of thumb, but you can definitely plan your destination wedding in less time.  It depends on how flexible you’re willing to be. If you're hosting a wedding at an all-inclusive resort, your planning will be significantly easier since most of your wedding elements will be bundled into one wedding package. Working with a destination wedding specialist or at the very least a travel agent will also make things easier; this person will handle much of the legwork for you. Consider your Wedding Guests As you consider the ideal wedding date, remember that: Guests need ample time to book flights, make room reservations, and request time off work. For people you consider essential at your destination wedding, avoid picking a date that conflicts with one of their milestone events – i.e. graduations, pregnancy, heavy workload, etc. List Element Your Destination Wedding Location Is your preferred date available at the destination with enough space to accommodate your wedding guests? Seasonal rates impact costs for you and your wedding guests.  In the Caribbean, keep in mind: High season: most popular with tourists; ideal weather; most crowded and the highest rates for travel and accommodation Low season: most affordable; hotel rooms easiest to get; special requests more easily met. But, in some areas, businesses are closed! Shoulder season: right in the middle of high and low season; everything's open, the weather is still ideal, and prices are slightly lower than high season Hurricane season: In the Caribbean and Florida, from June 1 – November 30 Local festivals, conventions, and spring and winter breaks also have an impact on the rates and availability at your wedding destination.  Know before you book anything! Keep in mind… Save-the-dates are a must for a destination wedding. If possible, send them out around six (6) months before the wedding day. In the Caribbean, a mid-week wedding is doable.  Saturday evening is NOT your only option.  By the way, if you're on a budget, a wedding during the week is likely to save you some money. Talk to a professional who is familiar with the destination you have in mind for your wedding so that you won't be blindsided when you finally choose the date you want.

    28 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    Select a Destination for Your Destination Wedding

    The location of your destination wedding determines the mood, travel, time and expense for your big day. Destination, Property & Site Before you start the decision-making process, understand that your destination decision includes The Destination – where on the map – which country, state or city – are you going to tie the knot? The Property – this is the actual place or address -the park, hotel, resort, villa, banquet facility, historic plantation – where you host the wedding and The Site or the spot- the physical place, within the property, where you'll say “I do”; where your ceremony takes place . Take a moment to dream about the atmosphere you envision for your wedding: warm weather and swaying palm trees, or crisp atop a mountain? Once you decide on the setting, you can create a shortlist of destinations that fit that vision. Consider These Destination Questions… As you brainstorm destinations for your wedding, get answers to the following questions. What's your ideal outdoor temperature?  Of course, you want good weather for your wedding day. Is English (or your native language if it isn't English) spoken at the destination? How long does it take to get there? How often do flights leave, and how many airlines fly to the destination? Can you and your guests afford to pay for travel to that destination? How easy is it to legally marry there?  What type of atmosphere do you want? Party central or laid-back and relaxed? Avoid Dodgy Destinations If any of the following situations apply to a country or region you're considering for your destination wedding, you may want to look for an alternative place to tie the knot… War or civil unrest High crime rate Undrinkable water Lingering effects of a natural disaster The U.S. State Department keeps an active list of countries that may be unsafe to travel to.  Click here to learn more. Destination Wedding Hotels Most destination wedding couples choose a hotel or resort with facilities and staff to host a wedding. This makes everything related to planning your wedding much, much easier. But this is not the only option nor is it  the solution for everyone… All-Inclusive Resorts/Hotels All-inclusive resorts are prevalent throughout the Caribbean and Mexico but not so much in the US (Hawaii or Puerto Rico or USVI) or in Europe. All-inclusive resorts run the gamut from basic to extravagant. Some are better than others (and there are a handful that shouldn't even make it on your shortlist for your destination wedding!) On the plus side, having your destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort : Is less stressful when you're managing details from miles away Is the most cost-effective option for people in your destination wedding group since food, drink, lodging, sports and entertainment are one price. Means all guest activity happens in the confines of a protected property. It's almost impossible for anyone to walk in from the outside! May qualify you for a free weddings – albeit a basic ceremony – if a minimum number of room nights are met. But, on the flip side…  Options for food, entertainment, and even your wedding package may be limited at an all-inclusive resort. Your wedding guests are paying their way for your wedding! (Are you okay with that?) Traditional Hotels  There are several smaller or boutique hotels to choose from, too.  Additionally, several of the major US hotel chains operate in the Caribbean and Mexico.  Most can pull your destination wedding together with ease (wedding package) What is a Wedding Package? Most resorts and hotels in the Caribbean and in Mexico simplify the destination wedding planning process by offering wedding packages – a bundle or list of services for a set price. A basic wedding package is likely to include: Help from an onsite wedding team Help with marriage document preparation A wedding officiant Venue options for the ceremony A small bouquet and/or boutonniere A wedding cake – usually one (1) tier A simple cake – one (1) tier Pre-recorded ceremony music A photographer (actual prints not included) Sparkling wine or beverage Off-Site Destination Wedding Locations Hotels and resorts are not your only option for a Caribbean destination wedding. It's possible to marry offsite at a location that doesn't offer accommodation! A beach wedding (not at resort); or a public/state park or garden; private buildings such as historic estates, restaurants, villas are wonderful examples of offsite wedding sites. If you prefer a completely bespoke wedding, one that's created from scratch, enlisting the help of a professional wedding planner is a good start.  S/he will help you to locate a venue and professional wedding vendors to provide each of the services you need. Destination Wedding Laws & Requirements Your marriage outside the US will be recognized in the US as long as the marriage adheres to the laws of the country where the marriage is performed. Unfortunately, most Caribbean nations, along with parts of Mexico, do not recognize same-sex marriages (although laws are changing as I write!). The key is knowing what those laws and requirements are.  If you want your destination wedding to be a legal marriage, here's what you need to do: 1Meet the area requirements to get a marriage license – as you might imagine, this varies depending on exactly which destination you choose. 2Show up together, in person, to acquire the license – Be prepared to provide original proof of ID – passport, birth certificate + drivers license; a divorce decree or death certificate if you've been married before and the required filing and paperwork fee (you may need to provide this in cash) 3Participate in a  wedding ceremony led by an officiant with credentials to officiate weddings in that country. If your wedding ceremony takes place at a hotel or resort, your onsite wedding team will likely help you to process all the necessary paperwork for your marriage license. Get Hitched at Home! To avoid the red tape of overseas marriage laws, consider marrying legally, in a civil ceremony, in the US before your destination wedding trip. Keep it secret if you choose to. This means your ceremony would be symbolic rather than legal. Ask for Help! Talk to family and friends who have married away or have vacationed there. Tourism boards are great for getting details about marriage licenses and hotels resorts and attractions, too. (Some simply pay to be there) Wedding planners (ahem), travel agents, and destination specialists (ahem, again).

