Meet Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists
Located throughout the United States and Canada, our 200+ Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are more than just travel agents; they are here to help make your dream celebration come to life with ease - from start to finish.
Get to know our award-winning experts below. If you'd like to request a specific Specialist to work with, simply write in their name when you create a profile, and we will do our best to pair them with you right away. There's a small chance your preferred Specialist will not be available immediately. In that case, we will match you with another fantastic agent who has experience with the destination(s) you're interested in and any other preferences you provide in your profile.
Speak with an Expert today to get personalized venue recommendations and a free quote.
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Adeline Estrada
Adeline Estrada
- Testimonials "Adeline is so knowledgeable and able to answer any & all questions in a very timely manner. She has made destination wedding planning much less stressful.""One word: WOW! That word sums up pretty much everything including Adeline's amazing customer service.""Adeline was our Specialist and she was amazing! She was always very responsive to all our questions and very helpful to all our guests when going through the booking process."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off to one destination tomorrow, it would be Ireland. I've traveled to so many different tropical destinations that it would be so interesting to me to experience something completely different while traveling. The landscape and scenery of Ireland that I've seen in pictures is so beautiful I cannot wait to experience them in person one day.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning dream destination weddings are the phone calls I receive from couples letting me know how magical their wedding was. It makes me so happy to hear all the wonderful experiences my couples have had during their time away and how thankful they are that I was there to help. I truly enjoy what I do and I hearing that my work helped a couple had the most amazing wedding they could've dreamed of truly fills me with joy!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for a couple planning a destination wedding is to make sure they focus on what they want and not what their family and friends may want. A wedding is supposed to be a joyous and memorable time for a couple, and if they let the focus of their wedding turn to what everyone else wants, their experience may not be as great as it could be. Of course, it is important to ask for guests opinions and ideas to see if a destination wedding can work for you and your guests, but ultimately this day is about you as the couple...so it is important to focus on what you both want.
Aislinn Ronaghan
Aislinn Ronaghan
- Testimonials "Aislinn was an absolute pleasure to work with. She made the process easy and understandable, and took much of the worry out of booking something so important (and several thousand miles away!). ""We highly, highly recommend using Aislinn to plan your next destination wedding/renewal of vows/honeymoon/whatever! Thanks, Aislinn, for helping us make memories that will last a lifetime!""Aislinn Ronaghan is superb. She took care of all the details, stayed on top of things and kept me informed throughout."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
There are so many places on my bucket list, not to mention that I love to revisit places I've already fallen in love with. My short list is the South Pacific, New Zealand, Macchu Pichu, Chile, Iceland...basically, to infinity and beyond!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The wonderful thing about a destination wedding is that the wedding couple and guests get to spend more than just one evening together. The most memorable destination wedding I was a part of was for a couple who married in the French countryside. They rented an entire chateau and put so much effort into activities and excursions for their guests - crepe making, cider tasting, trips to Normandy and Mont St. Michel. It was such a special celebration of not only their love for each other but their love for their friends and family!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
There is no right or wrong way to plan your wedding, so choose what works for you! As you start the planning process, know that weddings aren't easy and there is likely to be some stress before it is all over. This is normal, so adopt the attitude that it's not the problems that matter, but what you do about them! Sometimes, you just have to decide what matters and what doesn't.
Alecia Cunningham
Alecia Cunningham
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Antigua! I have always wanted to check this destination off of my list as I have experienced most others and there is a certain 'draw' to that Island. I have yet to find out what that is.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I do not have just one, as all celebrations are very special and have unique experiences. I do have great memories of not only assisting with couples weddings, but also attending while continuing to assist while in their destination. Being able to witness clients happiest celebrations is heart-warming. It is memorable for me to continue friendships with couples long after their weddings as well!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Please do not stress. Most, if not all, possible pop-up challenges do get worked out and in the end, to look back knowing that stress was not a factor, helps with remembering one of the best events of your life.
Alexandra Koleoglou
Alexandra Koleoglou
- Testimonials "Alexandra has been awesome, she has been wonderful to work with. We have nothing but good feedback about her.""Alexandra was incredibly thorough and patiently answered all of our questions. She helped us narrow down our location and resort choices (from over 30 different resorts in three different countries), all the while keeping our priorities top of mind. ""Alexandra gave us wonderful and thoughtful advice on each of our resort choices, sharing pros and cons, occupancy rates that we should expect for our friends/family, pictures of the resort (both from the vendor and her own personal experiences through her various travels), and gave us great feedback and recommendations. My husband and I would gladly recommend Alexandra's services to anyone and everyone looking for assistance and guidance with their destination wedding travel plans."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would go back to Greece. I ended up moving to Greece in 2001 when a 2-week vacation turned into a 6 year "vacation." Having travelled to many parts of world, I have yet to find a country that offers the same beauty, culture, food, people and hospitality that I had experienced in Greece. Every day was different and every island I visited was more breathtaking and interesting than the last. There's never a dull moment in Greece!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favourite memory from planning a dream destination celebration is for a renewal of vows for a couple who had been married for 50 years. Planning their celebration allowed me to really get to know the bride and groom and learn a lot about them and their family, and also about their relationship, and how they made it to 50 years! I had the pleasure of hearing about how they met and all about their journey and how "true love prevails;" a memory that really warmed my heart and will stay with me forever.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice to my couples is this: "This is your day! This is your celebration! You can't please everyone, so just do it all the way you want to do it and don't regret anything!"
Alison Mull
Alison Mull
- Testimonials "Alison was great to work with! Always answered questions quickly and always kept us informed."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
South Pacific, especially Bora Bora. This is an incredibly beautiful part of the world with so much to offer. I would enjoy the beautiful scenery, the culture, warmth and hospitality of the islanders. The things I would most want to do include zip-lining, hiking and scuba diving. The overwater bungalows look amazing and I would certainly want to stay in one. Now I'm excited and ready to go pack my bags!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Too many memories to mention, and they continue with couples keeping in touch and letting me know how their life is going, hearing about children, promotions, new homes and more. With all weddings I like seeing how we can make "Dreams Come True". One of the reasons to choose a destination wedding is to be able to have that beautiful celebration that may not be possible at home due to the prices. More than that is the time they get to spend with their guests; everyone leaves with great memories and guests always tell me "this was the best wedding I have ever attended!"What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples planning their destination wedding is to make sure that the most important people on their guest list are onboard with the idea, explaining that they want to share their wedding experience for more than just a few hours; a destination wedding gives everyone days to create memories. I also want couples to help their guests understand that while it is a vacation for them, it is their wedding and they have enlisted our help because they want everything to go very smoothly. While keeping the budget in line for guests is important, I don't want them to give up on what is most important to them in selecting a resort or destination. It is their wedding and I will try and make all those dreams come true. And most important is to stay stress free, let me help with all the questions that they or their guests may have. I let them know I will be here for them and their guests so that everyone will have an amazing experience!
Alison Shah
Alison Shah
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to go to on a romantic getaway to Bora Bora, especially for the sunshine, beautiful beaches, and the warm and welcoming Polynesian people. Bora Bora is well known for breathtaking lagoons and turquoise waters, which is abundant in colorful fish and other wildlife. After a day on the water, I would love to watch the spectacular sunset from a catamaran.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Weddings require a lot of planning and destination weddings may require even more attention. Several details to consider are: your budget, location (while being mindful of seasonal changes to the climate), the needs of your guests, etc. My advice to couples planning a destination wedding is to hire a Destination Wedding Specialist, who can advise you about destinations, weather, wedding requirements, local customs, culture, activities and more for your big day.
Amanda Leite
Amanda Leite
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would go to Maldives! The scenery is exquisite, and the atmosphere is modern yet romantic. It's a unique destination because it's a collection of thousands of tiny islands all clustered together - perfect for beach hopping! The beaches are some of the best and most beautiful in the world, with white sand and clear blue water. The underwater restaurants and villas that stretch over the water just add to the natural beauty - I'd love to go there for a relaxing getaway!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favourite memory when it comes to destination weddings was a time where I was able to bring together my passions for both travel and wedding planning for my best friends. After years of travelling and experience in the wedding industry, I was able to provide my friends with a unique perspective that made their special day one to remember forever. Seeing personally how much a destination wedding can create lifelong memories for not only the couple, but their family and friends, has only inspired me more to help other couples plan their weddings.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice when deciding to have a destination wedding is giving sufficient time for planning. Some easy ways to do that would be to make sure your Save The Dates are sent far enough in advance so guests have time to save and plan for the group trip. Having a clear vision of how you want your special day to look and feel will also ensure that planning happens efficiently. Lastly, make sure to communicate with your Destination Wedding Specialist so they know which details are a priority to you and if there are certain amenities the resort can provide.
Amanda Santorelli
Amanda Santorelli
- Testimonials "Our destination wedding specialist Amanda Santorelli was beyond amazing. I would highly recommend this company, and especially Amanda, to anyone looking for a perfect destination wedding.""Amanda has been absolutely flawless this far in our wedding planning. We are about to send out the save the dates and are so excited!""Amanda Santorelli helped us organize the perfect destination wedding. Her experience, professionalism, and patience was evident throughout the planning process and continued up to the day we arrived back home. The resort she recommended was impressive and well within budget. Our trip went by too fast but was thoroughly enjoyable and without any negative incidents. We would strongly recommend Amanda for anyone looking for the experience of a lifetime. "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could choose one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Bora Bora, hands down! I have always dreamed about the overwater bungalows and the exclusive, tranquil feel of your own island with family and friends. It would be a super neat experience and is definitely on my bucket list.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My most memorable moment in planning a destination wedding was when I spoke to the grandparents of a groom, they were both crying as there were so happy that DestinationWeddings.com could help them with all of their questions and travel arrangements and were so excited that they were able to attend their grandson's wedding; this was their first time out of the country!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember you are planning a trip as well. Don't let your wedding consume your vacation. The wedding coordinators and I will always be there for you and your guests during the entire planning process; ask as many questions as you need in order to feel comfortable when you arrive at your destination.
Amanda Waller
Amanda Waller
- Testimonials "We had the absolute best experience with Amanda Waller at Destination Weddings! She made the entire process amazingly easy, and I cannot thank her enough. ""Amanda was very responsive, so friendly and went above and beyond. I strongly recommend requesting her when creating your profile. 5 stars all around!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Probably Hawaii; relaxing in a hammock with my favorite cocktail sounds like a lovely idea!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The excitement of my couples and their kind words towards me. They were very grateful with all the guidance I had given them and were happy with the outcome.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Choose a destination that you and your fiance will love! But also take into consideration your family and friends. Will it be easy access for grandparents? Are there activities for the kids? Is it in their budget? Things like that!
Amarjit Keshav
Amarjit Keshav
- Testimonials "Amarjit has been so wonderful and helped me out so much. She stayed calm when I was stressed and did all the question asking when I needed her to. I am actually on the verge of tears because I can't believe this is all finally happening. Thank you again so much for everything, Amarjit. You are so good at what you do and truly have a gift to help with brides! ""Amarjit is honestly the nicest person we have met and has helped us in every way possible. She has been there through us through thick and thin planning all of this and going through each and every item and planning and helping us along the way. Amarjit is an amazing, beautiful person inside and out! This wedding is happening because of her.""Amarjit could not have done a better job. Absolutely fantastic! She made me feel at home and relaxed. I felt like I could always ask a million questions and it never would be too much. I would 100% recommend her to anyone considering a destination wedding. If it wasn't for Amarjit I probably would've decided to elope! Could not be happier."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It would have to be Tahiti so I could be in an over-the-water bungalow and just relax. It is on my bucket list!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The Mother of one of my brides asked me to attend the wedding as a surprise for the bride. I got the bouquet, which was to be delivered to the room by the coordinator, and knocked on the door. Her Mom opened it and knew it was me, but told her daughter that the flowers had arrived. When the bride heard me speak she screamed and ran over and hugged me. She cried (and I did too!). It was the moment for me that said "It was totally worth it." I love the planning, but to actually see one of my brides get married was priceless.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Be absolutely sure that it is what you want. Then don't let anyone take that dream away! These memories of days spent with your loved ones, on the most important day of your life, will be with you always. Trust the Specialist you are working with as they have the knowledge and experience to find the best place for you.
Amie Dillon
Amie Dillon
- Testimonials "My representative Amie was wonderful, kind, friendly and very helpful and patient with us. We had a lot is questions and changed out minds a lot.""Amie Dillon was absolutely amazing and a great resource for our endless questions and needs.""Amie was prompt with answering my endless questions on resorts, their wedding packages, budgets and travel concerns. The whole process was much more carefree than I anticipated because of her!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Riviera Maya, Mexico! I would head to a Karisma Hotels & Resorts property for sure!! I could use a long weekend of gourmet food, a romantic setting and the best amenities offered. Hard Rock would be my second choice, in Puerto Vallarta, as there is never a dull moment there with amazing entertainers, a beautiful property and a top-notch room service menu!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The excitement of couples returning home from their dream destination wedding, and hearing how much fun they had with their friends and family. Oh, and their excitement and anticipation to return to the same resort for their anniversary! Another was a couple honeymooning, who called to extend their trip because they just were not ready to return home. I love to hear the happiness in my couples' voices!!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Allow plenty of time for your guests to commit to attending and make payments toward their stay. This ensures those who matter most will be there and also lessens the anxiety for your friends and family. Also try to relax and know all details will be secured in time, which is why I am here!
Amie Kruggel
Amie Kruggel
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would head to the Cook Islands for the tranquil ocean and seclusion! Boasting rare beauty and an idyllic climate, they are impossible to resist!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would have to be when a father of the bride called and asked if he could surprise his daughter by preforming at the ceremony!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would say to make sure to capture every minute and take as many photos as possible.
Amy Boyce
Amy Boyce
- Testimonials "Amy was an absolute pleasure to work with. She was knowledgeable and answered questions in a timely manner. Day or night she was more than willing to help. She went out of her way to make sure we had everything we needed. I would recommend her to anyone that is interested in a destination wedding!!!""Amy helped with every step of the planning and took the worry about guest lists, flights, rooms and every other detail away from us so we could just enjoy stress-free!""Amy Boyce helped us plan the perfect wedding. She was more than helpful and went above and beyond to make sure everything went smoothly and the exact way we wanted. Her recommendations on where to stay were also spot on. She was very responsive and easy to get a hold of and even reached out and congratulated us after. I want to use her for future trips because she was that good!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I LOVE the BEACH and SUN! I would truly enjoy jetting off to ANY tropical paradise and am always excited to experience new destinations. The Dominican Republic has to be one of my most favorite vacations recently. The people are very attentive and always accommodating. They are so gracious. They want to have you in their country and to come back to visit with them often. They also have a warm way of making you feel special and pampered.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination vacation was helping the wedding couple honor the groom's grandparents that were celebrating their anniversary during the trip. I helped arrange a surprise vow renewal for the grandparents during the rehearsal dinner; a bouquet, an individual cake, the photographer took a few extra pictures and "their" song was also played at the reception! The mother of the groom was extremely helpful in assisting with all of the extra details. She even brought their original wedding picture and an album to share with the guests. A very touching and memorable time for the entire group and at the same time, the wedding couple had many of their own special touches to make their day meaningful for themselves, too!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Take time to really decide what you and your significant other feel is most important between the two of you in order to make this YOUR special day. The guests should be excited to share with you on your decisions and if you are trying to please others, you may have regrets. Weddings today can be ANYTHING you choose, there really are NO limits. Share your thoughts with me and we will do everything possible to help make your DREAMS come true. Make sure the most important people in your life will be willing to also join you at your destination. Lastly, make memories while you are there. This could be a once in a lifetime opportunity and you should not go home wishing you had done anything differently. Do it all while you can!
Amy Cate
Amy Cate
- Testimonials "Amy went beyond the call of duty. She was so kind and helpful.""Amy Cate was absolutely amazing to work with! She made the entire process so easy and flawless. She was so responsive and helpful. After our initial conversation, it was obvious to me that she was the girl I wanted to work with. She knows her stuff through and through. I will recommend her to every single bride I meet in the future."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off to a destination anywhere, it would be the Maldives. Nothing better than gorgeous water and a beach to listen to waves and sip on a margarita!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Every part of the planning is so exciting for ANY wedding! I get excited and happy tears every time I hear a couple's story! I am happy to be a part of any special day for the couples. It feels as if I am there with them!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice to a couple planning a destination wedding would be to not stress over the guests and what they would be happy with. The day and location are about the couple and the guests will be happy to be there to celebrate them.
Amy Peterson
Amy Peterson
- Testimonials "Wow, what a great wedding specialist you have in Amy Peterson! She is so kind, nice and helpful!! Several years ago Lands' End was written up in Consumer Report for having the best customer service. And they do have good customer service. But, after talking to Amy, Lands' End doesn't know what great customer service is!! You people are the best I have ever encountered!! Amy was a total delight!!!""Our Specialist was very easy to work with and made our experience enjoyable.""Amy Peterson was truly fantastic. She thoroughly answered all my questions as well as the wedding guests' many questions. She was amazing at calming my nerves and constantly reinforcing that the wedding would go smoothly and be beautiful."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off to a destination tomorrow, it would definitely be to Europe. Specifically, I want to go to England for the history and to visit pubs and eat food; Ireland for the countryside, pubs and food; Scandinavian Countries to explore my heritage and eat the food; France for the history, wine and food; Germany for the castles and heritage, beer and food and of course; Italy, for...the wine and food and definitely the beauty of the country's history. Any opportunity I get to enjoy culture, heritage, spirits and the cuisine are so exciting for me!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration is not really one specific thing but many things. I enjoy the fact that each trip is personal. It is personal for the couple or family I am working with and it is personal for me. I learn something from each trip or wedding that I help plan. I take away a different experience from each guest that I work with and I learn something new about each destination or hotel that I work with. The completion of a trip or the celebration of the marriage is my favorite part of the process. It signifies that our goal was accomplished. The pictures, if even just one or two, are so thrilling for me to receive and I get very excited when guests come back talking about how much fun they had. The videos that people share definitely evoke the emotional part of the experience, happy tears. I especially love when I work with a guest that has never traveled as their enthusiasm is so catchy and I find myself getting so excited for them. Hearing from the couple, family members and guests about their experience has a definite impact on the next people I work with. I enjoy hearing about the special touches a couple includes in their wedding ceremony, the fun adventures people go on, the funny things that happen while traveling or the mishaps that may have popped up as everything shapes the whole overall experience. Memories being made are the best part of my job.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples planning a destination wedding is to relax and have fun with it. Enjoy the process, enjoy the excitement, and enjoy the moments. You are choosing to do something fun and unique to celebrate your love and partnership; embrace the experience and make it your own. Work together as a team as you are not planning it on your own, we are here to help you make your special day AMAZING!
Amy Vecchione
Amy Vecchione
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Italy! Every time I go to Italy, I discover beautiful new places and fun things to do. The culture, the people, the food, and the wine make for an unbeatable combination!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I enjoy getting to know my wedding couples as we go about making their wedding visions come to life. And, as an extra bonus, I get to know many of the wedding guests, too. I remember one wedding where nobody had ever been on an airplane before, including the bride and groom. So, it was very brave of them to plan a destination wedding in Mexico. Needless to say, I had to provide a lot of extra information, answer a lot of questions, and do a lot of hand-holding for the couple and their guests so that everyone would feel comfortable making the trip. In the end, they all had a wonderful time. And several of them have already asked me to plan future trips!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Couples can sometimes get so wrapped up in the details of planning a wedding that it's easy to lose sight of the big picture: it's really about sharing their joy with the people they love. So, my advice is to keep it simple, don't get too stressed, and let us guide you through the process, taking it one step at a time. What's most important is that you will be getting married to the love of your life in a beautiful place surrounded by friends and family!
Andrea Coots
Andrea Coots
- Testimonials "Our specialist was Andrea Coots and she was excellent. She was very responsive to any questions and if she did not have the answer, she got it from the right person very quickly. She was very informative and gave us all the information we needed before, during and after the trip.""I recently worked with Andrea Coots for my destination wedding in Punta Cana and we truly couldn't have done it without her! She answered all of our questions, provided a lot of resort options, and made booking a breeze for our guests."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Anywhere tropical and with a beach! There is nothing better than lying on the beach with a Pina Colada! I also love playing water polo at the resort pool (which surprised me and my husband)!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My husband and I had a destination wedding in July of 2014. A favorite memory from that experience was when we checked into our flights and discovered my Mom had bumped us up to first class, which is not something we normally fly!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't let yourself get too stressed! A destination wedding is easy to plan and so much fun for you and your guests.
Andrea Williams
Andrea Williams
- Testimonials "I am deeply appreciative of Andrea's help with planning such an important event. She is incredibly professional, offers quick and detailed responses, as well as a great personality to work with. ""The wedding planning for my day has been like a world wind! I was super, super nervous, because I party plan myself, I can be a perfectionist! I was automatically put at EASE from the beginning of working with Andrea Williams! I would recommend her to ANYONE, EVERYONE! She catered to my every question, every need. She really made me feel like I was the only bride, very special! She contacted me with the best wedding coordinator as well. I felt like luxury!!""Our Destination Wedding Specialist was Andrea Williams. She was amazing to work with. She made sure that everything was taken care of for us throughout the whole process. She was very prompt with her responses and answered any questions that we had for her. All of my guests were happy with how Andrea was there for them and supported them throughout booking their trip for our wedding. We are so appreciative for all of her help and it made our planning for our wedding so much easier. The resort she referred us to (Sandals Negril Jamaica) was absolutely amazing. The people were incredible and I would not have wanted to get married anywhere else!"
- Q & A
What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory planning one of my couples' destination dream celebrations is working with a couple who brought both their cultures and infused it with the destination elements. So they took their tradition and incorporated the elements of the destination bringing it to life! The pictures from their event were amazing!!!!!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for all couples is to first have a wedding date in mind so we can check availability with recommended resorts; check with your family who must be in attendance that they have the proper documentation to travel internationally and reserve the number of rooms you know will be booked by your guests. Ask all the relevant questions about planning a destination wedding internationally and there is never a silly question!!
Anne Del Vecchio
Anne Del Vecchio
- Testimonials "Anne Del Vecchio worked so hard to make sure that my husband and I had a great experience. She made the process so easy and set us up with amazing vendors who made our wedding day spectacular. She is amazing.""Anne Del Vecchio was our specialist and she did a great job. Very detail-oriented and personable, professional and knowledgable. We had a wonderful experience. So helpful for our guests and us!""Anne's level of dedication, patience and professionalism is unmatched. She was always available, even when she was on vacation herself! Planning a wedding is stressful; Anne made the entire process a dream for us, and our wedding was absolutely perfect because of her!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Tuck me into an airplane with my eye mask and blankie and wake me up when we arrive in Jamaica. Speeding me through customs with the private service of MoBay Club, my honey bear and I await our bus to one of my favorite resorts in the world on the Jamaican white silk sand. It would be hard to decide whether this trip I will stay at Sandals, Couples, the Royalton, Secrets or IBEROSTAR? I love them all! When I am choosing a vacation just for my husband and I, Jamaica is first in our thoughts.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One bride, being an architect, was very particular about the resort building, thinking she wanted gleaming modern. After considerable talking and thinking, I suggested a 1940's-looking resort on a spectacular cliff overlooking a stunning bay with an incredible WOW Factor. She got married on a private beach with a pool for a "trash the dress" photo-shoot. 'Fabulous' was what she really wanted more than gleaming. She took his and her big Italian families to play and celebrate dancing and sipping wine into the night. Everyone went in the pool and kept dancing!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Visualize your wedding dream; the location, ambiance, colors, reception. Allow your destination wedding Specialist to guide you towards the right resort to fulfill that dream. Be flexible at first on the date. Once this big decision of the resort and date are confirmed, relax. If the couple is relaxed, the guests will be happy. As with any travel, there may be complications; changes in weather, details altered which are out of your control. Still, the important thing is you are getting married to your sweetheart with your very favorite people attending in a gorgeous location.
Arleen Morales
Arleen Morales
- Testimonials "Arleen helped us in the beginning stages of planning our wedding and we certainly appreciate her hard work. It was a pleasure to work with Arleen.""Arleen was patient and informative throughout this whole process with us. We have loved working with her and have nothing but great things to say."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Tuscany, Italy (even though it's far away from where I live!) I think it would be worth it in order to appreciate its picturesque landscapes, visit their excellent wineries, enjoy their extraordinary food and be able to see their beautiful sunsets.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
At a wedding I planned, one of the bridesmaids forgot to bring the bride's second dress for the night. The bride was visibly upset, however, I went to the villa which was more than 30 minutes away on my little golf cart to get the dress for her. When I returned, I noticed that the bride was incredibly happy and having the time of her life, so much so that she refused to change to the second dress that I had brought back. It is my favorite memory because seeing the happiness on the bride's face and how stunning she looked in her original wedding dress made me happy as well!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice is for couples to sit together and decide on which part of the world they would want to celebrate their wedding. Once they reach a decision, the next step would be for them to consider their options in terms of hotels, flights, transportation offerings and pricing from the different hotels, so that they can get the best possible deal. After that, they should just sit down, relax and let their Destination Wedding Specialist do the rest so that they can enjoy the wedding of their dreams!
