Thinking about the perfect, romantic getaway? Planning a destination wedding can take a lot of coordination. So, Brides of Oklahoma sat down with destination wedding & honeymoon pro, Michelle, from Michelle’s Destinations Unlimited, to get the scoop on need to know information for planning your destination wedding and other tips and tidbits on preparing for your honeymoon!
Q: What 3 things should brides know about planning their perfect destination wedding?
1.) Travel Agent – Find an agent that specializes in destination weddings or the destination you want to go to – they have priceless advice when it comes to figuring out where to stay, tips on what to expect, what to pack, most will coordinate travel for all the guests (so the guests don’t bother you with tons of questions) and will help you bring your wedding ideas to life.
2.) Location – Consider what you want for your wedding location and the wedding ceremony – be flexible on the destination to get what you want for the price you want – for instance, say you’ve always wanted a wedding near a beautiful waterfall. Hawaii! But it costs more than your guests can afford, so you’re torn. I’d suggest going to Ocho Rios, Jamaica – a beautiful destination with waterfalls, costs less than Hawaii and offers all-inclusive resorts!
3.) Photographer – I’ve had some brides consider not getting a professional photographer, I highly recommend having one! Speaking from experience, I got married in the Bahamas, and while we do have a few photos from the wedding coordinator, I really wish I had sprung for the relatively small amount it would have cost to get a real photographer.
Q: Where are the honeymoon hotspots for 2010?
A: Mexico and the Caribbean are always popular for honeymoons. With my clients, the Riviera Maya area south of Cancun and Jamaica have been top spots this year because of the great value you can get – romantic resorts with Ocean views and Jacuzzi tubs!
Q: How do you register your honeymoon?
A: Honeymoon registry is becoming very popular. Couples are able to sign up online through my website or I can set if up for them. This allows the almost married couple to receive gifts and donations as wedding presents for their honeymoon trip! Guests can contact me via phone or email, or go online to make purchases. I have cards that can be put in shower invites and given to the wedding party to help you spread the word, and you get a free wedding website with your registry that you can use to promote your honeymoon registry. Just keep in mind you’ll usually have to pay for the whole trip before you get the money from the registry, so don’t do anything for your honeymoon that you can’t afford to do on your own.
If you’re dreaming sunny and warm wishes on this dreary day, contact Michelle to talk about planning your perfect destination wedding or honeymoon. Ciao!