Wedding Date: August 10, 2024 ~ Resort: Dreams Las Mareas ~ Hair/Make-Up:  Nadia Cambronero ~ Photographer/Videographer: Adriana Mendez, Lucas Weddings and Dharma & Jurgen   ~ Bridal Gown: The White Magnolia (Buckhead) ~ Groom's Attire: Indochino (Buckhead)

Why did you choose Romance Travel Group?
 
We started our destination search on our own, and it was so overwhelming. We knew we were having a larger wedding (100 guests), but still wanted it to be affordable. There were so many options for destinations and resorts. Our initial search deflated us, so we reached out to a few destination wedding travel agencies. After our first call with Romance Travel Group, we knew we could trust them to find us the perfect destination, and they did!
 
What led you to choose a destination wedding?
 
We both knew before our engagement that we wanted a destination wedding. We live in Georgia, but both love the beach & ocean, specifically a Pacific sunset! We also wanted to give our guests a fun, affordable weekend in a beautiful country that they would always remember! So we were looking at Mexico, the Caribbean Islands, the Bahamas, and especially Costa Rica. We got engaged in Costa Rica, so it was definitely at the top of our list.
 
How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
 
We had a few criteria we knew we had to have: family-friendly (we have nieces and nephews), beach access, flights from all major cities (guests came in from all around the US), and specifically the venues. Romance Travel Group put together a detailed presentation with fantastic resort options. In the end, we chose Dreams Las Mareas in Costa Rica! Yay!
 
Were there any objections from your wedding guests about your decision to have a destination wedding? If so, how did you handle overcome those?
 
We did experience objections from family. It was really hard as we wanted advice on the destination, but finances clouded the judgement of some. We were very understanding of the ask to take time off work and travel to a foreign country just to celebrate us. We did not ask for gifts as the gift was their presence itself! So we just pushed the objections aside because we wanted to make this decision for us - somewhere that felt special and we could make beautiful memories in In the end, those family members actually apologized for objecting, and said the trip was worth it!
 
How did you come to decide on your wedding date? Is there meaning behind it?
 
We knew we wanted the wedding in August (limited sports on - but we didn't think about the Olympics, haha). When we looked at all the Saturday dates, 8/10 immediately stuck out. We met on the first day of freshman year of college, and Evan lived beneath Lexie. Evan's dorm room number was 610, and Lexie's was 710. So, 610 + 710 = 810. ♥️
 
Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort? What went well? Any challenges?
 
Working with the coordinator was a little difficult at times, but overall our wedding turned out exactly as we had hoped. The logistical and communication aspect was stressful as we had to initiate contact with our coordinator several times, and didn't start planning the wedding until 3 months out. All our other vendors (Photography/Videography, Makeup and Hair artist, DJ, Violinist) were great at communicating with us. The planning of details went great, and all our flowers, decor, venue setup, etc. were perfect!
 
Tell us about your wedding attire – How did you find it? Who went shopping with you? How do you feel wearing your wedding attire?
 
Bride: I went shopping with my mom, future mother-in-law, and best friend. I knew what kind of silhouette, shape and style I wanted, and the stylist at the bridal shop actually picked it out for me! It was a strapless, A-line crepe gown with a ruched, corseted top, scoop neckline and fitted skirt with a train, with buttons running from top to bottom. I felt like a princess, barbie, queen all at the same time!
 
Groom: Evan wore a custom, ivory Indochino suit, with a white linen shirt, and Allen Edmond loafers. It was the perfect Beach Wedding look.
 
Bridesmaids: I told my bridesmaids what color dress to get, but let them pick it themselves! They all have different bodies and figures, and personalities, so one dress wouldn't work for everyone. They blended so well together! I could not have been more happy.
 
Groomsmen: We had the groomsmen wear matching tan pants from Men's Wearhouse, and a simple white linen shirt.
 
Guests: We requested our guests wear semi-formal attire in a beach neutral color palette. All our guests delivered!

​The true definition of something for everyone, Hard Rock Punta Cana is often called the "Vegas of the Caribbean." With its unique charm and lively energy, this resort makes it the perfect venue to host your destination wedding, offering a truly memorable experience for you and your guests. Whether your guests are foodies eager to explore the tantalizing culinary options or simply looking to relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, Hard Rock Punta Cana has it all. 

​Location: Paradise in Punta Cana
Located on the pristine shores of the Dominican Republic, Hard Rock Punta Cana is an easily accessible slice of paradise. Just a short drive from Punta Cana International Airport, the resort is ideally situated for couples who want a destination wedding without the hassle of long travel times. The warm, tropical climate of Punta Cana ensures beautiful weather year-round, making it an ideal setting for your special day.
 
