​Let’s face it… traditional weddings are expensive!! This is why more and more couples are choosing to have a destination wedding as a way to save money while still have a beautiful and memorable event. Not only do couples save money, but they get way more in terms of experience and memories. Keep reading to learn more!

​Popular Destination Wedding Locations
 
Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic are some of the most popular destinations for destination weddings. These locations offer a variety of all-inclusive resorts, making it easier for couples to plan their wedding without having to worry about every little detail. The abundance of all-inclusive resorts also makes it easier for guests to attend, since their rooms, meals, drinks and activities are all included in one upfront price.

Wedding Date: February 6, 2023 ~ Resort: Riu Palace Jamaica ~ Photographer:  Andrea Dobbs Photography ~ Bridal Salon: David's Bridal ~ Tux Salon: Men's Warehouse

Why did you choose Romance Travel Group?
We chose Romance Travel Group because we had friends (Luke included in that group) use them previously for a destination wedding and had nothing but great things to say about their experience!

What led you to choose a destination wedding?
When things started to get serious in our relationship we would have conversations about how a destination wedding was what we wanted, it was the only option ever discussed. Neither of us are people that really love being in the spotlight so we knew that a destination wedding would offer a more intimate setting and allow us actual one on one time to spend with our guests that could make the trip.

How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
Shelli really helped us with this one because we came to her with NO idea where to start. She asked us where we would want to go on vacation and she sent us a ton of resort options, from there we narrowed it down to Jamaica, a place Luke knew he enjoyed and wanted to return to and a place Kari had never been. Then based off of price per person and ease of travel from the airport, we found our resort.

Were there any objections from your wedding guests about your decision to have a destination wedding? If so, how did you handle overcome those?
There were no real objections, at least none that we heard about directly. But due to the price per person for the resort and the insanely high flight prices at the time, even with us giving approximately 1 year to plan, a lot of our guests who had originally said yes to coming, told us they were unable to make the trip. We knew a lot of our loved ones wouldn’t be able to come so we made sure they were aware that they would be missed but we would be having a stateside reception and we would love for them to join the celebration at that point.

What were some of your biggest fears about having a destination wedding?
Our biggest fears were that we were spending a lot of money to stay at and host a wedding at a resort that we had never been to previously. We weren’t 100% sure of what to expect when we arrived or what exactly we were getting for our money because at that point, everything was selected out of a pamphlet essentially.

How did you come to decide on your wedding date? Is there meaning behind it?
There wasn’t anything too sentimental about the specific date we picked but it was close to the anniversary of our first date 5 years ago. Also, the time of year would be ideal for our guests to get out of the Minnesota/Wisconsin winter but not too close to peak spring break travel time/prices.

Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort? What went well? Any challenges?
The biggest challenge was waiting until a couple months out from travel/wedding date to really get down into the planning. Also, not knowing truly what anything would look like until the day of was difficult. The wedding coordinator at the resort was very direct and didn’t initially offer a lot of additional information surrounding questions I had asked. However, I figured out her response style and was able to write lists of questions and she gave answers to the questions which worked out well enough us. It all turned out beautifully.

Tell us about your wedding dress – How did you find it? Who went shopping with you? How do you feel wearing your dress?
I am not the type of girl that was looking forward to dress shopping honestly, I set appointments at 2 bridal shops for a Saturday, invited my Matron of Honor, Mother and Future Mother in Law to join me and within an hour of the 1st appointment, I found the dress! I was pretty easy going about it, willing to try on anything and everything and even had them pull dresses they thought we would like.  I loved wearing the dress, it was the style I imaged I would get, it was flowy, comfortable, not super flashy and the selling point was it had pockets!

What were some of your biggest fears or things you worried about as your wedding date drew near? How did you get through this?
Our biggest fear was what the day of would look like, would the weather cooperate for us? Will our guests enjoy themselves and the resort? Will we get what we paid for when it comes to day of decorations/food/entertainment. Once we arrived and started having fun with our guests as they arrived we realized that whatever happened, we were getting married and the day would be whatever we made of it! Everything fell into place perfectly.

Tell us about how you chose your bridal party and asked them to stand up with you.
We chose our bridal party based off of our closest friends and siblings. While Luke took the approach of straight forward asking his friends, brothers and my brother to be a part of our day, I made a little gift bag of lotions, face masks and mini champagne with a card asking if they would stand by my side.

