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. First, Do Your HomeworkBefore 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. Next, Ask QuestionsOnce 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:
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:
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!)
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 Do yourself a favor, reach out to Romance Travel Group, you will not regret it!” Camille & Jacob, Azul Beach Negril Romance Travel Group is once again re-certified by AIC Hotel Group, the experiential brand offering limitless travel experiences; from luxury to refined all-inclusive vacations, as WOW Specialists. Held at Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta from November 5-7, 2023, the Gold Magellan award-winning WOW, the Weddings on the Water Travel Advisor Specialist Program, supports and arms distinguished destination wedding travel advisors with any and all essential tools needed to sell all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels of Mexico and the Dominican Republic, and UNICO 20º87º Riviera Maya. In addition to the WOW specialist training program, a secondary certification, Ishq Rocks Specialist, was offered to travel advisors looking to be experts in booking South Asian destination weddings. Personally hand-picked to participate in the WOW Specialist program, Romance Travel Group was among an exclusive group of agencies who had to meet well defined requirements to be eligible for the program. Being WOW Specialists allows agencies to orchestrate the best possible experience for wedding couples and their guests. Romance Travel Group’s extensive training and firsthand experience allows their team to understand the uniqueness of the products offered at each hotel. As part of their training, the experts at Romance Travel Group walked through each and every step of the wedding booking process, providing them with exclusive knowledge to better serve their customers. Additionally, the team personally met with the on-site wedding coordinators, allowing the unique opportunity to establish a strong working relationship with the team that puts it all together on-site. With the WOW Specialist program and the innovative All In Weddings website, a new staple in the destination wedding planning process, the brand prides itself in creating more than just a cookie-cutter program. It has created a platform that lends to its success ranging from brand education, extensive sales & marketing support, as well as a lead generation system. “With WOW we’ve created a program that goes beyond just an educational platform, and has transformed into a multi-dimensional tool that arms our destination wedding travel partners with the resources needed to sell the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels of Mexico and the Dominican Republic, and UNICO 20º87º Hotel Riviera Maya,” says Ash Tembe, VP of Sales & Marketing for AIC Hotel Group. “Agencies like Romance Travel Group are helping us give clients the ultimate, all-inclusive destination wedding and honeymoon experience. We congratulate the Romance Travel Group team for participating in our workshop and are confident that wedding couples are in great hands with them.” To book your destination wedding with Romance Travel Group, visit our website at www.RomanceTravelGroup.com.
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.
anchor: TeamHeartOfOurService
Team - The Heart of Our Service
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.
United by Passion, Strengthened by Teamwork
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.
Beyond Colleagues - A Family That Cares
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.
Welcoming You Into Our Family
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. Let Romance Travel Group be your guide to a wedding journey as special as your love. Sign up and let the magic begin!
A destination wedding is undoubtedly magical, with the ocean breezes and the swaying palm trees wrapping you in their romantic serenade. It’s every couples’ dream! But (reality check!) we get it – one of the first and biggest questions every couple has is this: “How much is this dream destination wedding going to cost us?” To make your wedding planning journey smoother and to provide clarity on those daunting dollar signs, we're ecstatic to introduce our Destination Wedding Cost Calculator! Designed from our years of experience and passion for helping couples, this tool aims to provide a realistic cost estimate to bring your dream wedding to life. 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!
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! 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! If you’re planning on having guests travel with you for your destination wedding, chances are you have been wondering about group discounts and perks and how to manage it all. Let’s take a closer look at group reservations and options. GROUP RESERVATIONS The average size destination wedding is about 50 guests, or 25 rooms. Wedding travel agents are very well versed in negotiating and navigating group contracts and terms. Read everything! It is easy to make inaccurate assumptions that can cause issues down the road. Make sure you understand what you’re signing. Most group contracts require a 10-room minimum. This means if you fall below 10 rooms in your block, you will need to pay for the extra room/s to get you to 10, or your group will be considered a cancellation. If you can’t guarantee 10 rooms (your room + 9 others), don’t sign a group contract. Guests are still responsible for their own rooms and payments, but all the rooms in your group are yours. You own the group. Group contracts have set booking and payment deadlines. These deadlines are set by the resorts and outline when penalties increase. Don’t expect to negotiate on these deadlines. They will actually help you by creating an incentive for guests to book early. After all, you can’t plan your wedding until you know how many guests are coming for sure, and the only way to know this is to have guests book. Group rates are often not much cheaper than regular rates, but the perks you get for setting up the group are worth it! Group perks often include:
INDIVIDUAL RESERVATIONS