Resort Atmosphere: Rock Star Luxury with a Relaxed Vibe
Hard Rock Punta Cana is all about blending upscale luxury with a laid-back vibe, creating a unique atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and fun. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by the resort’s vibrant energy, infused with a rock-and-roll heritage that’s impossible to miss. Music memorabilia adorns the walls, and the entire property feels like a living museum of epic history, showcasing iconic treasures and gear from the world’s biggest music legends.
 
Despite its grandeur, Hard Rock Punta Cana never feels pretentious. It’s a place where you can unwind in style while still feeling right at home, making it ideal for hosting your wedding guests, who will appreciate the resort’s unique charm and liveliness. Whether it’s thrilling gaming action in one of the Caribbean’s largest casinos, exhilarating nightlife at ORO Nightclub featuring DJs from around the world, partaking in themed parties or catching one of many entertaining shows day or night, Hard Rock Punta Cana promises endless entertainment. The resort also features a championship golf course, the legendary Rock Spa, and even a Kids Club for your little rock stars.
 
Accommodations and Dining Experiences: A Feast for the Senses
When it comes to accommodations, Hard Rock Punta Cana doesn’t disappoint. The resort boasts over 1,700 newly renovated luxurious rooms and suites boasting incredibly spacious and welcoming modern vibes with hard rock twists. Each offers a spacious layout, modern amenities, and a private balcony or terrace. Your wedding guests will enjoy the comfort of plush bedding, hydro spa tubs, and 24-hour room service. Plus, being all-inclusive means that gourmet dining, top-shelf drinks, and exciting entertainment are all part of the experience. For the true rockstar experience, upgrade to a Rock Suite with a Personal Assistant for a whole new level of VIP. 
 
Dining at Hard Rock Punta Cana is an adventure in itself. With nine specialty restaurants ranging from traditional Caribbean flavors to international cuisines, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Take a walk down the boulevard to shop ‘til you drop or stop into one of the many dining options and bars including the Market Food Hall where you’ll find international street food. Whether your guests are craving a juicy steak, fresh sushi, or authentic Italian pasta, they’ll find it here. And let’s not forget the beachfront bars and cafes, where you can sip a cocktail while taking in the breathtaking ocean views. Before calling it an evening, stop by Ice Cone for handmade on-site ice cream.
 
Beach & Pools: Tropical Bliss for Everyone
The beaches of Punta Cana are world-renowned, and the stretch of sand at Hard Rock Punta Cana is no exception. For those looking to unwind, the resort’s pool areas offer a variety of options: from partying in lively swim-up bars, floating down a lazy river or to chilling out in quiet, secluded spots for relaxation. Whether your guests want to join in the fun or find a peaceful retreat, they’ll find their perfect spot in one of the resort’s 13 pools. But for those guests who want to spend their day experiencing all that can be explored, make your way to the beach for some group volleyball or soccer, perfect your short game with mini golf, or roll with your entourage and live it up with the daily entertainment team. 

​The Wedding Experience: What to Expect
Now, let’s get to the heart of what makes Hard Rock Punta Cana one of the best wedding resorts: the wedding experience. At Hard Rock Punta Cana, every element of your wedding is designed to be memorable. The resort’s expert team will handle everything, so you can focus on enjoying your day. From floral arrangements to photography, and even the wedding cake, the staff is dedicated to making sure every aspect of your wedding is flawless. The resort offers a range of wedding collections designed to fit different styles and budgets, each one customizable to reflect your unique vision. Choose from the laid back boho-inspired Free Spirit package; the whimsical and Tropical Paradise collection; go ultra glam and romantic with the Modern Enchantment or Lavish Daydream arrangements.
 
One of the highlights of a Hard Rock Punta Cana wedding is the opportunity to add unique touches that reflect your personality. Imagine arriving at your reception in a vintage car or hosting a beach bonfire for your guests after the ceremony. These special experiences set Hard Rock Punta Cana apart from other all-inclusive wedding resorts, offering you the chance to create a wedding that’s truly your own.
 
Hard Rock Punta Cana also offers a variety of stunning venues for your ceremony and reception. Picture exchanging vows in the resort’s elegant chapel, which features breathtaking ocean views. If you prefer an outdoor ceremony, the resort’s beautiful beach (seven venue options available on the beach) or lush tropical gardens (seven Gazebos and Garden venues as well) provide a natural and romantic setting. Or choose one of six dreamy plaza, terrace, or poolside areas. Important to note though, one of the unique aspects of planning a wedding at Hard Rock, is that while you can request the type of venue (beach, garden, terrace, etc.), the actual venue will be confirmed 45 days prior to the wedding. But for those who want to guarantee and reserve a venue right away, you can pay a location deposit at the time of securing your wedding date. But, no matter which venue you choose, the resort’s team will ensure that every detail—from the décor to the lighting—is exactly as you imagined.
 