Describe the meeting you had with the onsite wedding team when you arrived at the resort.
We met with Christina the day after we arrived and prior to all of our guests arriving to finalize the details. Her and I had majority of the decisions made prior to that so it was as easy as confirming those decisions, picking out bouquet flowers and handing over the DJ music for the special dances and reception music.

Were your guests wowed by the resort and the all-inclusive concept? What was their reaction upon arrival?
Our guests truly enjoyed the resort. Some of them had never left the country let alone experienced an all inclusive resort so they were pleasantly surprised about the look of the resort, the rooms, the food and entertainment

How easy/difficult was it to travel with your wedding dress? Did you carry-it on, where did you store it? Did you get a lot of comments at the airport?
Traveling with my dress was so simple. I purchased a trifold garment bag prior to departure that fit my dress, a couple other dresses, Luke’s wedding attire and shoes. The morning before leaving we decided to put the garment bag in a carry on suit case for extra safe keeping and ease of travel. We stored it in the overhead bin on the plane and had zero issues with anyone saying anything to us about it.

Tell us about your wedding – did you have a traditional wedding with a cocktail hour, dinner reception and dance? What was different about a destination wedding compared to a wedding at home?
We did a traditional ceremony on the beach, that lasted approximately 8 minutes! That was followed by a group photo of everyone while we had them in one place and then a cocktail hour for the guests with a saxophone player that was included in the wedding package we picked. He was phenomenal! After the cocktail hour we moved to a different area of the beach for dinner and reception/dance. We had a buffet set up on the beach with a menu we were able to personally pick and everyone raved about how it was the best food they had so far. I think the difference in the destination wedding compared to a wedding at home was how intimate it was. We actually got to enjoy the festivities with our guests, drink, laugh and dance without feeling like we had to walk around and greet everyone individually since we had all been together the days before and would be the days after.

What was the best part of having a destination wedding?
The best part was being on vacation at the beach with the people we love. How often do people get 45 of their nearest and dearest friends and family at a single location at the same time?

What is your most favorite memory of your wedding experience?
Aside from finally being married, spending time with everyone and then hearing people talk about how awesome their trip was, how they wish they didn’t have to leave. Also, watching everyone share their pictures from the trip, it has been so much fun reliving those memories.

In what ways did Romance Travel Group make the planning less stressful for you?
From helping us pick a location to taking on all of the questions our guests had was the biggest help! It was so nice to not have to worry about setting up transportation in an unfamiliar place too was so wonderful. Having a meeting with Shelli a few days before departure put a lot of my anxieties at ease as well, her telling me to make sure we stop and take a moment to look around and enjoy it all brought tears to my eyes because, holy cow our year long count down was up!

What would you do differently? What advice would you give to couples just starting the planning process?
I am not sure I would do anything different. In our eyes, everything exceeded our expectations. My advice would be, throughout all of this planning surrounding a single special day, remember that it is about you two as a couple. Things very likely will not go exactly as planned and important people will not be able to come and it is so sad but this is about celebrating your love. It does not mean you can’t be disappointed but the people that are there…whether its 5 or 100, they are there to celebrate your love so make sure to enjoy and appreciate that as much as possible.

Would you recommend Romance Travel Group to other couples who are considering a destination wedding?
I would 100% recommend Romance Travel Group to anyone looking to have a destination wedding.

Ready to start planning your own destination wedding?

Are you looking for the perfect resort for your upcoming destination wedding? We may have just what you’ve been searching for. Feast your eyes on Live Aqua Cancun. This luxurious, adults-only resort offers a variety of amenities and services to make your special day unforgettable. Here are just a few reasons why we fell is love with Live Aqua Cancun, and why you should consider this amazing resort for your destination wedding. Keep reading!

Stunning Location
Live Aqua Cancun is located in Cancun on the shores of the Caribbean Sea, offering beautiful white sand beaches and crystal-clear blue waters as the perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony. Imagine exchanging vows on the beach with the sound of the waves in the background – it’s truly a dream come true.

Luxurious Accommodations
The resort offers a variety of luxurious amenities and accommodations, including private balconies with stunning ocean views. You and your guests will have everything you need to feel relaxed and pampered on your special day.

Professional Planning and Coordination
Live Aqua Cancun offers professional wedding planning and coordination services to make the planning process easy and stress-free. The team will work one-on-one with you to create the wedding of your dreams, ensuring that every detail is taken care of so you can enjoy your special day. They are true professionals.