Group contracts can be overwhelming, for sure. But, for wedding groups, a group block is definitely the way to go. If you just can’t or don’t want to sign a group contract, all rooms for guests will be booked like individual vacations. All guests will pay different prices, rates can change drastically, rooms and resorts can (and will) sell out so some guests may not be able to attend even if they want to, and there are no freebies for you to take advantage of. Most Romance Travel Group couples (like 95% of them!) sign group block contracts. We find that the perks and benefits of having rooms blocked and rates locked in make it so much easier for guests to book. The freebies are nice, too! Ready to set up your own destination wedding group block? We’d be happy to share our expertise and guidance with you. You plan a beautiful wedding… leave all the group details to us! Think you don’t need a travel agent to help you plan your big day away? Think again! Here’s why you totally do: You Need a Travel Agent: To Guide YouWe Have Resort Experience As destination wedding specialists, we are on location at the resorts we recommend several times each year to ensure our couples get the best experience possible. Because of this, we have connections with some of the top tourism companies in the world – which means you’ll get the best pricing, emergency support, and value-added amenities you can’t just find online. We’ll Guide Your Decisions Not sure which resort to pick? Unsure which amenities are included at your resort? Worried about picking the wrong wedding package? Well, good news – we’ve got your back! In fact, its our job to guide all those big decisions for you so that you aren’t faced with any unnecessary stress along the way. All good, here! 😉 We Can Customize One of the greatest things about a destination wedding is that no two weddings are the same! In fact, we’re able to customize pretty much anything your heart desires to align with your budget and preferences. So that rooftop wedding you’ve been dreaming about? Yeah, we can make it happen! You Need a Travel Agent: To Do The WorkWe’ll Do all The Heavy Lifting Don’t want to research a resort? No problem, we’ll do it for you. Not sure how to coordinate all your guests? We’ll handle it. As for the ceremony and décor? We’ve got the hookup on speed dial. The point is, hiring a destination wedding travel specialist benefits you in more ways than one – including doing all the heavy lifting for you. We’ll Ensure Everything Runs Smoothly From the initial resort recommendations and flight options, to your guest accommodations, transfer services, and wedding day – we’ll be there for you every step of the way. Worried about something? Let us know! Our job is to make sure you feel at ease so your day runs as smoothly as possible! You Need a Travel Agent: Who Knows WeddingsWe Are Wedding Experts While travel advisors are fully-qualified to plan all your travel-related matters, it’s always smart to work with someone who specializes in what you’re looking for. Planning a destination wedding takes an extensive amount of research and planning – something only a true romance travel expert could help you with. We’ll help you with finding the perfect destination, venue, and travel arrangements – and even hook you up with the onsite wedding planner to help you with all the other details! You Need a Travel Agent: Who Knows TravelWe Live and BREATHE Travel Lastly, as travel advisors, we live and breathe travel all day long. We book several travel experiences for people every day. We give you our opinions and recommendations based on our first-hand travel experiences because we’ve been through it. We help you save time, money and stress – sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? Looking for a destination wedding specialist? Then, you’re in luck! Romance Travel Group helps thousands of couples plan the ultimate destination wedding each year. To get started, simply click below to connect with us today! P.S. Be sure to pin this post so you can refer to it later
Travel agents who specialize in destination wedding travel have the tips and knowledge you can’t find anywhere else. Here are 5 reasons you’ll want to use one today! We Live and Breathe Travel
As travel agents, we live and breathe travel all day long. We book several travel experiences for people every day. We give you our opinions and recommendations based on our first-hand travel experiences because we’ve been through it, we've been there. We help you save time, money and stress – sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? We’re Wedding Specialists While travel agents are fully-qualified to plan all your travel-related matters, it’s always smart to work with someone who specializes in what you’re looking for. Planning a destination wedding takes an extensive amount of research and planning – something only a true wedding travel expert could help you with. We’ll Do all The Heavy Lifting Don’t want to research a resort? No problem, we’ll do it for you. Not sure how to coordinate all your guests? We’ll handle it. As for the ceremony and décor? We’ve got the hookup on speed dial. The point is, hiring a destination wedding specialist benefits you in more ways than one – including doing all the heavy lifting for you. We Can Customize One of the greatest things about a destination wedding is that no two weddings are the same! In fact, we’re able to customize pretty much anything your heart desires to align with your budget and preferences. So that rooftop wedding you’ve been dreaming about? Yeah, we can make it happen! We’ll Work with You From the initial resort recommendations, to your guest accommodations, transfer services, and wedding day – we’ll be there for you every step of the way. Remember, we’re not a call center – we’re real people that are just as excited to plan your wedding as you are! Looking for a destination wedding specialist? Then, you’re in luck! Romance Travel Group helps thousands of couples plan the ultimate destination wedding each year. To get started, simply click here to connect with us today! On the destination wedding struggle bus? Well, not to worry – here’s the one thing that will solve all of that. So… the one thing that will solve all your destination wedding woes, you ask? Why, it’s enlisting help from us – the destination wedding pros! Not sure why you should use a pro? Keep reading to find out! One on One Attention We have planned hundreds of destination weddings for couples all over the United States and are recognized not just as travel agents, but travel advisors. We advocate for you, guide you and overall have your back and make sure you’re taken care of. In fact, we help you with everything from the booking process and travel arrangements, all the way to taking care of your guests and any issues that arise along the way. We also personalize our services to every couple – every wedding is unique. On-Location Experience As destination wedding specialists, we are on location at the resorts we recommend several times each year to ensure our couples get the best experience possible. Because of this, have connections with some of the top tourism companies in the world – which means you’ll get the best pricing, emergency support, and value-added amenities you can’t just find online. We Are Wedding Experts While travel agents are fully-qualified to plan all your travel-related matters, it’s always smart to work with someone who specializes in what you’re looking for. Would you rather have a family practitioner or a cardiologist to do open heart surgery? Cardiologist, of course! Don’t leave your wedding to just any travel agent. Planning a destination wedding takes an extensive amount of knowledge and planning, something only a true romance travel expert can help you with. We’ll help you with finding the perfect destination, venue, and travel arrangements, and even hook you up with the onsite wedding planner to help you with all the other details! Feeling relieved yet? Awesome, now let’s get started! Simply click here to fill out an inquiry form and a destination wedding specialist will be in touch with you shortly. We look forward to making your wedding dreams come true!
