 Why Romance Travel Group? Our original wedding date was set for June 11, 2020. We had been planning our destination wedding since November 2019 with another travel agency. We had a terrible experience and I had felt as though I was basically planning the travel on my own. When we had to cancel the first date due to COVID, I knew I wanted to go another direction with my travel agent. When we began to replan for our second date, I researched online for a travel agent that would be suited for us. I came across Romance Travel Group on the wedding website theknot.com and it was clear they would be the perfect fit! I received quick responses from them and was set up with my amazing travel agent, Ashley Jackson. Why a destination wedding? Steven and I had talked about what wedding we wanted before we even got engaged. We both disliked that with traditional weddings, the focus is mostly on the guests and worrying with what they want. For us, it was especially important that our big day was about what he and I wanted every step of the way. So, we decided a destination wedding with our closest friends and family was perfect! Biggest fears about a destination wedding? Steven and I had never flown internationally so our biggest concern was the logistics. Will our wedding be legal in the US, can I transport my wedding dress and decor safely, will we find a resort we feel safe at, etc. Then COVID happened and everything changed. Countries began implementing travel restrictions and had requirements of paperwork to do before traveling. Jamaica was no exception! The process was stressful but thanks to Ashley, we were able to enter the country safely and have the wedding of our dreams! Wedding coordinator at the resort? For anyone planning a destination wedding I absolutely recommend Sandals resorts. I worked with a wedding planner remotely leading up to the wedding where I was able to detail exactly what I was looking for. Once we arrived on site with met with our wedding coordinator who was a dream come true! She walked us to our locations, discussed all our concerns, and went through every detail of wedding day. On the day of the wedding she was there the entire day, from starting our hair and makeup at 10am until after the reception ended at 8pm. She was there to pour us mimosas during our spa time and even helped carry my wedding dress train to the ceremony and reception areas (which were a bit of a walk between). She handled every detail of our big day flawlessly and I can’t say enough how thankful I was to have her! There were a few hiccups, but I never knew about them because she handled it all with ease. Booking process for guests? Firstly, I would like to say that thanks to my travel agent, Ashley, I was able to have the wedding of my dreams! Without her this would not have been possible. She helped Steven and I, and our ten guests book their rooms and flights with ease. She provided charts with room options and pricing so each person could choose a room that fit their needs. She also kept me updated on who had booked and who she was still waiting to hear from. Everyone was appreciative for her prompt responses, as we were all rebooking this trip due to COVID and it was exceedingly difficult for everyone to get ahold of our previous travel agent even before COVID. Ashley gave everyone tremendous customer service and made each person feel like they were her only client. Not only this, but Ashley was able to get everyone room upgrades because we had to change resorts three weeks before the wedding due to COVID as well. I can’t speak highly enough of her! Biggest fears as wedding date drew near? All my fears were COVID related, as the date drew nearer Jamaica began requiring new documentation and approval to enter the country. Each person had to be COVID tested within a certain amount of days before arrival and an online travel authorization form filled out. Once that was received, Jamaica would approve each person to enter the country. This was the most stressful part of the experience, as I felt responsible for all 12 people in my party. Once again, Ashley went above and beyond to relieve my fears. She spent countless hours on the phone with the Jamaican board of travel, even having multiple calls the day before our arrival to ensure our groups paperwork was all clear. I can’t say enough that without Ashley this wedding trip would not have been possible! Guests wowed by all inclusive? I can speak for my husband and I, as well as each of my guests when I say Sandals Montego Bay absolutely wowed us! For most this was a first all-inclusive vacation, and it went above and beyond expectations. We were catered to from the moment we arrived to our transport back to the airport. Not only was the all-inclusive perfect for our guests, it really made our wedding day top notch. For our guests who had previously been to an all-inclusive they said confidently those other resorts did not compare to the service, food, and amenities that Sandals offered! Easy/difficult traveling with wedding dress? I fell in love with an A-line gown that had a lot of volume and a long train. As such, I knew this wouldn’t be an easy gown to travel with. I couldn’t put it in a soft garment bag because the dimensions were too big