Versatile Venues
The resort offers a variety of stunning indoor and outdoor venues for your ceremony and reception, including beachfront locations. Whether you choose the beach, a terrace, a pool deck or the spectacular Garden of the Senses, your guests will watch you exchange vows in complete awe of the beauty.

Delicious Dining
Dining is celebrated at Live Aqua! The resort features a variety of gourmet restaurants and international cuisines, ensuring that your guests will be treated to delicious meals throughout their stay. Impeccable service, quality ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere make dining here an absolute pleasure.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation
The on-site spa and fitness center offers a variety of treatments and services to help you relax and rejuvenate before and after your big day. Receive professional, high quality hair and make-up services right at the resort.

Activities and Entertainment
Live Aqua Cancun offers a variety of activities and entertainment for guests, including water sports and beach games, dance classes and yoga. Enjoy nightly theme parties, live music, and even karaoke. Your guests will have plenty to do during their stay.

Convenient Location
The resort is conveniently located in the Hotel Zone close to popular tourist attractions in Cancun and the surrounding area, making it easy for your guests to explore and experience all that the area has to offer.

All-Inclusive Package
Live Aqua Cancun is an all-inclusive resort, making the planning and budgeting process simple. This helps guests know exactly how much their trip will cost up front and makes indulging in all the included options guilt-free.

Excellent Service and Attention to Detail
The resort's staff is dedicated to providing excellent service and attention to detail to ensure that your wedding is a truly unforgettable experience.
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We know you’ll love Live Aqua Cancun as much as we do! It offers the perfect combination of beautiful location, luxurious amenities, and professional planning and coordination services to make your destination wedding a dream come true. With so many reasons to choose this resort, you simply can't go wrong. 

​We know choosing the resort is one of the most challenging steps to planning your wedding. There is just so much to look at and after a few hours, they all start to look the same. Sound familiar? This is why working with the experts at Romance Travel Group is so important. We know the resorts inside and out. We know which resorts are easy to work with, and which ones are not. We know who has the best group amenities and wedding packages. After our first call, we put together a custom list of resorts chosen specifically for you, based on the details we discussed. Think of us as your resort match-maker!
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Destination
Try to keep travel times within reason. For example, you won't want to plan a Hawaii wedding if guests need to fly for 9 hours and can only stay for 3 nights. Likewise, the more exotic islands can often require multiple airline connections (sometimes even overnight stops!) to get there. All guests will need a passport. Most resorts will require the couple and witnesses to arrive 3 full days prior to the wedding ceremony. Go where the all-inclusives are!... Mexico, Jamaica, Dominican Republic are the main beach destinations with an abundance of all-inclusive resorts to choose from.
 
Location
Location within the destination is also important to be mindful of. Most couples don’t want resorts that are more than an hour or so from the airport. All transportation is included, but after an early morning and a 4-5 hour flight, the last thing guests will want is a 2-hour drive to the resort. Do you prefer a resort in the “hotel zone” so you’re close to clubs and shopping? Or do you prefer the quiet and privacy or a more spread out beachside neighborhood? What will your guests prefer?
 
Budget
​Consider how much you're comfortable having your guests pay for a 3 night vacation. Typically, budgets start at $1200 per person for a 3-night, all-inclusive vacation including air, hotel, transfers, meals, drinks, tips and taxes. Remember though, you get what you pay for.
 
Atmosphere
The overall vibe of the resort is important. It sets the tone from the minute you step onto the property. Do you like the pools? How do the rooms look? Are there enough restaurants? How is the beach?
 
Adults-only vs. Family-friendly
Adults-only or family-friendly is one decision that often stumps some couples. "We really want adults-only, but we have one or two young kids in the family." Ah, we hear you! Even one child means we must go with a family-friendly resort.  Adult only resorts require all guests to be 18 and older. Our best advice is this... do what YOU want. It is your wedding. If you really don't want children around in the pool, at dinner, you have every right to choose an adults-only resort. We can, however, recommend family resorts that are not "childish" if this is a concern. Just let us know.

Lean on your travel expert. This is where are experience and expertise really shine. Hang in there! Choosing the resort is one of the most challenging steps, but once we know, all of the other destination wedding details fall into place quickly and perfectly!

​Ready to give us a try? Click below to sign up and schedule your call with our experts today!