Let's face it. Who spends 8 hours a day, 5 days a week planning weddings? WE DO! Who gets to travel to all the resorts to test them out, making sure they are up to our standards for a wedding? US! Who knows the resort brands and can easily compare packages, promos and inclusions? RIGHT HERE!
So let us ask you... why wouldn't you want a destination wedding travel agent on your side? Don't skip this essential first step to planning your wedding. Stop typing "destination wedding" into the search box, and instead, type Romance Travel Group! Couples – we’re here to tell you like it is! Here are the do’s and don’ts for planning your destination wedding: Do…book early We recommend you reaching out to a destination wedding specialist and booking your resort between16 and 18 months in advance. But don’t… invite guests too early It’s best to extend the invites no more than14 months in advance – after your resort has been booked. And don’t… require an RSVP For a destination wedding, the guest’s room deposit serves as their RSVP. Easy-peasy! If you ask for a traditional RSVP, you will end up with a lot of “yes!” that can’t actually attend. Just let the room deposit be the RSVP. But do… set a “book by” date To encourage guests to book early, you can have a recommended “book by” date on your website. This allows your guests plenty of time to plan accordingly. Definitely don’t…worry when your wedding coordinator takes a while In the destination wedding industry, it’s not unusual for your wedding coordinator to take a week or more to get back to you. *Deep breaths* We promise, this is normal. They are busy making magic happen behind-the-scenes! Oh, and do…trust your travel agent and wedding coordinator Remember, your destination wedding specialist and wedding coordinator are your advocates and have your best interest at heart. Also, don’t…stress out over the little details They say, “hindsight is 20/20,” and this couldn’t ring truer. Everything always falls into place beautifully, and you’ll eventually realize that stressing out over your music playlist was pointless. Lastly, please do …commit yourself to slowing down While you can easily get caught up in the moment of wedding planning, it’s important to slow down and take things in stride. After all, you only get one wedding countdown – so it’s best to make it count! Ready to plan the wedding of your dreams? Then, click here to connect with a destination wedding specialist , today. We look forward to working with you! Shelli Nornes started Romance Travel Group after planning her own destination wedding in 1998. We had the opportunity to sit with Shelli and talk about travel and destination weddings and listened as she shared some very valuable advice.
Please give a brief description of yourself and your business for the readers to know about you and what your agency has to offer. Travel is my passion!! I am president and CEO of Romance Travel Group, an award-winning travel company offering expert travel and destination wedding planning services to brides, grooms and guests. Our clients have the distinct advantage of our hands-on expertise. We're out there experiencing the resorts we recommend several times each year. We're travel agents... we travel! Planning weddings never feels like “work” to us. Several of our agents were also destination brides, so we understand all aspects of the planning process from start to finish. What type of destination weddings do you specialize in? We specialize in Mexico and Caribbean destination weddings. Over the years we’ve learned that the all-inclusive resorts offer the best value to our 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 our goal is to find it. We’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. We 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
Are most couples happy they chose to have a destination wedding once they have experienced it? We have never had anyone say “I wish we wouldn’t have done that.” In fact, we hear the opposite from guests who have done a traditional wedding of their own. They tell us “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 us 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 typical travel agent’s attention gets watered down by clients booking cruises, safaris, Disney, 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? We have a team of true destination wedding travel specialists. We are industry recognized leaders in the art of destination wedding travel planning. After 20 years of wedding travel planning, we have dozens of awards and accolades on our shelf, and thousands of very happy brides, grooms and guests who have put their trust in us. Our team has a true passion for this industry. Seeing our 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 us 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. Planning a destination wedding? Then no doubt you are looking for the best destination wedding travel agent to help you through the process. They are, after all, the ones with all the experience and who will be your best friend throughout the process. Here are 6 important questions to ask when you are interviewing your potential destination wedding travel agent:
What is your experience with destination weddings? This is the first question you should ask a potential destination wedding travel agent. As a bride and groom, it’ll put your mind at ease knowing your go-to person has years of experience in the field. Have you been to the destinations and resorts I’m interested in? Everyone always likes a recommendation, so be sure you ask the wedding travel agent you’re interviewing if they’ve been to the resorts you have your eye on. That way, they can provide additional insight on things like service, food, entertainment, wedding décor, venues, key staff, and more. How do you work with guests and keep everything organized? Fair question! The sound of transporting 60+ people from point A to point B can sound very daunting, but to a highly trained travel expert, it’s just another day. Be sure to ask them for examples of how they’ve managed group bookings for rooms, transfers, group excursions, etc. What kind of fees do you charge for your