Ashlee Wills
Ashlee Wills
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick any destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Curacao. This destination is full of bright and beautiful colors in every corner. This is such a great place for anyone who loves history, such as myself. There is so much to see and do in Curacao; from spending the day on the beach to exploring the wonderful things the island has to offer. I can't wait to visit again.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination was definitely when the bride's best friend secretly arranged to surprise the couple for their wedding. Originally she was not able to attend due to her demanding schedule, but as soon as she was able to make arrangements, she immediately contacted me. I was able to get her booked and she surprised them at the resort, two days before the wedding. It was so amazing to be able to assist in such a touching moment.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice when planning a destination wedding is communication. Discuss the budget you are both comfortable with and come up with a list of needs vs wants. I always want to make sure the couple will have the dream wedding they are envisioning. It is so helpful for all parties to be on the same page so I can arrange your perfect day.
Barb Hoyt
Barb Hoyt
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had to choose just one, it would be Jamaica. The mornings come to life with color and promise of each day. You inhale the beauty that is around you with the pristine beaches, turquoise water, and the unforgettable sunsets.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would be knowing that I was part of giving a couple that WOW moment; that once in a lifetime experience; the wedding of their dreams, and memories to last a lifetime. Viewing their photos and the feedback from the couple about the wonderful, exciting & fun-filled time they and their guests had made my day!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
This is your dream wedding with memories that will last a lifetime. Your destination wedding specialist will work with you to keep the process as stress free as possible. Your destination wedding specialist will work with your guests making room reservations and answering all their questions, leaving your time free to plan your dream wedding. You will look back and know that it was all worth it. Your destination wedding experience will be spectacular!
Barbara Berman
Barbara Berman
- Testimonials "Barbara B was AMAZING! She helped us plan the best wedding/entire week we could have asked for. She was extremely easy to communicate with, always prompt with responses, very helpful with any and all questions we had, and honestly made this the smoothest wedding planning we could have hoped for. Barbara you were INCREDIBLE to work with. Thank you so much for all of your help! The week and entire planning process wouldn't have been near as easy without you!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off tomorrow to one destination it would have to be azul fives in Riviera maya where we got married. We loved the resort we chose and we had a wonderful time but it would be nice to just jet set and get to relax there for a few days and just enjoy being there together alone, which isn't all that easy to do when it's your wedding.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Planning my own Destination Wedding was such a great experience. When you see it all come together, it's such a rewarding feeling! Your wedding is such an important day and it can become stressful, but I knew I was in good hands. Between Destination Weddings and the on- site coordinators every detail was perfect.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Planning any wedding can be stressful, especially when you have friends and family traveling. Remember that your on-site Coordinators and Destination Wedding Specialists are professionals and will make sure you expectations are exceeded!
Barbara Hylton
Barbara Hylton
- Testimonials "Barbara Hylton is the absolute best!!Barb Hylton is the reason we had the best experience with Destination Weddings. She was quick to answer questions and so happy. You could tell and see she loves her job. We were able to have our dream wedding without stress all because Barb's hard work. When problems developed Barb had a solution fast! I was 100% at peace with showing up to our destination wedding and knowing everything would be in place. Without Destination Weddings our wedding would have seemed impossible. Without Barb our wedding wouldn't have been perfect. We have recommended Barb to all our newly engaged friends.""Barbara is so kind, patient, knowledgable, and has well surpassed my expectations in every facet of this process.""Because of Barbara, my planning process for my destination wedding, which is now five weeks away, has been completely stress-free. All of my guests rave about Barbara as well."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Riviera Maya/Cancun, Mexico. Riviera Maya is a romantic and adventurous destination offering incredible sunsets, beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, caves, scuba diving, snorkeling in underground cenotes, zip-lining, rappelling, jungle tours, ATV tours, boating, parasailing, and deep sea fishing. The Riviera Maya coastline has since been developed into a modern tourist area offering the very best of high-end luxury resorts, fine dining, nightlife, spa retreats, shopping and golf in Mexico. I love checking into one of my favorite resorts where I can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, aquatic sports, spa services and a variety of modern amenities. I know the level of service and food will be fabulous! I feel as if I have come home.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I had the honor of working with one bride, and she referred me to her friend. Last year, I received an email and photos updating me on their lives since their wedding days, and that was absolutely PRICELESS!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
One of my first brides commented about the wedding planning process: "this is like a leap of faith." So true. Communication. I'm here. Talk to me. Ask questions. If you do not understand, please ask me. That is what I am here for! On the other hand, listen to me. This is what I do. If I am advising how many rooms, room nights or room categories to hold, please listen. Resorts do and will sell out. I don't want you or your guests to be upset because the rooms or dates are not available. Also, if I advise to reduce rooms to avoid penalties. Please do. The last thing I want is a couple to have penalties because they continued to hold rooms for their friends because they said "were going." If they do not book, and this does happen occasionally, I cannot remove the penalties.
Becki Toth
Becki Toth
- Testimonials My personal favorite destination is Mexico - anywhere in Mexico is always fine with me! I love the people, the culture, the beaches, the landscape.... It is just my own little slice of paradise. However, if I had to pick a destination that I have not yet traveled to, it would likely be somewhere like Tahiti or Bora Bora. I love the beach and the ocean, and could be completely satisfied relaxing in an overwater bungalow.Personally, I do not have one favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration. But one thing that I absolutely LOVE is when my couples come back from their wedding event and send me photos from their beautiful day! It makes me feel good to see their smiles, to see their friends and family having a blast, and to experience the end result of months of planning.My best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding is to relax and have fun! Remember that you are planning a destination wedding that is also a vacation for your dear friends and family. Show your style and personality in the location you choose, and also in the resort you choose. Make it a super memorable event for all involved! Your family and friends will likely be talking about your wedding for years to come. The best part of a destination wedding is the memories that you make while you are in the destination.
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My personal favorite destination is Mexico - anywhere in Mexico is always fine with me! I love the people, the culture, the beaches, the landscape.... It is just my own little slice of paradise. However, if I had to pick a destination that I have not yet traveled to, it would likely be somewhere like Tahiti or Bora Bora. I love the beach and the ocean, and could be completely satisfied relaxing in an overwater bungalow.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Personally, I do not have one favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration. But one thing that I absolutely LOVE is when my couples come back from their wedding event and send me photos from their beautiful day! It makes me feel good to see their smiles, to see their friends and family having a blast, and to experience the end result of months of planning.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding is to relax and have fun! Remember that you are planning a destination wedding that is also a vacation for your dear friends and family. Show your style and personality in the location you choose, and also in the resort you choose. Make it a super memorable event for all involved! Your family and friends will likely be talking about your wedding for years to come. The best part of a destination wedding is the memories that you make while you are in the destination.
Berlinda Bowdwin
Berlinda Bowdwin
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had could jet off to one destination tomorrow, it would be to Jamaica! This destination is filled with all-inclusive resorts, beautiful people and experiences that will WOW all visitors! Jamaica offers pristine beaches, delicious cuisine and many attractions that will leave you wanting to come back for more!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Dream destination events are very special as they bring family and friends together in a beautiful environment, to vacation their troubles away! The best memories are the smiles and laughter shared by the group - and making new memories together.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best advice that I can give to the happy couple planning their destination wedding is to have patience, be flexible and breathe! This is your most memorable day and you should not stress out about it. Trust the wedding planners and travel specialists to get it right for you! We will ensure your dream wedding unfolds as you envision and your guests travel safely! WE are here to work for you and make your dream occasion come true!
Beverley Cameron
Beverley Cameron
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My choice would have to be Aruba! I've always wanted to go there to experience the different parts of the Caribbean.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite destination celebration memory was my own wedding, which was organized by Destination Weddings. I had a great wedding Specialist. I loved the excitement of looking at all the different island resorts, and seeing what they had to offer for me to make my choice. I had so much fun doing it that I did a destination vow renewal on my first year anniversary! I went to a different island, wore a different dress, and had the same great Destination Wedding Specialist.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember that this is your day, look passed all the drama and ask a lot of questions. Stay positive and lean on each other.
Bobbi-Jo Roback
Bobbi-Jo Roback
- Testimonials "I truly would not have made it through this last year of planning without Bobbi-Jo by my side. She was full of tips and tricks and responded to me right away. She held my hand through thick and thin every step of the way."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would choose the Mayan Riviera, Mexico because it is like my home away from home. I have so many friends and contacts there I always feel welcome and valued.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my favourite memories was when I planned a wedding in Thailand. We had special lanterns that we had the bridal couple release in honor of their loved ones that were no longer with them. I also loved what we did for a wedding I planned in Los Cabos. The bridal couple had their rings passed to each guest to say a blessing so that they could start their lives blessed with all the love of family and friends.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
If you plan to attend bridal shows, make a new email just for that purpose. Many vendors will be emailing you even after you have made your decision, so this way you don't have to cancel your email that you've had for years.
Brandie Lamore
Brandie Lamore
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Ireland! I have never been overseas and this is definitely a bucket list destination for me. I am half Irish and would love to learn and experience the culture! However, Mexico is a close second. It is beautiful and the food is absolutely amazing!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Stay true to yourself and your vision. It is all about your special day after all! We are here to help you create that magical day you have been dreaming of!
Brenda Metzger
Brenda Metzger
- Testimonials "Brenda is so easy to work with and was able to accommodate everything we needed. She was able to provide great advice and we truly appreciate everything she did for us!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Tahiti or Fiji!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite part is the excitement of the couple when the celebration starts to all pull together for them. They see their dream wedding is truly coming to be all they wanted (and more!)What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't let your friends and family talk you out of going to a destination because they don't like it. It's your wedding and your new beginning of a life together; do what you want to do!
Brenda Potts
Brenda Potts
- Testimonials
"Brenda helped us negotiate a wedding contract with reasonable room prices and organized everyone's transportation to and from the airport. She even got us some fun freebies along the way!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Cancun. It is a beautiful destination and has some of the most beautiful beaches. The people are also very friendly. The resorts are the best and there is a great property for each person's budget. To say the least, the service is amazing!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I planned a wedding for 125 guests in La Ramona, Dominican Republic and I was requested by the family to attend with them. When I got there, I worked with the wedding coordinator on the last minute details. The wedding couple and their family were so impressed with the whole process. When I arrived on property, I was met by the family with excitement and appreciation for all of the work. During the 4-night stay, I was treated like a family member and all the resort employees knew me by name and took care of everything we needed; it was truly an amazing wedding event!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Choose the resort that you want to have your dream wedding. Don't let others tell you it's not right for you. It is your day and it should be all you want it to be!
Brianne Black
Brianne Black
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to take off to Bora Bora to an overwater bungalow and endless Mojitos!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The best part about being involved in anyone's destination wedding is hearing about how it was the couple's dream wedding & that their friends and family had "the best time ever!" Seeing pictures from everyone smiling and enjoying themselves is one of the biggest rewards to helping couples plan their happily ever after!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice is to enjoy the process and prepare to have the time of their lives! You're going to be in a gorgeous destination surrounded by friends and family - it will all be worth it once your toes hit the sand!
Bridget Brecheen
Bridget Brecheen
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
The Maldives. I can think of nothing more romantic than a luxurious overwater bungalow above the turquoise blue waters of the Indian Ocean. It is an unspoiled paradise where you can escape and enjoy every moment of the day surrounded by unprecedented beauty. Breakfast in bed, laying by your private pool, couples massages, and dinner in an underwater restaurant where the scenery is constantly changing. Magical!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would have to be the first destination wedding I ever planned. From the time my bride was a little girl she fantasized about getting married in a beautiful castle in Ireland. The search was on for the most romantic, picturesque castle I could find. When I presented her with the options I had researched, she grabbed one of the photos and she exclaimed "that's the one!" I was elated that I was able to find the perfect castle for her fairytale wedding halfway around the world.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I find that communicating with me how you picture your wedding day will look is paramount. No detail is too small. If it is important to you, it is important to me. I am here to orchestrate your wishes and make the process as stress-free as possible. This day is all about the two of you and I consider it a privilege to work with you and plan your dream destination wedding.
Brittany Hanks
Brittany Hanks
- Testimonials "Brittany is experienced, well-educated, thoughtful and thorough through every step of this process. Plus, she went above and beyond on multiple occasions answering many calls, texts and emails. She always put us at ease and made sure we had the best experience!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Cancun/Riviera Maya because there are so many wonderful resort options that provide plenty of entertainment for an entire vacation. Or, if we decide to get away from the resort for a bit, there are plenty of activities to do around the region.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I had the honor of helping my sister plan her destination wedding! I remember her being so excited that she found the perfect resort after doing a pre-wedding visit to tour different options. Seeing that excitement and being able to help her dream wedding come to life from start to finish is a memory I will cherish forever. I love to see a couple's excitement throughout the planning process and up to the day of the wedding!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Enjoy the whole experience! If you're stressed or not enjoying the process, change it up! Your wedding day and everything leading up to it should bring you joy. As your Specialist, rely on me to guide you through the process every step of the way.
Candace Chapple
Candace Chapple
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would definitely choose Iceland for so many reasons: the vikings, volcanoes, culture and sustainable Scandinavian economics!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite moment in helping with any destination celebration is when I get to tell my new friends: "That's it. We've got it all covered!" because, I know that for them, the party has officially begun. I love the satisfaction that comes when we set it all down. It's like planning to win your very own lottery.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To ENJOY your journey! Planning a wedding (in any country) can be the best of times, and the worst of times. We try to make it as easy and fun as possible. Taking the time to savor the process, to be true to yourself, and to make the most out of the experience makes your marriage all the sweeter.
Carita Coughlin
Carita Coughlin
- Testimonials "Carita was amazing! She helped us narrow down a country/resort we wanted, plan all of the travel, and supported us/our guests once we were all there. She was also super helpful, attentive, and made herself available when we had any urgent questions/requests."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Bali, Indonesia! I went to Bali for my honeymoon and I think about going back almost daily!! The culture, the food, and the luxurious resorts are unlike any other.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I once had a couple take a photo on the beach with a sign that read "Thank you, Carita!" It really made my day that they took the time to thank me while on their honeymoon!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Be completely honest with each other and be completely honest with me. Providing as much information about what you envision for your special day will help me match you with a resort that will meet (and beat) your expectations.
Carmen Rocha
Carmen Rocha
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Maroma Beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico. I would love to stay in the over-water bungalows!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was being able to help a couple who had no idea where they wanted to go, or how to go about planning their destination wedding. I found them a resort and they fell in love with! It was everything they could dream of!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Give yourself plenty of time, and try not to stress.
Carol Boehnke
Carol Boehnke
- Testimonials "Our experience with Destination Weddings organizing mine and my husband's elopement was easy, low-key, and fit the price range we had requested. Carol was thorough, attentive, and helpful in her work finding us an island exploration wedding that fit our budget. ""I enjoyed working with Carol as my planner for my wedding in Cancun, she gave me a lot of great recommendations and was always responsive and happy to jump on a call if I had any questions. Our guests got to the resort smoothly and loved their stay."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I have so many locations that I would love to jet off to for various reasons. Each destination I love to visit has a special meaning for each place holds something different. Examples. I love Negril because of its breathtaking beaches and sunsets along with its laid back atmosphere. Ocho Rios - the beauty of the mountains and many action packed adventures. Montego Bay the hub city with the hip strip for all the local fun. I can't wait to get to Cancun for the beautiful blue waters and splashing waves along with great nightlife and shopping. Riviera Maya, the large self-contained resorts or in small village something for every mood I may be in at the time. St Lucia - the feel of Hawaii with the Piton Mountains and beautiful back drops. Puerto Vallarta, the sunsets and the consistent days of sun all year around. Los Cabos, the beauty of the desert meets the sea. Barbados, the beauty - the sea turtles, the ease of hopping on a local bus to shop or go out locally. Antigua, the beaches and the sailing. Turks and Caicos, diving, snorkeling and all that says water along with endless beach walking. There are so many choices for me to say all for different reasons. I may have missed many but I am most familiar to these areas as I go when I have the time.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I so enjoy when clients return and share the pictures of the trip or while on trip snapchat me or send me an instant message showing me how much fun they are having or the wedding day itself.These memories make me come full circle as my favorite was attending a family friend's wedding I planned and helping them through the on site and watching the family and friends have a great experience, the hugs, the laughter, and the tears of a great day.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
When you plan your Destination Wedding keep in mind that this is your Dream. Trust me to handle your guests and your wedding, I am the specialist and will make sure everything you want will be done as you wish. Don't delay on picking your date early and locking in the best rate and getting your guests to do the same. Destination Weddings are very popular and during high travel months resorts do sell out.
Carolina Reyes
Carolina Reyes
- Testimonials "Our wedding Specialist, Carolina Reyes, gave us an excellent service, patience and incredible planning. She took care of all the details, leaving us nothing left to worry about. It was such a pleasure working with her!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If there is one place that I would love to go, that one place which is close to my heart, it would be Angel Falls in Venezuela. The scenery is so unique and it's best to see it from the air. This waterfall ranks as the world highest at 3,212 feet! Visitors will be surprised that the water that begins at the top takes an unusual journey and atomizes into a fine mist, never to reach the bottom.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
A bride incorporated butterflies into her ceremony which were released at a certain time in memory of her mother.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
At the party, to step away for a minute with your new spouse and just look around and take it all in. Try to remember the faces of the people that have come to celebrate with you and remember the moment and all the happiness of this special day!
Carolyn Drummond
Carolyn Drummond
- Testimonials "Carolyn was excellent at communicating the needs and showed extreme patience and understanding."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Machu Picchu, Peru - I am fascinated by ancient civilizations and have this particular destination on my bucket list!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my grooms asked me to book a resort for his honeymoon, but not tell the bride where. I had spent almost a year working with the bride on the destination wedding. She tried several times to trick me into telling her, even on the day of the wedding! She was extremely pleased with the selection, and posted on social media from the resort about how excited and happy she was.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I think every couple should use a destination wedding Specialist, because it gives you more time to focus on other aspect of the wedding planning process.
Carrie Oztas
Carrie Oztas
- Testimonials "We are so thankful that Carrie Oztas provided us with excellent guidance since the beginning! Since that initial phone call I knew she was equipped to deliver what I was looking for, and she sure did!! I did not have to worry about anything for our guests; she handled it all very professionally!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Preferably somewhere that I have never been before such as Iceland or New Zealand. Or to revisit a favorite city like London or Istanbul.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Seeing the joy on the faces of the couple and their guests in their photos. That´s when you know that the celebration was a huge success!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Make a list of what you are looking for in your wedding destination. Then mark the most important requirements, those that you can´t or won't change. Also mark the requirements which are preferred but you have flexibility to change. And lastly, make sure to gain input and perspective from family and friends (if applicable) when you are making your list.
Carrie Peterson
Carrie Peterson
- Testimonials "Carrie is by far the best travel agent in the world. Not only was our destination the greatest, Carrie made sure we received pool side drinks and tacos every day!""Carrie Peterson did an amazing job ensuring that each of our guests made it to our destination with ease. Also, whenever I needed assistance Carrie was just one email away.""Carrie took approximately 38 of my most annoying friends and family and put together one of the best trips of all time. Like a ring master at the circus, Carrie took charge and made sure that everyone in attendance was taken care of. This trip was the first of many and a first for this group and because Carrie Peterson was on top of her game we had the times of our lives. Thank you Carrie Peterson for all your hard work. We will be using her in the future for sure."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would check off a place on my bucket list. Top of my bucket list...is the Seychelles followed by an African Safari! Seychelles for relaxation, incredible beaches with plenty of swimming & exotic wildlife. Then off to Africa for adventure!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
There are so many amazing memories while planning a dream destination celebration. The excitement and gratitude from the guests is always a WOW. Planning my son & daughter-in-law's wedding had to have been my favorite! They were so happy and it was so cool to be a part of it.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Try to relax and be present. Make sure you take time to enjoy the whole process and of course, the end results. Leave the stress and worrying to me!
Cassandra Everett
Cassandra Everett
- Q & A
What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I recently planned a wedding for friends from Chicago. They were stressed out by the prices of venues in the city and how to accommodate as many guests as they wanted to invite. I set aside time to show them options in Mexico when they realized that they had both been to Hard Rock for spring break in college and were sold instantly. They had 165 guests, with celebrations throughout the week since they had so many free events, and now everyone is regular friends and clients!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember that I am your agent for everything to do with rooms and weddings. If guests are overwhelming you with questions, your blanket answer should always be: 'We are very excited you are joining us for our wedding trip; however, we hired an agent to ensure all our guests have a direct line to the resort and the available options. If you reach out to Cassandra, she will make sure everything is clear for you.
Cathi Solla
Cathi Solla
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I have traveled all over the world to many exotic destinations such as, Africa, Egypt, India, Dubai, Russia, Europe, Iceland, Tahiti, Fiji, Japan, China and many more. Not to mention the majority of the Caribbean Islands and Mexico. I have visited 5 out of the 7 continents. However, I would like to go back to France and spend more time exploring the small towns and villages. I found France to be a very romantic destination. Paris is a beautiful city filled with history and great shopping, and the food and local people are wonderful. I would now like to travel to the southern part of France and visit cities such as Lyon, Marseille, Nice and many of the small towns.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I planned a wedding for a bride and recommended Beaches Negril. She fell in love with the resort and all it had to offer. Having been to the resort several times, I could answer all of her questions. She wanted a sunset wedding and I told her Beaches is on the west side of Jamaica which will have a beautiful sunset. What I most appreciated about her, was the way she respected my opinion. When her friends tried to make decisions for her, she listened to me rather than them, and has the wedding of her dreams because she followed her heart.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I always have this discussion with all my new wedding couples. Some of my biggest pieces of advice include consulting all members of their family and friends who are considered their "A" list, choosing a resort that will make your wedding day very special to you and reflect your personality, not to be influenced by negative feedback or others who try to make decision for you, be conscious of your guests' budget and allow your Specialist to recommend the right resort for your venue, and above all, respect the opinion of your Specialist. We are the professionals!
Cathy Byrnes
Cathy Byrnes
- Testimonials "From start o finish, Cathy was there for us. Whether it was pricing resorts, or making suggestions of where to stay and eat - she was there for us. This really made the whole experience stress-free. No need for us to try to organize the group and the payments; she did it all! What was also great is it seemed she was available 24/7. I would highly recommend her for your travel needs.""I cannot express enough the ease in planning and the peace of mind that we enjoyed in planning both of my daughter's weddings. We wholeheartedly recommend both Cathy and DestinationWeddings.com!""We went to 3 different travel agencies and are so incredibly happy that we ended up choosing Destinationweddings.com! Cathy was extremely knowledgeable and prompt to respond to us. We had the wedding of our dreams and our guests had the trip of a lifetime!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to visit Southern Ireland where my ancestors lived. Most of my brothers and sisters have been there and describe the beautiful, rolling green hills, the welcoming locals and the ancient castles and ruins. This is an experience I long for! Others on my list of "must see places" are Australia, New Zealand and Africa. For the south, I haven't yet visited Saint Lucia, Turks and Caicos or the British Virgin Islands. I would also like to make it to Hawaii someday, even though it is a long flight from Ontario :)What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It's really difficult to pick a favourite memory from the many dream destination celebrations that I have planned. I have had so many wonderful wedding couples with amazing, personable and lovely friends and families to work with. I have formed some bonds that last and I check in with people once in a while to see how things are going. I love it when the wedding couple and the guests send me pictures of the wedding and the vacation itself. It makes me feel like I was part of something wonderful! :)What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I think my best piece of advice would be to pick what you love and stay with it. Make it about you! It's your wedding….your once in a lifetime special celebration and memory. Often wedding couples get so caught up in worrying about keeping every guest happy that they lose sight of their vision for their dream destination wedding. In my experience, people will be so happy for you and want to join you in your celebration. You can't please all of the people all of the time. Just let me help you to pick a resort that you and your family will love and a wedding location that will create lifetime memories. And enjoy it!