so instead, I chose to fold it and place it in a carry-on. I was terrified to check my wedding dress so for me, a carry-on was the easiest way! The airline ended up making me check the bag at the gate because the dimensions were too big, but I informed them it was my dress, and they ensured it stayed safe. Did you plan traditional wedding elements? We had a traditional wedding that would have been like one at home. Our ceremony was at an over the water chapel, followed by a cocktail hour at our reception area overlooking the ocean. After cocktail hour we had a sit-down dinner followed by drinks and dancing. The entire day was an absolute dream! Best part of destination wedding? I loved that our wedding experience wasn’t just one day, it was for a week! Our guests also had an amazing all-inclusive vacation along with attending our wedding! We created memories with friends and family that will last with us for a lifetime. If I could go back, I wouldn’t change a single thing, this destination wedding was perfect! How did Romance Travel Group make everything less stressful? Romance Travel Group, and specifically my agent Ashley made the entire experience less stressful. She was always kind and prompt with responding to me, even when my anxiety was getting the best of me. I am so thankful I chose this travel agency to plan my destination wedding as they made my perfect day possible! She handled every detail with Jamaica’s COVID travel requirements, booking my guests rooms and flights, and ensuring we had all proper documentation for travel. She did a million other things that helped take the stress off me so I could look forward to the wedding of my dreams! Would you recommend Romance Travel Group? I will ALWAYS recommend Romance Travel Group to anyone planning a destination wedding. I can’t say enough how great of an experience I had, especially in comparison to when I originally planned with another travel agent. Ashley was with me each step of the way, and even in the middle of a pandemic I had full confidence she would make our big day happen. For any brides planning a wedding during COVID, the best decision you could make is to have Romance Travel Group by your side to make your dream wedding happen! Congratulations, Whitley & Steven!!!
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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! Couple: Kelly & Nick Wedding Date: August 29, 2020 Resort: Unico Riviera Maya Photographer: Jessica Gattone Photography Travel Agency: Romance Travel Group  Why did you choose Romance Travel Group? Romance Travel Group was referred to us from a friend who had a wonderful experience attending her brother's wedding in Mexico planned by RTG, then they utilized RTG for their own wedding which we were lucky enough to attend in the Dominican Republic. It was clear after hearing about their experience that RTG would be the right fit for us as we planned our wedding in Mexico! What led you to choose a destination wedding? We loved the intimate setting that the beach provides for weddings, limited decorations are needed when you have such a beautiful backdrop. We are both lovers of nature and the outdoors and couldn't think of a better place. We also have family that lives all over the U.S. so travel was going to be a part of our guest's plans regardless of where our wedding was held. How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors? When looking at resorts we knew we wanted our ceremony on the beach so we searched for a beautiful beach, which is not hard to find in Mexico! Then we knew we wanted an adult-only resort with a unique feel. We looked at several chain style resorts but wanted something one of a kind with wonderful food and expansive pools, this led us to UNICO 20 87! Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort? What went well? Any challenges? Our on-site wedding coordinator Diana was absolutely amazing! She was kind, courteous, and compassionate. She offered suggestions to make our day perfect! Tell us about your wedding dress – How did you find it? Who went shopping with you? How do you feel wearing your dress? Searching for a wedding dress was harder than I expected. I am a very indecisive person and ended up going to 9 different bridal stores before finding my dress at Bridal Aisle Boutique in Osseo, Minnesota! My sister and maid of honor were with me! Once I put the dress on, I knew! What were some of your biggest fears or things you worried about as your wedding date drew near? How did you get through this? Planning a destination wedding is one thing, having COVID get in the way was a whole different playing field! Our guests were checking in all the time wondering if we were still able to travel to Mexico and wondering if our wedding was still on as planned. Thankfully everything worked out in the end and we did not have to change our date, location, or details but COVID definitely added some stress to the wedding process! Describe the meeting you had with the onsite wedding team when you arrived at the resort. We met with Diana the day after we arrived at the resort. She was organized and walked us through everything we needed to know. We still had some decisions to make about music and she was patient with us