Planning a destination wedding is exciting, but one of the first and trickiest questions couples face is: "How many guests will actually attend?"

If you’re wondering how to estimate your guest count, you’re not alone! Many couples start with a list of 200 people, only to find that only half actually make the trip. But this is ok! Destination weddings are naturally more intimate than traditional weddings. To avoid overcommitting on rooms or underestimating attendance, we’re breaking down a stress-free formula to help you build your perfect guest list.

The best way to begin? Write down everyone you’d invite to a wedding at home. From here, you’ll categorize them into three groups:
 

• A-List: Immediate family, wedding party, and your closest friends. These are the people who will 100% be there no matter what.
• B-List: Friends and extended family who would love to come, but may have financial, work, or family obligations that could prevent them from traveling.
• C-List: Distant relatives, coworkers, and acquaintances—people you feel obligated to invite, but who are unlikely to attend.

Why does this breakdown help? Because not everyone you invite will actually RSVP "yes"—and that’s completely normal!

Here’s a simple yet pretty accurate way to determine how many guests will actually attend:
 
Formula:

Take everyone on your A-List
Add half of your B-List
= Estimated Final Guest Count
 
Most destination weddings see about 50% of invited guests attend, but this percentage can fluctuate. A few factors that may affect your numbers:
 
Close-knit family & friends? You might have a higher turnout.
Expensive or far-away destination? Your percentage could be lower.
Wedding at an all-inclusive resort? Guests may see it as a fun vacation and be more likely to say yes!

​Now that you have a thoughtful headcount, it’s time to reserve rooms for your guests. Resorts require a deposit (usually $100 per room) to hold rooms for your group.
 
Why does this step matter?
Booking too many rooms = A higher deposit + potential penalties for releasing unbooked rooms.
Booking too few rooms = Late RSVPers may struggle to find a room, or rates may increase.
 
Expert Tip: Work with a destination wedding travel expert (like us!) to get the best group rates, ensure flexibility, and avoid financial risks.

Not everyone will book their room right away—so it’s important to create a clear booking deadline to give you enough time to finalize details with your resort.
 
Here’s a timeline that works well:
 
14-16 months before the wedding: Send Save-the-Dates and open the room block for reservations.
10-11 months before: Close the room block for reservations. Closing the block creates urgency.
6-10 months before: Send reminders to guests.
4-5 months before: Final payments for guest rooms are due.
​
Guests who wait too long may miss out on the best rates, so be sure to emphasize the importance of early booking in your invitations!
 
Common Guest List Challenges & How to Handle Them

❌ “Everyone says they’re coming, but no one has booked yet!”
✔️ Solution: Until a guest puts down a room deposit, they aren’t officially attending. Send friendly reminders and emphasize booking deadlines. Your destination wedding travel expert should be able to help with this.
 
❌ “What if more people RSVP ‘yes’ than I planned for?”
✔️ Solution: Keep a few extra rooms on hold, but don’t overcommit. Your wedding travel expert can help adjust your room block as needed.
 
❌ “Some guests want to book outside the group block to save money.”
✔️ Solution: Politely explain why booking in the block helps everyone—group perks, better rates, and making sure everyone is at the same resort for wedding events. Many resort charge fees to guests who book outside the room block.

Want to make organizing your guest list even easier? Download our FREE Destination Wedding Guest List Planner!
 
This planner includes:

• A printable guest list template
• An RSVP tracker
• Expert tips for handling guest communication

​Creating a guest list for your destination wedding doesn’t have to be stressful! Remember...
 
Start with a master list and divide guests into A, B, and C categories.
Use the 50% rule to get an accurate estimate.
Be strategic with your room block so you don’t overcommit.
Set a clear RSVP deadline to keep guests on track.
​
Need expert guidance?
At Romance Travel Group, we specialize in destination weddings and take the stress out of the planning process. Let’s make your dream wedding effortless!
 
Contact us today for a free consultation!

​Planning a destination wedding is one of the most exciting parts of your journey as a couple, but choosing the perfect resort can feel overwhelming. Your resort sets the tone for your big day, so it’s important to choose wisely. As destination wedding travel experts, we know how to navigate the options and ask the right questions. Here are our top 10 tips to help you choose the best destination wedding resort.

