Known for its awe-inclusive luxury and lively culture, Moon Palace is the perfect blend of relaxation and play time. Here are some of our favorite features about this popular Jamaican property:  

Kids & Teens Stay Free
Wouldn’t it be great if you could bring the kids along… for FREE?? Well, say no more! Moon Palace isn’t shy about their “Kids & Teens Stay Free” promo, where kids 17 and under stay, eat, and play for FREE. Certain restrictions may apply, so be sure to contact us for the details.
 
Generous Resort Credit
We just love Moon Palace’s generous resort credit! Simply book your stay for 5-8 nights and receive $1,500 to put towards anything from the spa, excursions and other extraordinary experiences! How sweet is that?
 
Free Destination Wedding Package  
Known for their elegant and customizable wedding packages, Palace Resorts is by far one of our favorite free wedding options. The “Compliments Collection” includes everything from the gazebo and setup, to the décor, floral arrangements, honeymoon package, and breakfast in bed the next morning. What more could you ask for in a destination wedding?

Unique Activities
Boasting a “play palace” mentality, Moon Palace Jamaica never disappoints our travelers with little ones! Some favorite activities include: cookie baking, masquerade nights, mini Olympics, and a sea turtle release to name a few. Additionally, you can expect to see various game rooms, a beauty salon and runaway, dollhouses, play kitchens, Xbox rooms, playgrounds, AND a theater on site! We know you’ll love the options at Moon Palace, but the REAL question is: where to start?!
 
It’s never too early to start thinking about your next family vacation (or to plan your destination wedding). Looking for some guidance? Then contact the travel experts today at Hello@RomanceTravelGroup.com to get started (and don’t forget to pin this article for later)! 

This year, Romance Travel Group’s Cathy Westereng had the pleasure to tour the Tuscany region in Italy with one of our favorite Italian partners. “We walked Renaissance squares, made pasta from scratch and tasted wine at centuries-old vineyards! And the best part? I never once felt like a tourist,” says Cathy.

“One of my favorite memories from this trip, I have to say, was a wine tasting near Pienza, Italy.  Pienza is located in the untouched Val d’Orcia region – a scenic valley about 2 hours from Florence.  First, we toured the historic vineyard -- walking among the grape vines. Next, we enjoyed a private tasting with the winery owner. Even better, this epic tasting was inside the cellar where the wine ages! I was in heaven.”

What made this experience even more special for Cathy was the chance to do it with a local guide. She was so thrilled to share this gorgeous area that so few Americans know about. “As our day came to a close, I glanced out over the Tuscan wine country -- the sun dipping behind the hills -- and said under my breath: "This is the real Italy."

Who’s ready to savor the real Italy? Cathy is here to make your Italian dream a lived reality. Contact Cathy at Cathy@RomanceTravelGroup.com or 952-583-5033 to book your Italy experience today!

Ciao, ciao!

Le Blanc Cancun
 
If you can imagine the ultimate romantic getaway for you and your sweetie, chances are, it looks a whole lot like Le Blanc Cancun! Known for its upscale setting and perfect elegance, this property is a great place for destination weddings, honeymoons, or for any occasion in your adult life. Sit back and prepare to be pampered with the around-the-clock personal luxury and butler service, and live the palace life in complete sophistication.

Whatever the occasion, we know you’ll create unforgettable memories at any one of these beautiful resorts. For more information, please feel free to contact us any time at hello@romancetravelgroup.com, or to see what your “Palace Personality” is, click here. ​

How To Choose a Resort?

We know how exciting it is to gaze down at the new bling on your finger and float away in dreams of your wedding day. You can already picture it in your mind. It’s your vision, and you just want it to be perfect for everyone. You know what? We do, too!

So often we see questions from brides-to-be posted on destination wedding planning forums and groups about choosing a resort and destination. Then, on que, all of the other brides-to-be reply with the name of the resort THEY chose. We love that everyone is sharing and trying to help, but in all honesty, does this really help? Let us explain…

Bride Jenna has been dreaming of a romantic, intimate, sophisticated destination wedding experience and has chosen a resort like El Dorado Maroma. Bride Kara has 2 children and wants to incorporate a vacation and family activities in addition to the wedding, so she has chosen a resort like The Grand at Moon Palace. Both are lovely resorts, but would Jenna be happy at The Grand? Can Kara’s kids even stay at El Dorado? Is Jenna’s El Dorado recommendation helpful to Kara? See what we mean?

Let us ask you…

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was one person, someone who has been to ALL the destinations and ALL the resorts, that could listen to your lists of wants and needs and hand-pick resorts that fit YOUR vision?

