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An Interview With Shelli Nornes, Founder of Romance Travel Group

Shelli Nornes
Author:
Shelli Nornes
CEO/Owner
Publish Date: November 3, 2018
Last Modified: October 18, 2025

After planning her own destination wedding in 1998, Shelli Nornes launched Romance Travel Group. We sat down with her to talk about travel, destination weddings, and the advice she loves sharing with couples.

Tell us a little about yourself and your business.

Travel is truly my passion! I’m the president and CEO of Romance Travel Group, an award-winning travel company that specializes in destination weddings. My couples benefit from my hands-on expertise, since I personally visit and experience the resorts I recommend several times a year.

Planning weddings never feels like “work” to me. And because I was a destination bride myself, I know exactly what couples go through from start to finish. That perspective helps me guide them every step of the way.

What type of destination weddings do you specialize in?

I focus on Mexico and Caribbean destination weddings! Over the years, I’ve found that all-inclusive resorts give couples the best value. Whether your dream is something sweet and simple or stylish and sophisticated, there’s a resort that’s the perfect fit. My job is to help you find it. I’ve planned intimate weddings for two and celebrations for 200. No matter the size, every wedding deserves thoughtful attention.

Why are Mexico and the Caribbean such great choices?

These days, families and friends are spread across the country and often only connect through technology. When you start making your guest list, you’ll probably notice that many of your loved ones will need to travel anyway. So why not bring everyone together at a beautiful resort where meals and drinks are included, the staff takes care of you, and you can spend real time with the people you love? Couples often tell me, “Thank you! The time our guests spent together at our wedding is something we’ll cherish forever.” That quality time is priceless.

What makes destination weddings so appealing?

A lot of things! For instance:

  1. They’re less expensive. A typical destination wedding often costs under $10,000 total. That includes airfare, rooms, meals, drinks for seven nights, plus the wedding ceremony and reception for about 40 guests.
  2. They’re less stressful. With professional wedding teams onsite that take care of the details, you can relax, enjoy the spa, and just be in the moment with your partner.
  3. They last longer. Instead of a single day that flashes by, you get to enjoy three or more days with your closest friends and family.
  4. They’re more intimate. You actually know everyone at your wedding, rather than shaking hands with distant relatives or guests you’ve never met.
  5. They’re naturally beautiful. Beaches, palm trees, sunsets, and ocean views provide the most stunning backdrop.
  6. And most importantly, they’re more fun. Less drama, less stress, and more quality time with your favorite people.
Are couples happy with their choice?

Always. I’ve never had a couple say, “I wish we hadn’t done that.” In fact, I hear the opposite, especially from guests who’ve had a traditional wedding themselves. They often tell me, “If we could do it all over again, we’d do this.” Many groups even keep traveling together year after year because they loved the experience so much. One bride recently told me, “This was incredible. So many of my friends are now considering destination weddings and thanked me for opening the door to this idea.” That says a lot!

What’s your top tip for couples planning a destination wedding?

The most important decision you’ll make is which travel agent to hire. This isn’t a spring break trip—it’s your wedding! You need a destination wedding travel specialist who has worked with dozens of couples, travels often to the resorts they recommend, knows the onsite wedding teams, understands the local laws, and can guide you through locations, dates, and budgets.

A general travel agent may book all kinds of trips, but a specialist gives her full attention to weddings. She becomes your go-to person and your biggest advocate throughout the planning process.

Why should couples choose Romance Travel Group?

Because this is what we do best. I’m a true destination wedding travel specialist with more than 20 years of experience, dozens of industry awards, and thousands of happy couples who trusted me with their big day.

I love what I do. My favorite part is when I see wedding photos pop up in my inbox or on social media, sometimes within hours of the ceremony. Watching my couples and their guests celebrate and make lifelong memories is the ultimate reward!

Any last advice for brides?

Don’t be afraid to reach out and say, “I have no idea where to start.” That’s exactly what I’m here for! You’ll be amazed at how quickly everything comes together and how smoothly the planning process can be. And remember, this day is about you. Even if your entire guest list can’t make it, that’s okay. Your wedding should feel exactly the way you want it to! it’s the beginning of your life together, and it should be celebrated your way.

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