Asking how many guests you'll have is always a tricky question because in reality, we don't know!! Everyone will tell you "Yes! I'm coming!" but until they confirm their room reservation with a deposit, you just can't count on it. Since you do need to know how many rooms you'll need for your room block, it is important to have a rough idea of how many guests will attend.  Start by making a master guest list and include everyone you would invite if you were having a wedding at home. Then, start breaking it down.  We've come up with a pretty easy way to sort your guest list into your A, B and C lists.

​Add together all of your A list + half of your B list to get a close estimate of the number of guests who will travel for your wedding. This is who you need to set rooms aside for.

For example:
A list has 42 guests (count all 42 guests)
B list has 88 guests (count half, so 44 guests)
C list has 25 guests (do not count)

The expected turn out here would be 42 + 44 = 86 guests. Assuming 2 guests per room, you'll need 43 rooms.

Don't stress over this! Just remember, you'll never know for sure until guests are all booked, and that's ok. 

Looking for more great tips like this? Ready to plan your own destination wedding? Visit www.RomanceTravelGroup.com to sign up and talk to your very own destination wedding travel specialist.

Well played! You just scheduled a call with a destination wedding travel specialist. You’re probably feeling excited, nervous and still a bit worried about how this is all going to work. That’s totally normal! After your call, all that worry will turn to pure happiness because you found the person who will help bring your destination wedding to life. Deep breath… we’ve got this!

To make the most of your first call, there are a number of things for you to be discussing with your fiancé:
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Asking about how many guests you'll have is always a tricky question because in reality, we don't know!! Everyone will tell you "Yes! I'm coming!" but until they confirm their room reservation with a deposit, we just can't count on it. Since we do need to know how many rooms we'll need for our room block, it is important to have a rough idea of how many guests will attend.  Start by making a master guest list and include everyone you would invite if you were having a wedding at home. Then, start breaking it down.  We've come up with a pretty easy way to sort your guest list into your A, B and C lists. Check out our Guest List guide here.

The more flexible your wedding date is, the more resort and venue options you will have. Destination weddings happen 7 days a week, but we get that most guests are going to prefer having a weekend stay to avoid taking extra days off work. Most weddings happen on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. The date also impacts the room rates, so if you're flexible, we can suggest the months when prices are lower. Check out our wedding date guide here.

​Adults-only or family-friendly is one decision that often stumps some couples. "We really want adults-only, but we have one or two young kids in the family." Ah, we hear you! Even one child means we must go with a family-friendly resort.  Adult only resorts require all guests to be 18 and older. Our best advice is this... do what YOU want. It is your wedding. If you really don't want children around in the pool, at dinner, you have every right to choose an adults-only resort. We can, however, recommend family resorts that are not "childish" if this is a concern. Just let us know.
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​It is always helpful to think through your wedding resort priorities. We do our best to check all the boxes for you, but it helps to prioritize your wish list. Consider things like:

• guest cost/budget
• close to the airport
• great food
• lots of resort activities
• adult-only/family-friendly
• short flight
• private venue
• great beach
• resort atmosphere

​You and your wedding travel specialist at Romance Travel Group share the same goals… a fabulous wedding in a great location, a quality resort guests will enjoy, and reasonable prices so guests are not burdened by the expense.  We want to create the perfect experience for you, while keeping all of this in mind. This initial call is a great way for us to hear all about your wedding so we can make recommendations based on what you want and need. We know these resorts. We travel to and work with them often. Consider us your "match-maker" when it comes to finding the best resorts. This is what we are so good at!!
 
Romance Travel Group is an award-winning destination wedding travel agency specializing in tropical weddings at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. We love what we do, and it shows. Ready to plan your own destination wedding? Click below to get started!

​So often when we hear the word “free” we immediately laugh and think “yeah, right.” But hold on! Let’s take a look at the Always & Forever destination wedding package offered by El Dorado Resorts in Mexico. It really is free! Keep reading to learn more.

First, the Always & Forever wedding package is offered at the three El Dorado Resorts in Mexico:

1. El Dorado Royale
2. El Dorado Maroma
3. El Dorado Seaside

To qualify for the Always & Forever wedding package, you need to have a minimum of five rooms. In other words, you'll need your room plus four others. That’s it. Each room needs to stay a minimum of three nights, but really, who goes to Mexico for less than three nights? Not us!