Cathy Westereng
Cathy Westereng
- Testimonials "Cathy Westereng was excellent! Quick to answer our emails and get any requested information to us.""Cathy is amazing! We could not even begin to thank her enough for all of her hard work. All of our friends and family said she did an amazing job with helping them, too. We relied heavily on Cathy to help us decide our location and she did an amazing job from start to finish providing advice along the way!""Cathy was so responsive to us and our guests. Having someone to field questions and help guests with arrangements was so incredibly helpful. By having Cathy, I was able to focus on planning the wedding! Everything turned out perfect, and I wouldn't have done it any other way! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
One of my favorite destinations is the Riviera Maya staying in the Casita Suites at the El Dorado Royale. It hits on all my personal vacation must have's - beautiful, value and easily accessible with flights. I can easily make this a short or long vacation stay. The El Dorado Royale is my favorite of the resorts as it offers a multitude of options for things to do including: water activities, spa, pools, beach, nightlife entertainment and most important great restaurants! Along with the many options, the casitas also offer a private and relaxing environment. The staff is helpful and they genuinely make you feel like you are the only one there. There are a variety of options for food. One of my favorite places to go, after a morning walk, is the smoothie bar. They have fresh fruits and juices and a variety of ways to put them together. This helps me feel a little healthier, especially when I go for the chips and salsa later! This is a place that I could go back many times and have it be a different experience each time!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Every wedding that I help plan is unique, so in that aspect they are all memorable to me. However, one wedding that was particularly memorable was my daughter's. Not only was I able to be part of the planning process, along with her, but I was also able to be part of the wedding and see it all come together. Having this firsthand experience truly enriched my passion for helping others plan their wedding. When I help a couple plan a wedding, I become a part of that couple's experience. My daughter got married at the Azul Sensatori in Riviera Maya, Mexico. She chose the private sky deck to have her ceremony and we enjoyed the reception on the beach. The wedding coordinator brought my daughter's dream into a reality. As my daughter says, "It went off without a hitch!" She said that all she had to do was be there and enjoy her wedding without stress. The experience of the planning process and going to enjoy the wedding, as a guest, was so helpful for me to understand and see it all come together. This experience with my daughter and family is a memory that is definitely one of my favorites. I enjoy being a part of the wedding planning process with couples, because to many, it will be a memory that they will never forget!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To create an experience that works best for the couple. It seems simple, but there can be a lot involved during the process of planning a wedding. It is important for the couple to maintain the focus of what kind of experience they want. I see many couples struggle, because they want to please everyone else, and they lose focus of what they want. There are many options that can be explored, and I am here to help sort out what the couple is looking for. Through this process, be honest with what you want. I will then help plan this to be a fun and memorable experience!
Charlene Barlow
Charlene Barlow
- Testimonials "I don't even know where or how I would have started had Charlene not stepped into my life. Everything from choosing the resort to helping my guests with their room bookings was professionally done and each guest felt like they were a top priority. I couldn't have worked with a more patient and selfless person.""Working with Charlene was a pleasure. She was tentative and followed up accordingly. Even when I had last minute changes, she was patient and tried her best to make it happen and she did!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I have always wanted to travel to the South Pacific. When I was a young girl I enjoyed reading Pippi Longstocking books. My favorite was Pippi in The South Seas. I loved her sense of adventure and the tropical environment. As I child I also collected shells from all over the world and some of my favorites were from that area.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
what she wanted, so I agreed. I reminded myself it's not about me. It was so gratifying to see it all come together. It was one of the best vacation experiences our family has had. We also really bonded with the Groom's family since we were all together for 4 days for this joyous event. Loving memories to last a lifetime were made.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best piece of advice I have for the couple is choose a place that YOU love. Capture your vision and make it become real for you. Some people may not be able to come, some may complain that you're having a destination wedding, but REMEMBER this is a celebration of your love for each other...so follow your dream!
Cheryl Fredrickson
Cheryl Fredrickson
- Testimonials "Cheryl Frederickson was amazing! I got injured a week before my daughter's wedding, and Cheryl went above and beyond to help me rent an electric scooter for the time we were there. Without it I would not have made it."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Hands down it would be Budapest, Hungary. A beautiful city split in two by the Danube River. Buda on one side of the river and Pest on the other. It still feels old world but has some new and exciting dining and entertainment areas emerging. It's a very interesting and vibrant city and I can't wait to visit again.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was working with an American-Chinese family for a destination wedding. The family still observes some Chinese customs, which needed to be integrated into their wedding plans, such as the date the wedding ceremony needed to be held. I worked with the mother of the bride throughout the whole process and never once spoke to the wedding couple themselves. The mother of the bride was wonderful to work with and it turned out to be a fun and interesting learning experience for me!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding would be to try to be patient. It's a process that takes time to find the perfect fit for their wedding. Specialists are working hard to find the right place for them, taking into consideration several factors such as the type of wedding, budget and guests' needs.
Christal Hughes
Christal Hughes
- Testimonials "Christal set up such a beautiful wedding and honeymoon for us! Everything was perfect. It was more than what we could have ever desired."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Tahiti!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
How happy the family appeared to be with all the smiles and tears of joy, that they could all come together several generations for a daughter's wedding.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
That I am here as their Specialist to help make the planning process stress-free, so please ask lots of questions; no question is invalid!
Christi McGown
Christi McGown
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Greece! I love the aesthetic of Santorini and Mykonos. The pop of colors you see against the whitewashed buildings while overlooking the vibrant blue sea are so dramatic. The Mediterranean food as well as the warmth of the Greek people will have you wanting to return asap.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Hearing stories from the couple after they return home from the wedding. I love hearing about their family and friends who attended and what trouble they got into at the resort. You never know which family member will cut loose and go crazy. Keep your eye on Aunt Linda!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Focus on your vision and do not let others steer you away from it. While you may have to accommodate a few special requests of guests who you really want to attend, try not to lose site of your original vision for having a Destination Wedding.
Christine Kennedy
Christine Kennedy
- Testimonials "Christine communication was solid and there were no issues with the booking or executing of the trip""Christine was so awesome to work with and took care of all my upgrades and questions. She was very responsive and is an asset to your company! Thanks so much Christine. The BUSH/CINTRON Wedding was the perfect trip!!""Christine Kennedy - amazing person and did a wonderful job!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I was able to travel tomorrow, I would go to Riviera Maya, Mexico. It does not take long for me via plane; I will be on the beach by noon. I love all the resorts and there is a lot to do on and off properties.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my most favorite memories is when a bride made me the tie breaker for everything in her wedding. She would like it and her mother would not, and she would ask my option to choose from the choices. I can still remember how she called me and asked. To this date I still smile about it!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Couples need to make a list of must-haves for the wedding day, resort and destination. Not all destinations and resorts offer the same thing; all wedding packages are different at every resort. This would help better narrow down and selecting properties and destinations as well as an estimated budget.
Christine Sholander
Christine Sholander
- Testimonials "Christine was amazing. Quick responses to inquiries online or via phone. Very attentive and knowledgeable. Gave great tips on vacationing at Beaches.""This was the second time I dealt with Christine and I have nothing but praise for her excellent work.""I can not thank Christine Sholander enough, for all the time she spent with me, helping me plan our dream wedding. We signed up on Destination Weddings in November 2013 and our wedding was in April 2015. Throughout that entire time, Christine remained in contact with me and my guests on a very consistent basis. Thank you for employing people like Christine, who are not only great at what they do, but actually talk to you like they truly care and want you to have the exact wedding of your dreams."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Playa del Carmen, Mexico. I love walking through the streets and looking in the windows of the shops, stopping for a coffee at a local hangout, and how the resorts in this area pamper you. I look forward to spending time in this part of the Caribbean, with the friendliness of the people, the warmth of the sun, the relaxation of the white-sand beach against the blues of the ocean. Top it off with a delicious meal and cold cerveza and I've enjoyed a perfect day!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I love the pictures! Nothing makes me smile more than seeing my couple's plans come together to make their day special. Each wedding is unique, just as each couple is unique.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Focus on what is important to you. Identify your "must haves" and trust your Specialist (that's me!) to share options that will provide the most of what you're looking for. Most importantly, have fun with the planning process and then relax while I help your guests join your celebration!
Cindy Garren
Cindy Garren
- Testimonials "Cindy took all the work and stress right off my hands and handled everything for me, including all of my guests' bookings, their payments, correspondence, etc. Every question I had was answered quickly and efficiently. The organized, professional and personal service was above and beyond my expectations!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
There are too many choices to choose just one! But If I have to choose one, it would be the Riviera Maya in Mexico. The area is beautiful. The people are warm and welcoming. It's a very diverse place with lots to see and do. There are excellent resorts with great food, beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, cenotes, snorkeling and wonderful venues for destination weddings!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I can't say it's one memory because each celebration is so unique. But my favorite memories are the pictures my couples send me after they get back. It makes my job so rewarding to see the happy smiles and joy in the faces of the wedding couple and their guests.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember, above everything, that it is your wedding. You can't please everyone no matter how hard you try. There are lots of things to consider when planning a destination wedding. Once you have worked together with your Specialist to secure your wedding date, hand the reigns over to handle all the questions that your guests will have. We are Specialists for a reason and have nothing but your best interest in mind. It will make the entire experience much more enjoyable for you and your guests.
Clarisa Leon
Clarisa Leon
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
A Caribbean destination such as Los Cabos México, it is the perfect combination of romance and adventure, where the sea meets the desert with a wide variety of gastronomy and extraordinary service full of details. I love a place with culture but at the same time with lots of fun; México is well known for their multiple attractions and excursions that will blow you away!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Picture the experience and fabulous moments that will come from that celebration. As well as choosing the destination itself, imagine the family and friends having a private gathering together, start planning the events and deciding the decor, menus and perfect venue for them. I love to plan and work in details that are memorable for everyone around me and become unforgettable experiences.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Live the dream of love and choose a destination that fills that dream, finding the best option in accordance with their expectations, budget and desires. This is a unique moment in their lives and they need to choose whatever makes them happy, utilizing time wisely, verifying options and picturing themselves in each of them in order to make right decisions. I would also say that having a balance for their preferences will help to have a perfect mix of the couple's dream destination wedding.
Claudia Augustson
Claudia Augustson
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Hawaii. I love all of the islands. I try to fly there once a year, It is an easy non-stop flight to most of the islands from the west coast, and some other US airports. The Aloha spirit is truly there. You are welcomed by everyone, and the weather is warm with mild breezes year round.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Working with a couple to plan their destination wedding can be stressful, but when they see everything fall into place, I see smiles, and when they return, I receive a thank you note and a beautiful photo. I love that.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
First, have a vision of what you want for your destination wedding and stay true to that vision. Friends and family will lovingly offer advice, but remember, it is your wedding! There will be hiccups along the way, but they always work out in the end, and you will have a beautiful wedding.
Colleen Shepherd
Colleen Shepherd
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I were to jet off to a destination tomorrow, it would be Bora Bora. It is the only place in the world that literally had me in tears on a regular basis while I was there. Truly one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I worked with one of my brides to plan her brother's proposal to his girlfriend after her rehearsal dinner. I think she was almost as excited about that as she was her wedding! We involved all the wedding guests in the romantic proposal on the beach after the dinner. Not a dry eye in sight!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Let your wedding Specialist handle as much of the details as possible so you can be less stressed and enjoy the really fun parts of planning your dream wedding.
Connie Leite
Connie Leite
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My passion has always been blue waters and white sand, especially in the beautiful Tahiti, with its unbelievable views. It is my goal to make this destination a dream come true for me, preferably on a Windstar Cruise., then followed by a few days in an over-the-water bungalow. That is my dream vacation!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Planning a destination wedding is always an exciting process for the couple and their families, but also for me as a specialist. My favorite memory is when I accompanied a couple and their guests to their destination wedding. I was able to be there to support them during the week and assist them with any details. I thoroughly enjoyed sharing their special day with them as a friend, and seeing what the end result of my work was. I made new relationships and new friends to last a lifetime that week. It was a special experience.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
"The wedding planning process is long, with a lot of choices to be made. As a specialist, my goal is to be there for the couple - to support them and make the process as easy as possible. Once the special day comes, I suggest they take it all in, take a deep breath, and enjoy every moment. Just enjoy your special day with your families and friends making lifetime memories. One important step to take is to spend 10 minutes together, just the two of you, in a private special moment. It is all about you!
Cynthia Camp
Cynthia Camp
- Testimonials "Cynthia has been wonderful so far!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could only pick one destination, my husband and I would jet off to St. Lucia. The island has it all! Natural beauty for great hiking and exploring, swimming in the waterfalls, enjoy a mud bath at the rejuvenating sulfur hot springs and of course spending a few days just relaxing at one of the amazing resorts. It is the perfect place to reconnect and escape busy life!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is when the wedding couple shared a link to view the wedding live. There is always a little letdown feeling when the wedding group starts their travel. During the planning process, you almost start to feel like family, and when everyone leaves for their trip, you really just want to go with them. When you are able to see all the emotions, happy faces, and how much fun everyone is having, my job is even more rewarding!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice to the couple is to trust the process. Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are here to help you plan your amazing, unforgettable experience because they followed their passion for Travel and Weddings. Find the Destination Wedding Specialist you trust and be as specific as you can be in communicating what your dream wedding looks like. I am always so excited about planning a new Destination Wedding and take great pride in working with the wedding couple in creating a wedding you and all your guest will love, and talk about for years to come!
Cynthia Pierce
Cynthia Pierce
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Russia, because I just finished watching the most romantic period series Kurt Seyit & Sura on Netflix. It was a true love story set in Russia & Turkey during the Russia Revolutionary War, based on the fascinating novels written by Kurt Seyi's granddaughter Nermin Bezmen. I have always thought Russia was very extraordinarily beautiful and romantic after watching the love story Dr Zhivago when I was younger. To me Russia has it all, rich in history, romance, beautiful River Cruises and amazing Architecture.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The Gentleman that I was working with wanted to plan a complete surprise for his wife for their 10th wedding anniversary. He explained to me that he wanted her to feel like a Princess and to walk away feeling like she was floating on air and that it was the most romantic trip she had ever been on. He packed his wife's suitcase and waited till they were at the Airport to give her the reveal boxes of where they were going. They both came back and told me that I planned the trip of a lifetime; it had it all, romance, action packed with history, scenery and culture and was filled with adventure and beautiful memories.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Details are very important, but make sure you take a deep breath and realize that the reason you came to Destination Weddings.com is because we are the experts in Destination Weddings and it is our sheer wish and pleasure to ensure that we help you make you special day a beautiful, memorable experience that you will be happy to brag about and want to be a repeat client!
Dan Smith
Dan Smith
- Testimonials "Dan was helpful, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to questions. Great customer service!""Dan has been great. He helped me work through my thoughts and ideas for my destination wedding! ""Dan was great! Helpful and responsive."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Well, assuming I can't go to Mars, I think I'd like to go up and see the Northern Lights. Always wanted to do that and I haven't been able to get there yet.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is still when a bride told me how, after the ceremony, she saw her parents walking down the beach holding hands. She can't remember ever seeing them do that, and it was so special to her knowing that her wedding meant that much to her parents.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't sweat the details. 20 years from now you won't even remember them. Drink in every moment of the experience. Write it down even, so you remember how you felt when this happened, or when someone said that. Keep that book and cherish it.
Danielle Johnson
Danielle Johnson
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would pack my bags and head to New York City. I love the sights and sounds, the non-stop energy, and the crowds! I enjoy the churros in Times Square, musicals and trying different restaurants.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was when I helped arrange a "Trash the Dress" photo session for a couple. They were taken to a cenote in Riviera Maya and send me some of their amazing underwater photos!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice is to remember that it's not about the flowers, cake or table settings. A destination wedding is an opportunity to share something very special with those closest to you. Memories of a vacation together will last a lifetime!
Danielle Lee
Danielle Lee
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Jamaica. Not only is it my country of birth, but it is one of, if not, the most beautiful island in the Caribbean. It has plenty to offer like beaches, rivers, waterfalls, flora and fauna. The people are warm and friendly with big generous hearts that shine through their customer service.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I recently booked a large family reunion in RIU Ocho Rios, Jamaica over Independence Weekend. It was the 60th Independence anniversary so all of the resorts were sold out. Most of the reunion group had failed to make deposit by the deadline date, and I had to work with a series of tour operators just to get them rooms. I was dealing with the whole family on the phone, as they were desperate to make this reunion happen since Covid had prevented them from joining together for 2 years. They were so thankful that I was able to make it happen that they made me an honorary member of their family and now insists on working with only me to book their future reunions. Assisting clients to make their dreams a reality is the greatest gratification an agent can get.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember that it is their special day. No matter how much they may want to please mums and dads or best friends, in that moment, when they are staring into each other's eyes, when everyone and everything just falls away, disappears into the background, when it is just the two of them about to make the ultimate commitment to one another, in that perfect moment, it all should be exactly as they dreamt it would be.
David Victor
David Victor
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My favorite choice would be Riviera Maya, Mexico (Cancun). I love the warm sun, the waves, sunsets and romantic atmosphere of this breathtaking paradise. It is a true vacationer's wonderland and known for its numerous all-inclusive resorts, long white-sand beaches, great food and friendly people. Travel from any city in the U.S. is convenient and easy. It has many activities such as sightseeing, fishing, swimming with the dolphins, diving, shopping and many more to enjoy. The atmosphere is truly a spectacular place, especially for vacations or a destination wedding.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Working with Anna & Derik through the entire process was an absolute blast. These two are ridiculously hilarious, super lively & fun, and so loved by the most warm and genuine friends and family they shared together. This wedding was unlike any other: the bridal party danced down the aisle, the groom surprised the bride with their favorite show tune, and all the guests joined in song after I DO. They were all just singing and dancing and basking in their love and joy! Being a part of this destination celebration was a career highlight, and one I will never forget.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Try to keep the process at a low stress level and find excitement and fun in the planning process. Remember that the purpose is to have the people you care come celebrate your love and the beginning of your lives together. Enjoy every moment of the planning process because it only happens once in a lifetime. It's a special time with family and friends that brings everyone closer; make sure to take a step back and appreciate it.
DeAna Haywood
DeAna Haywood
- Testimonials "Ms. DeAna was the best. Walked us thru the whole process. Very friendly and patient! ""Our Specialist DeAna was great. Always available to answer the millions of questions that we came up with. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!""We had a wonderful experience with our Specialist DeAna. DeAna is truly a blessing. She made sure everything was going well at the resort and we received a lovely gift! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had to choose one destination to jet off tomorrow, I would select the beautiful Island of Jamaica. There are so many resorts with lots of onsite amenities such as Moon Palace, IBEROSTAR, Sandals and Riu just to name a few. As well as lots of excursions and attractions from the Bob Marley museum, zip lining, bobsledding, horseback riding in the ocean, Dunn's River Falls, Seven Mile Beach on Negril, flow riders, Rick's Café, river rafting and so much more. There is something for everyone!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination wedding was when the couple returned and expressed their excitement and appreciation of having their needs met. It was indeed a dream come true, as well glowing feedback from their family and friends.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would advise a couple that's getting married to give as much detail of their likes, dislikes and expectations so I can offer the best options for them.
Debbie Frey
Debbie Frey
- Testimonials "Debbie Frey was the best! Made the whole process simple and answered any questions we had up until our vacation.""Fate must have sent us the absolute best planner in Debbie Frey. She thoughtfully took her time and just explained everything to me and eventually my guests. Never rushed and just always so pleasant.""Debbie Frey helped us find the best fit for us, and our family members/friends. I could not have asked for a smoother wedding there and back. No traveling confusion or drama, no crazy wedding drama... smooth sailing the whole way through."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Definitely Australia! This has been a dream of mine since I was a child. I would start in Sydney, and then take my time working my way around the perimeter of the continent (of course, stopping at The Great Barrier Reef) before going into the bush, to spend some time with the aborigines. This would have to be a long trip, because I definitely want to see the New Year's Eve fireworks over the bridge in Sydney and drag my husband to an opera at the Sydney Opera House. If a trip to Australia wouldn't work, then a photo safari in Africa with some wine tasting afterwards would work!!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It has to be a surprise birthday party that was planned for a family member. He had always dreamed of having a big birthday celebration aboard a cruise ship that was sailing the Southern Caribbean, with his family and friends on board to celebrate with him. As time was getting closer and closer, I told him that, unfortunately, very few people were going. Well, imagine his surprise as he sat in his cabin and saw one person after another come in with gifts and birthday wishes (it's a good thing he booked the Penthouse Suite!!); all 56 of them! One of the greatest surprises was an old friend from California who flew in for the celebration. People are still talking about that celebration and what fun it was.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Leave it to the experts!! If you were getting married at home, you would make sure you called the best people to take care of your needs. You wouldn't try to do it yourself. Getting married outside of the United States is easier in some respects, but you need to make sure all of the I's are dotted and T's are crossed. Pick a destination you have always wanted to visit, keep in touch with your Destination Wedding Specialist and turn your guests over to the Specialist. And, do not let your guests put you in the middle!!
Debbie Johnson
Debbie Johnson
- Testimonials "Debbie was wonderful! She provided us with great recommendations based on our budget and location preferences and also ensured that the resort maintained their side of the bargain as agreed to in the contract. We have a pretty demanding family (many who don't travel regularly), yet Debbie was patient with them and eased their worries. We also had a very large group (nearly 50 guests) and Debbie successfully accommodated all of their requests!""The best thing we did when we decided to get married was to use DestinationWeddings.com for wedding planning. Debbie took care of EVERYTHING from hotel reservations, guest reservations, airline suggestions, travel documents and the most important conversation with the resort wedding coordinator. She was amazing and professional at her job, and was always available.""Debbie did the most amazing job at helping us choose a resort that best fit out budget but was still amazing!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Hands down, I am a beach bum! Ever since I entered the travel business I have been intrigued by the island of Mauritius, a paradise island in the Indian Ocean. The island beckons me with its cobalt blue seas, white sandy beaches, waterfalls, luxury hotels, historic sites, cultural diversity and the relaxed charm of its welcoming people. We all have a bucket list and Mauritius is on the top of mine! But, I will also take the Caribbean any day!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have to say my favorite memory in the planning of a destination celebration was the destination itself. My couple chose the Caves in Negril, Jamaica for its uniqueness and intimacy. The resort offers 12 naturally ventilated private cliff-side accommodations, with louvered windows, handcrafted wood and wicker furnishings and, one-of-a-kind artwork and fabulous food. They actually had their rehearsal dinner in a cave open to the ocean with a view of the turquoise waters of Negril!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Keep in mind that this is your wedding. Everyone will have an opinion or a story to tell about a destination or a resort. Choose a destination and property that best suits you while being cognizant of a price point you think your guests will be comfortable with. But, keep in mind; you get what you pay for. Don't be afraid to reach a little higher as guests generally have over a year in advance to save for their trip. With our payment plan, this can mean just a minimal amount more per month. It is your day!
Debbie Ryan
Debbie Ryan
- Testimonials "Deb Ryan was awesome! She was very helpful and extremely friendly""Very easy to work with. Liked the payment plan. Everything in Mexico was taken care of. Kudos to D. Ryan.""Debbie was absolutely wonderful to work with and our trip could not have been smoother. "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would choose Negril, Jamaica for the beautiful beaches and the evening sunsets and the super service received in Jamaica.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
After all the planning and wedding conference calls were over, surprising a bride and groom and attending their wedding on location in Jamaica was such a delight to meet them and all their wedding guests. Also to meet the hotel and wedding staff was great!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Stay connected with phone meetings /emails with both partners, to all stay on the same page with travel and wedding details.
Debra Clifford
Debra Clifford
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Definitely Hawaii! It's been on my bucket list since I was a kid. I would love to visit, explore the different islands, experience the culture, cuisine and enjoy the warm sun on the beautiful beaches.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Hearing the excitement when a destination has been chosen and seeing the beautiful pictures of the special day.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice would be trust us - the Specialist. Do your research and share your vision with us, so we can help plan your wedding day and vacation. Remember, it should be fun and exciting to plan such an important day!
Denise Felt
Denise Felt
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
There are so many places, it's hard to pick just one. My favorite of all would have to be Jamaica. The pristine beaches, turquoise water, and the feeling of welcome by everyone on the island is what makes it my top destination out of them all. Coming in second would be Costa Rica. This country has a special place in my heart because there are so many options for the type of vacation that I want (complete relaxation, active, cultural, spa experiences, etc.).What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would be hearing back from the couple when they return from their celebration. Knowing that I was able to help make this a dream come true is why I started working as a travel agent. Most recently, I had a guest reach out to me and she shared how much she enjoyed the wedding and how thrilled she and the couple were when they heard others at the airport complaining about the resort they stayed at and how happy they were with my services in putting them in a fantastic spot for the wedding.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples is to relax and trust the process and have fun with it. This is one of the most exciting times in your lives and you don't need to stress over every single detail. The one thing I say to all couples is "at the end of the day, you're going to be married to each other!"
Denise Flannery
Denise Flannery
- Testimonials "Our wedding coordinator Denise Flannery was awesome! From the time we arrived at the resort, until we left, everything went smoothly. All of our guest enjoyed themselves! We just wanted to thank her for going the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable.""Denise was the epitome of detailed organization, proactive communication, and calming energy during the yearlong planning of our destination wedding. She is such an expert in the space that all of the travel logistics became one less thing we had to worry about. I would recommend Denise to anyone looking to plan a destination wedding. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU DENISE!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Just one destination is the hard part...But if I had to pack my bags right now, I'd probably head back to Jamaica....one of the most welcoming Islands I know & sell! The people are some of the friendliest in the world and the beaches are warm and clean. Did I mention the Jerk Chicken and the sunsets?!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have to admit, most of my weddings that I plan all have special memories. It is such a pleasure working with wedding couples and creating that special day! Some of my fondest memories come on the return...When I get that call from a new bride, thanking me for making her day so special and from her mother who is still glowing from attending her daughter's destination wedding, something she could never have imagined in her days...destination weddings are truly a special occasion. I know, as my own daughter was fortunate to have her own in Jamaica! So now, I can relate to both the bride and the Mother of the Bride!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
When you're planning your destination wedding, trust in your Destination Wedding Specialist, we have all been trained well and most of us have many years in the business. Take your time in picking the right resort that offers all that may fulfill your dreams. And remember, this is YOUR wedding.