services? Because every wedding has a budget! Be sure to ask your potential wedding travel agent how much it is to utilize their services. You’ll be surprised! Services can run from $0 on up to $5000 or more. Be sure to ask! Do you have a team of assistants to help, or is it just you? It’s always great to know if your destination wedding travel agent has an assistant or second point of contact in case they’ve fallen ill, are traveling, etc. That way you can rest easy knowing your questions and concerns will be responded to in a timely manner! What are the next steps in this process? Once you’ve gotten a good feeling about your potential wedding travel agent, the last thing you’ll want to know are next steps. The right candidate will have a straightforward game plan for you ahead, so no guessing games along the way! Interested in chatting with us about our destination wedding planning services? We’ll be able to answer these questions for you and then some! Simply click here to get started. We look forward to chatting with you soon! Minnesota, January 15, 2020 -- Romance Travel Group was announced a winner of the 2020 WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards, an accolade representing the top wedding professionals across the board in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism reviewed by couples on WeddingWire. A leader in the global wedding planning industry, WeddingWire continues its celebration of local wedding vendors with the announcement of its twelfth annual WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards winners. To determine these distinguished wedding professionals, WeddingWire analyzed reviews across more than 20 service categories, from venues and caterers to florists and photographers and of course, travel experts, to find the most highly rated vendors of the year. These winners exhibit superior professionalism, responsiveness, service, and quality when interacting with the millions of consumers who turn to WeddingWire to help ease their wedding planning process each month. Wedding professionals who win WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards are members of WeddingPro, the leading B2B wedding brand. As the largest marketplace and community for wedding professionals, WeddingPro connects businesses with more than 13 million visitors per month who are planning weddings on WeddingWire and The Knot, as well as with hundreds of thousands of pros in the industry. Through its online marketplaces, educational programs and community-building events, WeddingPro is dedicated to helping wedding professionals build relationships with couples and pros that grow their businesses. Romance Travel Group is honored to be one of the top wedding businesses on WeddingWire.com. For more information about Romance Travel Group, please visit us on our website. To learn more about the WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards, please visit www.weddingwire.com/couples-choice-awards. Romance Travel Group Named Triple Platinum Agency at AIC Hotel Group's 4th Annual Stopstopper Awards12/16/2019 AIC Hotel Group, the experiential brand breaking out of the sea of sameness in the hospitality industry offering unmatched vacation experiences, recognized Romance Travel Group for its outstanding achievement at the Fourth Annual Showstopper Awards recently held at the all new Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos. With over 250 travel partners in attendance, Romance Travel Group proudly took home several awards, including the award for Triple Platinum Agency. Individual agents receiving awards include Tiffani Inserra, Shelli Nornes, Camille Sanders and Kate Breiter.
Exclusively created to honor those travel professionals who exemplify excellence in every aspect of production for the company’s brands, AIC Hotel Group’s Showstopper Awards recognize Tour Operator, Online Travel Agency and Travel Agent partners throughout the US and Canada for their loyalty, dedication and production to the all-inclusive Hard Rock Hotels of Mexico and the Dominican Republic, and UNICO 20˚87˚ Hotel Riviera Maya. Each winner was carefully selected based on production in 2018, with the Top Overall Sales category recognizing the top producers for the company’s brands. “Year after year our travel partners show us their unwavering support and dedication to our growing portfolio of brands,” says Carilis Felipe, AIC Hotel Group’s director of Field Sales. “The Showstopper Awards are a way for us to not only express our gratitude, but also recognize them as a key asset to the company’s consistent growth and success. We are thrilled to see what the future has in store and look forward to more years of outstanding achievements alongside our travel partners.” This year, attendees also had the opportunity to be part of the grand opening celebration for Hard Rock Hotel Los Cabos. Those who made monetary donations to Casa Hogar, a local organization that provides physical and emotional care for kids and teens in a camp-like environment, were able to receive a guitar and protective gear to participate in Hard Rock’s iconic guitar smash alongside A-list celebrities and key stakeholders while contributing to a great cause. “It is always a proud moment to see so many of our hardworking travel agents on stage receiving recognition for their achievements,” says Shelli Nornes, President and CEO of Romance Travel Group. “I know and appreciate the level of dedication it takes to reach these goals and I commend each one of them!” For more information on Romance Travel Group, visit www.RomanceTravelGroup.com or call 507-237-6133. Fourteenth Annual Best of Weddings Awards Honor the Top Wedding Vendors Across America Romance Travel Group pleased to announce that we have once again been selected as a 2020 winner of The Knot Best of Weddings, an accolade representing the highest and top-rated wedding professionals as reviewed by real couples, their families and wedding guests on The Knot, a leading wedding planning brand and app. For 2020, only five percent of hundreds of thousands of local wedding professionals listed on The Knot received this distinguished award. In its fourteenth