Once you have your five rooms, you get the Always & Forever package automatically! This is what is all included:

• Your choice of resort ceremony location
• A white altar table and linens
• White ceremony chairs
• Red carpet aisle
• Sound system with speakers and microphone
• Officiant
• Wedding certificate
• Group dinner for up to 40 guests (20 guests at El Dorado Maroma)
• Personalized dinner menu cards
• Wedding coordinator from El Dorado to design your events
• Groom’s room with snacks for 5 hours on the day of wedding
• Honeymoon gift registry

AND, you also get the Free Honeymoon package that includes:

• Chef’s special gourmet honeymoon breakfast in bed
• Chilled bottle of sparkling wine delivered to your room
• 15% discount on spa services
• Fresh tropical floral arrangement in room
• Romantically decorated suite with rose petals, aroma therapy and candles
• Beachfront sky massage two for one (buy one, get one)
• One night return stay anniversary voucher, 5-night minimum return stay

This time, free really means free! If you like this, and are ready to start planning your own destination wedding at one of the El Dorado Resorts in Mexico, you'll want to talk to us! Romance Travel Group been one of the top wedding agencies for El Dorado Resorts for 15 years. We know and love these properties, and we know you will, too. Schedule your free wedding consultation call today!

​Not sure when to have your destination wedding? Is your date flexible? Are you looking for the best deal? Girl, we hear you! Keep reading to learn which months are best for destination weddings in Mexico and the Caribbean.

Go for April, May, October, November, early December, avoiding all holidays.
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Want to hear more of our expert advice? Ready to start planning your own destination wedding? We'd love to help you!
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​Planning a destination wedding is surely a very exciting and memorable experience. But as thoughts of organizing travel for 50 guests, planning from hundreds (or thousands!) of miles away and potential language barriers creep in, it can quickly become very overwhelming. Don’t be discouraged! We’ve broken down the initial planning process into these 3 steps to help ensure that your destination wedding goes smoothly and is everything you've dreamed of and more.  Keep reading to see how easy it can be!

We know, the thought of planning a destination wedding can definitely be a daunting task, but by breaking the initial planning down into these 3 steps and working with the right travel agent (we can’t stress this enough!) you can have a stress-free and unforgettable event. Just see what we can do!
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We’d love to be the agency to help you through this process. We’ve been planning destination weddings since 1998, and it is all we do. No cruises, no Disney, no family vacations to distract us from focusing on your wedding day. And since our services to you are FREE (yep, you heard that right!) why not give us some time to show you how we can help. You don’t need to do this alone.

​Beach weddings are a popular choice for couples looking to exchange vows in a relaxed and intimate, tropical setting. While beach weddings are a lot of fun, choosing the perfect dress can be a bit of a challenge. With a little bit of patience and some careful consideration, however, it is possible to find the perfect beach wedding dress that will make you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.

Dresses above are by Randy Fenoli Bridal. Check out his Beautiful Beginnings collection!

​When choosing a beach wedding dress, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, think about the location and weather. Tropical beaches are hot and humid, so you'll want to look for a dress that is lightweight and flowy to keep you cool and comfortable. You'll also want to keep it simple – a beach wedding is typically a more laid-back and casual affair, so you don't necessarily need to go overboard with a super formal or elaborate dress (unless you want to!) Instead, look for something that is elegant but understated. Finally, don't be afraid to show a little bit of skin – the beach is the perfect setting to show off a strapless neckline or a high-low hemline, just be mindful of any cultural or religious sensitivities.

The dresses above are by Pnina Tornai Bridal.

​There are a few different styles to consider when it comes to beach wedding dresses. Bohemian style dresses are perfect for a laid-back, boho-chic wedding. Look for dresses with flowy, ethereal fabrics and unique details like lace or embroidery. If you're looking for something a bit more formal, a Grecian-inspired beach wedding dress might be the way to go. These dresses typically feature classic, draped fabrics and clean lines. If you want to show off your legs, a short beach wedding dress is a great option. Look for dresses with fun, flirty details like appliques or lace.

​When it comes to accessorizing your beach wedding dress, less is often more. You don't want to overdo it with accessories, especially in a beach setting. A simple pair of earrings or a delicate bracelet is all you need to complete your look. Consider your footwear as well – a pair of high heels may not be practical on the beach, so consider opting for a pair of flat sandals or even going barefoot. Don't forget the veil either – a beach wedding is the perfect opportunity to wear a veil, and there are plenty of options that are lightweight and won't weigh you down in the heat.

​Don’t worry! Choosing the perfect beach wedding dress will be an exciting and fun part of planning your destination wedding. With a little bit of patience and support from your bride tribe, you can find a dress that is both comfortable and beautiful. Keep these tips in mind as you start your search and you'll be sure to find the perfect beach wedding dress for your special day.