    32 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Create Your Destination Wedding Guest List

    Who are you planning on inviting to your destination wedding?  Take a moment to draft your wedding guest list. Create a draft guest list A destination wedding requires a few additional considerations as you create a guest list – unless you're eloping.  Because of the commitment (time and money related to travel) from guests, the guest list is likely to be much smaller than the guest list for a traditional hometown wedding. As you add each name to your list, here are a few things to consider: Is this someone you'll enjoy vacationing with? Can this person afford the travel expenses associated with your destination wedding? Is this person well enough to travel? Is there a fear of flying? Are there any special medical or dietary needs? Children?  Will your guests need to bring them? Speaking of children… Do you want children at your destination wedding? If so, what about childcare? Are children even allowed at your selected resort or hotel? send save-the-dates, asap! When you've secured the date and location for your destination wedding, send a save-the-date to people on your guest list.  Include: Your (the engaged couple) names Dates of your wedding weekend (week dates) The destination location – make it crystal-clear that this is a wedding away! If your wedding invitations are ready, send them in place of save-the-dates Share details in a destination wedding packet In addition to the basics of a tradition wedding invitation, your destination wedding invitation must include essential travel information.  Either include these details in the envelope with the wedding invitation or send a packet of info separately. This packet of information should include: Information about the destination – country or city/state) Hotel or accommodation information – including room block details Flight information (if applicable) A daily itinerary of events surrounding your wedding Airport/ground transportation (referred to as ‘transfers) A suggested packing list (optional) Passport reminder (if applicable) Create a wedding website A wedding website is the online version of your printed destination wedding packet.  This is a great way to share and update all the details that you want your wedding guests to know. A quick online search for “wedding website” generates endless options, from free to completely customized.  If you're certain that all of your guests have access to view your website, a printed package of info may not even be necessary.