Dennis Quirie
Dennis Quirie
- Testimonials "Dennis provided excellent service.""Dennis Quire has been very helpful with the process and very organized. I understand he probably gets a ton of emails a day and he is very good at responding quickly with the information we need or returning phone calls. ""Thank you, Dennis, so much for all your patience and understanding with our guests!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Turks and Caicos!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
When the couple comes back and tells me everything was perfect.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Do not try and plan too much for your guests; they want to relax, too!
Diane Lee
Diane Lee
- Testimonials "We appreciated Diane's resort recommendation as well as her efforts with arranging our travel and accommodations. I had so many questions in the beginning, but Diane put my doubts to ease.""Diane helped us so much when trying to pick a resort. She narrowed down the list based on our preferences and eventually helped us pick our wedding resort! She also took care of everything when it came to booking our guests' resort stays. I would definitely recommend DestinationWeddings.com and Diane Lee for anyone who is planning a destination wedding! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Tahiti!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Having the wedding couple completely ecstatic about their wedding at Moon Palace in Cancun. The pictures were beautiful and the horse-drawn carriage was so charming!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Pick your dream wedding and destination without worrying about your family and friends' budgets. It is the only time in your life that you will be getting married, and you need to fulfill your DREAM!
Diane Monk
Diane Monk
- Testimonials "Diane Monk with DestinationWeddings.com did an outstanding job planning our wedding in Riviera Maya for 140 guests! She was a wealth of knowledge who patiently walked us through every step of the process. Diane was so helpful in recommending cities and resorts to consider based on the type of wedding we were having. I highly recommend working with Diane Monk!""Our experience surpassed our wildest dreams. From the selection of the resort to the coordination of travel arrangements, working with Diane Monk at Destination Weddings made planning a destination wedding with over 90 guests a breeze.""Diane was very helpful and reassuring. She talked us through each stage of the process and eased my nerves completely. Our experience could not have been better. "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would pick a destination from my bucket list - Peru to see the Machu Picchu ruins. If I were looking for a relaxing beach getaway, I would choose Jamaica for their fabulous beaches, delicious local food, the friendly Jamaican people and of course, the Reggae music!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my brides was getting married in Jamaica. She had some losses in her life and wanted to find a way to celebrate and honor those who had passed away. I had suggested she do floating lanterns to be set off after the cocktail party. They did just that. The pictures were beautiful with the lights filling the sky. It was a very touching moment for the entire wedding party and guests.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would suggest planning at least a year in advance to ensure the couple gets the date, location and time they wish for their wedding day. Planning early also ensures the guests get all the details well in advance and plan their travel early and get on a payment plan if so desired.
Donna Chevalier
Donna Chevalier
- Testimonials "Donna was EXTREMELY responsive and efficient and a pleasure to work with Donna Chevalier. We couldn't of done it without you! ""I had an AMAZING experience with Donna Chevalier and would rate her excellent if that was my only connection. She was professional, responsive and went above and beyond to make our wedding special. ""Donna was absolutely amazing! From finding our resort to following up with the wedding coordinator when she wasn't responding, Donna managed all of my requests and my wedding party's. Our wedding would not have been possible without her help. I hope that all of this feedback will be heard by upper management because she deserves recognition for her value and effort."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Anywhere in the South Pacific!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I love booking my friends and family on a destination vacation. Right now there are about 25 of us getting ready to descend to Jamaica. We are going to have an awesome time!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Take a deep breath and have fun with the planning. Just know that everything will turn out great in the end. A lot of couples feel they do not have a handle on things when they are here in the US and the wedding is taking place somewhere else. Our partner resorts are very flexible and want to make their wedding memorable; they go over and above when it comes to wedding planning.
Donna Onley
Donna Onley
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I love Mexico and it would be a coin toss between Los Cabos and Cancun or Riviera Maya. Without a doubt my favorite resort of choice is Secrets or Dreams. I can depend on these brands for consistent, top notch accommodations, amazing food, great wine and liquor selections plus they deliver over-the-top guest service while being located on some of the best beaches in the world. They also offer a preferred club section for that extra touch of service and pampering. My friends are envious as I post to Facebook pictures of my gourmet food (yes I do that), views from my balcony and the sunsets on the beach.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is one that I experience often as I show couples how they can take their wedding budget and create an event that exceeds their expectations. In today's environment, the social obligation of a rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception can be a tremendous burden on the couple and their parents. With a destination wedding, these costs can be drastically reduced and often times free based upon the terms of a group room agreement. The reaction from each couple as the financial burden is lifted is amazing.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Please be patient as destination wedding planning is a series of steps. The process begins with determining the location, selecting the perfect resort, securing a wedding date, creating a group room agreement to take care of your guests and then the final step of working with the wedding coordinator. There is no reason to be fearful of the process because you have a dedicated Specialist who is working with you from the beginning until the last flower petal is placed on the reception table. At DestinationWeddings.com, we work together as a team creating that beautiful destination wedding of your dreams.
Edward Bruns
Edward Bruns
- Testimonials "Edward Bruns made the planning process smooth, easy and stress free!""Ed was so incredibly helpful and responsive to our needs. The upgrades provided through DestinationWeddings.com were incredible!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Fiji: Fiji offers a similar experience to Tahiti at a lower cost. Flights are available from Los Angeles but also from Hawaii, which I could do a stopover either going or returning so I could enjoy two great destinations in one trip!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I was once working with a bride that asked me to attend her destination wedding. I declined explaining that it would be hard to help her or her guests if any issues came up and they needed to contact me during travel. It turned out that there was a large storm (not at the destination, but from an area where many people were flying from). Most of the guests had made it to the destination but the bride had hired an outside vendor from her area that was supposed to fly down closer to the wedding date. Many flights were being cancelled and she contacted me from the destination and asked if I could contact that vendor. That vendor was finishing up at another venue when I reached him. I told him that he should get to the airport ASAP and try to get on the next available flight as his was cancelled. It was close but he made it to the airport and on a flight to the destination, so the wedding plans did not have to be adjusted!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Pick a destination that is a good fit for you and your guests. You have to take into consideration where you and your guests are coming from and what is a comfortable budget and length of stay. If most guests will only be going for 3 nights, then a closer destination like Mexico or the Caribbean (if you are in the Northeast or Mid-West) might be a good option. If your guests can stay for a week, then you can consider destinations that are farther away like Hawaii (or maybe Hawaii would work better if you live on the West Coast). Picking an exotic destination will mean higher flight and room costs. This might be best saved for a Honeymoon unless you and your guests have the budget and time to go to a more remote or difficult-to-reach area. If you choose a destination that is out of reach budget wise or travel wise, you will most likely have a smaller number of guests that can attend your wedding.
Elizabeth 'Cookie' Randall
Elizabeth 'Cookie' Randall
- Testimonials "Cookie was amazing in helping us get the relaxation and adventure we needed for our honeymoon! She's an amazing agent!!""Cookie did an amazing job getting things organized and was always available.""Words cannot express how grateful we are to Cookie Randall for her role in planning our destination wedding. If I asked her a question, she had an answer for me by the end of the day, and in most cases even sooner!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Picking just one destination to jet off to is simply impossible for me. I would jet off at the drop of a hat to almost anywhere. I love to travel, to see what is around the corner or around the block. You learn so much just seeing how the rest of the world is. In all of my travels there are a few places I would go back to time and again - Paris, London, the Greek Islands, Africa (the sunsets are to die for and the wildlife so incredible), the Caribbean and of course Mexico. I love all of these locations for many different reasons. Are all of these great locations for destination weddings? Maybe not - but they are great vacation locations!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The thing I love most about helping to plan a destination wedding is fulfilling a dream. Every couple has a different idea of what is perfect for them. There is so much information available online for couples that it can be very confusing. My favorite part is my initial phone call with my couples. At this time they can describe the dream and it is my challenge to make it happen.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice to couples choosing a destination wedding is multi-faceted. First you have to decide if this is truly for you. Decide what is most important to you. Once you have decided that a destination wedding is for you, pick a location that you would be proud to take your family and friends.
Ellen Paderson
Ellen Paderson
- Testimonials "Ellen was so great. She coordinated all of the bookings for the rooms and helped with flights where needed. She also liaised between ourselves and the coordinators at the resort when needed.""Ellen was always available and answered all of our questions!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Bora Bora!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I was able to assist a couple with arranging all the travel and help them with the logistics and confirm the right rooms for one of their parents that was confined to a wheelchair and did not think he could go to the wedding. In general, my favorite memories are always the beautiful pictures that I receive after the wedding and that every couple is always so happy.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice is for the wedding couples to decide on a resort and destination based on what they want and not what their friends and family want, because in the end, many of the people that the couple satisfied do not end up coming and then the couple is somewhere that would not have been their first choice.
Erika Marcotte
Erika Marcotte
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
New Zealand! My husband and I spent a month travelling around New Zealand in a camper van and it was amazing. New Zealand has everything from mountains, to beaches to amazing country side wineries. If I could get married all over again I would definitely get married on the beach somewhere in New Zealand.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is going to sound strange. My fiance and I had our wedding all planned MONTHS before the wedding, but a hurricane had other plans for us. Two weeks before our wedding date, our resort was destroyed. With the help of an amazing Destination Wedding Specialist, we got to work right away to pick a new destination for our dream wedding. You might be sitting there asking yourself, why on earth would that be my favorite memory? Well, for one, I was blown away with how amazing and supportive my friends and family were. Two, I got to pick a new resort and possibly a new destination WITH the help of my friends and family (thank you poll feature on FB!) and three, I got to plan my wedding all over again (it was really fun the first time). I'm proud to say it all worked out and I had the dream destination wedding I was looking for!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice is don't forget to wear sunscreen! The last thing you want is to be red-faced for your wedding photos. Brides, watch your tan lines!
Eve Magoon
Eve Magoon
- Testimonials "Eve was great! She was responsive to questions and thorough in all instructions, especially regarding the travel experience to and from the property. Eve offered various check-ins throughout the process, which helped feel supported.""Eve was great at making sure I knew exactly what needed to be done and on what timing. She was available to answer all of my questions from before I even booked the trip up to the moment I left. All information that I needed to know once I arrived was very detailed and provided in plenty of time."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Although I have many exciting, romantic and adventurous destinations which I absolutely love and recommend; one of my favorites is the Riviera Maya in Mexico. If I was to have the opportunity to jet off tomorrow I would definitely select the El Dorado Casitas Royale Resort. I'll never forget arriving there about 3 years ago. In my 35 years in the travel industry, I have had the good fortune to have traveled to and stayed at many resorts throughout the world. But when I arrived into my own private casita I was just blown away by the romance of this room and the setting. I called my husband and told him I had found the most romantic resort on earth! It truly was breathtaking. I felt as though I was in a treehouse. As I walked out onto the balcony I could hear the waves lapping along the shore, I could see the palm trees swaying in the breeze along the beautiful white beach. The private pool area for my own casita area was an added treat especially since it had a swim-up bar included! At night, the resort lit up with beautiful white lights which just added to the romantic ambiance of the entire resort. Walking along the paths at night as you wind your way to one of the beautiful romantic restaurants on the property, you can't help but feel relaxed and in love!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
A favorite memory of mine is when I planned one of my first Gay Destination Weddings. I had this wonderful couple who were just so sweet together. They shared with me their concerns that they wanted something low key and they hoped they would not be made to feel different in any way. They only asked for a beautiful beach wedding where they would feel as though they were a couple in love. They were not sure how many of their family and friends would attend. But once we began the booking process they were overjoyed at the outpouring of support and love they received from so many. In the end they had a beautiful romantic beachfront wedding which was exactly as they envisioned it. I received so many positive comments from their guests on the beauty and feel of the ceremony itself. And the couple? Well let's just say they are indeed in love and are very happily married today.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
One of the first things I advise my couples is to consider who will they be inviting and think about all the guests who's presence is truly essential to them before deciding on a location. Will selecting a certain destination limit the travel opportunities for anyone? I stress how important it is to consider all your guests, whether it be a money issue, physical limitation or time off of work? As beautiful as that Five Star resort is I want them to think about the importance of having all those special family and friends with them to celebrate on their special day. The key to a happy day is to make sure you have given the opportunity to be included to everyone you love and who loves you!
Forte Carter
Forte Carter
- Testimonials "We had a wonderful time and everyone was happy with the services they received from Forte. Thank you so very much for everything."
"Forte was patient with me and helped me get through the stressful moments during the wedding planning process." - Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would choose Bali as a dream destination. It is known for its magical temples and beautiful beaches and offers natural beauty, peace, and serenity.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was bringing family and friends together for a beautiful wedding ceremony. I was able to develop a great relationship with the bride and groom's family and friends.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice to the couple would be to start planning at least a year in advance and also to stay mindful of the guests if possible when choosing the resort.
Frances Peterson
Frances Peterson
- Testimonials "Frances was always responsive to our questions and concerns. She would handle each situation with professionalism and understanding that we were unfamiliar with the process."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
New Zealand - growing up on an island, I love the beach and New Zealand beaches look wonderful. The country not only offers great beaches but a variety of natural wonders such as forests, caves and mountains, so there are lots of things to do for the adventurous guests while the cities offer entertainment and great restaurants.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is of a bride who was very nervous about getting married and she was so grateful for my services that she kept apologizing every time she had questions or needed information. She was so sweet and really appreciated the fact that I was there to help her. On more than one occasion, I had to remind her that she is the bride and it is her day as she always felt she was taking up too much of my time. She wanted to use a seashell during the ceremony and was having a hard time finding one so I went to Jamaica during our planning stages and found her a seashell which I mailed to her. You would have thought I gave her the moon - she was so grateful! She was such a delight to work with. The groom was also wonderful and their wedding was beautiful.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Focus on how you want your most special day in your lives to be and not let other things cloud the decisions you make. A lot of couples think that they need to focus on what their guests will like or that their budget is most important, but while the budget is a driving force in their decision-making, their vision of their wedding should be their main focus.
Giovanna Lopez-Penha
Giovanna Lopez-Penha
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to return to Paris, France - definitely! I love the history and beautiful works of arts available in the city. Not to mention the food! This time around, I would make sure to explore the castles at the Loire Valley.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Assisting my dear cousin in planning her wedding. Being able to help make her dreams for that special day come true was a great satisfaction.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Make sure to have photos and video so you can relive the experience. Inform your guests about the attractions available and places to visit so they can have the best experience of the whole destination. Do not forget to consider the destination and type of accommodations that best suits your needs and those of your family and friends (especially those traveling from afar).
Glenda Hills
Glenda Hills
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could choose, I would pick something off my bucket list such as Thailand. But my favorite so far is Caribbean destinations such as Jamaica, Antigua and Mexico . The Caribbean has all that I need such as pristine waters, adventure, snorkeling, lush landscapes, over-the-water bungalows, quiet time and most of all, the warmth and generosity of the people.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is always hearing the magic in their voices when they speak about their amazing experiences, adventure, local foods and their expressions of gratefulness. Many who have never traveled are fascinated about what must be done and all that is required.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Focus on their dreams. Leave the stress to the Specialist. Advice can be important from friends and family but it's about YOUR MAGIC. Pick where the both of you want to go and give as many details of your wedding. Ask a lot of questions. If you thinks it's lot, ask more and stay EXCITED about the process and last of all, always check your travel documents!
Goga Piercey
Goga Piercey
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one place to jet off to tomorrow, it would be to Maroma Beach in Maya Riviera, Mexico and stay at the bungalows over the water. The white sand beach and turquoise waters are just amazing.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favourite memory from planning a dream destination celebration is when the couple sends pictures from the wedding of how well it turned out and hearing how much fun everyone had.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for planning a destination wedding is to enjoy not only the wedding, but the time you are there with your friends and family. (And wear sunscreen, you don't want to be burnt for the big day!!!)
Halie Lange
Halie Lange
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, I would choose New Zealand. Coming from Minnesota especially as we enter winter, I'm always excited to go somewhere warm! Knowing that New Zealand's seasons are opposite ours and winter is the warmest time of year, I'm sold. I can never choose between beach vacations and active vacations, but New Zealand has a perfect mix. Along with the perfect mix I can not get over the BEAUTIFUL scenery New Zealand has to offer, talk about breathtaking!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memories planning a dream destination wedding are the relationships and friendships I've formed. There's nothing like connecting with the couples and feeling like I'm working to pull off your own best friend's dream wedding! I love when the couple's successes feel like my successes.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for couples when planning a destination wedding is to make the whole trip a celebration for both you and your guests! All the time and work you put into this beautiful day should last more than one day in my opinion. Having a destination wedding is the perfect excuse to make it last longer and truly enjoy time with your guests!
Heidi Pyne
Heidi Pyne
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Australia in a heartbeat! First of all, I'm an animal lover, and want to get up close to a Koala. I also love to snorkel and going to the Great Barrier Reef would be an amazing vacation. I'm a wine lover as well, so a trip to the wine region would also be amazing.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is from my sister's destination wedding in the Dominican Republic. Having so many family and friends in the same place, where you can truly relax together, with virtually no responsibilities, was amazing. The time when I know my couple and all of their guests have made it to the resort and are enjoying their time together is wonderful for me.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
During the planning process, the couples wedding is the only thing on their mind. Sometimes, patience is needed when dealing with people that are helping plan the perfect event. "Island Time" can be frustrating to a couple and waiting for a wedding coordinator to get back to you can try anyone's patience. Remember that we are all working together to make your event perfect, and the wedding coordinators at the resorts are working with multiple couples, some currently on site, to make their event perfect.
Indira Mota
Indira Mota
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I'm extremely happy and grateful to be an island girl that actually lives in the Caribbean, but if I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would go to Greece, Italy and Spain. I love the rich history, gastronomy and culture, as well as the Mediterranean Sea and breathtaking views. I'm a wanderlust, the more we got lost in our travels, the richer our lives become.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory and the most exciting part about being involved in the "happily ever after" planning of a couple, is being able to witness their dream ceremony; most of the time I've ended up crying feeling that "love is in the air," as well when listening to the couple's vows or their love story. What gives satisfaction to my heart is hearing about how it was the couple's dream wedding, that they had a blast and their loved ones enjoyed every detail as planned and all moments to the fullest. Those types of memories inspire you to keep working with passion, putting my heart into everything I do and help other couples plan their dream celebrations.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Focus on the must-haves, and although planning a wedding can be a stressful experience, I am here to ease those pain points! I encourage you to take a moment to decide which are the items and services that are of greatest importance in order for you and your guests to savor those unique experiences. When budgeting, consider features such as decor, food and drinks, add-ons, celebratory events and other general expenses so that there are no surprises. Planning a wedding is always about your dream day so I always encourage couples to set some reminders such as, "you deserve to have a good time" and "make outstanding memories," to assist in destressing and refocusing your mind and intentions on such a beautiful day. Above all, don't strive for perfection, that's what I'm here for! As your Destination Wedding Specialist, I am here to provide you with alternative options, should we need to think outside the box. People say that nobody's perfect, and honestly, the same goes for weddings. I like to see it as a catalog, where me asking you the right questions leads to me effectively and successfully communicating your needs and concerns, as your stress reliever.
Ingrid Somerville
Ingrid Somerville
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to go to Bora Bora! The Island's isolation in the South Pacific makes for both a serine and stunning vacation. Just imagine waking up to the sound of beautiful sea waves, your bedroom overwater with a plunge pool.... need I say more?! :)What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would be planning the Richards Wedding. From the beginning, they were so kind and inviting, they just wanted to have a beautiful wedding day. The Richards left it all up to me to make it happen. They trusted my advice and expertise. It was not at all perfect; we had some bumps along the way, but what made this wedding memorable was the love they both had for each other and the commitment to just enjoy the day. They had the most gorgeous wedding; I was honored to be a part of their special day!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Enjoy every moment with family and friends, let go of any expectations, enjoy the day with all the smoothness and bumps along the way. It is one day for the rest of your lives, enjoy it because it goes by so quickly!
Irene Garvin
Irene Garvin
- Testimonials "I love my wedding specialist. Janice is amazing. ""Janice is taking care of everything for us.""Janice was a pleasure to work with from day one. I am so glad we met! She helped organize a group of 70 guests and did an amazing job. I am so grateful. Janice's response time was so prompt; thank you for a wonderful experience!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be to travel to Italy. The experiences seem to be endless between the beaches on the Mediterranean, the extensive history, delicious cuisine and most of all for me, the Italian Alps.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
There isn't just one memory but many. I absolutely love the celebrations that include surprises!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would say to couples to trust the process and everything will work out. The wedding will be fabulou
Irene Sauger
Irene Sauger
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would most certainly be Jamaica! My first visit to Jamaica was a vacation with my two sisters. I completely fell in love with the beauty of the island (beaches, mountains, waterfalls), the food, the music and the hospitality of the people. I decided after that first visit to begin my career in travel. So I guess you can say Jamaica changed my life! I have been to Jamaica over 15 times since then and I experience something new on each trip.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration was when I was working with a couple that had a change in their plans and needed last minute assistance from an outside source. Since Destination Weddings has so many great partners in many locations, I was able to put the couple in contact with a company that was able to assist them. The last minute additions exceeded all of their expectations and they were able to truly experience the wedding of their dreams!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding is work with a professional. Destination Wedding Specialists plan weddings every day in multiple destinations. You only have one shot at planning one of the most important events in your life and allowing someone with knowledge and expertise in that area will not only help facilitate all your dreams, but will also make your planning stress free.
Janet Drinkwater
Janet Drinkwater
- Testimonials
"we are so blessed and thankful for Janet! We honestly couldn't have asked for a better specialist. She helped me through the process of picking a resort, how many days my guests should stay, and booked all my friends and family as smoothly as possible. She was amazing at communicating and response time for any concerns/questions was answered quickly or at a timely manner - never left us in the dust. Our phone calls/meetings were always also very pleasant. She was very attentive and even sent out reminders for us when a task slipped our (husband & I) minds and/or needed to be done. Janet made the whole process a breeze for me and took away a lot of the stress I thought I had to face myself. Not only will Janet take care of you, she'll also treat your friends & family with care." - Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I wish I didn't have to choose just one destination, because there are so many.... If I was able to choose one dream destination, it would be a trip to the Maldives. Imagine relaxing in a serine, amazing destination while listening to the ocean moving below your over-the-water bungalow and having the spectacular view of the beautiful turquoise water, the mountains and amazing sea life. Not to mention, dining in the underwater restaurant. To me, this would be a once in a lifetime vacation! Otherwise, I would jump on a plane to go to any island in the Caribbean. I LOVE the Caribbean!! My favorites are Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, which are all easy to get to from the US. You can catch an early flight and be in one of these destination around lunch time. I love the culture, people, service you receive, sunsets, beaches and so much more. I've been fortunate enough to visit these locations many times, so I can give you first-hand experience of the different destinations.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from a destination wedding was when sadly the bride's uncle, who was like a father, got so ill that he could not attend. They were devastated because not only was he not going to be there to walk her down the aisle, but also wasn't going to see her get married. I worked with one the guests and asked if he would be willing to use an iPad and Facetime the entire ceremony so he could watch! It went perfectly, the photographer got a photo of the bride and groom talking to him on the iPad after the ceremony. It was very touching to know that if we put our heads together, we can pull off something so special! This is one of her favorite photos from the wedding!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best advice I can give you is to relax and have fun on this journey! You will have me and a destination wedding planner from the resort to walk you through the process, so don't stress. This is the first major event for you as a couple, so enjoy it!
Janice Gwilliam
Janice Gwilliam
- Testimonials "I love my wedding specialist. Janice is amazing. ""Janice is taking care of everything for us.""Janice was a pleasure to work with from day one. I am so glad we met! She helped organize a group of 70 guests and did an amazing job. I am so grateful. Janice's response time was so prompt; thank you for a wonderful experience!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Italy! Mostly for the wonderful food and amazing historical sites.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My most favorite memory is when the wedding couples send me their wedding pictures. I love the beautiful dresses and the handsome men dressed in their finest, the sand, sun and the ocean in the background and I can truly feel their happiness.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for newlyweds is to enjoy the whole time away with your family and friends, a destination wedding has so much more to enjoy, spending your days and evenings with those who mean the most to you.
Janice Sullinger
Janice Sullinger
- Testimonials "We would personally like to thank you for assigning Janice Sullinger as our wedding coordinator. Mrs. Sullinger is not only courteous and professional, but she is kind and caring as well. She always manages to make herself available to assist us anytime, night and day. ""Janice was wonderful and patient working with my group in establishing travel with Trafalgar's to vacation in Greece. Her expertise and resources of information allowed our trip to be a success. I hope that I can rely on her again in the near future.""We had a great experience working with Janice Sullinger. We are so grateful she was able to help us through the entire process. We definitely recommend Janice from destinationweddings.com to anyone! She was very patient with us and our guests and she really was very knowledgeable of the resort or any question we had. Thanks for making this experience less stressful for us!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I remember a couple that was very nervous they were not going to be able to afford a destination wedding. They also were concerned they would not be able to keep up on all the details of the wedding, guest's check in and check out, transfers, etc... The best part was when they returned and I received all the wonderful pictures and they said they were so thankful in having me help to make their day special! It doesn't get any better than that! So glad to begin their life journey together on a great start!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To take one step at a time and all the rest will fall into place. Not to let it overwhelm you. That is what we are here for! Any questions or concerns, we are only an email or phone call away.