Dreaming of a destination wedding? Let the expert planners at Romance Travel Group help you through the process, from finding the perfect resort, to helping with guests travel reservations and more. We plan destination weddings! Let us show you how stress free and easy wedding planning can be.

If you’re planning on having guests travel with you for your destination wedding, chances are you have been wondering about group discounts and perks and how to manage it all. Let’s take a closer look at group reservations and options.

GROUP RESERVATIONS

The average size destination wedding is about 50 guests, or 25 rooms. Wedding travel agents are very well versed in negotiating and navigating group contracts and terms. Read everything! It is easy to make inaccurate assumptions that can cause issues down the road. Make sure you understand what you’re signing.

Most group contracts require a 10-room minimum. This means if you fall below 10 rooms in your block, you will need to pay for the extra room/s to get you to 10, or your group will be considered a cancellation. If you can’t guarantee 10 rooms (your room + 9 others), don’t sign a group contract. Guests are still responsible for their own rooms and payments, but all the rooms in your group are yours. You own the group.

Group contracts have set booking and payment deadlines. These deadlines are set by the resorts and outline when penalties increase. Don’t expect to negotiate on these deadlines. They will actually help you by creating an incentive for guests to book early. After all, you can’t plan your wedding until you know how many guests are coming for sure, and the only way to know this is to have guests book.

INDIVIDUAL RESERVATIONS

Group contracts can be overwhelming, for sure. But, for wedding groups, a group block is definitely the way to go. If you just can’t or don’t want to sign a group contract, all rooms for guests will be booked like individual vacations. All guests will pay different prices, rates can change drastically, rooms and resorts can (and will) sell out so some guests may not be able to attend even if they want to, and there are no freebies for you to take advantage of.

Most Romance Travel Group couples (like 95% of them!) sign group block contracts. We find that the perks and benefits of having rooms blocked and rates locked in make it so much easier for guests to book. The freebies are nice, too!
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Ready to set up your own destination wedding group block? We’d be happy to share our expertise and guidance with you. You plan a beautiful wedding… leave all the group details to us!

Wedding Date: November 11, 2022 ~ Resort: Royalton Riviera Cancun ~ Photographer: Quetzal Wedding Photo ~ Videographer: About Time Wedding Films ~ Bridal Salon: White Traditions Bridal Boutique ~ Tux Salon: Carl's

Why did you choose Romance Travel Group?
A friend suggested a travel agent since we were doing a destination wedding and I found them on Pinterest. 

What led you to choose a destination wedding?
We love to travel and wanted to share that experience with our families. 

How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
A big reason was I have been to a Royalton before and it was wonderful. We picked this one mainly due to the beautiful Gazebo. I knew I wanted to get married in it!

Were there any objections from your wedding guests about your decision to have a destination wedding? If so, how did you handle overcome those?
Some where just afraid of the unknown because a lot of our guests have never traveled out of the country. Also money...they were a little worried it was going to cost a lot. 

What were some of your biggest fears about having a destination wedding?
The weather! LOL! More than anything, I wanted to get married in the Gazebo. I would have been so sad if it rained. I also worried that they would not capture the theme I was going with. :-)
 
How did you come to decide on your wedding date? Is there meaning behind it?
I thought that 11/11 was such a magical number also 11+11=22 so I knew I wanted 11/11/22.

Did you invite guests in a unique way, like a themed save the date or announcement party?
We did a themed save the date it looked like a boarding pass. They loved it. 
 
Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort? What went well? Any challenges?
We had the best wedding coordinator. She answered all my questions and even covered details I didn’t even think of. She covered it all. I think the only challenge is the waiting process and unknowing until meeting her the day before.

Tell us about your wedding dress – How did you find it? Who went shopping with you? How do you feel wearing your dress?
We went to White Traditions in St Charles MO. I had all my bridesmaids and my mom come with me. I knew I wanted boho themed. I felt amazing wearing it. It was light weight and perfect for the beach. 

Describe the booking process for your guests. Did they find that to be easy to navigate?
They did find it extremely easy to book. No one had any complaints. 

What were some of your biggest fears or things you worried about as your wedding date drew near? How did you get through this?
I was just worried my guest would not have fun. Or they suddenly would not be able to make it. 

Tell us about how you chose your bridal party and asked them to stand up with you.
My bridesmaids were my best friends and my fiancé’s sister and Ryan had his best friends. 
 