What truly makes Hard Rock Punta Cana stand out is the level of service you and your guests will receive. The resort’s staff is known for going above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels pampered and cared for. Your wedding coordinator will work closely with you to ensure that your day is everything you’ve dreamed of, handling every detail with professionalism and care. This commitment to excellence is why so many couples choose Hard Rock Punta Cana for their destination wedding.

Wedding Date: August 17, 2023 ~ Resort: Hyatt Ziva Cancun ~ Photographer/Videographer: Great Events Studio 

What led you to choose a destination wedding? 
 
We had always dreamt of having a tropical wedding by the ocean. Growing up in different tropical countries, we both cherished our childhood memories of living near the ocean. It was our desire to exchange vows with the ocean as our backdrop. Furthermore, we took into account the financial aspect and compared the value of a destination wedding to weddings held in the United States. It became an effortless decision when we discovered that destination weddings provided a superior quality experience for the cost compared to weddings in the US.
 
How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
 
We wanted the process to be as simple as possible, so we made a concise list of what we were seeking in our wedding venue and enjoyable accommodations to keep our guests entertained throughout their stay. To ascertain these elements, we simply searched for images of the hotels on Google to visualize each venue and made a decision based solely on the pictures about which one offered the best experience for everyone attending. From the diverse range of hotels provided by Romance Travel Group, we conducted a straightforward visual assessment to select the most suitable resort from the available options without conducting any further research. We then proceeded with our choice, hoping for a positive outcome.
 
What were some of your biggest fears about having a destination wedding?
 
Our primary concern in planning an outdoor wedding ceremony was the potential for hurricanes or inclement weather. We were also concerned about providing suitable hotel accommodations to ensure our guests' comfort and enjoyment throughout the event. Additionally, the presence of seaweed on the beaches was a factor in determining the ideal date for our wedding.
 
Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort? What went well? Any challenges? 
 
Our experience with our wedding coordinators was inconsistent throughout the planning process. Initially, we worked with our first coordinator for about a year or so. She was responsive and organized, creating a master planner folder for all our information, took wonderful notes and provided suggestions and ideas throughout the entire process. However, after a few months, she received a promotion, and we were assigned to a second coordinator less than a year before the wedding. The quality of service from the second coordinator varied. She maintained the master planner well, recording most of the vital information discussed but often took almost 2 weeks to respond to our inquiries, compared to 1-2 days responses with the first coordinator. Despite the delay, she did provide thorough answers and shared details about the resort's services to use. When we had close to a year left to plan, we didn't mind the 2 weeks it took to respond but once we got closer and closer to our wedding date, we thought she would adapt and respond quicker but hardly changed for the better. At best, it would still take 4-5 days to respond, which we were running out of time to relay all of our information needed for the services that the hotel provided that we planned to use. Due to the slow responses, we changed our attention to outside vendors such as getting a DJ and decorators as they were quicker to respond to our inquiries and needs for our wedding that was quickly coming up. During our in-person meeting at the resort a day before the wedding, she was pleasant and efficient in preparing for the wedding, handling all the items we brought for the event and discussing when and where each item would go during the ceremony. However, on the wedding day itself, she unfortunately forgot several essential items needed during the reception, examples such as the guest book along with pens for greetings and signatures. During the reception, instead of keeping an eye out for any problems or the prevention of new problems from occurring, we noticed she was working on another couple's master plan on her laptop.
 
What were some of your biggest fears or things you worried about as your wedding date drew near? How did you get through this?
 
Small, insignificant things you don't really think about are building blocks that all add up to create the bigger picture of your wedding. We often had to visualize how the insignificant things would play out in our heads and had to create a list of the "smaller" points to help our wedding function properly months in advance to make sure we don't forget anything, to make the ceremony and reception run as smoothly as possible. Examples such as when our family and friends would walk down the aisle, in what order would they go? Picking the appropriate music/songs to play in the background during vital parts of the wedding, cocktail hour, and reception? Making sure to pick the correct food for the reception and that none of our guests are allergic to any of our choices for our buffet style dinner. We also often feared about how to get our guests to the resorts on time and safely as it was the first time for most visiting Cancun or even first time visiting a foreign country. There were also a few more issues that for our guests might run into such as a language barrier, issues with airports with delayed luggage and weather delaying/canceling flights at various locations, updating passports/Visas to travel internationally and getting transportation from the airport to the resort to make sure our guests were all set and ready to arrive. Luckily, Romance Travel Group was able to help us by providing detailed emails to our guests on what to do and organizing transportation for when they arrived at the airport. We also created a Facebook group to prepare everyone on any other issue that might pop up and share general information to help with any questions they might have, creating a community for everyone to get to know one another before leaving for Cancun.
 
