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.

Romance Travel Group, a premier travel agency specializing in destination weddings in Mexico and the Caribbean, was celebrated with multiple prestigious awards at the recent 2024 Playa Resorts Spotlight Awards held at the Hyatt Ziva Cancun.

The annual conference, dedicated to recognizing top-performing agents and agencies within the Playa Resorts network, brought together industry leaders, resort managers, wedding teams, and sales executives for a week of networking, collaboration, and celebration of achievements.

Romance Travel Group emerged as a standout among its peers, clinching multiple awards that underscored its excellence and dedication to providing unparalleled service and experiences for destination wedding couples.

Among the accolades received by Romance Travel Group were:

• Top Producer for Mexico: Recognizing the agency's outstanding contribution to driving bookings and revenue for Playa Resorts in the Mexican region.
• Top Wedding Agent: Highlighting Romance Travel Group's expertise and success in curating unforgettable wedding experiences for couples at Playa Resorts' properties.
• Top Agent Midwest: Commending the agency's exceptional performance and leadership in the Midwest market, showcasing its ability to connect clients with dream destinations and seamless travel experiences.

​The crowning achievement of the evening was the presentation of the Ambassador Award to Romance Travel Group. This esteemed accolade, bestowed by the Playa Resorts team, is reserved for individuals who exemplify partnership, innovation, leadership, and friendship.

In her acceptance speech, Shelli Nornes, the owner of Romance Travel Group, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, "It is a tremendous honor to receive the 2024 Ambassador Award on behalf of the team at Romance Travel Group. We have found a true partnership with Playa Resorts. We love their properties. We love the wedding experiences they create for our couples. It is so important to know that Playa values and supports what we do as much as we value and support them. It is truly a win-win for us and our destination wedding couples."

The awards received by Romance Travel Group serve as a testament to the agency's unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction. Through its continued partnership with Playa Resorts, Romance Travel Group looks forward to creating countless magical moments and unforgettable experiences for destination wedding couples in the years to come.

For more information about Romance Travel Group and its services, visit www.RomanceTravelGroup.com.

​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. There is no cost for the services provided by wedding coordinators. Your wedding coordinator will help you schedule venues, entertainment and vendors. They will often make suggestions and recommendations based on your needs and requirements.  Resorts sometimes have a planning team located in the US or Canada that work with couples to lay out the wedding day vision and timeline. One to two months before the wedding, the planning team then hands off the wedding file to the on-site wedding team to fine tune and execute all of the details for the wedding day. Resort wedding coordinators know their properties well and can be a huge source of information and help for couples, especially since most couples do not get to see the resort or venues before arriving. 

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. They provide a lot of one-on-one consultation, attention to detail and specialize in bringing your exact vision to life. They are usually very resourceful and work with your best interests in mind at all times because they are hired to do just that. 

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, hiring an outside wedding planner is not necessary. Since destination weddings tend to be smaller celebrations, your travel expert and wedding coordinator should be able to handle everything for you. However, if you are planning a large or lavish wedding with a lot of details and events to manage, or if you lovingly refer to yourself as a busy-body or a worry-wart, a wedding planner is a good investment. Your peace of mind is priceless. 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 over 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 call with our team. What are you waiting for? Sign up to talk to one of our wedding experts today. ​

Couples love us! (and we love them!)
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I wouldn't have been able to have the wedding of my dreams on my budget without their help!”  Katelynn & Nick, Unico Riviera Maya

They absolutely handled everything perfectly to make our lives easier.”  Savannah & Tye, Royalton Punta Cana
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​Do yourself a favor, reach out to Romance Travel Group, you will not regret it!”  Camille & Jacob, Azul Beach Negril

If you're newly engaged and envisioning a breathtaking wedding in a picturesque setting, you've come to the right place. Specializing in all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, our dedicated team is here to make your destination wedding dreams come true. Welcome to Romance Travel Group, where dreams of a perfect destination wedding turn into reality!

Why choose us? It's simple. At Romance Travel Group, we blend passion, expertise, and personalized care to craft the wedding of your dreams. Our approach is unique, combining a deep understanding of your desires with our extensive knowledge of destinations and resorts. From the initial planning stages to the final 'I do,' we're with you every step of the way.

​Keep reading to unveil what sets Romance Travel Group apart. Discover how our team's camaraderie, innovative technology, firsthand travel experiences, and unwavering commitment form the pillars of our unmatched service. We're not just planning your wedding; we're crafting an unforgettable journey filled with love, laughter, and memories to last a lifetime.

​Romance Travel Group is more than just a travel agency; we are a vibrant team of dedicated, intelligent, and hardworking women (and a few techy guys behind the scenes), passionately committed to making your destination wedding unforgettable. As full-time employees, our focus is entirely on creating magical moments for our couples.

​The strength of our team lies in our unity and collaborative spirit. We approach each wedding with a collective mindset, pooling our expertise to ensure service excellence and exceptional experiences. Our approach is simple yet powerful: we prioritize quality over quantity. This means every detail of your wedding is meticulously planned and executed with the utmost care and attention.

​What truly sets us apart is the bond we share as a team. We are not just colleagues; we are friends, and we are family. This closeness extends beyond the confines of work. We travel together, share experiences, and support each other in every aspect of life. This deep connection is the cornerstone of the personalized and heartfelt service we provide.