Ah, but there is!
​
The first step to planning a destination wedding, the step that will save you time, confusion and stress, is to enlist the guidance and expertise of the destination wedding pros at Romance Travel Group. We will, at no cost to you:

• Help you choose a resort and location that fits your dreams and budget
• Explain the legal requirements of getting married in your destination
• Introduce you to the wedding coordinator at the resort, many of whom we know personally
• Create a custom wedding website
• Make and manage travel arrangements for you and your guests
• Oversee the entire process from start to finish…. All at no cost. No fees. Nada. Zippo.

 
Getting started is easy. Visit our website and answer a few quick questions. We will send you three very informative emails loaded with helpful tips and destination wedding must-knows. No spam, we promise (but be sure to check your spam inbox!) Ready to just dive in? Fill out our questionnaire and we’ll be back in touch with you right away. Step 1… done!
 
Need a little reassurance? Here’s what bride Chelci and bride Marci had to say about their experience with Romance Travel Group. Also check out an interview with our founder, Shelli Nornes.
 
We truly love what we do. Planning destination weddings is our passion. We can’t wait to hear from you!

El Dorado Casitas Royale
 
From the first sip of your cocktail, to the last bite of your exquisite dessert, the Gourmet Inclusive Experience falls nothing short from perfection. And at El Dorado Casitas, the chefs believe the perfect meal should not sacrifice quality or quantity, but rather, work together equally to create the ultimate foodie experience. In addition, each and every meal is made with locally-sourced and delectable ingredients to create a variety of authentic cuisines. They’re also more than happy to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions or preferences, and provide you with personalize services that go well above and beyond any average resort. What better place to celebrate your love and taste for adventure, than here?
 
Unico 2087
 
You won't leave this delightful, adults-only paradise unsatisfied, that’s for sure! Unico 2087 elevates the meaning of Mexican culture through its unique dining experience and impeccable service. Locally-grown ingredients and flavors are a must-have at every restaurant and bar, while incorporating an array of international flavors in each and every dish. This honeymoon spot has dining options everywhere from casual and beachy, to fancy and indulgent. The menus are also carefully designed by experienced chefs, many of which own their own restaurants, or have cooked in kitchens across the world. This is an experience a culinarian in love shouldn’t miss!
 
Grand Velas Riviera Maya
 
Experience some of the most spectacular gourmet restaurants Mexico has to offer at Grand Velas Riviera Maya! Here, you’ll see local flavors and the surrounding culture blend to create the ultimate dining experience for lovers. Savor the intoxicating flavors from across the region in an array of chic or casual settings and indulge in their daily menus prepared by world-renowned chefs. Don’t forget to see what the mixologists are up to; you’ll find them at the Aqua Bar, which is just steps from the gorgeous beach!
 
So, for those of you who have a true appreciation for the art of food and drink, we highly recommend you honeymoon at one these show-stopping properties! For more information, or a complimentary quote, contact us at Hello@RomanceTravelGroup.com today. 

Looking for a more elegant and sophisticated destination wedding experience? Then check out 3 of our favorite adult-only properties that cater directly to you and the grown-ups on your guest list.

El Dorado Royale, by Karisma 
Explore signature wedding collections, beautiful offerings, and award-winning cuisine at this one-of-a-kind luxury property. In addition to El Dorado Royale's lush and tropical scenery, you and your adult guests will experience impeccable personalized service, endless inclusions, and a true taste of Mexican culture. The best part? With a Karisma destination wedding also comes a free wedding package with all the bells and whistles. Click here to learn more about the “Always and Forever Package,” or ask us today how to qualify.

Secrets Maroma Beach, Riviera Cancun
It doesn’t get much better than an oceanside wedding on one of the best beaches in the Riviera Maya – not to mention Secrets’ signature hospitality and Unlimited-Luxury. You and your adult guests will receive a secluded, exquisite, and harmonious wedding and vacation experience, all in the comforts of a AAA Five Diamond award-winning property. Secrets Resorts also prides themselves for staying true to each property’s cultural roots – so expect to receive the ultimate authentic Mayan experience.
 
UNICO 20º87º
The carefully crafted details and artful touches make UNICO 20º87º the ideal matrimonial backdrop for couples and adult travelers. Known for its exceptional value and service, this property boasts an entirely new standard for inclusion. Here, you’ll find  that everything is included – even the spa treatments, select tours and excursions! We think you’ll also find the Anfitrion Service to be especially enticing, which is designed to replace the traditional butler service and to serve as your personal host during your stay.
 
Think you’re ready to get started? Then contact us today at Hello@RomanceTravelGroup.com, or fill out this brief questionnaire and we’ll be in touch with you soon!

With so many incredible resorts dotting the shores of Cancun and Riviera Maya, it can be hard to know which one is the best for YOUR wedding group. All weddings are unique, and at Romance Travel Group, we believe there is a perfect resort for each one. Read on to see our recommended resort for each type of destination wedding group.