through the process. She went through all of our details to ensure her notes were accurate then she took us on a tour and showed us exactly where everything would take place. How easy/difficult was it to travel with your wedding dress? Did you carry-it on, where did you store it? Did you get a lot of comments at the airport? Traveling with my dress was a piece of cake. I ordered a trifold garment bag from Amazon that fit both my dress and my husband's suit and we carried it on the plane with us. Flying Delta airlines made it easy as they were only booking 60% capacity on their flights due to COVID so we were able to lay the bag flat in the overhead bin, but they did give me the option to hang it up in first-class too. We wore the stereotypical bride and groom shirts around the airport and heard a lot of congratulations as we walked through. The flight crew on Delta also congratulated us multiple times! What was the best part of having a destination wedding? We loved that it gave our family and closest friends a chance to get to know one another while we spent our week in paradise. It was an overall perfect opportunity for the people we love and care about the most to talk, laugh, and relax together. In what ways did Romance Travel Group make the planning less stressful for you? We loved that our guests had the option to ask us questions or if they felt more comfortable they were able to reach out to RTG. It gave them away to ask questions and be reassured without having to "bug" us. Romance Travel Group also made us feel more comfortable about planning a wedding at a resort we had not been to since we did not tour UNICO prior to arriving for our wedding, it was new for us but spoken highly of by RTG which was reassuring. Would you recommend Romance Travel Group to other couples who are considering a destination wedding? ABSOLUTELY! Congratulations, Kelly & Nick!!! Have a vendor from home you can’t say “I do” in paradise without? Then, keep reading for some additional insight!  How do destination wedding vendors work?
Typically, your destination wedding resort will provide you with all the vendors you’ll need. However, this isn’t set in stone! If you have a preferred wedding vendor back at home that you’d like to bring in for the big day, it’s totally doable! Is there a vendor cost? As long as the vendor you’re bringing in is staying at the resort for three nights, you will not have to pay extra to use them. However, if you hire a vendor that is local to the resort and they are not on the resort’s vendor list, be prepared to pay hefty “outside vendor fees” that can range anywhere from $500 to $2000 each! What types of vendors do couples bring in? While this can vary, most couples bring in a hair stylist, make-up artist, photographer, videographer, or DJ (minus all the equipment!) How should I plan my outside vendor’s travel arrangements? Typically, the bride and groom will cover all travel expenses for their outside vendors. But be sure to ask them if they will negotiate travel costs for their services. Consider asking "if we cover your travel expenses, will you take all the photos of our destination wedding?" How will my vendors plan for the big day? Not to worry! Your onsite wedding coordinator will make sure your outside vendors are connected with her team and appropriate staff, so they know exactly what to expect. Have additional questions for us? Then, click here to get in touch with a destination wedding specialist, today! Mexico, Jamaica, The Dominican – it really can’t get much dreamier! Keep reading to see why these romantic spots are considered the best places to have a destination wedding  But first – what are the big three?
These gorgeous destinations are hands-down our favorite places to tie the knot! And here’s why: Mexico: Affordable, accessible, and SO. MANY. RESORTS. Mexico is our most popular place to send couples for many reasons, but the value-added luxury is at the top of the list. Think gourmet dining experiences, authentic details, incredible hospitality and lavish suites. Jamaica: If you’re looking for that laid-back, no worries vibe, Jamaica is where its at. Couples say “I do” here for the world-renowned beaches, adventurous excursions, and exotic property settings. The Dominican Republic: The island's charming historical quality and friendly people will lure you in for a wedding in the Dominican Republic! Couples will need to have their legal documents translated into Spanish here, but that doesn’t stop anyone! There’s more to love! In addition to each of these destinations’ unique characteristics, all of them offer the same great perks! Here’s a few examples: Easy flights: All of these destinations are easily accessible from major U.S. airport hubs, and have international airports that are close to the resorts. All-inclusive: There are plenty of fantastic all-inclusive options at all of these destinations, making your wedding budget that much more manageable for you and your guests! Value: Mexico isn’t the only destination with value! In fact, the DR and Jamaica have a wide-variety of luxurious hotel options at a price you can handle. Do you see yourself tying the knot at one of the big 3’s? If so, fill out this form to let us know and we’ll send you more info!