Jeanette McGill
Jeanette McGill
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had to choose one destination to jet off to, it would be Cape Town, South Africa, one of my favorite destinations in the world! Cape Town is one of the most sought out cities with its cosmopolitan culture, historical landmarks, tasty eats and luxurious wineries. It is very easy for one to escape to paradise with Cape Town's diverse offerings of food, high caliber sightseeing and mediterranean climate -- visitors from around the world feel right at home. The music is eclectic, ranging from Jazz to South African House music, the sounds are sure to keep your feet moving and heart singing. The Western Cape is also family-friendly with sites such as Kruger National Park, Table Top Mountain, Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, families are sure to celebrate memories of a lifetime!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was assisting a wife with plans for a milestone birthday celebration in honor of her husband who is a former international athlete. The couple, along with with close friends and family, gathered for an intimate, memorable 4-day weekend in Aruba. Every day was complete with themes and events to ensure guests and the birthday celebrant had the most memorable experience, including an all-white affair, daytime beach party, champagne breakfast aboard a catamaran, all while taking in the beautiful and scenic sites throughout the beautiful island of Aruba. It was exciting to help bring the couple's vision to life and to experience their joy and satisfaction after a successfully planned and executed weekend away in paradise!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice is to follow your heart's desire and vision for a memorable event. You only live once! Make sure to really tap into what you want to include to make this the celebration of a lifetime. Don't be afraid to dream in color, and I will be here to guide you through the journey. It is my job to help you bring the vision to life, and I will do whatever it takes to ensure the journey of planning for the big day remains stress-free.
Jennifer Corrigan
Jennifer Corrigan
- Testimonials "I was very impressed with the level of communication and details provided. I was never worried that I didn't know what to do. Our wedding coordinator, Jen, was very responsive and helpful. It took all the stress out of planning!""Our wedding specialist, Jennifer Corrigan was AMAZING!!! She was very friendly and easy to contact when/if needed. She always made sure we had everything we needed and even checked on us before, during, and after our trip! If I had to do it all over again, I would only want to work with her. Exceptional service!""Jennifer Corrigan was wonderful in every step of this process. I called her just to find out some details after I cancelled a big wedding back at home due to the frustration and expense of it all. Jennifer was very professional and understanding. She knew my only request was to have a stress free wedding at a beautiful resort in Belize. It was a wonderful experience and I would recommend Jennifer Corrigan again and again!!!!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My dream destination is Bora Bora or anywhere in Tahiti. I can just imagine how wonderful it would be to stay in the overwater bungalows with the spectacular views of the mountains and the lagoon. To lounge on your private deck, take a siesta or to go snorkeling and scuba diving in those beautiful crystal clear blue waters. Hmmm. If I go, I may not return! Sounds like paradise to me.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
All of the wedding and honeymoon celebrations I help plan give me great memories. They really are all so rewarding that I am unable to pick a favorite. I love helping my couples find their dream wedding location and of course hearing about it and seeing the photos they share with me. They are always a highlight for me in seeing how things pulled together by the wonderful expressions that were captured in those special times spent together. It is truly an honor for me, when the couple and their guests reach out to thank me for giving them the time of their lives and to tell me their experience was so much better than they ever imagined.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Plan the wedding the two of you have always dreamed of. This day is about the two of you joining together. Travel to the destination and plan the type of wedding you desire. Many couples plan the events around what the guests will want in consideration that your guests are taking the time and spending money to be there with you. Just know your family and friends will be happy to be there with you no matter where you go and they just want to share all of those special moments and create lifelong memories. In the end, everyone wants the two of you to be happy.
Jennifer Pearce
Jennifer Pearce
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My destination would be Bora Bora! I want to stay in an over-water bungalow and scuba dive in the beautiful, clear-blue waters..What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration was seeing the beautiful wedding with the crystal-blue water in the background and friends and family coming together to celebrate the union of two people in their fairy tale destination.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for a couple planning a destination wedding would be to take time to think about what you would like your dream wedding to look like...Then breathe and take each step as it comes. Your Dream wedding will soon become reality!
Jeremy Tate Smith
Jeremy Tate Smith
- Q & A
What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The entire wedding process is exciting and fun to plan. One of my favorite planning memories for a dream wedding is all in the details. I enjoy paying close attention to the small details to ensure your day is that much more special and a memorable experience for you and your guests. The little things can make the biggest difference in the outcome of your day. Working closely together with your specialist (Me!) will ensure your day is as memorable as possible.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice is to rely on and work closely with your specialist (Me!). In our role, we are here to help you and to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible for you and your guests. We are here to help YOU and we want you to have fun in this whole planning experience! And don't forget, this is YOUR special day/event!
Jessica Bull
Jessica Bull
- Testimonials "Jessica Bull was my Wedding Specialist and she was AMAZING!!!!! She always emailed me back promptly She answered all my questions 100%. If I needed something she jumped on it and took care of it. I couldn't be happier with her. She went above and beyond for us!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It's my personal dream and goal to jet off to Fiji someday for a 2 week vacation - in first class!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I had a couple that had never ever traveled outside of the country and I sent them to St. Lucia for their destination wedding. The bride could not stop talking about how awesome it was and since then they have traveled all over the place! Even have been to places I have not! What a joy it is in my job to send people traveling all over the world, whether it's for a special celebration or just for vacation.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't let money hold you back. This truly is one of the most special times in your lives and you should celebrate it to its fullest extent!
Joani Traver
Joani Traver
- Testimonials "For the last year I worked with Joani and she was incredible any questions we had or problems she remained at our service. She had great customer service skills and it should be noticed. My husband and I were beyond pleased.""Once we were set up with Joani our minds were immediately put to ease. Joani walked us through every option carefully and took all of our needs, concerns and questions into consideration to help us find a perfect location for such a special day."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Paris. I have never been there and don't do destination weddings in Europe myself, so it's a part of the world I would love to visit and learn more about.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Getting a personalized card in the mail with a picture from the couple letting me know that I made their dream wedding possible was amazing. It's always nice to hear that.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Relax and enjoy the process...that is why you are doing a destination wedding!
Jose Guillen-Lambert
Jose Guillen-Lambert
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Cefalu, ItalyWhat is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Everytime one of our couples gets married it creates unforgettable moments because all our weddings are different and unique. Recently, one couple was very stressed out about an outdoor wedding due to a hurricane and weather conditions, so we had to delay the wedding and seeing their faces when the sun and a rainbow came out just as they were walking through the aisle was priceless.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
One piece of advice that we always give to couples is to trust the process, we are here to make sure their perfect wedding is just like they dream it.
Josephine Varrati
Josephine Varrati
- Testimonials "Josephine is an excellent corordinator. She was flexible and quite patient since I kept changing our packages and dates and time. Thanks very much for your help with my life event."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My one location for a once in a lifetime vacation spot is Bora Bora. I have never been but it looks like it would be the most beautiful place in the world.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I had a wedding that was supposed to only have 20-30 guests attending. It turned out to be 105 guests! It was fun doing booking after booking, it was unbelievable the response; some of the guests came from Europe and a lot from Peru. Most of the family hadn't seen each other in years. I would have loved to be there just to see everyone's faces especially since some of the guests were going to be a surprise for the couple!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice before planning a destination wedding is to talk to your family and friends, especially those who you absolutely want to be there on the most important day of your life; that they will be attend the wedding if it's going to mean that they have to travel out of the country. You wouldn't want to plan everything and then have those important people not be able to attend.
Joye Harris
Joye Harris
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off tomorrow, I would go to the Cancun area. Cancun is so leisurely! When I stay in the hotel zone or in Playa Del Carmen close to 5th Avenue, I can walk off the resort to enjoy the tourist area. I really enjoy walking the streets and eating authentic Mexican food.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration was a 25th wedding anniversary vow renewal. From the beginning the bride knew she wanted a Sandals Resort and the groom knew he wanted to be picked up in the Rolls Royce. During the planning process, I recommended the couple "test drive" the resort that they were interested in. Previewing the resort prior to the vow renewal made planning a breeze. They had a blast visiting the resort! They were so thankful for the recommendation.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice to couples planning a destination wedding is to be patient and fully understand the planning process. Before I take any money, I thoroughly explain each step from beginning to end, starting with securing the wedding date to ensure it's available at their first-choice resort.
Juan Prada
Juan Prada
- Q & A
What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my favorite memories from planning a dream destination celebration was assisting a couple in arranging their wedding in Los Cabos, Mexico! The thrill and happiness they experienced throughout the planning process was contagious. Seeing their faces light up when sharing and reliving every moment since they arrived, and how everything fell into place seamlessly - from the intimate ceremony against the backdrop of the azure sea to the lively reception filled with every little detail they wished for - made me feel like I was there. Their wedding reminded me of the magic of creating unforgettable moments for couples in stunning destinations like Los Cabos!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best advice I can give couples is to trust the process! I understand how overwhelming it can feel planning your big day, but you have us! I will walk you through every step, all the way down the aisle and beyond!
Judy Hack
Judy Hack
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I adore Mexico. I've spent time deep in the Yucatan in Oxkutzcab, eating with the natives, visiting schools, learning their culture and sleeping in hammocks. Riviera Maya and Cancun has beautiful beaches, resorts and amazing food. This is a lovely combination for adventure and romance! On the west coast, I love to visit Puerto Vallarta, with its laid back "California" feel. No matter where I go in Mexico, I am welcomed with open arms.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I love seeing pictures of all of the dream destination celebrations that I am asked to plan. When my clients thank me for assisting their family and friends with their travel arrangements, and tell me the destination and resort was perfect…that's all I need to hear to put a smile on my face. The services I provide, attention to details and creating a meaningful and unique celebration, are my top priority.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
This is "your" day. Make sure you trust your Specialist (me), and the options for resorts, that they send you. Your Specialist has an abundance of experience to share with you. They will take care of your booking needs for all of your guests, so you can confidently focus on the actual celebration and wedding details.
Julie Wills
Julie Wills
- Q & A
What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration is when a couple said, "Go big or go home!" They were completely in love and wanted their destination wedding to be a trip of a lifetime that would never be forgotten. And it was!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best piece of advice I can offer couples planning a destination wedding is to focus on each other's wants and needs, and prioritize those things. Sometimes, guests can be pushy and try to sway couples in a certain direction for their own benefit. I always tell my couples to put each other first!
Kare Frudaker
Kare Frudaker
- Testimonials "Kare was very good with keeping in contact with me and providing great services."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would pick the Caribbean. Whichever island you pick to travel to, you will always find the people very friendly and the food is outstanding. There are many forts, plantations and historic sights to visit. Of course I have to mention the beautiful water for snorkeling and diving, too!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory of planning a destination wedding is when one of the guests at the wedding videoed the ceremony on her phone and sent it to me immediately after the wedding so I could see how everything came together perfectly for the couples special day.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Start with a wedding notebook and take notes of ideas and make a list of questions prior to the initial planning session. No question is silly and we can make most ideas take shape for the wedding. If the wedding couple can dream it, I can make it happen.
Karen LaSala
Karen LaSala
- Testimonials "Karen LaSala was simply amazing as our travel agent through DestinationWeddings.com. We highly recommend working with her and I hope everyone realizes what a great asset she is!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to take a trip hiking on the Croatian coast. I previously traveled to Croatia and fell in love with the country. The people are warm and friendly, the food is delicious, and the landscape is breathtaking.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from any wedding planned is seeing photos of everyone filled with love & happiness, with all the months of planning coming together.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Sit back, relax, let me work my magic for you!
Karen Rose
Karen Rose
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would head to the British Virgin Islands on a sailboat charter. As a sailboat racer in the Pacific Northwest, I have been wanting to do a bareboat charter in the beautiful Islands. Hurricane Irma squashed those plans and as the rebuilding continues, I am setting my sights for 2023! I recently did a FAM trip there and it did not disappoint. Next step - charter the boat!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have so many good memories from planning honeymoons and destination weddings over the past 9 years. But I think the very best one, was for a couple that got married at Unico in October 2020. Their wedding at home and their honeymoon had been put on hold twice due to Covid-19. The bride called me so frustrated at the end of August and was crying and falling apart that she had not been able to get married in the dress she had made for her. So, we set up a Destination Wedding for her for October 12th at Unico. It was a lot of work in a short amount of time, and not everyone she wanted to come was able to. But she was okay with that since they would do a big party when they could. The trip started off rocky...they were misplaced for the first night due to Hurricane Delta. She was a wreck. She calmed down after arriving at Unico, two days later. When she got home, she called me the to tell me how happy she was and that she would never use another agent or book anything herself ever again. That her wedding was perfect, and the pictures were amazing (I think that is all she really wanted). It was so gratifying to know that all the hard work I had put in and all the favors I asked for, made her and her new hubby's day so special considering all the obstacles and hoops I had to jump through in a matter of about 35 days. She has booked 3 trips this year with me and has another one planned for January with her girlfriends!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
For me it is more about finding out what is important for them and then giving them advice in that area. But overall and generally, my advice is to relax and trust in their resort wedding coordinators. To communicate clearly what they are wanting and ask questions. I explain that they do this day after day after day - at the same resort - and they know what they are doing. They will take care of them!
Karen Vanwesten
Karen Vanwesten
- Testimonials "The service provided by Karen was great. She answered all my questions and walked me through the process until I was comfortable.""Karen Vanwestern was excellent to work with. Helpful every step of the way.""Karen was excellent to work with and helpful every step of the way."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would pick sunny Riviera Maya, Mexico with my family. Nothing says 'escape' like sunshine and tropical waters with a Bali-bed and a fruity cocktail in hand.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have so many, but a favorite of mine that I always cherish is watching my couples return and invite them onto my business Facebook page and watch them grow as a family. I love creating firsts and I enjoy watching those first beginnings grow and grow ever after.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
This very special event is an expression of yourselves, but it's just the beginning! Savor every moment as it will be here before you know it.
Kellie Davis
Kellie Davis
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Riviera Maya at El Dorado Casitas Resort. I enjoy the swim-out suites, outdoor showers, spa and the gourmet food. With their "Farm to Table" concept, I find the food to be the best in all-inclusive resorts.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Hyatt Ziva/Zilara Montego Bay; the wedding couple knew they wanted a large destination wedding in Montego Bay, Jamaica. We started reviewing resorts, they finally said "Kellie, you are the expert, which resort out of these would you choose, we trust you!" From there the friendship formed and I helped them plan the most amazing wedding. We are still very good friends today! It is not just about a wedding, it's about trust, honesty and listening to all flow into making someone's dreams come true.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't stress, this is going to be the event of the season! With my 24 years experience in the travel industry, you can trust that I have the knowledge and the experience to book your "Dream Wedding!"
Kelly A Mann
Kelly A Mann
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My favorite destination is the Cancun/Riviera Maya area of Mexico. The weather is always wonderful, the people are very friendly, and the beaches are awesome!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have seen, in person, the results of planning a destination wedding from start to finish. Recently, a bride emailed me her wedding video. It brought me to tears.....and laughter as well! To see a couple and their guests be so happy with their destination wedding, makes all the hard work worth it! What a blessed day for all!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Your destination wedding memories will last a lifetime. Sharing your special day surrounded by family and friends is an experience you will treasure forever. Leave your worries to me and we will work, side by side, to create your dream destination wedding!
Kim Cochrane
Kim Cochrane
- Testimonials "I received excellent service especially from Kim Grammer. Anytime I needed to ask questions or had concerns or even making payments she was on the ball..I give her a triple thumbs up"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Since I live in Florida and can enjoy sunshine and beaches every day of the year, I would jet off to the Austrian Alps. This is one of my favorite places in the world, full of natural beauty and amazing experiences. Although I am not a skier, just being at the summit of the mountain peaks is absolutely exhilarating! I love snowmobiling and just enjoying the snow, as it is such a different experience from my daily life. Since I am also a self-confessed boot addict, the mountains are a perfect spot for me to be able to wear my large collection of them!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I always look forward to seeing photos from my wedding couples, as this lets me share in their joy as they celebrate their wedding day. It allows me the opportunity to enjoy the results of all the planning that goes into a destination wedding and to see it all come together exactly as they have envisioned. I love seeing the bride's wedding dress, the outfit chosen by the groom, and the photos of their wedding party. I do get to know my couples very well over the course of planning their weddings. To see the reflection of their personalities in the celebration is so much fun for me! It is especially rewarding when I receive an email from my couple, with photos attached, telling me that I am the first one to see their pictures and that they could not wait to share them with me!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
It is so easy to get distracted by the recommendations and opinions of family and friends, and also by your desire to make everyone happy as you plan your destination wedding. I encourage my couples not to overthink things and never to lose sight of the fact that this is YOUR wedding day, celebrating your love and commitment to each other. Ultimately, you need to be happy with the choices you make and should put yourselves at the top of the priority list and remember that you're creating your experiences and memories. Then relax and have fun!
Kim Mallory
Kim Mallory
- Testimonials "Kim did a great job. Whenever I had a question she was quick to respond and would review procedures so I was clear""Kim Mallory is the best! She was very efficient, easy to work with, and she communicated with us in a clear and understandable manner.""Kim was excellent. Very helpful throughout, and all my guests expressed positive feedback about planning through Kim."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would head to the Serengeti in Africa where I would watch the sunrise and listen to the roars of the lion pride, follow in the footsteps of elephants & meet orphaned cheetah cubs. As the sun would set, I would marvel over the savannah and enjoy a wonderful 5-course dinner on the deck of my luxury tented accommodations and look forward to exploring what life will bring tomorrow!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Planning a surprise destination wedding when the couple was not even engaged. Matt wanted to do something to surprise his girlfriend (Kathy) for her birthday. He told her she needed to pack a bag for warm weather without telling her where they were going or how they would get there. He surprised her with a flight to Mexico. During the flight, he had champagne brought to the 2 of them where he proposed. Fast forward... it was a very short engagement! Mark had invited friends and family to join them the day after they arrived at the resort to celebrate what they were told was a surprise birthday for Kathy. Both parents and Kathy's best friend were told in advance about the wedding surprise so they could help make Kathy's day special from the dress to her grandmother's handkerchief. It was a wonderful surprise for everyone including Kathy!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Your wedding is an important day that the 2 of you will remember for a lifetime. Stay true to your dreams and vision. When you start trying to accommodate everyone else's, you begin to lose that vision. It's ok to decide that you if you want adults only, to stay at adults-only resorts. You may want to celebrate on a rooftop, in a cave or underwater. Whatever that is, let your dreams be your guide. I look forward to planning that dream with you!
Kim Short
Kim Short
- Testimonials "She has been so clear and concise with her explanations and has made this whole process less confusing. She has also been very efficient and things are moving right along. I wish I had been assigned to her much sooner. Thank you for understanding and letting me work with someone else.""I cannot say enough good things or begin to express how easy and wonderful it has been to work with Kim. I went into planning this completely lost and she has held my hand through the process and made it so easy.""Kim Short is amazing! She was extremely patient and helpful, and assisted us with ease while answering any questions and hesitations we had. Even once we got to the resort, Kim was still able to assist and help us. Overall, our wedding was everything and more!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Bora Bora. It was amazingly beautiful, relaxing and the Tahitians are wonderful! My eyes have never seen the shades of blue that are in the ocean in Bora Bora. You won't believe your eyes when you arrive!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
There is something exciting about planning your first destination wedding and seeing the bride's dreams come true and all the planning with the bride and her guests coming to fruition. I still get excited every time I see pictures of my couples at their wedding! It is really fun to be part of planning their special day!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Use a Specialist and let them help and guide you. Specialists have planned many weddings, visited most resorts, and work with brides on a daily basis, so we have the experience to help you. Let us take the work load off of you and guide you step by step!
Kimber Staufenberg
Kimber Staufenberg
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Jamaica has always been my "home away from home." With good food, good drink, great music and amazing people, it's always been the perfect place for me to get away from everything, relax and recharge.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was when I built such a strong relationship with the couple that they invited me to their wedding! Second would be getting the wedding photos that couples send me when they get home.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice would be to BREATHE. Weddings are stressful, and destination weddings can be even more so, but that's why you have a someone like me to handle the most stressful part for you. This is your wedding so just enjoy the process and BREATHE!
Kimberlee Key
Kimberlee Key
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Honestly, I would take off to Mexico and stay in the Cancun/Riveria Maya area. It is a short flight and I love the resorts! They are big enough with plenty of activities that you could stay there the entire time and not leave the resort until it's time to go home. On the other hand, if you want to get out of the resort, there are plenty of excursion options as well as an active night life!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration would have to be the time when one of my couples wanted to visit the resort before they decided for sure that was THE ONE. They had never been to Mexico before, so they were getting the whole experience. I couldn't wait to hear what they thought! I helped book their travel and off they went! As soon as they got their luggage and got back to the car, they called me and I could tell the bride was just beaming ear to ear so anxious to tell me their thoughts! She went on and on about how she had never seen anything like that before and that she couldn't wait to go back there to get married. Needless to say, they found THE ONE(resort)!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Have fun with it! Enjoy the experience and trust your Specialist and coordinator! This is a special moment in your lives; soak it all in because it truly is a lot of fun and turns your wedding dreams into a reality!
Kimberly Gould
Kimberly Gould
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It would definitely be Costa Rica - I could go and never come home!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was my first big wedding in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. I started with a guest invite list of 80 people. I told the couple to expect 40-60 to attend, but we ended with 110! I was in Costa Rica with them from start to finish. It was a wonderful experience to watch all of our hard work come to life and turn out to be a magical wedding and overall trip.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would tell them that planning a wedding can be a bit stressful, but I am here to take that stress away from you. Let me use my knowledge and expertise to guide you and make this an enjoyable experience you will remember for the rest of your lives!
Kimberly Koehn
Kimberly Koehn
- Testimonials "Kimberly Koehn is seriously a God-send. For someone like me who is incredibly indecisive and sensitive to every detail, she catered to me in a way I've never experienced. I am SO HAPPY with the final decision we made and couldn't be more grateful for her constant help & advice. We've emailed weekly since January and I am so happy to have had her. We love you Kim!!!""I worked with Kimberly Koehn with Destination Weddings and was absolutely blown away by her level of service to both myself AND our guests. Kimberly took care of everything. I spent a full year planning this wedding & had extremely high expectations for the end result...not only were they met, but they were exceeded in every way possible. I cannot recommend her enough, especially for brides & grooms who want to spend their focus on the details of the actual wedding."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Riviera Maya, Mexico! I love the people, always friendly and welcoming. The beaches are gorgeous, white sand and turquoise blue water. The food is awesome too, resorts have their own wonderful specialties, but the local restaurants are fun to experience as well - always a good time. There's so much to do here! If I want to relax, I can. If I want to go exploring, the tours are endless from Mayan Ruins, Ecological Parks, Swimming with the dolphins, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Jet Skiing, ATV Tours, and so much more!!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I don't have a specific or favorite memory, but I most love when couples return and share their wonderful stories and pictures with me. The fun shows through in their pictures from the wedding and the vacation with all their friends and family!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Book your date sooner, rather than later. With Destination Weddings becoming so popular, we see resorts booking up several months in advance now. I recommend holding a group block at the resort as well to avoid the resort selling out and urging guests to book a room shortly after receiving the Save-the-Date to assure a room reservation.
Lacie Keesee
Lacie Keesee
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Greece. It is one of the best romantic destinations in the world. I can't get enough of the luxurious whitewashed houses sitting on the caldera cliffs, the amazing view of the Aegean Sea, its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets and the wide range of romantic activities you can do on this volcanic island. The perfect romantic getaway just for two!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is seeing the excitement and reaction from a groom-to-be when everything came together. When the groom is just as excited as their partner to be, it makes it all the more worthwhile to go that extra mile to make sure your clients receive exceptional service from start to end. Knowing that you have done your very best to make their dream destination wedding come true is a memory I will never forget!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for a couple planning a destination wedding would be to select a destination that works for you and your guests, explore the wedding destination in advance, engage in the services of a Destination Wedding Specialist and a Destination Wedding Planner who will work together to create a memorable stress-free celebration. I also recommend creating a wedding website to notify and engage your guests of your "Save the Date" and travel arrangements!
Lars Federhar
Lars Federhar
- Testimonials "Lars was amazing! So helpful, always willing to get on a call and super chill. He made sure to connect us with the right people and always checked in to make sure our needs were being met. We would love to plan future vacations with him because he made everything so smooth. "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I am always up to go anywhere. A relaxing beach vacation is always nice for a getaway, or going to a big city to see the sights is a blast. I love to check out new foods, have new experiences and see whatever a new destination has to offer.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I think my favorite memory from planning a dream celebration is seeing the memories that come out of it. I love to see photos that my couples took and see all the great things they did on their trip. I am always able to take someone's experience and use it for my future clients.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice would be for people planning a destination wedding to relax and enjoy it. You put in all the planning in advance, and once you get on that plane to head to your destination you put your feet up and enjoy the experience, you only get to do this once!