    26 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    How to Book the Venue for your Caribbean Destination Wedding.

    Brainstorm (…dream a little) Here's the process I recommend for finalizing your choice of location for your destination wedding. Brainstorm all the locations that you're considering for your destination wedding. Do this together – i.e. you and your fiance. Include things like climate preferences, the style and backdrop of your wedding, the activities you want to enjoy with your guests, etc.Then, narrow down your options by assigning low to high numbers that indicate how strongly you want a specific feature for your wedding. Finally, focus on the top three choices and THEN begin your research. Research Now it's time to do a little digging. Begin by checking out destination websites and resources.  Tourist boards are packed with helpful information about accommodation, local attractions, things to do, and much-needed wedding planning advice. Contact the hotels and resorts that you're interested in by phone or email and ask about their wedding packages or services.  This is a great way to get a feel for the service you'll receive as a guest. Admittedly, conducting your research of wedding destinations and wedding venues takes time and can be frustrating.  You're reviewing websites, checking out TripAdvisor and scrolling through pictures and comments on social media. Book Your Wedding Spot At some point, you should be able to pinpoint a venue (yes, just one!) that works for you. Once you've decided, it's time to book and confirm the date. Although it's possible to book the details for your destination wedding on your own – by using an online travel website or contacting the resort/hotel directly –  working with a travel professional and/or destination wedding specialist will almost always result in a better outcome for your wedding away. Work with a Travel Professional Working with a travel professional to book accommodation and travel for your destination wedding is a smart move.  Travel pros have the inside scoop and the Intel that you need!  Their knowledge goes beyond the picture-perfect images and slick marketing messages you find online. Don't rely on an online travel booking site for your destination wedding.  Unless you're working with a travel pro specializing in planning weddings, this person's involvement with your wedding details is limited.  This is where the onsite wedding coordinator at the hotel or resort comes in. Working with the Onsite Wedding Staff An on-site wedding coordinator is based at the resort or hotel at your wedding destination. This person serves as your direct point of contact as you plan the wedding ceremony and reception details.  The services of this person come at no additional cost to you – you pay for the selections that you make – the menu, flowers, decor, etc. –  for your wedding. Keep in mind that most of the in-depth wedding planning doesn't begin until 45-60 days before the wedding date. You've got a Wedding to Plan! Another perk of working with a travel professional is that this person will work with your resort or hotel to arrange a block of rooms for your wedding guests.  Best of all, s/he will serve as the point person for each one of your wedding guests –  who no doubt will have questions about the resort, the best way to get to the destination, flight options, etc. – instead of you! You've got a wedding plan!  You don't have time to deal with travel-related issues!  Leave that task to the travel pros.

    23 min

  9. EPISODE 9

    Ceremony Options for your Destination Wedding

    What Type of Wedding Ceremony? The ceremony for your destination wedding is an opportunity for a picture-perfect snapshot. You probably picked the site for your ceremony when you initially booked the wedding venue – i.e., the hotel or resort. But what are your options for the type of wedding ceremony?  Religious, interfaith, civil, symbolic, spiritual…what's the difference? A religious officiant conducts a religious wedding ceremony that includes specific religious rites. Some officiants are more rigid about incorporating certain requests for this type of ceremony, such as using secular music. An interfaith wedding is the blending of two (2) different faiths and may require you to find two (2) separate officiants – one for each faith. Some countries may not recognize an interfaith wedding as legally binding, so find out! A spiritual wedding ceremony works if neither of you prefers specific religious rites or permissions. A civil ceremony has no religious elements and simply conforms to the local legal requirements and rules. A registrar or marriage official conducts it. A symbolic ceremony is not a legally binding ceremony at all. Wedding Ceremony Ideas Here are a few ways that you can personalize your destination wedding ceremony. For an island wedding, serve arriving guests with cool drinks before the ceremony starts. Set up personalized directional wedding signs so your guests know exactly where to go to attend the ceremony. Put some thought into creating a playlist for your wedding ceremony. Incorporating local sounds for your destination wedding ceremony is an authentic and memorable touch. Ensure you provide seating for a wedding ceremony that lasts longer than 20 minutes. As you exchange your wedding vows, consider including a local phrase of good wishes with your vow – another authentic, local touch. Track local sunrise and sunset times as you decide when you would like your wedding ceremony to begin.

    26 min
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How to plan your Caribbean destination wedding with ease.

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