Tell us about how you chose your bridal party and asked them to stand up with you.
 
From the start, we were eager to include our siblings in our celebration. Since we had an equal number of male and female siblings between both families, it was an easy answer to the number of bridesmaids and groomsmen. We thought it would be meaningful to have our siblings join us in these roles. Before we asked them to join our union, we decided to create gift baskets for each one of them, along with heartfelt letters expressing our desire for them to be a part of our special day. Each basket was catered specifically for each person. By choosing our siblings, we also ensured that coordinating attendance at events and assistance with our wedding projects would be easier, as we all reside near to one another.
 

​Planning a destination wedding can be both exciting and overwhelming. As a travel agency specializing in all-inclusive weddings in Mexico and the Caribbean, we want to make the decision-making process easier by expertly matching couples to the perfect resort for their needs.  One of our frequent recommendations for a stunning wedding venue on a modest budget is Sandos Playacar, a beautiful resort located in the heart of Playa del Carmen.

​Location: The Heart of Riviera Maya
 
Sandos Playacar is nestled in a gated community within Playa del Carmen, a vibrant town known for its rich culture and lively atmosphere. The resort boasts a prime location on a pristine stretch of white sandy beach, offering breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Its proximity to Cancun International Airport, less than an hour away, makes it an ideal and convenient choice for both you and your guests. Whether you're looking to explore Mayan ruins, enjoy local cuisine, or simply relax by the sea, Playa del Carmen has something for everyone.

​Resort Atmosphere: A Blend of Relaxation and Adventure
 
At Sandos Playacar, you'll find an atmosphere that blends relaxation with adventure. The resort's lush gardens and mini eco-park offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature, while the vibrant nightlife of Playa del Carmen is just a short distance away. Whether you're lounging by one of the nine pools, indulging in a spa treatment, or exploring the resort's extensive grounds, there's always something to do.

​Accommodations and Dining Experiences: Comfort and Culinary Delights
 
The resort offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy standard rooms to luxurious suites. For those seeking an elevated experience, the Select Club Adults Only section provides exclusive amenities and oceanfront rooms. Dining at Sandos Playacar is a culinary journey, with an impressive array of restaurants offering international cuisines. From a buffet breakfast at Festival to a romantic dinner at Fogo de Janeiro, you'll find delicious options to satisfy every palate. With 24-hour room service, you can also enjoy a meal in the comfort of your room whenever you like.

​Beach & Pools: Sun, Sand, and Serenity
 
The beach at Sandos Playacar is one of its most striking features. The expansive, powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters create a picturesque setting for your wedding photos. For pool lovers, the resort offers multiple swimming pools, including an adults-only pool and a jacuzzi, perfect for relaxation with a cocktail in hand.

​Wedding Experience and Venues: Your Dream Wedding, Perfectly Planned
 
The highlight of Sandos Playacar is its exceptional wedding experience. Couples can choose from three stunning venues: the Secret Garden, the Beach, and the Lobby Terrace. Each venue offers a unique setting, whether you're looking for a tropical garden, a beachfront ceremony, or an elegant poolside celebration. Imagine exchanging vows on the beach with the sound of the waves as your backdrop or celebrating under the stars in the Secret Garden. The resort also provides backup locations in case of inclement weather, ensuring your wedding goes smoothly. With flexible packages and à la carte options, you can customize your wedding day to match your vision.
 
The resort's professional wedding coordinators are dedicated to making your special day flawless. From selecting the perfect wedding package to personalizing every detail, they handle everything so you can focus on enjoying your day. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration with up to 100 guests, Sandos Playacar can accommodate your needs.

​Dream Wedding Awaits
 
At Romance Travel Group, we specialize in planning destination weddings at the best all-inclusive wedding resorts. Our team has extensive experience and is dedicated to making your wedding day unforgettable. Let us help you bring your dream wedding to life at Sandos Playacar. Contact us today to start planning your perfect destination wedding!