annual year, The Knot continues its longstanding tradition of supporting local wedding vendors with The Knot Best of Weddings 2020, an annual by-couples, for-couples guide to the top wedding professionals across the country. To determine the winners, The Knot analyzed its millions of user reviews across various vendor categories, including venues, musicians, florists, photographers, caterers and more, to find the highest rated vendors of the year. These winners represent the best of the best wedding professionals that engaged couples should consider booking for their own unique wedding. “Our teams works extremely hard to be helpful, kind, fun and supportive with all of our wedding and honeymoon couples, so it is exciting to receive this recognition to share with everyone!” says Shelli Nornes, President and CEO of Romance Travel Group. “It is definitely a team effort, and I can’t wait to share this with them!” The Knot has inspired 25 million couples (and counting!) to plan a wedding that’s uniquely theirs. With a rich history of providing high-quality content and inspiration, The Knot makes it easy for couples to connect with and book the right wedding professionals to create their perfect wedding day. On The Knot Marketplace, couples can get connected to any of the hundreds of thousands of local wedding professionals across the country. The Knot Best of Weddings gives couples the confidence to find and book the best local vendors to bring their wedding visions to life. In combination with years of trusted content, The Knot’s innovative technology makes planning one’s wedding celebrations easier and more enjoyable. Wedding professionals who win The Knot Best of Weddings are members of WeddingPro, the leading B2B wedding brand. As the largest marketplace and community for wedding professionals, WeddingPro connects businesses with more than 13 million visitors per month who are planning weddings on The Knot and WeddingWire, as well as with hundreds of thousands of pros in the industry. Through its online marketplaces, educational programs and community-building events, WeddingPro is dedicated to helping wedding professionals build relationships with couples and pros that grow their businesses. For more information about The Knot Best of Weddings and this year’s winners, please visit https://www.theknot.com/vendors/best-of-weddings. About Romance Travel Group Romance Travel Group is your key to a successful destination wedding, honeymoon or vacation getaway. As industry recognized leaders in the art of destination wedding and travel planning, our team of agents has dozens of awards and accolades, and thousands of very happy brides, grooms, couples and guests. Our specialists are seasoned pros who want the best for you. We can’t wait to help you plan the perfect wedding day, honeymoon or tropical vacation! Call us today to start planning the trip of a lifetime! 507-237-6133 With so many great locations, Riu Resorts have so much to offer couples who are wanting to plan a destination wedding. From Aruba to Cabo, Riu has stunning resorts on gorgeous beaches, just perfect for wedding groups. Enjoy all the style and perks while being considerate of guest costs. Isn't that what every bride wants? We spent time chatting with some of the Riu wedding planners and asked them to share their insider knowledge with us. Keep reading to hear what they have to say!
What are a few of the most commonly asked questions you get from couples starting the destination wedding planning process? The most common questions are usually regarding: Wedding set up pricing Wedding locations How much will they be spending overall What is included in the wedding package What decorations and events are included Couples want to have the complete picture of their expected expenses. Other questions we are often asked are about wedding locations availability, what happens in case of rain, where are the back-up locations. At RIU Hotels & Resorts, we have different packages that can fit to all kinds of wedding couples and groups, so we can customize everything depending on what the couple desires. We know that couples today love to customize their wedding experience. What are some of the unique ways you see couples customizing their wedding events? Couples love to bring their own wedding favors for their guests, things that are meaningful and personal to them. The color theme is very important, and we know brides want to have flowers, fabrics and decorations match perfectly. Many couples plan activities with their wedding guests throughout their stay. They participate in things like excursions or special activities happening around the resort. Everyone has a ton of fun together at our Riu Party or in the Pacha Club! Are there any trends you’ve been seeing for 2020 weddings? Our most popular destinations are Jamaica, Los Cabos Mexico, Costa Mujeres Mexico & Aruba. A really popular trend for wedding set up decoration is the Boho Chic style, including a lot of tropical elements such pineapples and green leaf foliage. Cost is always a factor. Are there certain items couples can omit or change that help keep their budget in check? The cost is very important for the couples! Some couples have asked guests to take snapshots and candids of the ceremony and the events instead of hiring a photographer for everything. Other ways to save include having semi-private events (instead of private events) and using the natural tropical surroundings as the backdrop instead of investing in additional decor. Are couples doing legal ceremonies, or symbolic? What do couples need to know to help them decide? Symbolic is the most requested ceremony. After the couple finds out about all the paperwork needed to have a civil ceremony, and the steps to legalize the wedding certificate in their country, most choose to have a symbolic wedding. A symbolic ceremony is less expensive and less complicated. What are your most popular ceremony locations? The most requested wedding ceremony location is the beach, of course! Couples love our amazing Caribbean Sea views and our Pacific sunsets. Some brides choose to have their ceremony on one of our ocean view terraces, which