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! Fly to paradise for FREE with this very special limited-time offer. We make it easy to earn your ticket to paradise!  The Offer
Thinking about a destination wedding? Worried about the cost? Well, fear not! We’ve got a very special offer with your name on it! For a limited time, the bride and groom will enjoy FREE round-trip flights to their destination wedding. Destination Options The lucky couple will receive complimentary airfare to either Mexico or the Caribbean for their destination wedding. Resort Options When you book your destination wedding with Romance Travel Group, we'll fly you to your wedding... FOR FREE! Participating resorts include Karisma, Hard Rock, Unico and Royalton resorts. Booking Process To claim this exclusive offer, visit our destination wedding page for info on next steps, real wedding stories, and more. Then, fill out the form with some of your basic information, and a destination wedding specialist will reach out to you right away. We look forward to helping you plan your special day in paradise! How It Works To qualify, the group must reach a minimum of 80 rooms nights. For example, 20 rooms staying 4 nights equals 80 room nights. All rooms must be booked with Romance Travel Group. Valid only for new wedding groups at Karisma, Palace, Hard Rock, Unico and Royalton resorts for weddings taking place through 2021. Additional Info Hurry! This destination wedding offer doesn’t come along often. Receive FREE round-trip flights to your wedding when you book with Romance Travel Group by September 30, 2020. Simply click here to get started!  Not all wedding packages are created equal – or are they? Keep reading to discover the truth about resort wedding packages.
Do all resorts have wedding packages? Yes! What is included in a typical wedding package? In addition to your resort’s all-inclusive benefits, wedding packages can include everything from expert wedding designers and décor, to sound systems, the ceremony officiant, a wedding certificate, a reception dinner, a honeymoon or spa package, and much more! How much do wedding packages cost? Many resorts have a complimentary wedding package when you stay 7 nights or reach a certain number of guest rooms. In fact, free wedding packages typically provide all the basics that you need for your wedding day. The free package is a great way to start planning. Looking for something more custom or specific? Well then, say no more – because most resorts also offer premium wedding packages for a small upcharge to match your specific preferences and personality! You can even build your package ala carte if you prefer. Do wedding packages vary by resort? Yes and no. While resorts present their wedding packages a little differently, at the end of the day, you’re getting the same goodies for around the same price. In fact, resorts in the same destination are often using the same vendors!! We always say... "don't just a resort by it's wedding package, because what one can do, they ALL can do!" How do I pick the right wedding package? Since all wedding packages are pretty much the same, we recommend selecting your dream resort first. Once you decide on the perfect place, then you can customize the wedding package of your dreams. How do I know what resort to pick? This all depends on your preferences! What amenities are important to you? Are you a beach-lover? A foodie? Want something private and adult-only? These are the things you’ll want to add to your wish list when working with your destination wedding specialist. So there you have it – the truth about wedding packages! Ready to start searching for the perfect wedding resort? Then, click here to get in touch with a romance travel expert! You’re having a destination wedding, yay! Now it’s time to make that guest list. Keep reading to discover the five steps for creating the perfect guest list
Ready to take your destination wedding to the next level? Of course you are! Keep reading to learn more about this very special wedding offer! Offer Highlights: Complimentary Sky Wedding If you’re looking for a truly remarkable wedding experience, you’re sure to love a Royalton Sky Wedding! Here, you and your guests can enjoy the wedding festivities on your very own private rooftop terrace, surrounded by breathtaking views of the sand and sea. Now, what could be more romantic and memorable than this? Currently available at participating Royalton Luxury Resorts when you confirm your wedding with us! FREE Anniversary Stay Want to celebrate your wedding anniversary in paradise? Royalton Luxury Resorts makes it easy! This exclusive offer provides you and your new spouse with a 3-night anniversary stay when your wedding group books a total of 45+ room nights. A Discount for Additional Guests Another perk? Yes, please! Here’s the scoop: if you’re planning to have at least 50 guests attend your destination wedding, you’ll receive 30% off the added guest fees. The more the merrier, right? Free Cocktail Hour This complimentary sky wedding offer also includes a FREE cocktail hour, served with hor d’ oeuvres and open bar for all of your guests. Things just keep on getting better, now don’t they? 