Laurie Warden
Laurie Warden
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I'm a Caribbean girl and you might think I will choose any beautiful Caribbean Island, but the truth is that If I could pick one place to go tomorrow, it would be Rome, Italy! This place is just WOW. I can close my eyes and see myself in the middle of Piazza San Petro admiring the beauty, or tossing coins in Fontana di Trevi (remember, you just have to toss one coin and you will return to Rome)!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Pictures! They make me feel like I not only helped the couple to plan their dreamed wedding, but I was in the celebration with them as well, being part of their happiness.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Enjoy every single step of the wedding planning process. But most important, relax and trust the process. We are here to exceed your expectations!
Leigha Knox
Leigha Knox
- Testimonials "Leigha was great! She was always so attentive to us and our guests. If there was a problem with something, she solved it right away. I would definitely recommend Leigha and DestinationWeddings.com to anyone who is thinking about having a destination wedding. She was always so helpful even from the beginning. During the week of my wedding, some of our guests wanted to stay an extra night and she was able to make that possible for them. She was very transparent with the various resort options and we loved working with her. Thank you so much Leigha!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Singapore to see Gardens by the bay.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory of planning a dream destination was talking to one clients right after a snorkeling in the Bahamas how excited she was that I suggested it.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
First I would say smile and enjoy this experience. Don't get overwhelmed. Talk to family and friends to find out their budget but remember that this is YOUR wedding!
Leslie Morris
Leslie Morris
- Testimonials "From the beginning, Leslie was prompt at responding to my emails and we arranged an initial phone call regarding budget and what our interests were for a wedding. She is very knowledgeable about the different all-inclusive resorts available in different areas. When narrowing down our selections, she was also quick to give us an estimated budget for the particular resorts. Initially, we had excluded Mexico and Leslie looked to other Caribbean islands for us. Then, we expanded our search to include Mexico. Leslie was familiar with many of the resorts, pointing out things that matched our criteria and things that didn't.""Leslie has been a pleasure to correspond with. Her emails were always friendly, her phone calls even more so. When we had narrowed down our choices, she sent wedding information from each resort and put us in touch with wedding coordinators for questions regarding wedding details. She even gave us her own review of a resort we were considering, that she had just gone on vacation to, clearly detailing pros and cons of the resort. ""Leslie Morris was our specialist, she was amazing! Much more helpful, paitent and thoughtful than I could have even hoped for."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
South Pacific, over water bungalow - without question!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my very first weddings, the bride was injured in an ATV accident the day before the wedding and had to be hospitalized briefly with a broken arm and a neck injury. The resort bent over backwards to move the date and re-accommodate the entire wedding. On the new wedding date, almost the entire hotel (staff and guests) came out to see them get married and give them a standing ovation. She said it was the best moment of the day! In the end, they had a wedding they loved, despite the challenges.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
All couples try to be very mindful of accommodating their guests' budgets when looking for a resort. It's very important, however, that price not be the most important determining factor. Typically, guests will be quite willing to pay a little more money to get a good quality resort rather that to pay a little less to stay at a sub-par resort. The "cheapest" option is not always the best option, especially for an important event like your wedding. The other best advice would be no dangerous sports/activities before the wedding (see question #2)!
Letitia Smith
Letitia Smith
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be the Seychelles. I would go island hopping to explore the destination. It has 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off of East Africa. It's home to numerous beaches, coral reefs, nature reserves, as well as rare animals such as giant Aldabra tortoises.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is helping plan a destination wedding celebration for a friend to keep her focus. The couple is having their wedding in Costa Rica and Dreams Las Mareas and I am so excited to witness the couples special day.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
"I would advise a couple that's getting married to give as much detail of their expectations, likes and dislikes so I can offer the best options for them. Leave the stress of planning to your Destination Wedding Specialist.
Lily Carbone
Lily Carbone
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Mexico, as it holds a dear piece of my heart! I love the people and culture. I have made many lifelong friends and still have many places to visit.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favourite memory from planning a Destination Wedding is always the after fact and seeing the pictures of the amazing time they had and how it all came together so beautifully. That always brings tears to my eyes.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples planning a Destination Wedding is to follow their hearts and choose a resort and destination that suits their style and dreams. If they can envision their big day surrounded by family and friends then everyone else will as well
Lina Contreras
Lina Contreras
- Testimonials "Planning a wedding can be a stressful time, especially when you don't know how everything it going to turn out. Our Specialist, Lina, helped ease our worries through this entire experience! I could not have asked for more. Thank you for making this all possible for us.""The service and selection of Destination Weddings is beyond marvelous! My husband James and I cannot put into words how amazing, beautiful, and stress-free our special day was. I am so grateful for our Specialist, Lina! She was beyond supportive with every detail and truly made our day unforgettable. ""Lina was absolutely amazing throughout the whole planning process. We just so happen to procrastinate, but Lina made sure we were always on schedule. She also helped us with some unexpected last minute situations. I cannot say enough about how great Lina was during this experience!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Santorini, Mykonos, Crete - all in Greece!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Selecting the wedding venues with the best sunset, selecting the amazing décor, colors and details for the big day!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
For your wedding, all selections and options will fall into one day, do you best to manage your stress and worries because all will be perfect! It will be a magical day that will hold the best memories forever!
Lindsay Erin-Carter Parker
Lindsay Erin-Carter Parker
- Testimonials "Lindsay was wonderful to work with. She took the time to understand my resort needs, preferences and gave me honest advice. She was there with me from start to finish, with quick response time and I couldn't have planned successfully without her.""We received absolutely stunning service from Lindsay Carter this week. After a pandemic cancelled wedding she was able to lift our spirits and pay attention to every detail regarding our needs. I strongly recommend planning a wedding with her and she was lovely to work with. Thank you Lindsay!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
This is a tricky question... Would I try something new or would I choose a top 5 favourite? For myself I'd probably try something new. Packing for a trip is always exciting, but more exciting when it's to a place that you've never traveled before. However, Cuba is also one of my favourite destinations, also the place I got married. Cuba will forever have my heart.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I haven't planned many, but I'm sure my favorite memories will be the happily ever after from my couples!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
When it comes to destination weddings, you have the added complexity of planning a vacation for you and your guests as well as planning your dream wedding day. That's when a Destination Wedding Specialist (me) becomes invaluable. I will not only advise on the best destinations and venues for your specific needs, but I will also communicate with your guests directly and book all travel arrangements for the entire group. And when emergencies arise or changes need to be made, I'm the person everyone knows to call. Having that level of support during what can be a stressful time for couples makes a huge difference in the overall experience. So my advice to you, is leave on your stresses on me and relax, sit back and enjoy the ride!
Lisa Amrhein
Lisa Amrhein
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
St Lucia!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Experiencing the excitement of the couple; hearing how they met, what their ideal wedding is, etc.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To keep an open mind!
Lisa Barnes
Lisa Barnes
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Mexico is my happy place! I have been several times and looking forward to returning. I love the culture, food, beaches, and incredible resorts. Lots of history to take in and if I feel like some adventure, it is readily available as well.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is from a destination wedding in Jamaica. The groom was a huge fan of a Grammy winning reggae artist who was fortunately based in the area. The bride and I arranged a surprise performance at their reception. It was a lifelong memory for the couple and the guests!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Enlist help! Destination Wedding Specialists have the knowledge and expertise to take the stress out of planning. We are by your side every step of the process.
Lisa Hettinger
Lisa Hettinger
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Negril Jamaica is the destination I love most because I don't have to pack a lot and can totally relax on a 7-mile stretch of beach in a casual way. It's a beach party!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
The huge turnout of guests was a nice surprise to the bride and groom. They LOVED the beach setting, tropical flowers, and reception, so their pictures were just beautiful!!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Pre-check with your family and friends; can they attend your destination wedding if this is what you decide to do? Having these special people at your wedding is always very important. Pre-planning as much as possible in order to get the resort and wedding date you want is very important too!
Lisa Johnson
Lisa Johnson
Lisa Mealer
Lisa Mealer
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Riviera Maya!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would be planning and attending one of my client's 90th birthday celebrations in Los Cabo, Mexico.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Always use a Travel Specialist. We help you make memorable, enjoyable celebrations you will never forget.
Lori Boggs Abel
Lori Boggs Abel
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Visiting Italy is my top destination that I plan to visit. It's not just one area that I am interested in, but the whole country really. I would start off by visiting the Lake Como area and the beautiful mountains surrounding it. Then, I would take a train to Tuscany where I would indulge in the world famous wineries, while seeing the winding roads lined by cypress trees. My next stop would be Florence because of the historical sites and the golden hour. Finally, the Amalfi Coast with its terraced gardens along the entire coastline.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration was the collaboration between the bride and groom and their wedding photographer & videographer. Instead of capturing only the day of, they chose to go above and beyond and have the vendors ``follow" them throughout their stay and capture ALL the fabulous moments. They captured the warm embrace of family and friends arriving on property, volleyball in the pool, late night dancing, catamaran cruise and snorkeling and so much more. The video turned out amazing and really displayed the fun loving nature of the bride and groom.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Choose a destination that best captures your own desires. Remember, although it's important to ensure your guests have a great experience, do not over extend yourselves with details that are often overlooked and undervalued, after all that's why you are having a destination wedding. Secondly, there may be family and friends that will not be able to attend, but for those that can make it, they will leave with lifelong experiences & memories they will cherish for a lifetime.
Lynda Edwards
Lynda Edwards
- Testimonials "Lynda Edwards is wonderful! She really helped us out and made it very quick and easy for us to book a honeymoon last minute.""Lynda was wonderful, extremely supportive, and made herself very available to us. We felt like she was genuinely interested in our wedding, and she was a constant advocate for us when dealing with the resorts."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Home is where the heart is, so I would want to go back to the islands of my youth and enjoy the magic of a Caribbean sunset and the beauty of an island sunrise in Jamaica.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It is hard to choose just one. The Caribbean is made up of islands with histories from the great nations of Europe, while we are as diverse and cultured as any of our European forefathers; we just live life at a slower pace and a more laid back style under a palm tree. The magic of the Caribbean islands can be found in the ripple of a wave, the gentle undulation of the island breeze cooling you, the rhythmic sounds of the drums pulsing through the air and the most welcoming, gentle smiles of the people who open their arms in invitation for you to relax, unwind and enjoy the Caribbean vibe.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
In filling out their profile, most couples are not sure what they want or how much they need to spend, so I find that speaking with the couple helps me to get a clearer picture of what they are looking for and give them some viable options to choose from based on their wants, needs and budget. It is important to recognize what the difference is between wants and needs and to make decisions together. I work for the couple, I don't work for a resort, tour operator or airline; my main focus is on them and making their vision for their dream wedding in paradise, a reality. Once the couple select the resort for their wedding, I introduce them to the on-site wedding coordinator, but I don't leave it at that. I encourage them to include me in all the emails. As I say, two sets of eyes are better than one and I will be able to help them make decisions about things that they do not necessarily need based on my experience. My role as travel coordinator for wedding guests is to ensure that all travel planning goes smoothly. I'm here to help make my couple's wedding experience picture perfect and their life stress-free. I do have a lot of travel experience helping couples plan their big day, and I'm here as their guide and facilitator to help everything go smoothly for them and for their guests.
Maddy Chadwell
Maddy Chadwell
- Testimonials "Our Specialist was amazing at understanding what we wanted and getting us the best deals possible. We had to re-schedule our wedding/travel due to an accident, and she helped us with all the changes and made it possible for us to have our perfect wedding plans."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
New Zealand!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Having a couple email me and telling me I picked the perfect spot for them.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Be considerate of your guests and pick a resort that will work within your guest's budget.
Maggie Elles
Maggie Elles
- Testimonials "When I say Maggie is/was great, SHE WAS GREAT! I contacted DW for my family trip/wedding vacation and I had so many questions and stress, but Maggie made it so easy for me! She made sure all my guests received reminder emails and that I received all the info I needed to get going on my trip. I would definitely use this website again and love to work with Maggie on future trips!""Thank you to Maggie for helping us have the best day ever!! Our wedding day was amazing!""Destination Weddings made planning our wedding in Punta Cana effortless! Maggie Elles was absolutely amazing every step of the way. She truly went above and beyond to make sure that we were comfortable with the decisions we made and followed up on them. I would highly recommend DW to anyone looking to plan a destination wedding!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Germany to tour the entire country. I love learning about the history and the past Royals of European countries. I am always fascinated with the beautiful castles in Germany. They remind me of a romantic fairytale!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
After the wedding, a bride sent me photos of everyone dancing on the dance floor on the beach. Everyone was having such a good time and there were a lot of smiles and laughter. I was so happy to see that all the hard work that was put into this wedding was truly being enjoyed by everyone.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Try to give your guests as much time as you can to prepare logistically and financially to come enjoy the festivities of your wedding day. The extra time will allow those attending to truly enjoy themselves. Of course, you want to make sure everyone has a great time, but in the end, it is your wedding day. Therefore, make sure you are doing everything that makes you happy as well.
Marcia Perkins
Marcia Perkins
- Testimonials "Thank you, Destination Weddings, and most importantly my planner Marcia Perkins. It was great working with Marcia. She was super patient with all of my questions during the planning process. She was so professional always! Once we signed the contract, we were able to contact her whenever needed and she was on point answering back to emails, calls, changes, and concerns. Absolutely recommend Marcia without hesitation! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!""Marcia Perkins has been amazing to work with in the planning of our dream wedding! We were able to secure a fantastic, beach front location at a rate we never would have gotten on our own. We started this process over a year ago, and she has been very responsive, while working with us and our guests to ensure all of our needs are met."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Iceland as I love the outdoors. The beauty of the Northern Lights, to have a chance to see the glacier, ride an Icelandic Pony and to see the beautiful Geyser and to swim in the Blue Lagoon is just a little piece of heaven for me!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my weddings at Beaches Ocho Rio...the groom called me from his Honeymoon at Sandals Negril...he was in the Millionaire Suite...The groom said the wedding was over the top and the honeymoon is a piece of heaven and he does not want to come home. He said everything was over the top. Then I think Job well done! I have booked his family and friends for the last 2 years on his anniversary at Beaches Turks and Cacios!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To go with your dream as this is your wedding, stay clear to the vision as many of your guests will want to plan your wedding with their vision of your wedding
Marcia S. Wallach
Marcia S. Wallach
- Testimonials "Thank you, Marcia, for your recommendation and all of your help along the way. Everything worked out perfectly! ""Thank you so much for all of your help with planning our wedding! It was everything we wanted and more! From the time we got there we were very impressed by the people, the food and the resort. We cannot wait to return!""Thank you very much! Things were fantastic! Our wedding was a great time. The resort was perfect and the service was excellent."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to go to Africa on safari. I love animals and exploring new destinations. My dream has always been to go and explore!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Getting a phone call from a bride and groom when they landed to make their connection going home to thank me for everything. Their wedding far exceeded their expectations!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Talk to your friends and family and make sure that you are all on the same page. You want to encourage all your guests to book a room as soon as possible to make sure they get the room they prefer for the dates they want to travel.
Maria Nikitiadis
Maria Nikitiadis
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It is hard to pick just one destination. I would love a trip around the world! My love for travel is due the fact that I love learning and exploring new cultures and experiencing new sites, sounds and tastes and traditions. If I had to pick just one, then I would have to choose Australia. Its unique culture, beautiful landscape and wildlife make it a must see for me.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination wedding is always the feedback from not only the couples but from their family and friends. The excitement and joy is contagious and the memories that I help create brings me much happiness and fulfillment.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best piece of advice I have for the couples is not to sweat the small things. Enjoy the moment and take it all in, give yourselves a quiet moment after the ceremony and enjoy the love that surrounds you because in the end, that is what you will remember.
Marissa Balloo
Marissa Balloo
- Testimonials "Marissa is amazing! So helpful, knowledgeable, and very prompt. Would highly recommend to anyone planning a destination wedding!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination that I could jet off to tomorrow, it would have to be the Maldives!If I could pick one destination that I could jet off to tomorrow, it would have to be the Maldives!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebratio
My favorite memory of planning a destination wedding has to be telling a bride that the date she picked for her ceremony, and hotel stays were all available.What's your best piece of advice for
If I could give one piece of advice to a couple planning their dream wedding, it would have to be choose what you want and what you enjoy. It's your day!
Marlene Johnson
Marlene Johnson
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Maldives, where I hear the sand is as white as the smiles of the local faces and the fishes swim happily in the warm Indian Ocean.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory would be my third wedding, I remember it so well, from the first initial call to when they returned home. My bride was young, savvy and knew what she wanted, as if she planned her wedding from a little child. After she came home to my surprise I saw a review from her on Facebook, raving about the wonders of her fairytale wedding. I began to sweat while reading more, it was like reading a good book, but I could not wait to get to the end. Everything was perfect, she stated and I was the best Travel agent and the only one she will ever work with and she kept her word. Time and time again I continue to plan their vacation.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I would advise my bride, to make their wedding about both themselves, also not to be afraid to express who they are when planning. I would advise also to keep a diary when planning and make this an adventure together, as this is the first start of their lives together.
Mary Ann Santana
Mary Ann Santana
- Testimonials "We worked with Mary Ann Santana and she was phenomenal. She made sure we knew the details of our contract, helped make sure our guests questions were answered and was always so positive with me during our conversations (even when I was SUPER stressed)!""Mary Ann is really down to earth and lets you know everything up front. Looking for destinations on my own with absolutely no knowledge of the places was very stressful. If you are like me and don't already know where you want your wedding, work with Mary Ann asap!!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Italy! I just jetted off to Spain, which was absolutely amazing. The art, history, architecture and food are just jaw dropping. Now, #1 on my bucket list is Italy so I can immerse myself in the Italian art, architecture, culture and cuisine. I am especially drawn to Tuscany and Florence. I'd love to visit the Uffizi Gallery, to awe over the beautiful Italian Renaissance art, take in the scenic country sides, and enjoy the delicious food and wines. Heck, I'm even open to staying in an Agriturismo working farm, to get a true taste of Tuscan country life!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My absolute favorite memory was planning my parents dream 50th wedding anniversary celebration. Just seeing the joy in Mom's eyes, hearing the excitement in her voice each time we discussed details, such as hotel accommodations, guests, flowers, etc. Everyone has a dream no matter how big or small. Being a part of helping someone live out their dream is always an awesome experience.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Breathe, and take it all in, yes ALL includes the planning phase! Have a date in mind, talk to family as to their willingness to travel, do some brainstorming—what do you love about weddings? What do you hate? What do you want? I 'm sure that dream wedding has always been in the back of your head. Realize that yes; you can have the wedding of YOUR dreams. It's your day! Simply, let your combination of your dreams, wants and wishes, (along with my assistance every step of the way) come together seamlessly to organically create the most memorable event of your life—YOUR wedding!
Mary Cunningham
Mary Cunningham
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Anywhere warm and tropical with a great beach, pool and food! I work hard and am busy with my children, so when I can get away, I just want to relax with a good book and a great view.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Working with a bride named Courtney. She was so nice and excited about her wedding. It was fun to help her plan her special day and make her dream a reality!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Remember that this is your day. Think about what's most important to the two of you. You can't please everyone, so think about what matters most to you. Those that love you and want to celebrate this day will be there with you and for you no matter where it is.
Mary J Brown
Mary J Brown
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I am partial to the U.S. Virgin Islands, specifically St. Thomas and St. John. I've traveled to dozens of destinations around the world but this is the one place that I've come back to time and time again. Sometimes you travel somewhere and it just feels like home. I love the people, the food, the energy and the beaches are breathtaking.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My repeat client got engaged this past summer on a vacation I planned. It warmed my heart. I genuinely enjoy the role I play in helping clients make long-lasting memories.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I like to begin by having the couple envision their dream wedding. What do they see? What do you hear, feel, smell, etc? Really, just consider every detail that makes them smile and feel satisfied. This is your day and my goal is to help you make your dreams come true. One pitfall I see in planning celebratory destination travel are clients that make plans to meet the wishes of their family/friends instead of following their heart and fulfilling their own dreams for the event.
Maryann Bonilla
Maryann Bonilla
- Testimonials "We had an amazing time and lifetime memory now locked in thanks to Maryann. The hotel, flights and wedding coordinator were outstanding. Maryann went over everything with us and our package was flawless."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off tomorrow to any destination, I think I would choose Greece. It is full of such history, culture, amazing food and wonderful people. You can combine amazing architectural sightseeing adventures with incredible shopping and unique dining experiences. Plus, for beach lovers like me, there are many beautiful beaches to relax and enjoy.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration would be when I once helped this couple who thought they would never be able to decide on the perfect location because they had family who shot down every idea they had. I was able to encourage them and offer them great options that ended up pleasing the wedding couple and all of their guests, and they were so appreciative. I was so glad to be able to use my expertise in booking wedding groups to help lessen the burden for the wedding couple. I love my job, and I love helping couples through this sometimes stressful process.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples planning a destination wedding would be to always remember this is YOUR special day. The most challenging part of the process normally is choosing the right destination and hotel for your wedding and all your guests. You definitely need to keep this in mind, however, remember that the resort you are choosing is also your wedding venue and you want to choose something that will give you the wedding of your dreams and at the end of the day you will not be able to suit everyone's tastes and budgets alike.
Melinda Shelley
Melinda Shelley
- Testimonials "Melinda went above and beyond to help us whenever she could. This beautiful day couldn't have happened without her and I appreciate her being there for us!""From start to finish Destination Weddings and Melinda Shelley were fantastic! Always on top of everything and very informative! Having her take care of the details were very helpful and was stress free. ""Melinda was such a great help and I'm so incredibly thankful I had her to help me plan everything. Such a happy personality and so easy going, she was a pleasure to talk to. She managed all of my guest's questions (and trust me, they had a ton!). She would explain the same information to me numerous times when I asked without hesitation or frustration. If she didn't have an answer for me, she was very quick to get me one. Melinda was phenomenal!""We had a wonderful experience throughout the process of our destination wedding. Melinda made the process so simple for us as bride and groom and our guests attending the wedding."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, I would pick Riviera Maya and stay at El Dorado Maroma. It is located on Maroma Beach, one of the top 10 beaches in the world! I would love to stay in the Palafitos Overwater Bungalows. They are the first over-water bungalows in Mexico! Their private infinity pool, glass-bottom floor, and butler services sound amazing to me!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration took place at Dreams Los Cabos. My husband and I brought 30 of our family and friends and had the beach wedding of our dreams! We were married at sunset, which provided the perfect backdrop for some amazing and dramatic photos, including a "trash the dress" session. The resort, staff and wedding coordinator could not have made our day any more special!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for a couple planning a destination wedding is to make sure that you communicate with your Destination Wedding Specialist exactly what vision you have for your perfect day. You should also have fun planning your wedding and relax. Have faith that your Destination Wedding Specialist will help you plan the wedding of your dreams! Another piece of advice that I will give to all couples is the importance of photography. You will be in a beautiful location on the most special day of your life. Make sure your photographer captures every moment. Your photos will be priceless!
Melissa Marienau
Melissa Marienau
- Testimonials "Melissa is incredible! She was very responsive and took the time to answer my many questions. I never felt like I was bothering her and I could tell she genuinely wanted to help us find our dream venue. She went above and beyond every step of the way. I would highly recommend her to anyone. ""Melissa is AMAZING!!! She provided the information regarding different destinations freaky fast! She was unbiased but honest with us, and her communication was very timely! Thank you Melissa for helping us and being available to answer my million questions!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Jamaica! I had my own amazing destination wedding there, and I absolutely love the people, the experience and the hospitality.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I once had a couple who thought they knew what resort they wanted, but after talking with them about their needs and wants, I encouraged them to look at a few alternative options. They stayed open minded, checked them out, and were thrilled with one of the alternative options. They were extremely grateful and so much happier with the resort that they chose!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't let naysayers get you down! After experiencing (and paying for) a traditional wedding most couples admit that they wish they would have had a destination wedding. Even family members who aren't thrilled with your decision always come around once they get to the resort and start enjoying themselves.
Melissa Shah
Melissa Shah
- Testimonials "We are so happy that we decided to choose Destination Weddings to help us plan our wedding, and even happier that we had Melissa Shah as our Specialist! She was very informative throughout the entire process and always made herself available when needed. It was very comforting to know that Melissa is highly knowledgeable in planning weddings and destination travel. She worked endlessly to help us create the most beautiful day of our lives. ""Melissa helped us select a great location and a date that worked within our budget. Our travels went off without a hitch and I can attribute a great deal to that to Melissa's efforts and excellent planning. ""Melissa does an awesome job of providing options based on the parameters provided. She is patient, understanding and just a pleasure to work with. We also loved how she is eager to share the experience of her previous clients to ensure we felt informed on the decision being made - with the most authentic and up to date information."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would choose to jet off to Spain! I absolutely love the architecture, music, lifestyle, culture, people and of course food! Tapas Si! There is so much to do and see. It is a trip everyone should take at least once.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration is when a bride had no idea where to go for their honeymoon. I suggested Aruba, as they had never been. When they returned, I received so many good reviews and compliments on the planning, the trip itself, and how happy they were. I was so grateful I was able to help them plan a dream destination celebration! They loved it so much, they decided they would go every year for their anniversary!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My biggest advice to couples planning a destination wedding, is to be excited! This is an exciting time for you and your guests. Have understanding, patience, and remain positive throughout the planning process. Enjoy every moment, and cherish the lasting memories that are created; life is too short not to enjoy every day, no matter what comes our way.