Looking for something that is not on our list? Feel free to give us a call to discuss your needs. 507-237-6133.  We'd be happy to listen to your destination wedding ideas and recommend resorts that fit your vision.  You may also use our destination wedding questionnaire to share your ideas with us.  The perfect resort is out there! Let our experts show you where!

MONTERIGGIONI
Hilltop Monteriggioni is tucked near Siena. The town of Monteriggioni is actually a medieval walled castle – topped in stone towers. Perched above a green valley, Monteriggioni was built between in the 13th century. Intact towers and two gates crown this castle-city’s rock walls.   

RADDA IN CHIANTI 
This tiny gem of a town is framed by stone ramparts.  Easily reachable from Siena or Florence, Radda in Chianti offers up meandering medieval streets and scenic views of the Tuscan wine country. Located near some of Tuscany’s main roads, Radda in Chianti makes for a stunning stop a day of wine-tasting. 

PIENZA 
Pienza is an icon of Renaissance design and architecture. Located in the lush Val d’Orcia region, Pienza is framed by green valleys, sunflower fields and rolling vineyards. From here, travelers can enjoy a day trip the hilltop jewel of Montalcino or spend the day sipping Brunello wine. 

P.S. Contact Cathy@RomanceTravelGroup.com to make your own Tuscan dream a reality. Ready to plan an Italian honeymoon? Get started now! Ciao, ciao!

The rumors are true! Having a destination wedding costs less and is easier to plan then a traditional wedding at home. The average cost of a wedding in the States has climbed to over $32,000. By comparison, the couples who plan their destination weddings with us are spending a fraction of that, often coming in under $10,000 total for a 3-night/4-day event. So how do we do it? Here are 7 ways to keep the budget in check without sacrificing any of the fun, frills and experience of your destination wedding.

Go all-inclusive
It is no secret that all-inclusive resorts serve up great value. When all meals, drinks, entertainment, airport shuttles and taxes are included, your guests know the total trip cost up front and can easily budget for it. This is especially true for wedding groups. Because it is all-inclusive, the cost you pay for private dinners and events is significantly reduced. Convenience is also a major factor!

Travel off season
The best rates are found off-season in September and October. Besides rock bottom room rates, you’ll find that resorts are running at lower occupancy levels during the off-season, leaving plenty of pool chairs open for everyone. November and December are good, too, as long as you avoid the holidays. And, because final payments for travel are often due 60-70 days before travel, you don’t have to worry about the trip interfering with Christmas.

Choose the right wedding package
Almost all resorts offer a complimentary wedding package. They also all offer an extravagant package that includes more than you’ll ever need. Consider starting with just the basic package, then add in little pops of customization here and there where it makes sense. Resorts won’t typically negotiate with the inclusions you don’t want, so start small, then add your personality piece by piece.

Bring your own pros
Have a photographer friend? A hair-stylist bff? A DJ’ing college roomie? As long as these pros are staying at the resort with you for 3 nights, they are not usually considered outside vendors and you will not have to pay extra to use them. Ask around and negotiate travel for services.

Honeymoon split-stay
Almost 80% of destination wedding couples still take a honeymoon. Consider a split-stay. This means you’ll stay at the wedding resort for 5-6 nights while your guests are there, but then after the wedding, we’ll help you move to a new resort where you can honeymoon for 3-4 more nights. This will save you a lot in airfare.

Keep it natural
What is more beautiful than the soft white sand, crystal clear blue water and a swaying palm tree? The scenery is already gorgeous, so is there really a need for all the extra fluff? Keep it simple and natural.

Use a wedding travel specialist
Ah, there it is. You had to know it was coming! Using a wedding travel specialist like the ones at Romance Travel Group is the best way to ensure you are considering all the options. A good travel pro will make suggestions for you and knows the resorts that offer the most amenities based on what your needs are. She is worth her weight in gold!

Convinced that yes, you can do a destination wedding? We hope so! We’d love to make this a reality for you. Fill out our destination wedding questionnaire to get the conversation started. We’ll get back in touch with you soon to chat!

What type of destination weddings do you specialize in?
 
I specialize in Mexico and Caribbean destination weddings. Over the years I’ve learned that the all-inclusive resorts offer the best value to my clients. Whether a couples’ destination wedding dream is sweet and simplistic or stylish and sophisticated, there is a resort out there that is just perfect for them, and my goal is to find it. I’ve planned weddings for 2, and weddings for 200. Every wedding, no matter the size of the guest list, deserves special attention.
 
Why do you think having a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean is the best decision to make for couples planning their wedding?
 