😉 Offer Details: Participating Resorts Couples qualify for the above perks when they book a wedding package at any of Royalton’s Luxury Resorts (excludes Cuba resorts). Below are some properties we think you’ll love:
Booking Window This new Royalton Luxury Resort destination wedding offer is for new wedding groups booked through Romance Travel Group. The travel window is from now through 2021 – so be sure to reach out to a wedding specialist for more info. We look forward to helping you plan your big day under the sun! Please contact us for additional terms & conditions.  Brides, we get it! Planning a wedding can be stressful! Especially when you’re not sure where to start. Well, fear not. We’re going to walk you through the most common wedding woes our brides experience, PLUS share how to overcome them.  The Overwhelm
Between the guest list, the dress, the menu, the decorations, the travel arrangements – there’s just so much that goes into planning a wedding! In fact, it’s quite common for brides to feel the pressure throughout the entire planning process because there’s just THAT much going on. Fortunately, when you work with a destination wedding specialist, everything... from the destination and resort selection to the travel insurance and airport shuttles... is taken care of. We’ll also hook you up with your resort’s onsite wedding coordinator to help you with all the little details, too! The Cost Another concern we hear often about is the cost of the wedding itself. And we totally get it! Weddings can easily break the bank. However, what most brides don’t realize is that destination weddings actually cost about a quarter of what a traditional domestic wedding can cost. Yep, you heard that right! So, for less than $10,000, we can plan you the wedding of your dreams without sacrificing any of the frills or fun. The Guest Experience Finally, brides worry about how their guests will be taken care of during the planning process. Questions we hear often are, “do I need to collect RSVPs?” or, “do I need to book their rooms?” or, “will I have to coordinate group excursions?” etc., etc. The quick answer? No. Your destination wedding specialist coordinates your guest arrangements for you. You can now breathe and enjoy. Trust us, you’ll be in good hands. Ready for us to take the weight of wedding planning off your shoulders? Then, click here to start your journey with us, today! Make your special day something guests will remember for years to come with a FREE premium venue at The Fives Beach Resort. Keep scrolling for offer details! Weddings at The Fives Weddings at The Fives are nothing less than extraordinary. And at The Fives Beach Resort, you can expect no different. Gather in a private paradise of Mexico and exchange your vows in one of the area’s most blissful settings. Here, you and your wedding guests can enjoy unique venue options, exceptional cuisine, and chic seaside suites. In addition, your entire party can indulge in a large variety of entertainment, nightlife, outdoor pools, and perfect beaches. Offer Details The Fives Beach Resort is offering a FREE premium venue when you book your destination wedding with Romance Travel Group. Details include:
Premier Venues Your FREE premium venue comes in a variety of unique setups. Some of our favorites include:
Read more about these unique premier venues, here! Wedding Packages Your destination wedding at The Fives Beach Resort includes everything from ceremony décor and a tropical location, to signature wedding planning services, a personalized menu, a bridal suite and groom’s room, signature welcome drinks, and more! Want customization? You’ve got it! All destination weddings at The Fives are sure to accommodate your every wish and dream! Ready to claim this exclusive special wedding offer? Then, click here to get in touch with a destination wedding specialist! We look forward to helping you plan the perfect wedding!   Planning your destination wedding, but not quite sure when to change your passport name? Well, we’ve gotcha covered! Keep reading for a few common questions we get from our brides!