Michele Thornburg
Michele Thornburg
- Testimonials "Michele Thornberg was very helpful and attentive, always replying quickly to emails.""Michele worked with my brother on his destination wedding and did a wonderful job. Michele helped me to find the country we wanted to travel to, the resort to stay with and helped us to get bonus perks for booking our group block. She was always very quick and thorough in her responses and truly made the initial planning and support following seamless.""Michelle was pleasant to deal with and all of the expectations on this wedding were met or exceeded."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Cancun or Riviera Maya Mexico. After traveling to many locations in the Caribbean, I find this area to have the best service, food, activities, and value. The staff at the resorts treats you like family.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memories are beginning with a couple who have no idea of where or what they want in a wedding. Helping them chose a resort and wedding package and seeing their plans and dreams come to fruition is wonderful. I truly enjoy seeing their happy photos and hearing how their wedding could not have been any more perfect.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
After being a Destination Wedding Specialist for almost 10 years, my best advice to a couple is to keep it simple. Take advantage of included or reasonably priced wedding packages offered by the resorts and avoid trying to customize the wedding package and being heavily involved in all of the little details. Trust the professionals at the resort to handle your decorating, table placement, and settings.
Michelle Haluschak
Michelle Haluschak
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I were to jet away tomorrow, it would definitely be to Hawaii. The warm climate, the surrounding beauty, waterfalls, volcanoes, sandy beaches, and the ocean just steps away! Hawaii is known for the most ideal climate all year round, and even when it rains during the rainy season, it is usually for a short time in the afternoon, and after the rain the most magical rainbows appear everywhere!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory for planning a dream destination celebration was taking 51 people to Jamaica for a wedding. Everything was absolutely wonderful, from the time we boarded the plane until the time we arrived home a week later. The staff at the resort was absolutely amazing, they all remembered us as the ‘Canadian group traveling together,' they had several contests with us as part of the entertainment shows, the wedding was absolutely gorgeous, not one hiccup, and after leaving the resort and arranging our time in Club Mobay on our return, the resort staff had already told them we were coming, so the staff were waiting for us with a tower of drinks made in the Jamaican colors! Everyone agreed it was one of the best trips ever!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice to a couple planning a destination wedding is to be realistic with your wants and needs for your budgeting purposes. Remember, it is your special day and ultimately your decision on where to go, and making your memories be as special as the day itself. Do not choose a destination and resort based on what you think your guest can afford, but rather on what you both want out of your wedding/honeymoon/vacation. If you choose what is appealing to you, everything else will fall into place, and your guests will also enjoy the experience because it is what you have chosen to be special for you. Remember you get what you pay for!
Michelle Vuong
Michelle Vuong
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I have so many countries on my bucket list! But, at this moment, I would go to Fiji! The trip would be a perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, while being surrounded by the island's natural beauty.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory of planning a dream destination celebration is seeing all the beautiful pictures after they return and hearing all about their trip. It's such a great feeling to know that I can help make their dream trips come true!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Plan a destination wedding that YOU want, not one that best fits your family and friends. At the end of the day, the wedding celebration is for YOU! The people who absolutely want to be present will make it happen!
Mimi Conjar
Mimi Conjar
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Croatia with my husband and 3 kids. We love the beach (we live in Panama City Beach, FL) and my husband's family is from Croatia! I hear the food and scenery are unparalleled.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Stay positive and organized. Make sure you read through the detailed emails and contracts so nothing slips through the cracks! When in doubt, reach out to me and I'll do my best to eliminate your stress!
Mina Landry
Mina Landry
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet back to Jamaica or Costa Rica. I love that in each destination you can go from soft, sandy beaches to hiking in lush rainforests to experience some of the best waterfalls on earth!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I absolutely love working with my couples to ensure that their destination celebration is a unique and personal event for them and their friends and family. It's most rewarding to see and hear all the happiness and excitement of the couple and guests from seeing the resort for the first time, experiencing the excursions, and having all their family and friends fly in to help them celebrate their special day.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Have fun with the process and remember to include group activities. Everyone is there for the experience, so add personal touches and events to make it memorable!
Mindi Phillips
Mindi Phillips
- Testimonials "Great agents = great result! Having an agent that is prompt, to the point, and gets what you need done is priceless. Mindi was a perfect match for us and made our process much easier. Highly recommend!""Mindi was very responsive, knowledgeable, and she has great relationships with resorts. Any time I had a question or concern, she was very thorough in her answers to make me feel more at ease. From choosing a resort, to going over the contract, to communicating with me throughout the day of my wedding (and after), Mindi was fantastic. I love working with Destination Weddings! I would recommend this company to any bride wishing for a smooth wedding process!""Mindi was very easy to contact to get a quote for our room so we could attend my friend's wedding. The payment process was easy and Mindi did a wonderful job sending us all the information needed for our trip and even helped us with a suggested packing list. I highly recommend her!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Picking one destination is so hard. I have so many locations that I love for various reasons. Some beach destinations that I love are Negril for the amazing sunsets, St Lucia reminds me of Hawaii with the Piton Mountains, and I just love the beaches and water in Turks and Caicos. As far as Europe, I love Dublin. It has a great nightlife with so many pubs to listen to music and I also love walking around looking at the colorful doors. I love Paris for the amazing food and shopping. Finally, there is Italy; I just love the coastal regions and also Tuscany -- oh, and the gelato!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Obviously, I love seeing the couple's vision of their wedding day come to life. But one of the things that I really cherish is meeting my clients in person. I often travel with my couples to oversee all the wedding related activities while in destination and recently, I was in the lobby when one of the guests arrived. She came running over to me to give me a big hug and said, "it is so nice to meet you in person, I feel like I have known you forever!" It all comes back to building relationships with the people you are working with.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
I tell couples all the time when starting this process that family and friends are all going to have an opinion. You, as the couple, need to make a list of what is going to be important to YOU and communicate that wish list to your Destination Wedding Specialist. We are here to help you create the wedding of your dreams! For your guests, make sure they have enough planning time to be able to attend. Guests may need time to get passports, save money, request time off work and find someone to watch the kids. Finally, enjoy this special time with those that are there to celebrate with you!
Monica Castorela
Monica Castorela
- Testimonials "She provided me with excellent service in every aspect of what one would hope for from a travel agency. She provided clear and concise communications over the past year for a wedding I was supposed to attend in Cancun. She was very attentive and quick to respond to any questions I had.""From the start, Monica was responsive and catered to our needs completely. She helped us select the best resort and always made sure she updated us. I had a million questions along the way and no matter the time of day, I would always hear back from her promptly. It was honestly the most efficient process and I would hands down recommend this service and Monica 100 times over! Thank you for making our day such a success. We truly could not have done it without you!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I love traveling and getting to know new places and cultures! Some of my favorite places are Australia, St. Lucia, and Mexico. For a quick romantic getaway, I love Riviera Maya, Mexico. It combines stunning beaches, unparalleled culture, adventure, and romance. I love staying at the Rosewood Mayakoba in one of their Lagoon suites. The entire resort is built around lagoons and mangroves and has amazing architecture. I love relaxing in the suite's private plunge pool while ordering in-room breakfast. For lunch, I really enjoy exploring the paths of the resort by using their complimentary bikes and visit El Pueblito to eat in an authentic Mexico City eatery. At night, I love dining onboard a trajinera boat...super romantic!!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of the first destination weddings I planned was for a couple living in NY. They had met in Europe and both were living in the United States but, their families lived in different countries and did not speak a common language. The couple wanted a beach wedding, a non-religious ceremony that would somehow be "language free." The bride's dream was to have her grandmother attending her wedding, thus she needed a wheelchair-accessible hotel. I suggested a small boutique hotel right by the Caribbean Sea. The hotel was composed by standalone villas with private pools and outdoor showers. A very romantic hotel, with a local flavor! The hotel was able to make some arrangements on the beach so her grand mom could attend a heartwarming Mayan ceremony that took place with the ocean as background. Perfect for them! After they returned home, I received a very touching letter from her grandmother thanking me for giving her the chance to see her granddaughter gett married and for giving her the opportunity to feel the sand and see the ocean once more.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
When choosing a destination for your wedding and when planning the details, keep in mind this is YOUR special day. It is ok to think about your guests, but keep in mind that you will never be able to please everyone. This day is about you and your fiancée!
Nancy Litwiller
Nancy Litwiller
- Testimonials "Nancy was very friendly, efficient and helpful. I found the information she provided to be useful.""We had fantastic communication with Nancy, she was a tremendous force for both us and for all of our guests. She went well above and beyond our expectations and everyone is still raving about how much she did for them and how amazing her service was.""I was extremely impressed with the service and attention to detail that was provided by Nancy from the beginning. The services were top notch throughout the whole process. Nancy was consistently available to answer endless questions from us and our wedding guests and was able to organize a large group of 53 people travelling from multiple locations in Canada and the United States. She found us a beautiful resort that was within everyone's price range and allowed for options for everyone!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could jet off tomorrow, I would go to St Lucia; the island is so beautiful with the Piton Mountains and rain forest.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
We had two months to put everything together, we talked almost every day. After the wedding, they came home and sent me the pictures of the celebration and told me how beautiful it was. I would have to say that's my favorite memory!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Don't sweat the small stuff. In every wedding, something is bound to go the opposite of what you planned for. Try not to let it bother you and enjoy the day for what it is. Your fabulous wedding day!
Nancy Yeomans
Nancy Yeomans
- Testimonials "Nancy Yeomans has been wonderful and an essential part of making our trip to Mexico easier. "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Paris, always Paris. The food, museums, architecture, wine (of course) and yes, even the people, are just magical to me. I get giddy when I know that I have a trip to Paris in my future!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Paris, always Paris. The food, museums, architecture, wine (of course) and yes, even the people, are just magical to me. I get giddy when I know that I have a trip to Paris in my future!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Mostly, don't get too caught up in the details. Napkin color, chair covers, etc. are very minor in the grand scheme of things. You will be in a gorgeous spot with all the people you care about surrounding you. That's what really matters and the rest will work itself out.
Natalie Bradford
Natalie Bradford
- Testimonials "Natalie Bradford was easy to work with and very kind.""Natalie Bradford, exceptional - saved our wedding from the hurricane!""Natalie was extremely responsive whether it was a phone call or an email. She always made sure to answer our questions in a timely fashion so we could inform our guests. Better yet, one of the biggest things we were thankful for was coordination of our guests not being a responsibility for us! Natalie made sure from day one the planning process was easy!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick a destination to jet off to tomorrow it would have to be St. Lucia! It's a small, tropical island in the Caribbean with beautiful beaches and a magical landscape. The island provides the opportunity for relaxing as well as adventure and exciting activities. The climate is incredible, between 70-90 degrees with tradewinds yearround, so it's never too hot or cold. There are opportunities for hiking in the rainforest, seeing an active volcano and photography opportunities abound. The water activities are equally exciting with sailing, paddle boarding, snorkeling and many organized activities such as charter fishing and scuba diving. The waters around St. Lucia are teaming with colorful tropical fish!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was when my couple and their whole wedding had to be moved because a hurricane destroyed the resort they were going to be married at. This sounds like a disaster, but it turned out beautifully, giving the couple their first big challenge! This was an amazing couple who I encouraged to move their wedding before we were told their destroyed resort wouldn't reopen. They trusted my experience to move forward and find a new location. We moved them and their 70 guests to Puerto Vallarta from Cabo San Lucas to a sister property there. The wedding coordinator was incredible, which made this process go much smoother. When the couple returned home they wrote and let me know they had the most wonderful wedding in the world. All of their guests had a great experience and the couple was thankful they followed my advice to move their wedding before the resorts in Puerto Vallarta all became totally booked.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
There will be stressful times ahead, but remember to look toward each other for support. Let this experience be a happy time, so at your Golden Anniversary you'll look at photos of your destination wedding, reliving fond memories. I would encourage them to rely on their Destination Wedding Specialist, trust in their Specialist's judgment and experience and just have fun with the process!
Natalie Hogue
Natalie Hogue
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could go anywhere tomorrow, I would pick Jamaica. The beach in general is one of my favorite places to be, and where can you be more relaxed than in Jamaica? I love the crystal-blue waters that are as calm as a lake, and I love that I can be waited on hand and foot at any all-inclusive property there, but my choice would be Couples Negril. Plus, it's not a long flight to get to Jamaica, and I could be there by noon!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my favorite memories from planning a dream destination celebration is when I worked with a couple adult children that wanted to send their parents to an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica for their anniversary. I just thought it was so sweet of them to do that, and it was fun planning it with them since it was a surprise!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding is for them to choose something that THEY want, not their guests! This is their day, and it is the one time they deserve to be selfish and do it for them. They will not be able to please everyone, but if the couple is happy, then everyone will be happy.
Nikki Hume
Nikki Hume
- Testimonials "Very good service from Nikki Hume. Prompt responses, easy to reach, knowledgeable and enthusiastic.""Nikki Hume was very helpful and friendly,""Very good service from Nikki Hume. Prompt responses, easy to reach, knowledgeable and enthusiastic."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My answers keep changing year per year as I look into more and more destinations! For now, I would pick up and take off to anywhere in Europe. I haven't been and it's something I have wanted to do my whole life, going over for a month and getting to see five or six countries with the rustic old European charm. It's fascinating to me how they live their lives so simple and are so happy with the little things, without all the stress that we have here in North America. It's my goal in the next two years to take this journey with my husband!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It's the couples that make my job and my journey with them fun and exciting. I have worked with some amazing couples over the last couple years and i wouldn't change anything about any of them. They are not always perfect, however it's our journey together that we take planning their wedding that makes up for it. When they get back and I hear all about the great things, and how happy they were on their special day, it really does make my job worthwhile...I have the best job and I can't think of doing anything else!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Do research before and make a list of what is very important to you...don't sweat the small stuff; everything comes together in the end. When it comes to a budget, speak to your family members and friends and see what they can afford. Try to be realistic with your expectations. Going away for $1000 is fine for a last minute trip but very hard to do when you want a four or five star hotel for 40 guests. Start with one destination that you really like or love, and we can always choose other options if the price or hotels don't work. It can be very overwhelming if you are requesting 5 different islands at once. Finally, trust us! We do this all the time, some of us have planned over 50 or 60 weddings. We know the hotels, budgets and the coordinators in destination that will work best with you; it is our job to help make this journey as stress-free and enjoyable as possible!
Padmani King
Padmani King
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Bora Bora. The lush, tropical and exotic location would be the perfect destination to unwind, slow down and enjoy nature's beauty.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory of planning a dream destination wedding was attending my very own destination wedding! Being dressed as a bride, walking down to the beach and seeing my husband waiting for me was pure magic! All the planning, preparation and anxiety that goes into planning a wedding vanished at that very instant. It's a memory I will never forget and will always cherish.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice to couples planning a destination wedding would be to ask questions and use your resource, your Specialist! We are there to make sure the dream wedding you've envisioned becomes a reality.
Pam Van Luven
Pam Van Luven
- Testimonials "We cannot say enough good things about our specialist, Pam. Everyone who attended had an amazing time. Thank you so much for all your support and advice.""Pam is a fabulous travel expert! Pam is patient, responsive and understanding, and always has the traveler's requests in mind. I'd definitely recommend Pam's services and will be reaching out to her again for any future travel needs."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Hawaii…I have always been fascinated with this beautiful Island and Volcanos surrounding the state. I think it would be a very exciting adventure going there and experiencing the culture, food and scenery.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was planning a destination wedding for a couple going to Punta Cana. The couple was all booked and going to a very pricey (but amazing!) resort. Shortly after all the guests were booked, the bride called me crying and very upset that they were going to have to cancel their wedding due to unforeseen financial reasons. I assured her we can work something out so you can still have your dream wedding. I quickly spoke to the Tour Operator and found them a cheaper hotel which was still a 5-star property. She was hesitant at first, but I assured her this hotel would be just as fabulous! We changed all the guests over to the new hotel which they were all happy for, as it saved them money. The couple contacted me the day they returned to tell me that the hotel and wedding exceeded their dreams! They were so happy. Just hearing how happy they were that everything worked out in the end made all the extra planning worth it!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My advice would be to come into this experience with an open mind….trust that I will find you what you are looking for. Relax and let me take care of your travel needs so that you can focus on your other important details. I love weddings, and I will ensure you are happy all the way through the process!
Pamela Gramling
Pamela Gramling
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Bora Bora/Tahiti has always been a dream destination for me with its beautiful beaches, culture, etc.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my favorite memories is a father of the groom who was so resistant and disturbed about traveling to Mexico. By the time he returned, he was so thankful to me in assisting his daughter and son in law with their destination wedding because he had the time of his life! He raved about his trip and said it was a dream for them all to be together for 4 days in celebration surrounded by their loved ones and was far better than a 5 hour wedding celebration at home. He even looks forward to a return visit in the near future!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Set a realistic budget of what you expect your guests will pay to attend your wedding, from there, I will guide you along the journey in making resort suggestions that are a good 'fit' for your group. The hardest part of the process is choosing the right resort for you, it's simple after that, and we will always be there for you.
Pamela Wieder-Bier
Pamela Wieder-Bier
- Testimonials "Pam was awesome and very helpful.""Pamela Wieder-Bier has been my family and I's travel agent for our upcoming trip to Jamaica. We are going because of my brother's wedding. She has gone above and beyond to change our dates and find us the best available pricing. Her positive attitude and willingness to do hard work have been a breath of fresh air- especially in the travel industry. You need more Pamela Wieder-Bier's at Destination Weddings.""Pam Wieder-Bier was hands down the best ever! She is patient, attentive and very fast at responding to any of our requests. For anyone else looking to book your destination wedding, she is the one to come to!!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Oh, so many places, so little time! I would say if I had to pick and I wanted to relax I would choose Jamaica! I love that Island, and its people. It's friendly, relaxed, and familiar. It offers so many different things, you can do it all or nothing at all and still be content! Mexico is a VERY close second though!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was planning the very first wedding on the Island at the new "Couples Tower Isle." I was working with a lovely couple and the resort CLOSED for renovations! They postponed the wedding for 7 months, while the resort was to renovate. I was informed that the resort was not going to open until April 12; the wedding was on April 7. Well, working with the resort, I was able to have the wedding party stay at Couples San Souci, and still have the actual wedding take place on the Island as scheduled! The resorts were more than helpful in getting everything taken care of the right way and the wedding was beautiful!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice is to remember, this is YOUR wedding. It isn't anyone else's. You don't want to be stressing over things. Yes, cost is important, but so is VALUE for your dollar. Sometimes you have to look a little closer, and ALWAYS have FUN with this. It is a joyful time in your life, let's try and keep it that way!
Paula Joseph
Paula Joseph
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Cancun/Riviera Maya, Mexico because they have amazing resorts to choose from, beautiful beaches, yummy food/drinks and the service staff does a wonderful job taking care of you. It is relaxing and entertaining. Each resort has multiple restaurants to choose from for meals throughout the day, and a variety of food is one of my favorite things while on vacation. There is also entertainment in the evenings and I enjoy booking a spa visit to increase my relaxation. Lastly, I check availability to do activities away from the resort like golf, shopping or swimming with the dolphins.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I enjoy helping families and friends plan their wonderful trips. These can be memories of a lifetime. I helped plan a trip for two friends turning 50 to Cancun, Mexico. They had others joining them from all over the United States and they had never stayed at an all-inclusive resort before and were amazed at all the wonderful amenities. The resort gave them a complimentary cabana on the beach for the day to enjoy with their friends. They also received special acknowledgement at lunch and dinner for their celebrations. They shared pictures of their trip when they returned and were so grateful for the information I had shared.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Communication is key. Share all your wedding dreams and desires with your travel consultant and resort wedding coordinator. This is your special day and you should be surrounded by the ones you wish to include. Do not sweat the small stuff and focus on the true meaning of your day.
Pebbles Cuevas Ulloa
Pebbles Cuevas Ulloa
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would live to pick up my bags and just go to Hawaii! My recent trip there left me wanting to experience more. Hawaii is rich and culture and just beautiful everywhere you turn.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favourite memory has been talking to all of my couples a few days after the wedding and just hearing how happy they are; hearing their smiles over the phone truly is a wonderful feeling after a year of planning!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Take it day by day! Everything will slowly come together for your big day!
Penny Nollenberger
Penny Nollenberger
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Cancun/Riviera Maya, Mexico. It is my favorite place to relax and enjoy an all-inclusive resort. It is easy to get to with beautiful beaches, water, resorts, people and a lot of fun things to do!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
A phone call from my bride right after her wedding while in Cancun just to let me know they were having a great time, that the wedding was wonderful and everything had turned out perfectly. I went from fear upon hearing her voice to complete joy that everything had turned out as planned. What a wonderful surprise and treat that she took the time to call me!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Make sure you have shared your desire for a destination wedding with your family and friends so you know if they will be able to attend and are on board with your decision. You want the people that matter most in your life to be there for your special day.
Phyllis Chavies
Phyllis Chavies
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would go to Dubai. It's amazing how a country that is hot has a ski lift, an ice skating rink, and a giant aquarium in the mall. To view some of the structure of the buildings are amazing. The farm to table food, and how safe it is to walk around the country. Yes, they do have restrictions that everyone must abide by.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have planned several destination celebrations, the most recent one I did was for my sister-in-law. We went to Jamaica. This was a postponed celebration due to COVID-19. We surprised her by making dinner reservations at the seafood restaurant, everyone had to wear their birthday squad tee shirts and white pants, shorts or skirt. I gave everyone a set of culture pearl necklaces, bracelets and earings to wear. The restaurant set up the balloons, banner, and drinks at our table plus a cake. Then I arranged for a personal photoshoot. My sister-in-law had some tears to shed because all of this was for her!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
To make sure they understand the requirements for a destination wedding and that for some destinations, it takes a little longer to get things done.
Rachel Doyer
Rachel Doyer
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Bora Bora! Bora Bora is Tahiti's most famous island. Overwater bungalows and underwater adventures sound amazing. I've been wanting to go there for so long for a romantic getaway. It's everything I could want for a bucket list destination with my partner.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Having an entire family from a group include me into their trip from start to finish. They wrote to me everyday to thank me, to send me pictures & videos. When they got home, they sent me a full video recap of their vacation and told me that they would always book with me in the future. They went from calling me by my first name to calling me their little sister for life. They said that I am now part of their family and have sent me so many beautiful messages to thank me. I still can't believe it and I feel so blessed to be in this industry. I'm really doing what I love most and my clients can see and feel it.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
There is nothing more romantic than exchanging vows in a dream-like venue. Keep these tips in mind when planning your destination wedding; Choose a destination that fits your style, make sure to plan ahead and confirm with your guests as soon as possible, so that they also have the time to plan accordingly with their schedules & their personal finances. Consider ease of air access to your chosen destination based upon seasonality and where your guests will be coming from. Determine whether you want a symbolic, legal and/or religious ceremony...resorts today are able to customize a destination wedding to your faith's background and customs.
Ramona Tauzin
Ramona Tauzin
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Wow! Choosing just one destination is a challenge. The world is an oyster with so many pearls and jewels to choose from. If I could jet off tomorrow, it would be to Barbados. There is so much to see and do over there. Besides being a hopeless romantic, I am a foodie and would love to spend time with the chefs and mixologists of the various areas of the country…getting to know them and learning new techniques. A must do on the list is to see the green monkeys in the area as well as the huge cinnamon trees. On top of my list is to spend time with Jaye Applewaite, Fairytale Wedding Dress Designer. She and her designs are simply amazing!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
One of my favorite memories is planning a 40th wedding anniversary celebration in Key West, FL. The couple was such a joy to work with. There were several things on their bucket list that they were able to cross off. First of all was renting a Mustang GT and driving from Fort Lauderdale down to Key West…all the way to the Southern Most Point; posing for a picture; then going on to their hotel. After letting the hotel manager know they were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary, the manager upgraded them to a suite with an amazing view and included breakfast for the two of them during their stay as well as welcoming them with champagne and flowers in their room. The couple was able to observe several amazing sunsets from different vantage points each evening as per their request. Upon their return to Fort Lauderdale, the couple stayed in Key Largo for a few nights at Marriott's Playa Largo Resort; viewing once again stunning sunsets, poolside music, dining at various local restaurants and enjoying the beautiful blue-green waters of Southern Florida.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best piece of advice I could give couples planning a destination wedding is to work wi
Rena Shannon
Rena Shannon
- Testimonials "We had the most amazing experience booking with Rena at DestinationWeddings.com. She was prompt at answering emails and answered all of our questions in a timely manner. They were able to guide us along every step of the way making the wedding planning process seem effortless and stress free. We had the most memorable wedding ever! I highly recommend a destination wedding booked through DestinationWeddings.com""We stayed at the Royalton Rivera in Cancun and it was absolutely amazing. The resort made planning excursions stress-free and fun. Even if you don't plan on doing an excursion the resort alone had so much to offer. The food and drinks were all amazing. Prior to arriving at the resort our agent, Rena Shannon, went above and beyond to make sure the process went smooth and made sure our stay was going well. I 100% recommend using DestinationWeddings.com for your travel needs. They made our honeymoon beyond amazing.