These days, loved ones are often scattered throughout the country, staying connected by technology. Chances are, when you announce your wedding plans and begin making your guest list, you will notice a great number of family and friends who are going to have to travel for your wedding already. Why not have your guests come together at a fabulous  resort where meals and drinks are all included, where you will be catered to, and your time can be spent with those you love. I hear over and over again, “Thank you! The time our loved ones spent together at our destination wedding is something we will cherish forever!”
 
Destination weddings are

1. Less expensive – the typical destination wedding easily costs under $10,000 for air, room, meals and drinks for 7 nights, plus the wedding ceremony and dinner reception for approximately 40 guests.
2. Less drama – everyone can relax and enjoy themselves with no pressure.
3. Less work – you make the basic decisions and let the wedding coordinators orchestrate it all for you. Enjoy a morning at the spa while the resort handles all of the details.
4. More time – imagine a fun, 3-day event with your loved ones. Your wedding doesn’t have to go by in the blink of an eye. Cherish the time and make lots of memories. Your guests will be talking about your wedding for years to come.
5. More intimate – you actually know every guest at your destination wedding. There are no long receiving lines greeting guests you’ve never met before.
6. More beautiful – white sand beaches, clear blue water, swaying palm trees, glowing sunsets. Destination weddings are a feast for the senses.
7. More enjoyable – no stress! Just show up, enjoy the vibe and have fun. 

 
Are most couples happy they chose to have a destination wedding once they have experienced it?
 
I have never had anyone say “I wish we wouldn’t have done that.” In fact, I hear the opposite from guests who have done a traditional wedding of their own. They tell me “if we could do it all over again….THIS is what we’d do!” The experience couples share with guests and the memories that are made last a lifetime.  Many destination wedding groups begin traveling together year after year because they had such a great first experience. They want to go back again and again. That says a lot! One bride recently wrote to me and said “This whole experience was so great! A lot of my friends are considering having destination weddings now and have thanked me for opening up the doors to this idea.”
 
What is one important tip for couples planning a destination wedding?
 
The most important decision couples will make about their destination wedding is which travel agent to hire. Anyone can book a trip. Anyone can get you a deal. But this isn’t just a spring break trip you’re planning. You need to partner with a destination wedding travel specialist who can share her experience and expertise with you from the beginning.  A destination wedding travel specialist is someone who has worked with more than a dozen couples already, who travels to the destinations she recommends, who personally knows the wedding team and management at the resorts, who understands the residency laws of each country and can guide you on locations, dates and budget logistics. A travel agent’s attention gets watered down by clients booking cruises, safaris, and escorted tours to Europe. A destination wedding travel specialist gives her full attention to weddings.  It is a very focused specialty that you must have on your side. Your destination wedding travel specialist will be your best friend during the planning process.
 
Why should couples go through you to plan their destination wedding?
 
Well, I AM a true destination wedding travel specialist. I am an industry recognized leader in the art of destination wedding travel planning. I have over 20 years of wedding travel experience, dozens of awards and accolades on my shelf, and thousands of very happy brides, grooms and guests who have put their trust in me. I have a true passion for this industry. The favorite part of my job is seeing wedding photos pop up on Facebook and fill my inbox sometimes within hours of a ceremony. Seeing my couples and guests having the time of their lives is extremely rewarding.  
 
Anything else you want to say to brides?
 
It’s ok to call me and say “I have no idea where to start!” If you are dreaming of a destination wedding, but have no idea how to get is started, let’s talk it through. You’ll be surprised at how quickly it can all come together and how smoothly everything can be planned. Don’t let the details scare you away. If you’re entire guest list can’t make it, that’s ok, too. Your wedding day is for YOU. It should be exactly how you want to start the rest of your lives together. 

​Shelli can be reached at 507-237-6133 or Shelli@RomanceTravelGroup.com.

Romance Specialist:  Shelli Nornes
Destination:  Riviera Maya, Mexico
Resort:  Grand Velas Riviera Maya

Hugging the coast where the Caribbean Sea meets the Yucatan jungle, Grand Velas Riviera Maya takes you beyond all inclusive.

Great resort for: High-end, luxury adults and families who demand the best in both quality and service. 

Location: Grand Velas Riviera Maya is located just 30 minutes south of the Cancun airport in a quiet, gated community. A 30 minute drive will get you to either Cancun or Playa for shopping and excursions.

Savor gourmet cuisine from renowned chefs, bring balance to body and mind with treatments in our holistic spa and unwind in suites with private terraces, plunge pools and uninhibited water views. Find refuge on the white sand beach or lounge by the infinity pool, paired with attentive service from our concierge. Schedule a massage in the comfort of your suite. Join an exciting excursion to explore lush jungles, underwater caves or Mayan ruins. Or, grab a drink at one of our vibrant lounges. This is luxury re-defined. Definitely a bucket list resort!