​One of the first decisions you’ll make is whether to host your wedding at an adults-only or family-friendly resort. If your guest list includes children, don’t worry—there are many family-friendly resorts that offer a sophisticated and elegant vibe, far from "childish." However, if children aren’t a factor, we highly recommend adults-only resorts for their elevated atmosphere, intimacy, and tranquility. Don't know for sure? We'll show you family-friendly resorts that have adult-only sections, perfect for everyone!

​The location of your resort matters more than you might think. While a remote island may sound like a dream, consider the flight schedules and costs for your guests. Some destinations deep in the Caribbean can be challenging to reach and expensive to fly to. Opting for a resort in a well-connected destination, such as Mexico, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic often makes travel more accessible and budget-friendly for everyone.

​One of the most common questions we hear is whether to have a legal or symbolic ceremony. Only a few countries make legal ceremonies simple and affordable, so many couples opt for symbolic ceremonies instead. With about 90% of couples choosing this route, a symbolic ceremony allows you to save time, money, and stress, while still delivering all the romance and emotion of a wedding day.

​Let’s talk food! All-inclusive resorts include meals and drinks, but not all dining experiences are created equal. Some resorts go above and beyond with gourmet restaurants, chef-led dining, and unique culinary experiences. If food is a priority for you and your guests, we’ll guide you to resorts known for their exceptional cuisine and attention to dietary preferences.

​Your guests’ budgets are always top of mind. While everyone wants to celebrate in style, it’s important to be mindful of costs. A $200 per person per night resort is very different from a $400 per person per night option. We’ll help you find a resort that strikes the perfect balance between affordability and the unforgettable experience you’re dreaming of.

​Do you picture your wedding at a small, boutique resort with a peaceful, intimate vibe like Hyatt Zilara Riviera Cancun? Or are you drawn to a mega-resort with endless activities and energy like Hard Rock Punta Cana? The size and atmosphere of the resort play a big role in setting the tone for your celebration. Think about what fits your vision best, and we’ll match you with the right option.

​The size of your wedding is a key consideration when choosing a resort. The average destination wedding has around 50 guests, and larger groups require special accommodations. Some resorts are better equipped than others to handle large groups and may even reward couples with perks for hosting big celebrations. We’ll help you find a venue that treats you and your guests right. Unsure about how to estimate how many guests to expect? We've got ya! Use our handy guest list formula to get it right.

​Are you drawn to the idea of a quiet, remote resort where your wedding feels like a private getaway? Or do you love the idea of being near a lively beach town with shops, nightlife, and cultural attractions? Your vibe will guide your choice, and we’ll tailor our recommendations to match your vision.

​After a 3-4 hour flight, will your guests be up for a long drive to the resort? Sometimes a remote location is worth the extra travel time for a spectacular setting. Other times, being close to the airport is a priority, especially for shorter stays. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons to find the right balance for your group.

Choosing the right resort doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Romance Travel Group, we take the time to listen to your unique needs and create a curated list of resort recommendations just for you. With our expertise in destination wedding planning, you can rest assured that every detail will be taken care of.
​
Contact Romance Travel Group today to explore the best destination wedding resorts and start planning your dream wedding!

When you picture your dream wedding, does it include a white sandy beach, the soothing sound of waves, and your closest family and friends gathered for an intimate celebration? If so, you’re in good company! Destination weddings are more popular than ever, but there’s one question every couple asks: How much does a destination wedding cost?
​
The short answer? It depends. But don’t worry, we’ll break it all down for you. Whether you’re dreaming of a lush beach resort in Mexico, a picturesque ceremony in Jamaica, or something more exotic, here’s everything you need to know.

For many couples, a destination wedding offers the perfect mix of affordability and elegance. On average, destination weddings cost around $15,000. This includes:

• The couple’s travel and accommodations.
• Ceremony and reception essentials (basic décor, officiant, seating).
• Cocktail party and dinner reception for guests.

For comparison, a traditional wedding in the U.S. often exceeds $30,000, making a destination wedding an appealing option for couples seeking value and quality time with guests without sacrificing style.

Want to see how this looks in real life? Below are a handful of weddings planned by Romance Travel Group. Costs include the destination wedding package for the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner reception (with all food and drinks, tables, chairs) Travel costs include the room and flight for the couple. Cash back is the rebate the couple earned from the resort and Romance Travel Group.

Choose an All-Inclusive Resort
All-inclusive resorts can save you thousands by bundling meals, drinks, and entertainment. Plus, they simplify the planning process, allowing you to focus on the fun.