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Italy - history, beautiful country side, amazing food - it is just the best place to relax, explore and be spoiled. Be it Rome with all its history or the Amalfi coast with its beautiful views. Then there is Florence with its little streets and markets and amazing food to top it all off - wherever you are.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memories are always from talking to the couples afterwards and hearing about their big day or their honeymoon.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
It is your wedding - do what you as a couple want and not what others think you should do.
Rene Wills
Rene Wills
- Testimonials "Rene, our specialist has been great! She is literally on top of everything and has been very reassuring when I have been stressed with the planning process. She has not only been great to my fiance and I but has followed up and assisted many of our guests as well! ""Rene Wills was excellent, very kind, very helpful, and very quick to get back with answers to any questions that I had.""Rene was very helpful. Rene Wills did an excellent job in answering our questions and working with our guests to ensure that everyone's reservations were accurate and handled correctly!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Mexico. Mexico is easy to travel to from just about anywhere in the U.S. You will find the people in Mexico warm and welcoming every time you travel there. I have never traveled to Mexico without feeling very welcomed and genuinely liked. The food in Mexico is always fantastic. Whether you're dining at an all-inclusive resort or a street side café; you can't go wrong with the rainbow of flavors and the pride in preparation and presentation. The local people take pride in their work. Whether that is driving you safely to your destination, serving you in a restaurant, or crafting something as a street vendor, the people love what they do and it always shows. Mexico is my favorite destination and I go there as often as I can!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was a surprise guest of a wedding a few years ago. The bride was very sad that her brother, who was deployed overseas with the military, was not going to be able to make her wedding. About a week prior to the wedding, the brother got in touch with me and let me know that he had been able to work it out after all. He did not want to tell the bride that he would be coming. We were able to get him a room and pull it all off without the bride or anyone in the family finding out until he arrived at the hotel. It was so heartwarming to see that kind of love and commitment between this brother and sister. After we pulled off the surprise, the family shared photos with me of the moment and were so thankful for my part in it. It was an honor to be a part of such a great day!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Before you start considering destinations or resorts for your destination wedding, think about what your priorities are. Is budget for the ceremony and reception the top priority? Is it the travel budget for your guests? Is the ease of travel from specific U.S. cities important? Thinking about what the priorities are before you start looking at potential destinations will likely help you to narrow down the options before you find yourself all over the world in terms of the perfect destination.
Roberta Jarrett
Roberta Jarrett
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
The destination that I would jet off to tomorrow would be Jamaica. I love the culture and food, plus there's plenty to do (or nothing to do!) if you want. Shopping at the local farmer's and craft markets is one of my favorite things to do when in Jamaica. Exploring the island for all of the beaches and waterfalls is a wonderful past time.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration was my very own beachfront destination wedding in Jamaica. Having two wedding cakes and working with a wedding specialist/planner helped things go perfectly for my wedding. I don't think I could have done everything myself. Having someone to make sure my guests were booked and taken care of was a big help, too!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for couples planning a destination wedding would be to enlist help from an experienced dedicated and caring Destination Wedding Specialist. Delegate tasks to others so you don't get overwhelmed with planning and most of all have FUN planning your special day!
Roobina Sarkisian
Roobina Sarkisian
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Anywhere secluded, romantic, unique with unspoiled beaches, yet will give me the cultural flavor of the destination. Something that will stay in my memories forever!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Giving my couple a similar outcome of an elaborate, luxury wedding, as if they were creating it here in LA, since their in-town wedding got postponed then cancelled twice. I helped them move the wedding to Grand Velas Los Cabos!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Think of it as your day, what you want your wedding to be and the experience. Plan ahead of time so your guests have time to budget for their trip as well. Be realistic, and most of all, try to have fun and enjoy the moment celebrating your big day with your close family and friends!
Roselis Tejada
Roselis Tejada
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It would definitely be Naples, Italy. It is a dream city ideal for vacations, weddings, and above all to enjoy a delicious pizza!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
At the end of the celebration, knowing from the couples that their wedding was everything they dreamed of, that they have felt my support, and that we have exceeded their expectations.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best advice for a couple planning a destination wedding is to not try to please everyone, but themselves. It's okay to think about their guests and any special needs, but above all, don't forget what the celebration is about: your love!
Rosy Pastrana
Rosy Pastrana
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had one destination to jet off to, it would be Switzerland. The more I research this country, the more I like what I'm seeing and reading. I've traveled extensively, and to many places more than twice, but this is definitely next on my list. The mountains, the quaint towns, the train through the alps, and the food is everything I would love to experience. When I say Switzerland, I think fairytale.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My memories from planning destination celebrations are the people I have the privilege of meeting and working with to ensure the special celebration is what they dreamed. Working with them one-on-one and providing them options of cities, locations, and type of celebrations that can accommodate their budgets and at the same time make their dreams come true provides me great satisfaction.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
For couples planning their destination wedding, my advice is to have an idea of where they want to celebrate their wedding and create a budget they can work with. Once the budget has been established, we work together and write down their expectations, such as, number of guests, types of celebrations within the wedding festivities (rehearsal dinner or farewell brunch), theme colors, type of food (sit down meal or buffet), liquor desired (open bar or wine and soda), etc. Once we have this information, we can provide them with options available according to their wishes. I work tirelessly to ensure their celebrations are memorable.
Sally Journet Martinez
Sally Journet Martinez
- Testimonials "Every one of my questions and requests where answers and explained in a friendly and timely manner. I am very happy and will absolutely recommend your company! ""Sally is so helpful and patient, as Taylor and I have no idea what we are doing. She breaks things down for us so we can understand, is very attentive, and answers any questions we have in easy to understand responses. We are so excited to see where the rest of the journey takes us!!! Thank you, Sally and Destination Weddings for making this smooth so far! ""Words can't express how much love and gratitude we have for everything Sally did for us! She was professional and a dear friend to us throughout the planning process. We thank her immensely for everything she did to make our magical fantasy into a reality!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It would be Dubai, as it is on my bucket list. I have been pretty much all over the world and Dubai has always fascinated me.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was when i made a wedding possible by web cam at the resort in Punta Cana. The groom was not able to make the wedding because of a serious situation, and myself and the wedding coordinator at the resort, where the bride and family were, made the wedding happen. It was the most fulfilling experience to see two people in love not let any obstacles get in their way of uniting as one even many miles away!!!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Make it special, make it your own, do listen to your guests but at the end of the day it is your special day! This is the day that you both have set aside and you should make it about you! Doing this alone is so overwhelming... let us help you get through all the planning and thinking. Your planning should be about the fun stuff like what colors you will choose, what decorations you will pick, what location you want, let me assist you in all the other details and let me be your destination wedding fairy godmother!!
Samantha Russom
Samantha Russom
- Testimonials "Samantha R was always helpful and so patient! She really deserves a raise! Thank you Samantha.""Thank you so much for everything you have done for us! You made the booking process and planning so easy for us and our guests, and we can't thank you enough for your great service!!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Definitely the Islands of Tahiti! With the luxurious resorts, over-water bungalows, and endless adventures, it would be like heaven on Earth. I would start with a delicious tropical cocktail and bask in the sunshine on the tranquil white sandy beaches. However, it wouldn't be a vacation if I didn't include excursions, such as diving into some of the most beautiful lagoons and hiking the Fautaua Waterfall. You simply cannot beat the breathtaking sunsets, delectable gourmet meals and turquoise waters to make this destination a trip of a lifetime!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It's hard to pinpoint one memory in particular, as they are all so special to me. Truly, my favorite part of being a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist is the memories I make with each of my couples. I love hearing how great of a time my couples and their guests are having during their momentous trip! I love seeing pictures and hearing how magical their wedding day is in some of the most beautiful places on earth. Being a part of this special occasion is such an honor, and I truly cherish every memory I make with each couple!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
The best piece of advice I can give my couples is to relax, have fun, and know that I will take the BEST care of you! I want my clients to enjoy the planning process as much as the trip itself. It's fun to explore and piece together each part of this special day. Just know we are here to make your visions come to light and be even more spectacular than imagined with safe and smooth travels.
Sandi McConnell
Sandi McConnell
- Testimonials "Sandi was excellent at communicating with me from the start. Answered all questions and always kept me in the loop! Can't wait to start working with the resort planner and I hope she is as good as Sandi."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Cook Islands!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
How relieved the wedding couple is to get the deposits over with!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Have patience, be attentive to information and just breathe!
Sandra White
Sandra White
- Testimonials "Sandra planned a destination wedding for about 12 of our friends and we could not have been happier with everything. She has planned two weddings for our group now and we will definitely use her services in the future and recommend her to all of our friends!""Sandy White was very helpful.""We had an awesome experience with Sandi. She was extremely informative, very helpful with every question which made wedding planning from afar an awesome experience."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Paris! I have been to France, but never had the opportunity to visit this romantic city. Filled with history, the city is known for its cafe culture, and designer boutiques along the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
There have been so many wonderful memories! My first wedding assignment was extremely memorable! Being that it was the first, it was extra special.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Of course, you should make sure the most important people are on board with this. Take a deep breath and enjoy the planning. Choosing the destination should be first on the list. Choose the amenities and price point that will work for your guests. It is so much easier to narrow down the resort choices, once you have those decided. Trust your Destination Wedding Specialist to help you choose the right resort!
Sandy Patrzykont
Sandy Patrzykont
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I had one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Ireland. I would embrace the beauty and the history of this breathtaking land. The diversity of the Irish coastline will deliver you to a quiet sandy beach or a famous surf break. Did you know that almost one third of the world's species of whales, dolphins and porpoises have been recorded in Irish waters? In 1991 the Irish government declared Irish waters a whale and dolphin sanctuary - the first of its kind in Europe!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
Although each destination wedding is special to me, I have to say that one stands out in my memory as my favorite and had nothing to do with the destination. Although the surroundings were stunning and the wedding was amazing, the excitement of the couple and the relationship that we had built over the process ended in a friendship between myself and the couple. How amazing is that?What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Although planning a destination wedding can be a stressful task for couples, leave the stress factor to the destination wedding Specialist. We are here to make the most important day of your life a memorable, stress-free event. Take a deep breath and enjoy the journey!
Sandy Stirling
Sandy Stirling
- Testimonials "Not only did Sandy handle booking all of our flights and our families flights, but she made it as stress free as possible. She was professional and extremely knowledgeable when it came to planning and booking our dream wedding. Thank you!!""Sandy Stirling made our daughter's wedding in Mexico a perfect day. She went the extra mile to help our family and guests in any way possible. She is professional and a people person. I would recommend her services for a worry free holiday and wedding to all. ""Sandy was responsive from the beginning. She was very organised in assisting us plan our wedding and kept an ongoing itinerary that she constantly updated and sent to us for review and approval. She took the stress out of planning! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My destination of choice would be Bora Bora. The turquoise waters are breathtaking! I envision scuba diving in the lagoons by day and enjoying our accommodations in one of the luxurious bungalows over the water by night. I'd love to dine in a French Polynesian-style restaurant that serves the catch of the day and enjoy fresh coconut and fruits all day long. September is a nice time of year to travel to Bora Bora, with the least amount of rainfall during this time.If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
My favorite memory about planning a dream destination celebration is watching families that have come from all over the world to celebrate this special occasion together. It warms my heart when I get to witness them reconnecting after years of not seeing each other and watch as they reunite to form lasting memories. Their tears of joy and laughter capture the meaning of true love and family.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding is to plan the wedding around you. Your wedding day should reflect the two of you, both individually and as a couple. Think of what makes you two a unique couple, and try to bring aspects of that into your special day. Spend time with your partner on mapping out your vision; do your research and ask for help if you need it! Wedding Specialists have the expertise that can help make your day a memorable experience. And, most importantly, enjoy the journey!
Shalene Dudley
Shalene Dudley
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to run back to St. Lucia - there is still so much more to see since I was there! I think I would need a whole month to explore.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory was when a bride's favourite uncle surprised her right before the ceremony. He arrived on a private plane from London, England and came to her wedding in Costa Rica.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
This process is not the same as the one your best friend, sister or cousin experienced when they had a local wedding. This is less stressful and can be quite uneventful if you have the right Destination Wedding Specialist. Don't expect to dish out deposits to multitudes of vendors. Only two are required. After that, sit back and relax as your Specialist works behind the scenes to ensure your closest friends and loved ones make their reservations to celebrate the most important day of your life in the destination of your dreams!
Shannon Aaronson
Shannon Aaronson
- Testimonials "I was very happy with the service received by destination weddings.com, very clear and concise information. Shannon Aaronson was great to work with, very helpful and informative.""Shannon Aarronson did a great job helping to plan our wedding and confirming the resort.""Shannon Aaronson was very professional and responsive. She kept me updated with any changes in resort information or prices."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to go somewhere secluded and upscale to just kick back and relax on a beautiful beach with a frozen drink in hand; no interruptions, no internet, and no cell phone! I am thinking Turtle Island in Fiji would fulfill my wish list!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
This is so hard because we work with so many memorable couples. One thing that has stuck with me through the years was during an initial planning call. I was on the phone with both the bride and groom and we were discussing locations. Right before we hung up, the groom told me this was going to be the most important day of his life and he was really counting on me to make it perfect for him and his fiancée. I just thought that was a really special sentiment and it made me really want perfection for him to be able to give his fiancée.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Give your guests ample time to plan so they can stay longer with you in paradise. I have never heard a couple say three days was enough to spend with their friends and family, so if your guests can stay longer than the weekend, I would recommend encouraging them to do so. This is a once in a lifetime event so stretch it as long as you can!
Shari Dickinson
Shari Dickinson
- Testimonials "We love working for Shari! She is always available, kind, and understanding. She has accommodated our family and their reservations in a quick and efficient manner and we have nothing but wonderful things to say of her! We are so grateful to be able to work with her and we love the services you provide at Destination Weddings! Thank you again!""Shari Dickinson was the best. She handled any thing I needed done in a timely fashion. She made sure everyone in our wedding party was well taken care of. Without her our wedding would not have been as special. Thank you!""Shari not only helped us coordinate travel for our wedding, but she even helped guide us to pick our location. She handled everything effortlessly."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I can gaze at the water on Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Jamaica all day. It is the perfect beach to float in the water, enjoy an early morning yoga class or paddleboard watching the sea life in the aquamarine water. There are so many wonderful resorts on the beach just waiting to pamper guests. Most of all, I love the Jamaican people. They want you to fall in love with their country, therefore make you feel most welcome.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
They say there is nothing quite like the first one. My first bride was a reluctant one. She had called off her wedding once before. She told me she didn't want to purchase travel insurance, because she thought that would give her a reason to cancel. We patiently walked the planning path together until she walked alone down the aisle to meet her much relieved groom. I was so glad to be able to be there for her every step of the way. I love hearing from my couples that their weddings went beyond their expectations.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
In my opinion, the best decisions are informed ones. Make sure you have all the facts you need before moving forward. First off, you need to be comfortable with some guests not being able to travel. If so, then I always make sure my couples have a comfortable budget for their wedding and travel expenses. Typically, a group room contract makes sense, so couples can lock in rates and hold rooms while earning perks, such as room upgrades and private cocktail parties. I always want my couples to be 100% clear on what they are committing to. The rest of the planning is the fun part, while I take care of them and their guests' travel details.
Sharon Fein
Sharon Fein
- Testimonials "Sharon Fein was amazing. She was always very responsive to my guests and I. She usually responded to my emails within a few hours. She helped me narrow down which resort to have my wedding at (I was all over the place). We got great prices that seemed to beat the other prices around and included transportation. ""Many thanks to our Specialist, Sharon for making this one of the most memorable days of our lives!!""I will use Sharon again for sure for any travels I plan in the future and would recommend her to anyone thinking about a destination wedding! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
It would definitely be Eze, a little town perched on a mountain over the sea in the South of France...the hotel Chevre D'Or has these life size sculptures of metal animals that are located on multiple terraces going down the mountain....for me this is such a magical location that is so beautiful that it always brings a smile to my face....I love being in a foreign place where people are speaking a different language and I just get to be a part of daily life there....I love exploring new places but this is absolutely a place I would love to go back to tomorrow!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is talking to this one bride when she returned from her wedding...she was so happy and couldn't wait to tell me how everything just came together and the hotel and wedding coordinator and her team made her feel like the most important person in the world, and she couldn't stop thanking me for being so patient and understanding since we first began this crazy, wonderful process...but to be honest the saddest part was and always is knowing that I won't be talking to her anymore...you talk and worry and console and cheer for her for sometimes more than a year and then you have to just let her go to live her life....it's all good, I guess that means I've done my job well!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Have realistic expectations about all of it...the most important thing to remember is that all of these people have come all this way to see you and your fiancé get married...they don't want you to sweat the small stuff...they want you to just try to relax and enjoy everything, and laugh about the things you have no control over...this will probably be the only time that all of these people will be together just for you to celebrate your marriage so enjoy every moment of it! That's what it's all about.
Sharon Kingerski
Sharon Kingerski
- Testimonials "Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialist, Sharon, was wonderful to work with. She promptly answered our emails, and was always going above and beyond what we asked of her. This process was easy and we would do it all over again if we had to!""We traveled to DR and had an amazing time! Thanks to Sharon and her team for taking care of our travel needs (hotel, flight, transfers, etc). We will definitely be working with her again."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Australia! My family has always wanted to dive at the Great Barrier Reef.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory is planning my 20-year anniversary renewal of vows. My son Nick walked me down the aisle. My son Rob stood as best man with my husband, and my daughter Jessica was my flower girl. The best part is that it was my husband's idea!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Choose the hotel and destination that you want, not one that your guests talk you into because of their wants.
Shelley Keeney
Shelley Keeney
- Testimonials "Shelley was in a word, Amazing. She went above and beyond for us and our guests, and made us feel confortable and confident through the entire process.""Shelley was fantastic! She went above and beyond to help us with everything, from choosing the best resort to answering all of our questions. Shelley was awesome at coordinating rooms for my family members and friends. And even while we were at the resort, she made sure everything was great!""Shelley made our destination wedding experience everything we imagined and more! She gave us 5-star, top of the line service. She was so thorough, hardworking and such a sweetheart during this special time! "
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Machu Picchu!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I think my favorite memory from one celebration was knowing that everything came together when the couple had many hurdles throughout the planning process.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
For couples to keep in mind this is their wedding and focus on their wants not everyone else's!
Shelly Ogilvie
Shelly Ogilvie
- Testimonials "Thank you to Shelly Ogilvie! Not only did she help us find the right resort for our wedding, but she coordinated with nearly 40 guests and made their travel plans extremely stress-free. Our guests coordinated with Shelly and booked their stay and airport transfers with her; this allowed us to focus on planning our wedding! If you're lucky enough to work with Shelly, you will not be disappointed!""Our Specialist Shelly Ogilvie was awesome! She went above and beyond for us, even taking time out to be a part of a conference call we had with the onsite wedding coordinator, which we were grateful for because she knew the right questions to ask that we had not thought about. Our guests were also happy about how quickly she responded when they needed help."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would jet off to Jamaica! Jamaica is a beautiful island bursting with culture and adventure. There are miles of beautiful, white-sand beaches, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, mountains, amazing cuisine, numerous all-inclusive properties and really friendly people. Depending on my ‘mood' or the ‘vibe' I am going for, I can find the perfect location on the island to chill and just be irie.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
It is such an honor and privilege to be able to share in something as special as a couple's dream day! My favorite memory is definitely one I planned for a couple that was renewing their vows. They had gotten legally married as teenagers and were not able to afford a dream wedding at that time. After 23 years of marriage, the groom finally got around to making good on his promise of the bride having her dream day. He even proposed to her again in a very romantic way! They decided on Jamaica, and had a beautiful sunset wedding on the beach surrounded by family and friends. What made it extra special was their kids were also able to be a part of the celebration. They had four kids, and they were the only ones in the wedding party. The pictures were beautiful. The bride stated, that the day was truly a dream come true.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
What is absolutely awesome about a destination wedding is that the wedding couple, their families and guests spend more than just event time together. No matter the size of your party, it is an intimate way for a couple to share their wedding with the people who are important to them. There is no right or wrong way to plan a wedding, so choose what works for you. Some couples want everything done for them, and others have their own dreams and expectations. As you start the planning process, know that weddings aren't easy, and there is likely to be some stress before it is all over (especially if you do not have a destination wedding Specialist!) This is normal, so adopt the attitude that it's not the problems that matter, but what you do about them! Sometimes, you just have to decide what matters and what doesn't.
Sheri Hays
Sheri Hays
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
Costa Rica!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have been fortunate to have many wonderful memories, however if I had to choose one, it would be of a bride who had lost her parents a couple of years before her wedding, and her only brother was stationed overseas. So she had asked one of her best friends' Dads to give her away. About six days prior to the wedding, I receive a phone call from her brother. He told me he would be in Atlanta in a couple of days, and asked me to help him get to Cancun to surprise his sister. She was blown away when she looked up and saw her brother running across the beach in his Dress Blues just in time to walk her down the aisle!What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
You can't please everyone, so don't try! Listen to your hearts and each other and your wedding day will be forever yours!!!!
Sherryl Dabbs
Sherryl Dabbs
- Testimonials "I just want to let you know that working with Sherryl has been wonderful - a delightful experience! She always promptly responds to my (many) emails. She's very kind and knowledgeable and always seems eager to help me as well.""Sherryl is AMAZING! I have spoken with her on the phone and from our initial conversation she was able to feel my vision for my wedding and she had a bubbly personality. She answers my emails so fast that I feel as if she is answering them in her sleep! Sherryl gives us tons of options and is very knowledgeable. I often ask for her opinion which I think she gives really great feed back. But, what I enjoy most is that I can email her and I can expect a response that same day. With purchasing a new home and trying to plan a wedding at the same time, Sherryl works to make this a seamless process. I feel we made a great choice to have a destination wedding and we are very lucky and pleased to have Sherryl. Thank you all for your wonderful customer service.""My Specialist Sherryl was excellent and always very very helpful. Sherryl was amazing - always willing to help and very patient with my many emails. I would love to have her again if I were planning another destination wedding."
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
New Zealand - this unspoiled destination is not only filled with adventure but has some of the most diversity in any one destination. From beaches and rainforests to mountains, lakes, glaciers and even volcanoes! Crime is low, the people are friendly and although there are 4 seasons, none are extreme. Let's go!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I had a couple a few years back for which the groom lost his Dad several months before the event. The day of the wedding right before the ceremony it rained unexpectedly. The ceremony was delayed shortly and then when the bride started down the aisle the most beautiful rainbow appeared. There wasn't a dry eye for they all felt that their Dad was there watching over them.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Plan early for the best discounts, relax and enjoy the journey! Destination Weddings can be some of the most cost effective and stress free ways to plan a wedding but only if you work with your Specialist and not against her/him. Be open with your Specialist so they can understand your needs and guide you in the best direction for you and your group! Working with our team will enable you to rely on a professional, a problem solver should issues arise, and someone that has walked the proverbial aisle before you!
Sonia Estrada
Sonia Estrada
- Testimonials "We wanted to take the time out and say thank you, Sonia, for all that you have done for us. You have truly been a Godsend for us during this wedding process. ""Sonia Estrada is accommodating, efficient, and knowledgeable. She is very personable and easy to liaise with - I really appreciate her help.""Sonia was a godsend! She was amazing. We had a large and complicated party and Sonia handled it all! She even talked me down during my bridezilla moments. I can't say enough good things about her!"
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
I would love to be able to just jet off to Spain, my mother land. Just to walk the streets of Spain and be able to see the many museums, enjoy the food and some good Spanish wine, and finish by heading down to the beach... that would be my dream vacation!What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
I have many great memories from doing what I love best, planning destination weddings. But one in particular comes to mind. A young couple from Atlanta. Two days before the wedding, I had to book the grooms 96 years old Abuelita (Grandma). This was to be a surprise to the groom. No rooms were available with any tour company. I called the resort and had to beg the managers to help me out. Finally, in less than 4 hours, the resort manager called and we were able to book the Grandma and her nurse. Being raised by Grandparents, I could just imagine the surprise in the groom's eyes.What's your best piece of advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
My best piece of advice to any couple, with either a large or small budget, is to make it personal. To make your day original and to stay focus and each other's needs. Yes, we all want to involve Mom, Dad and everyone invited, but at the end it's your day. Marriage is about you as a couple!
Sophia Facey
Sophia Facey
- Q & A
If you could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, where would it be?
If I could pick one destination to jet off to tomorrow, it would be Jamaica. I chose this destination because of its Uniqueness, Beach, Culture, Food and People. Jamaica boasts some of the world's most natural resources, such as Dunn's River Falls, The Rio Grande for rafting, and the endless stretch of powdery white-sand beaches, you will find in the Caribbean. The culture, reggae music, gastronomic experiences coupled with the friendly people, lends itself to create a relaxed or upbeat vibe.What is your favorite memory from planning a dream destination celebration?
My favorite memory from planning a dream destination wedding is having the wedding couple and their guests ask to relive the experience I created!What's your best piece of advice for couples plannin