are stunning. Riu proudly has hotels in the best locations! In Los Cabos we are in front of the famous Arch. In Cancun, we have a gorgeous ocean front garden. In Jamaica we have gazebos facing the ocean. Every hotel has stunning locations available to make every wedding truly one in a kind! Pretty impressive!! Are you dreaming of Aruba now? Or perhaps Cabo? Not sure which location is best? Let us help! Our team of destination wedding experts are here to help you choose the location, resort and wedding date, and organize the entire experience for you and your guests. Ready to start planning? Ah, Royalton weddings. They are so amazing! But why? We recently sat down with Randi Reshef, Senior Wedding Consultant with Royalton Resorts, to chat about planning destination weddings. Read below and learn from the experts on planning your Royalton destination wedding. We understand the importance of partnering with wedding vendors that value service and quality as much as we do here at Romance Travel Group. We take the time to go meet the teams at each resort, video conference with the planning office, and continuously work on building partnerships with what we think are the best destination wedding resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean. We recently sat down with Randi Reshef, Senior Wedding Consultant with Royalton Resorts, to chat about planning destination weddings. Randi has been with Royalton 3.5 years with a focus on our St Lucia, Jamaica, Antigua and Costa Rica resorts. Randi loves bringing out the creative side of her wedding couples and working with them on creating the perfect, customized wedding. Her clients speak highly to her ability to ease their stress and come up with unique personal touches that they can incorporate into their destination wedding.
What are a few of the most commonly asked questions you get from couples starting the destination wedding planning process? “Our wedding couples are so excited about getting engaged and to be in the process of planning, that the most commonly asked questions we get are pertaining to floral and décor. Most of the time, wedding couples will have a general vision for their wedding day and are looking for cost on those items so that they can budget appropriately. In addition, couples love to know about services that we offer such as entertainment or food & beverage options.” We know that couples today love to customize their wedding experience. What are some of the unique ways you see couples customizing their wedding events? “We know that every wedding couples’ vision is different and we love that Royalton weddings allow our couples to completely customize their experience. To name a few unique customizations, we have seen a pizza tower instead of wedding cake for a foodie couple, we have seen a completely sapphire themed wedding to replicate a brides engagement ring, we have seen an “On the Run” tour Beyoncé & Jay-Z themed wedding, and even a couple who sang themselves down the aisle. Anything is possible!” Are there any trends you’ve been seeing for 2020 weddings? “We have been seeing a lot of requests for Pampas Grass, which is perfect for a beachy Bohemian wedding. We have also seen a lot of couples bringing custom neon signs to hang above their head table. 2020 will also bring monochromatic bouquets, and couples who are looking into sustainable weddings. For example, clients are looking into sustainable travel, reducing food waste, and anything that will help impact the environmental aspect of their wedding.” Cost is always a factor. Are there certain items couples can omit or change that help keep their budget in check? “I have always considered a dance floor a “luxury” purchase. If it’s within the budget, that’s great! If not, I think it’s something that can be skipped. Most of our couples who choose to have a destination wedding have always dreamed of dancing in the sand, and the other half of our couples are hosting their reception at a location that has tiled flooring. Dancefloors tend to run anywhere from $600-$1,500 USD (depending on size and type of dance floor), so that can be a big chunk of savings if they don’t rent this item!” Are couples doing legal ceremonies, or symbolic? What do couples need to know to help them decide? “I would say this is a 60/40 split, with symbolic weddings being the more popular of the two ceremony types. Symbolic weddings are generally more flexible. For example, you can have your own officiant, customize the vows, and determine the overall feel of the ceremony. On the down side, a lot of couples do want their official wedding anniversary to be on the day that they host their ceremony. If you’re legally married before your symbolic ceremony, then technically your wedding anniversary would be on a different date. In some countries, you have to be legally married before hosting a symbolic ceremony, so the couple would need to be okay with being legally married at least two months before the wedding. With legal weddings, there will be paperwork involved. If a couple is already feeling stressed about planning, that extra step of getting their legal documents notarized might be a deal breaker. In addition, there is an added cost for hosting legal weddings which varies depending on the resort, and some countries to require bloodwork upon arrival in order to have a legal wedding.” What are your most popular ceremony locations? “Hands down, the most popular ceremony location that we have is the Sky Terrace! We don’t have the Sky Terrace at all of our Royalton properties, however the Royalton resorts that do have this private rooftop location are always booked first. Not only does the Sky Terrace offer additional privacy for wedding couples, they also have incredible unobstructed views of the ocean and a beautiful stone structure, so no additional décor is needed. There is an additional fee to host a ceremony on the Sky Terrace, but it’s well worth it for the views, privacy, and the included décor. For properties that don’t have a Sky Terrace, we still see a lot of Beach ceremonies. Many of our couples have always envisioned being married toes in the sand, and nothing can change their