Book Early and Leverage Group Discounts
Working with a travel planner like Romance Travel Group ensures you’ll secure the best rates and perks. We negotiate group contracts and manage room blocks so you can enjoy stress-free planning.
​
Be Selective with Add-Ons
Extras like elaborate floral arrangements, custom décor, or premium entertainment can add up quickly. Consider what’s truly meaningful to you and skip the rest – no one will ever notice.

​Planning a destination wedding can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we come in! At Romance Travel Group, we specialize in making your dream wedding a reality. Here’s why couples trust us:

• Expertise: With over 25 years of experience, we know the ins and outs of destination weddings.
• Stress-Free Process: From choosing the perfect resort to managing guest reservations, we handle every detail for you at no cost.
• Exclusive Perks: Our partnerships with top resorts mean you’ll enjoy unique benefits not available elsewhere

​But don’t just take our word for it—our happy couples say it best:

​Now that you know what to expect, it’s time to take the next step. Whether you’re just starting to dream or ready to dive into planning, Romance Travel Group is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation . You’ll be so glad you did! Your tropical celebration is closer than you think!

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.

Why Use Our Destination Wedding Cost Calculator?

Transparency & Trust: We believe in complete transparency. No hidden costs, no vague estimates. Our calculator gives you a detailed breakdown, ensuring that you’re well-informed from the very beginning.
 
Tailored to You: Whether you're dreaming of a lavish ceremony or an intimate elopement, our calculator factors in your specific needs, wants, and constraints.
 
Knowledge is Power: Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your big day, and this tool will arm you with insights that can make a significant difference in your planning process.
 
How Does It Work? It's simple!

1. Choose your budget for each wedding component. Don't need a vendor? Just eliminate it!
2. Select how many guests will be booking into your room block. This helps us calculate your cash back.  (Cash back?!? Yes! Ask us about how to earn the most cash back!)
3. Get an immediate, itemized estimate of your wedding costs, including a grand total.

 
Take the Next Step with Us!

We don't just stop at giving you an estimate. Our team of dedicated destination wedding travel experts is here to turn this estimate into a reality. With insider knowledge, destination partnerships, and a passion for perfection, we do everything we can to provide you with a seamless destination wedding planning experience. Just look at our reviews!
 
Destination weddings are about making memories, and our aim is to ensure that those memories are filled with joy, love, and absolute peace of mind. Use our Destination Wedding Cost Calculator today and take the first step towards the wedding of your dreams.
 
Remember, every dream wedding begins with a plan, and every plan starts with understanding your budget. Let us help you realize your vision.
 
Happy Planning & Cheers to Forever!
​
Romance Travel Group
Your Trusted Destination Wedding Travel Agency
 
P.S. Got questions? Feel free to reach out to us anytime. We're here to make your wedding journey as beautiful as the wedding itself!

If you have started to think about planning your destination wedding, there is a good chance that you’re stuck on finding the perfect resort. You’ve probably started looking, found a few resorts that you like, but then suddenly everything starts to blur and look the same. As travel professionals, we know exactly how to start narrowing down the possibilities to discover resorts that are perfect for what our couples need for their wedding. Here are some key points to consider:

​Location
Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic top the list of wedding destinations, given the abundance of all-inclusive resorts and flights. More resorts and flights usually create a better value. The more exotic destinations can definitely be alluring, however, the longer flights and increased costs are factors to consider.
 
Group Size
The number of guests greatly influences your resort choice. A small 20-guest wedding has much different needs than a large 100-guest wedding. Larger groups should look for resorts offering a great group amenity package, which typically include reception, cocktail party and other financial incentives. More guests means more expenses, so seeking out resorts that cater to larger groups will really help with your wedding budget.
 
Guest List
Are you inviting anyone under the age of 18? If so, you'll need a family-friendly resort. Adult-only resorts require all guests to be over the age of 18.
 
Guest Budget
Budgets matter, too! Quality all-inclusive resorts generally charge $200-$280 per person per night. Your wedding date can significantly affect this cost. If guest budget is high on your priority list, consider an off-season wedding date.

Making the Final Decision
 
In the end, location, group size, guests, and budget are all crucial in choosing the right resort. Weigh each factor carefully, keep an open mind, and trust your instincts. After all, it's your special day!
 
Remember, a destination wedding isn't just a ceremony... it's an experience, for both you and your guests. Choosing the right resort plays a key role in creating unforgettable memories.
 
Need more help? Our team at Romance Travel Group is ready to offer personalized planning assistance for your big day.  We've been to the destinations and resorts and can expertly match you to the perfect location. Our services are free. Why not give us a try?