Describe the meeting you had with the onsite wedding team when you arrived at the resort.
It was good. She went over all the details and what to expect. It calmed all my nerves. 

Were your guests wowed by the resort and the all-inclusive concept? What was their reaction upon arrival?
They were definitely wowed. Most of them have never been to an all inclusive before. They were amazing at everything. 

How easy/difficult was it to travel with your wedding dress? Did you carry-it on, where did you store it? Did you get a lot of comments at the airport?
I bought a garment bag that folds up. It was super easy to travel with my dress was a material that doesn’t wrinkle so it was super easy to travel with. It was my carry on. Ryan traveled with his suits in a garment bag as his travel on bag. No issues at all.

Tell us about your wedding – did you have a traditional wedding with a cocktail hour, dinner reception and dance? What was different about a destination wedding compared to a wedding at home?
We did have a traditional wedding. With a cocktail hour and full reception on the beach. It was just our closest friends and family. If we did a wedding back home we would have had a lot more people and not as intimate. 
 
What was the best part of having a destination wedding?
It was like a vacation and party with the closest friend and family. 

What is your most favorite memory of your wedding experience?
My wedding ceremony getting to say I do to my soul mate. 

In what ways did Romance Travel Group make the planning less stressful for you?
They made booking so easy and answered any questions my guests had they made the whole process super easy. 

What would you do differently? What advice would you give to couples just starting the planning process?
I would have probably have reserved more rooms on the adults only side for my wedding party but they all had a wonderful time anyway. I would also recommend staying a few days after the ceremony because days leading up we had a few meetings and weren’t able to really relax till after the wedding so staying 7 days was amazing. 

What surprised you the most about having a destination wedding?
Just the amount of support everyone was so willing to help. 

Would you recommend Romance Travel Group to other couples who are considering a destination wedding?
YES!! I would definitely. I actually wrote a wedding review on a Royalton Brides Facebook page saying how this group has made it so much easier for us. And helped so much with the booking process. 

Is there anything Romance Travel Group could have done to make the experience even better?
No. It was amazing I appreciate the help so much. I could not have done it without this group!

​Every once in awhile, a resort comes along that steals our hearts. Maybe it is a new build, or a unique concept, or a special venue or location. The Fives Oceanfront checks all these boxes and then some. While the resort was built new just a few years ago, it has made a big impact on us and the couples we send there. Maybe it is just the place you’ve been searching for, too?

​Let’s face it. As travel agents, we get to see a lot of different resorts. A big part of being a travel expert requires us to know the ins and outs of a seemingly endless list of properties across the globe. The experts at Romance Travel Group specialize in destination weddings at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and Caribbean. Because we are so highly specialized, we are able to dive deeper than other agents and really immerse ourselves in the products we recommend and sell. Think about it… if you have a heart condition, would you go to a general surgeon or a cardiologist? You’re planning a destination wedding, do you want a travel agent, or a destination wedding travel expert? We thought so. Ok, back to the blog!...

Located 2 blocks outside of the charming village of Puerto Morelos, Fives Oceanfront is a boutique 92-room all-inclusive property situated directly on the beach (we’re talking steps!) facing the Caribbean Sea. Sunrises here are spectacular. The north side of the property faces acres of protected, undisturbed beachfront. The south side leads to town.

The town of Puerto Morelos is a quaint, authentic Mexican village full of small shops, cafes, bars, street vendors, fishing piers, and artisans. Prices are very reasonable in town, locals are friendly and welcoming and the vibe is relaxing and chill. Skip the bustle and expense of Tulum! Puerto Morelos is where it’s at!

The Fives Oceanfront resort itself has a variety of rooms, but our favorite is the One-Bedroom Oceanview Residence. There is plenty of space to sprawl out and the view from the balcony is second to none. Upgrade to a Penthouse and bask in the sun from your private rooftop complete with a hot tub. There are three full-service restaurants serving meals throughout the day and night, and bar service to keep you hydrated.

There are plenty of wedding venue options, but our favorite has to be the private rooftop terrace. Atop the main building sits a pool, deck, bar and restaurant for you to host your destination wedding festivities. With 365 degree views of the ocean and jungle, complete privacy and the ultimate WOW factor for your guests, this venue is a complete stunner.

The wedding team at The Fives resorts has been partners and personal friends of Romance Travel Group for years. We trust them with our couples and know that they will take care of every detail.