Your wedding day is one of the most important events of your life. And choosing the right travel agent to help plan your destination wedding is one of the most important decisions you'll make. An experienced travel agent is invaluable... they know the destinations, resorts, and the entire process to ensure everything runs smoothly. They have relationships with resort wedding teams, which means emails and phone calls are answered quickly. They can negotiate, spot potential problems, and handle emergencies, ensuring your big day goes off without a hitch. But, how do you find one, and how do you know they'll be good? Read on.

Before scheduling a consultation with a potential travel agent, do your homework. A little bit of easy detective work will help you narrow down your list of agents to interview quickly. Hop on their website and social media and poke around. Here are a few things to look for:

1. Read Reviews
​Reviews should be plenty and overwhelmingly positive. If you come across a negative review, don’t worry. Instead of emphasizing the review itself, consider how the agent responded to it.  A professional and fair response indicates that the agent values customer satisfaction and handles issues responsibly. Wedding agents work with hundreds if not thousands of wedding guests per year. The truth is, not all of those wedding guests are happy about the wedding or thrilled about needing to spend money on a trip that they have no control over. Sometimes, no matter how good an agent is, a guest is just not happy. Reviews are always two-sided, so look for trends in the overall feedback.

2. Check for Professionalism
A legitimate agent will have a professional online presence, including a business email address (a Gmail or Yahoo email is just plain unacceptable). Make sure to verify that the agent has a proper business setup, including necessary licenses and E&O insurance, ensuring they operate legally and ethically. Do they display a Seller of Travel number or affiliations on their website? Their social media should showcase client experiences and destination weddings. Be wary of agents who are trying to recruit other agents.

Speaking of recruiting... there are a number of travel MLM schemes to avoid.  In the travel industry, it's crucial to distinguish between real professionals and MLM agents. MLM agents often lack formal training and experience and rely heavily on recruiting new agents rather than focusing on client service.  This "recruiting" it a red flag that can often easily be spotted on social media and websites. 

3. Look for Accolades
Look for resort and industry-affiliated certifications, awards, and accolades, including The Knot Best of Weddings, Wedding Wire’s Couple Choice. Almost all destinations and resorts recognize their top-producing agents, who in turn will proudly display their achievements as confirmation of their expertise and success. These recognitions indicate that the agent has been vetted and is respected in the industry.

Once you've narrowed down your list of potential agents to two or three, you're ready to set up a time to speak with them. When interviewing potential travel agents, consider asking the following questions. 

Regarding Their Experience and Specialization:

1. "How many destination weddings have you planned?"
Experience is important for stress-free wedding planning. To be fair, we understand that everyone needs to start somewhere, but do you really want your wedding to be their first? An agent with extensive training, knowledge, and industry connections can navigate challenges effectively and has the expertise to handle unique situations, ensuring your wedding day goes smoothly.

2. "Do you specialize in destination weddings, or do you handle other types of travel as well?"
Lean towards agents that ONLY plan destination weddings. Think of it this way… if you have a heart condition, would you prefer a general practitioner or a cardiologist? You would want the specialist, of course! A wedding-specific agent is honed in on the wedding industry, the resorts, the process, and most importantly, your expectations. They live and breathe wedding travel and are far more invested in the process.

Regarding Their Process and Services:

3. "What is your destination wedding process?"
An experienced travel agent will have a well-defined process with checks and balances to manage all aspects of a destination wedding. This process should cover everything from securing the room block and ensuring the most perks and freebies from the resort to confirming the date and venue and communicating with guests. The agent should have a thorough understanding of all the moving parts involved and be able to communicate clearly how they will handle each step. This includes managing contracts, coordinating with the resort’s wedding team, and providing ongoing support to you and your guests. A detailed process ensures that nothing is overlooked and that you can relax knowing that all the logistics are in capable hands.

4. "What services are included when I hire you?" 
A destination wedding involves more than just booking a trip. You'll need assistance with guest management, creating a wedding website, sending save-the-dates, updating the rooming list and providing 24-hour support for your guests. For the most seamless experience, hire an agent that is capable of managing and providing these services for you. The more help you can get, the better!  

​Choosing the right travel agent for your destination wedding is not just about finding someone to book your travel arrangements; it's about entrusting a professional to handle one of the most important events in your life. As you embark on this journey, remember that not all travel agents are created equal. Take the time to research, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts.

If you're ready to start planning your dream destination wedding with a seasoned professional, Romance Travel Group is here to help. With years of experience and a passion for creating unforgettable wedding experiences, we have the expertise and connections you need. Let's work together to turn your dream wedding into a reality.  Schedule your free consultation (and ask us all the questions!) and take the first step towards your perfect destination wedding.