minds. Beach ceremonies allow for a lot of customization in terms of structures or chuppah’s, seating, and aisle décor!” Like what you see? Romance Travel Group and Royalton Resorts are committed to planning the most incredible destination wedding with you. Ready to get started? Fill out our simple contact form and we will have one of our experience destination wedding specialists reach out right away. We can’t wait to work with you! For years, Romance Travel Group has partnered with the wedding designers at Karisma Resorts and Lomas Travel to create the most incredible and memorable destination wedding experiences for our couples. The consistent quality, both with resorts and planning services, launches Karisma to the top of our preferred partner list. We recently took time to chat with our friends at Karisma about what planning a destination wedding with them is like. They answered many of the most common questions asked by brides, and gave us their insider tips. Keep reading to learn more! What are a few of the most commonly asked questions you get from couples starting the destination wedding planning process? “The number one question is “Can I customize wedding my wedding?” The answer is absolutely YES! Here is a presentation that goes over the most frequently asked questions.” We know that couples today love to customize their wedding experience. What are some of the unique ways you see couples customizing their wedding events? “Each couple has their own wedding vision, and with the help of our wedding designers, amazing destination weddings have come to life! Just look at these images!” Are there any trends you’ve been seeing for 2020 weddings?
“Brides are choosing big floral arrangements with lot of greenery and white flowers. For the reception, everything is a bit more rustic, like long wooden tables and again a lot of greenery and white with an occasional touch of blush pink.” Cost is always a factor. Are there certain items couples can omit or change that help keep their budget in check? “Sure! Everything depends on what the couple wants and the size of the group. The most important things not to skimp on are private dinner receptions, photographers, and DJ.” What are your most popular ceremony locations? “The Sky Deck and the Pier at Generations Riviera Maya are by far our most popular locations. They are just stunning and everyone loves them!” Because Romance Travel Group and Karisma have such a great relationship, we have worked together to bring you a special offer! Book your wedding with us and as a thank you, you can select one of the following: Semi Private Group Brunch Reservation ($500 USD value) Includes Bloody Mary bar and Mimosas Restaurant and maximum group size vary by resort Set menu determined by resort Caribe Photo Package Credit ($200 USD value) Valid on Piña Package or higher www.caribephoto.com Sky Wedding Package - 50% Discount ($900 USD value) Receive a 50% discount off the Sky Wedding Package at all resorts Location must be reserved and confirmed at time of booking Valid for groups of 30 people or more Like what you see? Romance Travel Group and Karisma Resorts are committed to planning the most incredible destination wedding with you. Ready to start planning your destination wedding? We are! Click the button below to start planning today! With over 25% of weddings now taking place away from home, destination weddings have evolved into a cost-effective, meaningful and unique way for couples to share their wedding experience with their guests. Planning a wedding from a thousand miles away can still feel a bit daunting at first, but it is impossible to ignore the gorgeous beach wedding photos on Pinterest and Instagram, right? If you feel the little spark of hope in your heart as you scroll through destination wedding ideas, don’t ignore it! Don’t be afraid of it! Planning a destination wedding has come a long way and is now actually easier to plan - and MUCH cheaper - than a wedding at home. Here are a few questions you may be asking yourself: 1. How will I ever decide on a location and resort? This is often the most difficult part of planning a destination wedding. Our best advice here is to find a travel agent that specializes in planning destination weddings. Anyone can book a trip. But planning a destination wedding for 20, 40 or 100 guests takes a completely different set of skills. Need a recommendation? Reach out to one of the award-winning agents at Romance Travel Group. Destination weddings are our passion! 2. What will my guests think? Most of your guests will be thrilled at the idea of a vacation with you! Some will be concerned about cost or safety. Your agent will communicate with your guests, answering all their questions and making sure they know everything they need for their trip. Trust us… your guests will RAVE about your wedding. Many destination wedding groups start traveling together every year because they had such a great time at the wedding. They will have a great time, and they will thank you for nudging them outside of their comfort zone a bit. 3. How much will all this cost? Legit question! We often say that the couple can expect to pay under $10,000 for the trip, ceremony and reception. This can vary, of course, but it is a good estimate. Your guests can expect to pay about $1100 for a 3 night/4 day all-inclusive experience in Mexico or the Caribbean. 4. How can I be sure my wedding will be what I want? Most resorts have wedding departments with a team of coordinators on-site that will execute your vision. You can send them photos, Pinterest boards, spreadsheets, etc, and they will recreate the wedding of your dreams. Just about anything you see at local weddings can also be done in destination. 5. 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. 6. How will I know what needs to be done? Your travel expert and the resort’s 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 no-doubt have about planning a destination wedding? We hope so! We know how overwhelming it can seem at first, but once you find your travel expert, everything will fall into place quickly. You can do this!! Need an expert to help? Call Shelli today!