BIG NEWS! In October 2022, Romance Travel Group was named “Top Agency” for The Fives resorts, taking the stage at the annual Asset Awards conference to claim this coveted award. With a resort like Fives Oceanfront, and the expertise and guidance of the destination wedding experts at Romance Travel Group, your wedding will be the one to top for years and years to come.
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Ready to plan the wedding of a lifetime? Sign up now to get started!

​Wondering what the difference is between these experts, and who you really need and why? You’re not alone. Keep reading to learn who you need on your side as you plan your destination wedding in Mexico and the Caribbean.

Wedding Coordinator

A wedding coordinator is a resort employee responsible for creating and managing all aspects of the wedding events taking place at the resort. Your wedding coordinator will help you schedule venues, entertainment and vendors. There is no cost for the services provided by wedding coordinators.

Wedding Planner

A wedding planner is an independent professional hired to organize your wedding, create the aesthetics and atmosphere for your day, and manage all vendors. A planner usually works with the resort wedding coordinator on your behalf. They are a liaison between the couple and the resort. Wedding planners can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the size and complexity of your wedding.

Destination Wedding Travel Agent

Let’s face it. For many, images of the old school travel agency of My Big Fat Greek Wedding come to mind when the words “travel agent” are tossed around. For years, agents have tried to break away from this dated title and instead use labels such as travel advisor, architect, engineer and designer. But at the end of the day, all are true. With today’s online technology, just about anyone can book a trip. But planning a destination wedding thousands of miles from home in a foreign country for 20-200 guests is way, WAY more complicated than just booking a trip. An experienced destination wedding travel agent is worth her weight in gold when it comes to keeping you organized, guests informed and everything moving seamlessly and smoothly. Your agent should:

• Show you specific resorts that fit your wants, needs and budget and help you choose the best option
• Ensure your wedding date is secured and connect you with the wedding team at the resort
• Confirm group rates, group amenities and manage your room block and deadlines
• Provide guests with details, answers and pre and during travel assistance
• Be your go-to, liaison and confidant every step of the way

Finding and hiring a destination wedding travel agent should be the first step in your planning process. Before diving into resort options, choosing a wedding date or even picking a destination, do yourself a huge favor and spend some time talking to a few potential destination wedding travel agents. As with any professional, you may need to pay a deposit or a retainer to secure their services. You may even be asked to pay for their advice and expertise. Would you expect anything less from an expert?

So what about the wedding coordinator and planner?

You definitely will want the assistance of the resort’s wedding coordinator. She knows the ins and outs of the resort itself and is able to bring your wedding vision into reality. We suggest finding several inspiration photos (Pinterest is great for this!) to share with her, along with your budget. She will help you create the vibe you’re going for and offer suggestions and tips along the way.

For most destination weddings, a wedding planner is not necessary. Your travel expert and wedding coordinator should be able to handle everything for you. However, if you are planning a very large or lavish wedding with a lot of details and events to manage, a wedding planner is a good investment. As the saying goes, it sometimes takes a village!

The expert wedding travel agents at Romance Travel Group do one thing and we do it well… we plan destination weddings! After nearly 25 years, our expertise, connections, processes and experience are unrivalled. We are consistently named “best” and “top” agency in the wedding and travel industry. One peek at the hundreds of 5-star reviews is proof of the attention and care that goes into each wedding we take on. We know it is a big step, but we promise that your nerves will turn to excitement after just one 30-minute call with our team. What are you waiting for? Sign up to talk to one of our wedding experts today. ​

Free Perks
How often do you hear the word “complimentary” associated with planning a wedding? Yeah, not so much. But in Mexico, it’s no surprise to see complimentary sky massages, champagne and strawberries, or private dinners thrown in as a way of saying “congrats” to the happy couple. We’ve even helped our brides and grooms get complimentary honeymoon or anniversary nights as an added bonus.
 
Simple to Coordinate
Imagine having all the little details taken care of for you, as you watch your wedding dreams fall into place. That’s right! A destination wedding in Mexico isn’t as hard to plan as you think. In fact, we’ll work with you side-by-side to ensure your day runs as smooth and stress-free as possible. We’ll even introduce you to the onsite wedding coordinator to go over all the fun details like decorations, food, and seating arrangements, so everything’s covered before you get there. The best part? These services are complimentary when you book. Can’t say that about your average wedding, now can you?
 
Ready to plan your Mexico wedding? Then, click below to get started!