​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!

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.

There are several ways to save money on a destination wedding without sacrificing quality. One of the best ways is to book your wedding during the fall months, when room rates are typically lower. Another idea is to rely on the resort’s natural surroundings for your décor. Who needs tulle, chandeliers and bows when you have swaying palm trees, clear blue waters and white sand beaches? For larger wedding groups, it will be important to find a resort that offers the best group amenities to help cover the reception costs. (Hint: we know the best resorts for this! wink, wink!)

More time with guests, time in a tropical destination AND half the cost? You heard right!

Our wedding experts will help you navigate the process. Even OUR services are complimentary, so why wouldn't you want to explore the idea of a destination wedding? You and your guests will be thrilled that you did. ​

Why Choose a Destination Wedding?
From affordability and convenience, to intimate settings with your closest friends and family - the list really goes on. In fact, we've created a whole blog post dedicated to why you should pick a destination wedding. 
 
How Much Does a Wedding Cost?
Did you know that the average traditional wedding costs around $40,000 and up? Yep - you read that right. With a destination wedding, we have partnerships with gorgeous resorts around the world that will cost you a quarter of the price. Don't believe us? Just check it out for yourself. 
 
How to Plan a Destination Wedding
So, how exactly does this whole thing work, you might ask? Well, say no more! We've worked with thousands of couples on their special day and have got the whole wedding planning thing down to a science. For an idea of our process, click here!
 
Where to Have a Destination Wedding
Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic take the cake for top places to get married (in our opinion). Not sure how to decide? No worries - we'll weigh all the pros and cons with you during our initial meetings!

Interested in working with a travel agent to plan your destination wedding? Then, click below to get in touch with one of our experts!

Who is going to help with all the travel plans?
Remember that destination wedding travel expert we mentioned? She will work with each guest to create the trip that works best for them. Some guests will make a week-long vacation out of their trip, while others will only be able to sneak away from 3 nights. No problem! Your agent will handle all the details so you don’t have to.

How will I know what needs to be done?
Your travel expert and the wedding coordinator will ensure everything has been considered and your big day is executed perfectly. Together, they’ll help you through all the steps and decisions that need to happen. You’ll be amazed at how seamlessly everything comes together.
​
Did we answer some of the questions you were wondering? We hope so! We know how overwhelming it can seem at first, but we are here to help you through it all. Fill out there short form here and we'll take it from there! Can't wait to chat soon!

​P.S. If this post helped, be sure to pin it for later!

​For 7-nights at an all-inclusive resort, expect to spend approximately $3,000 for the both of you. Most resorts charge between $150-$250 per person, per night – but that includes your room, your meals, your drinks, taxes and airport transportation. 

For 2 round-trip flights, you’re looking at a total cost of around $1,000. This will also be dependent upon the airline you’re using, the time of year, and of course, your destination of choice.  

The wedding usually consists of 4 events; a welcome party, the ceremony, a cocktail hour, and a dinner reception. Wedding packages typically include the ceremony location, bride’s bouquet, groom’s boutonniere, officiant, cake, chairs for about 40 guests. Packages range from $0 (you read that right!) to $15,000, but most couples all into the mid-range of $5000 - $7000. 

So, for a grand total of about $10,000, you and your fiancé can enjoy a week-long tropical wedding celebration for about a quarter of the cost of a normal wedding! For more on costs, check out our Destination Wedding Cost chart.

There's a lot to think about! Destinations, budgets, guest count, venue ideas. We cover a lot of this here. But we also suggest going with the resorts that have FREE wedding packages! In addition to your resort’s all-inclusive benefits, wedding packages can include everything from expert wedding designers and basic décor, to sound systems, the ceremony officiant, a wedding certificate, a semi-private dinner, a honeymoon package, and much more! The best part? You can always add on specific customizations to your free package to make it your own! Almost all resorts also offer premium wedding packages for a upcharge to match your specific preferences and personality. Wanna check out some of our favorite resorts with free wedding packages? Then, click here to find out!

We suggest you ask yourself a few things as you dive into planning! Some examples include your budget range, your destination of choice, time of year, and how many guests you have to invite. Then, the next step is to find yourself a destination wedding travel agent to guide you through the process. That's us! We'll help you work through all of these questions, find and recommend the perfect resorts, personally help each guest,  and keep you on track so you have a fun and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Ready to begin? Simply click below to get started!