When should I change my passport name? Before or after my destination wedding? We know you’re excited to change your last name, but do be sure to wait until after the wedding! Since changing your name can be a bit of a process (and since you already have so much to do before the wedding), we recommend you book all travel in your maiden name and make sure your reservation names match the name in the passport. What are the steps I need to take in order to change my passport name? The first step you’ll need to take is to complete an application form, which can be done online. You’ll also need to ensure you have all the supporting documents needed to make the transition. These documents include items such as: your current passport, a passport photo, evidence of your name change, etc. Lastly, you’ll need to either mail or appear in person to submit your documents. Read more about this process, here. How much will this cost? In order to change your passport name, you will be expected to pay the associated fees if your current passport was acquired more than a year ago. The fees begin at $110 and cost more if you need it expedited. If you received your current passport less than a year ago, you would not owe any fees for the name change. How long will it take to receive the new passport? For routine service, 4-8 weeks is the standard time frame for mail. If you’d like your passport expedited, then it will take approximately 2-3 weeks with an added fee. Have additional questions for us? We’re here to help! To get in touch with a destination wedding expert, simply click here. With the average wedding costing over $35k according to The Knot, we’ve come up with a few ways to cut costs, without the sacrifice! Keep reading for some of our expert tips: Take it Out of Town That’s right! Destination weddings have grown in popularity over the years for their budget-friendly options, casual atmosphere, and incredible memories. We recommend traveling during off-season (September and October) when rates are the lowest. Besides the best room rates, you’ll also find that resorts have lower occupancy levels during this time, leaving plenty of pool chairs open for everyone. Be sure to avoid holidays, as that’s when rates go up significantly! Opt for All-Inclusive For the best value, all-inclusive is the way to go. It’s much easier to plan your budget (and your guests’ budgets) when you get to factor in meals, drinks, entertainment, airport shuttles and taxes. Convenience is also huge reason couples opt for all-inclusive resorts and hotels. Utilize Your Surroundings Nothing says “I love you” quite like some swaying palm trees and an ocean view! We recommend keeping your venue simple so you can save money on other “musts” you’d like to include in your big day. So, allow Mother Nature to take care of some of the work and expense for you! Free Wedding Packages Most destination wedding resorts offer a complimentary wedding package, which includes everything you’ll need for your wedding. We recommend starting out with the basic package first, then adding in where it makes sense. Pick Your Own Vendors If you have a preferred vendor at a price you’re happy with, then bring ‘em along with you! As long as they are staying at the resort with you for three nights, they are not typically considered outside vendors and you won’t have to pay extra to use them. This works great for photographers, hair stylists and make-up artists. Honeymoon Split-Stay Most couples like to combine their wedding and honeymoon to save on costs. For example, you can stay at the wedding resort for 5-6 nights while guests are there, then move to a new resort where you can honeymoon for 3-4 more nights. This will save you a lot in airfare! Use a Destination Wedding Expert The absolute best way to keep your wedding in your budget range, is to use a destination wedding planner. A good travel pro will help you navigate the experience, all while keeping your preferences in mind! Looking for a little push in the right direction? Then, fill out a contact form to get the conversation started. Looking forward to hearing from you! Make your special day something guests will remember for years to come. Keep reading to discover The Five’s most unique wedding experiences
Do any one of these fantastic venues catch your eye? Then, be sure to get in touch with a destination wedding specialist, today!