Gone are the days of travel agents. Travel professionals (advisors, consultants or specialists) possess insider tips and knowledge you can’t find anywhere else. Here are 3 reasons you’ll want to use a travel professional to help plan your next get-away: 1. We Are Not "Agents" As the travel industry has evolved, so has its professionals. Gone are the days of the "travel agent." These are the days when hands-on experience and real expertise matter most. Travel professionals don’t take orders, nor do they work at a call center where your inquiry is just a number. Professional travel advisors require collaboration, provide one-on-one attention, and possess travel industry knowledge you won't find anywhere else. 2. We Live and Breathe Travel Not sure what it’s like in Thailand? We do. Don’t know what to do if your flight is cancelled? Been there. Curious how much a destination wedding costs? We have the answer. As travel professionals, we live and breathe travel all day long. We book amazing travel experiences for our clients every single day. We give you our opinions and recommendations based on our first-hand travel experiences because we’ve either been there, or know someone who has. We help you save time, money and stress. We advise. 3. We Are Specialists While travel professionals are fully-qualified to plan all your travel-related matters, it’s always smart to work with someone who truly specializes in what you’re looking for. For example, if you’re interested in planning a destination wedding, don’t seek help from a travel pro who specializes in Disney travel (unless of course, you want Mickey to attend your wedding)! Planning a destination wedding takes an extensive amount of research and planning – something only a true romance travel expert can help you with. There are millions of destinations out there to explore. We're sure you'll find travel advisor specializing in each one. Do your homework and we guarantee you’ll find your travel “bestie” in no time! We hope this article has shed some light on how a professional can take your travel experience to the next level. Looking for a destination wedding specialist? If so, you’ve already got yourself a perfect match! Romance Travel Group helps hundreds of couples plan the ultimate destination wedding each year. To get started, simply click here to connect with us today! It is easy to lose yourself in wedding planning, isn’t it? One thing turns into another and pretty soon, your simple beach wedding has gotten a little outta control. Let’s help you wrangle your wedding back into place. Here are 6 mistakes you can avoid to ensure your destination wedding runs as smoothly as possible No Plan B Chances are, if you’re having a destination wedding, you’re probably having it outdoors, on the beach or in a garden. With tropical climates, sporadic rain showers are to be expected. Be sure to discuss back up locations with your wedding coordinator. Most resorts have a Plan B ready for you just in case. Of course, no one ever hopes for rain on their wedding day (hey, it’s supposed to be good luck, right?), but at least you have an option in case mother nature decides to strike. Overdone Themes What we love most about a beach wedding is the simplicity of it all. The tall swaying palms, the clear blue water and sugar white sand provide the best décor of all! Don’t spend too much time focusing on if you have enough seashell décor on the tables or if the colors of your napkin rings are just right. Keep things simple, elegant and beautiful. Your guests will be focused on much more important things… like you getting married! Ignoring Guests’ Comfort It’s easy to get wrapped up in all the things that go into planning a wedding. But don’t let your guests’ comfort fall short! Consider things like temperature and time in between the ceremony and reception to make the process more enjoyable for them. Some ideas we’ve seen include leaving paper fans on each guest’s seat so they can keep cool, or providing refreshments and snacks when you’re taking photos. Footwear & Attire Don’t make the mistake of purchasing a heavy ball gown and 6-inch heels for your beach wedding. The material will not only weigh you down, but be incredibly hot for the environment you’re in. You’ll also want to make sure your resort provides some sort of flooring if you’re heart is set on stilettos. Otherwise, your best bet is a pretty sandal as you make your way down the sandy aisle. Likewise, really consider some unique alternatives to the traditional groomsman tux rental. Choose wedding day fashions that complement your ceremony location. Wrong Location The location of your destination wedding is imperative. Too exotic = too expensive. The ideal location allows guests to comfortably travel for 4 days. Do you need to accommodate guests with small children? Then, you’ll want a great family resort. Do you want a luxurious and sophisticated affair without the noisy kiddos? Then, think adult-only. Are customizable wedding packages a must? Well…we can think of a few ideas! Whatever it is, be sure to work with a destination wedding expert, as they’ve personally visited all of the most popular locations. We promise, using a pro will make things so much easier, and save you time and money. Do-It-Yourself Wedding Is it possible to have a DIY destination wedding? Sure. But the bigger question is... why would you want to??? Your wedding is the perfect time to NOT do it all by yourself. The person who will help you the most, who will assist all your guests, who will oversee the details and make sure you have everything perfectly in place and will be your sole go-to person while you are in the destination, is your wedding travel agent! Trust us, this is the one day you do not want to DIY anything. We hope you consider these common mistakes as you begin your destination wedding planning journey! Need a push in the right direction? We can help! To get in touch with a destination wedding expert today, click here to get started! |
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