​Our team's camaraderie and genuine enjoyment of working together are palpable and contagious. When you choose Romance Travel Group for your destination wedding, you're not just getting a travel agent; you're gaining a group of enthusiastic supporters and advisors. We welcome couples into our family with open arms, ensuring that your wedding journey is as joyous and stress-free as possible.

Found your perfect match? Now, find the perfect travel agency to bring your destination wedding to life. At Romance Travel Group, we believe in love stories and the magic of new beginnings. Let us be a part of yours. Our team, equipped with insider knowledge and years of experience, will guide you every step of the way.

Are you dreaming of a beachfront wedding but overwhelmed with the nitty-gritty of planning? Imagine saying your vows against a backdrop of stunning Caribbean sunsets or pristine Mexican beaches. At Romance Travel Group, we turn these dreams into unforgettable memories! It's what we do. 

Why Choose Romance Travel Group?

We understand you're juggling careers, family, and social commitments. That's where we step in! We do one thing, and we do it well.... destination weddings at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. We handle every detail, so you can focus on what truly matters – living your lives and celebrating your love surrounded by family and friends.

Experiences Tailored Just for You

Our passion is creating experiences that resonate with your unique love story. Whether it's an intimate beach ceremony or a lavish resort wedding, we help you curate every aspect to reflect your personal style and preferences.  With our extensive knowledge and hands-on experience, we are able to pair you perfectly with the destinations and resorts most capable of realizing your wedding day dreams.

Take the First Step!

Ready to embark on this exciting journey? Sign up on our website today and let's start planning the wedding of your dreams. We're not just planning a day; we're crafting memories that will last a lifetime.

As you embark on this beautiful journey towards your big day, you will no doubt be tempted to type "best destination wedding resorts and packages" into the search box. But before you start browsing through resorts and wedding packages online, think about enlisting the help of an expert. Here's why finding a qualified, dedicated destination wedding travel agent should be your first step:

Expert Knowledge of Resorts: As experienced wedding agents, we've been to all the resorts you're considering. We've built relationships, worked closely with their teams, and know the ins and outs of each location. We can confidently compare resorts to present the most fitting options for your unique specific needs.
 
Insider Insights: While we can work with with just about any destination and resort, we certainly have our preferences based on firsthand experiences. Some resorts might sparkle online but fall short in responsiveness or contract terms. We know which to prioritize and which to avoid, ensuring your wedding is nothing short of fabulous.
 
Special Needs? No problem! If you're an LGBT couple, we're well-versed in which destinations are most welcoming. Bringing kids? We can suggest resorts that are family-friendly yet sophisticated. Have specific dietary needs? We know exactly which places can cater to you. Whatever your requirements, we've got you covered!
 
Tailored Services: Every wedding group is unique, and we understand that. Whether you have a vast entourage or are on a tight budget, we're adept at customizing our services to fit your circumstances.
 
Total Immersion in the Industry: Our world revolves around destination weddings. We're constantly updated with the latest trends, news, and developments in the industry. With us by your side, you'll always be a step ahead.

Instead of spending countless hours, possibly days, sifting through resort websites, redirect your energy towards finding the right destination wedding travel agent. Here's the cherry on top: Our services are FREE for you! Since we operate as a travel agency, the resort compensates us when your group makes the trip. It's a win-win situation for everyone. Can I get a whoop whoop!?!
 
Our approach is straightforward. We'll initiate with a friendly phone call to get acquainted and understand your dream wedding. From there, we'll dive deep into research and come back with tailored destination and resort suggestions. With you every step of the way, from booking your wedding date to creating your wedding website, you're in very capable hands.
 
Ready to hand over the reins to the experts? We thought as much! Just fill out the form below to get the ball rolling. We're waiting to hear from you!

​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.

1) You want to spend time researching 100’s of resorts, reading 1000’s of reviews, and looking at photoshopped photos in hopes of getting lucky and picking the right resort

Don't want to do this? A wedding travel agent will do all the necessary research to match your interests and budget - so you don't have to.

2) You don’t mind waiting weeks and weeks for the wedding coordinator to reply to your emails, if they reply at all

Don't want to wait? A wedding travel agent offers a quick turnaround and is always up-to-date with the latest changes.

3) You prefer to have all your guests call and text you millions of questions about booking a room, room rates, airport transportation, passports, and travel in general

Don't want the questions? A wedding travel agent will work with each of your guests to make sure they are well taken care, all so you can focus on being the bride.

4) You enjoy being responsible for organizing and preparing international travel for large groups of people

Don't want to organize? A wedding travel agent is an expert on the details and will prepare each guest for their international trip.

5) You want to be stressed out for the next year while you try to plan your wedding day

Don't want the stress? A wedding travel agent is definitely what you need! 

Think you'd be better off without a wedding travel agent? Think again! Your wedding is a time for you to focus on being the bride. Leave all the travel and guest details to the experts. This is what we do. You will be so happy to have us on your side. Contact us through the button below to start the planning process!

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

When you work with a travel expert, they will literally take care of every detail for both you and your guests from the moment of booking, until you arrive home.  More specifically, you can expect them to:

1. Oversee the entire travel planning process
2. Recommend destinations and resorts that best suit your budget and preferences
3. Manage room blocks and guest questions - so you don't have to!
4. Act as your liaison for getting things done - again - so you don't have to!
5. Manages all things travel related - from research and booking, to airport transportation, and hooking you up with your onsite wedding coordinator