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. Your guests made the trip out to celebrate your special day with you! Now... to thank them properly! Keep reading for some fun ways you can show your appreciation and love!  Group Excursion
A really unique way we’ve seen couples thank their wedding guests is to set up a group excursion. Not only is this a great option to get everyone together, but it’s an experience your guests will remember forever! Popular excursions include snorkeling, archeological tours, rum or tequila tastings, sunset catamarans, and more. Swag Bag Swag bags are another popular way for destination wedding couples to thank their guests because, well – it’s fun! Who doesn’t like opening up a little bag of goodies that was created just for them? We’ve seen swag bags filled with things like snacks, local wines or liquors, beach gear, hangover remedies and more. Spend Time Together If you prefer to thank you guests with a more intimate experience, then you can always find other ways to spend time together! For example, a day on the beach with your parents and siblings, a spa day with your aunts and cousins, a resort show or concert with your besties. The possibilities are truly endless! Thank You Photos Rather than a standard thank you card, consider personalizing it! Most photographers are excited to work with you on fun poses and scenery options, so be sure to ask them for some ideas. You may even want to purchase a cute “thank you” sign to pose with, if you’re really trying to get creative! Personalized Drawings Hiring a live artist will not only entertain your guests, but thank them in the process! Consider bringing one on to impress your guests with their caricature skills – or even see if they’ll paint the beautiful landscapes that surround you. What better way to thank your guests than with a souvenir like that?! Of course, this goes without saying, but a handwritten thank you note is always greatly appreciated in addition to the suggestions above. 😊 Have any questions for us? Then, be sure to contact a romance travel expert, today! Not sure where to register for you upcoming bridal shower? Then, check out our top wedding registry sites below!     Zola
Zola is an online wedding registry, planner, and retailer-in-one. It’s an e-commerce company that allows couples to register for gifts, experiences, and cash funds, making it one of the top wedding registry sites around. It also works with over 800 brands and top retailers, which is easy for your guests to make selections from anywhere. Amazon From kitchenware and bath towels, to outdoor games and champagne glass – Amazon really has it all. In fact, Amazon also has one of the world’s largest registry selections with perks like free two-day shipping, easy returns, and more. They even offer couples up to 20% off any items left on your registry – score! Bed Bath & Beyond Bed Bath & Beyond has been a favorite amongst couples for years – and we understand why! Not only do they carry everything you need for building your new home together, but they also offer free returns and exchanges, price match guarantee, and even an interactive checklist to ensure you get everything you need. Williams Sonoma The great thing about registering with Williams Sonoma, is that you can also add gifts from Pottery Barn and West Elm. Another perk includes private in-person appointments if you need a little extra guidance. Couples can also enjoy free bonus gifts when you register for products from top brands and guests purchase them. Target Who doesn’t love Target?! Not only do couples choose to register with them for their large selection of pretty much anything, but they also offer “honeyfunds” that they can use toward newlywed experiences. Target also provides gift ideas of their own exclusive brands, with pre-selected themes and more. Crate & Barrel Create & Barrel is another wonderful wedding registry option. Not only will you fall in love with their top brands, but they also offer group gifting where your friends and family can go in on a gift together. In addition, Crate & Barrel provides perks like 15% off any gifts that are left on your registry, as well as free shipping and help from real experts. As always, we’re here to assist you with any of your destination wedding needs. Message us here to get in touch with any questions! Coming to you this summer, The Fives Oceanfront Hotel beckons you with pristine beaches, glistening waters, and friendly smiles. Keep reading to discover more! Overview Stay, relax, and recharge your senses on the peaceful shores of Puerto Morelos! The Fives Oceanfront Hotel offers a cozy boutique-style experience, where guests will be immersed into the beauty of their surroundings every day. Explore the pristine beaches, cenotes, and some of the best snorkeling and fishing sites in the area. or just lounge on the soft white sands with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Whatever you choose, you won’t want to leave here anytime soon. Here are some more facts we think you’ll love: Location Surrounded by the peaceful shores of Puerto Morelos, The Fives Oceanfront Hotel is just 20 minutes from the Cancun Airport. This is a great location for travelers, as Cancun is easily accessible and oftentimes nonstop, by many airports throughout the U.S. Amenities This boutique hotel offers dozens of amazing amenities. Some of our favorites include furnished terraces and balconies, robes and slippers in your room, a walk-in shower and rainfall shower head, full size refrigerators, smart TVs, free Wi-Fi, room service, and amazing views from your room. Cuisine Guests will get the chance to dine at five unique restaurants and bars, including The Beach House, which offers everything from salads and ceviches, to grilled seafood and craft cocktails. You’ll also love the beach house infinity pool and private cabana, where you can relax in a sun lounger and enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea. Things to Do At the Fives Oceanfront Hotel, activities never seem to fall short! Here, guests can get the full Mexico experience by partaking in a variety of things like exploring eco-parks and ancient ruins, shopping in town, hiking along jungle trails, ziplining through the treetops, and so much more! Want to learn more about this fabulous new escape? Then, click here to get in touch with one of our experts! |
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