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MarieSamSanchezPhoto

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  1. Congrats on your engagement and on the start of your wedding planning journey that is sure to be exciting! You have definitely come to the right place I suggest you reach out to one of the forum travel agents at Wright Travel Agency who have a lot of expertise and insight when it comes to planning destination weddings -- most importantly, they'll be able to share promotions or deals currently being offered by the resorts so you'll have options to look at when it comes to your price point range. They are a great resource and can give you a lot of advice on the best locations throughout the Riviera Maya region. If you want to get some ideas of pricing, try one of the BDW Travel Agents. They Specialize in Destination weddings. You can contact them HERE! Hope that helps
  2. As part of its continued effort to go global, Southwest Airlines now offers service from several major U.S. cities to Cancun, Mexico, including nonstop service from Los Angeles, Calif. While Southwest has always been known for their reasonable airfare rates and flexible and abundant flight schedules, the airlines jaw-dropping rate for a direct flight from LAX to Cancun was all the motivation I needed to take advantage of a last minute trip with my family that I booked less than 24 hours before I was scheduled to depart. How much you ask? My ticket was $283 roundtrip all taxes included! (I also traveled with my 2-year-old toddler on this trip, so for the two of us it was a little under $600). Full disclosure, I was a little hesitant to take a Southwest international, because I wasn’t sure how they would compare to other airlines especially when it comes to the basic features they offer. But I’m here to report, my first and only experience with Southwest from Los Angeles to Cancun had a few ups and downs, but overall I can say it was an affordable and efficient way to travel and I'd definitely consider using their nonstop service to Cancun again. The pros about flying to Cancun via Southwest: The leather seats are comfortable and spacious and you get a good amount of legroom. Having been on several flights, I’d say legroom and comfort on my Southwest flight was above average. So if comfort is important to you — you’ll be pleased on this flight. You can check in luggage for free. This is especially important to point out because any other airline will charge you for check-in baggage. The awesome check-in policy is what Southwest is known for, and when it comes to international travel, it applies here too. Your first two check-ins are absolutely free, so if you’re bride with lots to bring, Southwest is a great option that will cut down on baggage fees! Easy check-in and flights are timely. During both legs of journey, we didn’t run into any problems with check-in or flight times. Also important to mention, there were several flights we could have chosen from when we were booking our tickets, which is a great advantage if you need flexibility. From Los Angeles, there were two non-stop flights to Cancun offered daily — one in the morning (with arrival in mid afternoon) and one in the mid afternoon (with arrival in the late evening). This gave us options if we needed them. Great rates. Bottom line, Southwest offers unbelievable rates if you can nab them at the ‘Wanna Get Away’ rate. I’ve never flown to Cancun for such a great rate with check-in baggage fees included. The cons: Southwest does not offer pre-assigned seating. So yes, you have to chance possibly not sitting next to people you know. The solution to this is purchasing the Early Bird check in option, which allows you to get a higher priority boarding to increase your chances on getting the seat(s) you want. This option was only $15/person for each flight, so it’s not too high a price to pay if you want a better chance of sitting where you want and choosing your neighbor. The no-assigned seating method may also make you a bit nervous if you’re traveling with children, but after some asking around, I found out that they do allow people traveling with children 6 and under to board the flight after the A group and preferred members board — so you’ll likely be abler to sit next to your child with no problem. I also witnessed the flight staff, really work hard to keep families together once all passengers were situated. No meals are offered for free or for purchase on Southwest flights, but they will load you up with all the drinks and snacks you can eat (chips, cookies, crackers and peanuts), which is actually a great thing compared to some other airlines that do offer food for purchase. So make sure pick up a meal at the airport or bring one from home if you like being able to eat a meal on your flight. Wifi service is TERRIBLE on Southwest. I can only attest to my two flight to and from Mexico, but either way it was a crap shoot and mostly didn’t work. Wifi will cost you $8 for all all day pass on a single device and no matter how hard I tried to pay — I was basically like “TAKE MY MONEY!” and it never worked. So don’t rely on Wifi onboard, this is a problem I’ve read is a common occurrence in other travelers who’ve used Southwest to go international. While Southwest does NOT offer any entertainment module on board (screens on the backs of seats in front of you or television screens above), they do offer free streaming TV and movies for purchase if you use your own device — BUT again, anything streaming on my flights was terrible. This was basically the message I saw the whole time when trying to watch their free live TV, “ Hold tight! Our Live TV is currently outside a coverage area.” There simply wasn’t a stable connection and it was quite frustrating. So I basically spent my in-flight time on my laptop catching up on work (i.e., writing up this review LOL.) If you can get past Southwest's minor shortcomings, it’s a great and affordable option for traveling into Mexico. It all really depends on what in-flight comforts and services are important to you! Note: My travel period from LAX to Cancun was May 29, 2017 to June 1, 2017. To find out more information about booking your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at:www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  3. Speaking as a wedding photographer myself, whether the photos are to be edited should be included in the wedding photography contract. Typically photographers will give you edited images, however, there are some photographers that offer "shoot and burn" services -- meaning they shoot the wedding, then put those files onto a disk or flash drive and deliver without post-processing or editing. Shoot and burn photographers are typically cheaper, but then you end up with photos that have not been edited. You should definitely make sure you clarify this detail ahead of time before you hire your photographer and ensure that the details are included in your service contract. My advice is to contact your photographer first before any third-party editor. There are also clauses in contracts that don't allow a photographer's photos to be edited by a third party source unless they give you permission. Hope that helps!
  4. Hi there! Have you reached out to the coordinators at Moon Palace? They are very experienced with Indian weddings and should be able to give you some suggestions on officiants. Also if you have not yet connected with a travel agency, I would suggest this wedding forum's official travel agency -- Wright Travel -- as the agents have a great working relationship with The Palace Resorts and they might be able to help guide you to a contact person who can give suggestions on a hindu priest/pandith as well! You can contact Wright Travel Agency here: www.wrighttravelagency.com Hope that helps! And best wishes
  5. Should I send out "Save the Date" notices for my wedding or just send out the official invitation? It's a common question many couples ask themselves once they start planning their wedding celebration, but when it comes to those having a destination wedding, it is a certainty -- Save the Dates are a must! Here are a few important points to keep in mind when it comes to sending out your Save the Date memos aka STDs to your guests. - Send out your Save the Date approximately 8 to 12 months before your destination wedding date. This gives your family and friends enough time to plan for your celebration. Most importantly it will give them time to save up for the getaway, ask for time off from work as well as make proper travel and lodging reservations. - Create a wedding website even with general destination location info right away and include the website on your Save the Date. You can fill out the remaining wedding details as you set them into place and update your website accordingly, it's an easy way to send out updates and distribute info to your guests throughout the planning process. Once you have the venue set, make sure to include your travel agent's contact info so guests can begin to make their plans as soon as possible. - A simple Save the Date postcard will do. Some brides like to get creative with their Save the Dates, creating travel themed notices -- like boarding passes, passports or even a message in a bottle. But don't feel pressure to turn into Martha Stewart if you just don't have the time or money to get crafty, a Save the Date postcard is perfect for giving your guests the heads up on your wedding plans. - Save the Dates are important because they will give your guests a heads up on your destination wedding plans, therefore increasing the chances of more guests attending your celebration. If you want a good turnout for your Wedding Day, then make sure to send out those STDs with plenty of time to give to ensure your guests can make the proper plans. - Must have info on your STD: the couple's names, wedding date (or dates if you're planning to spread the festivities out over several days), location (at the very least the city/region if you don't have your venue nailed down yet), and a memo that the official invitation will follow. Also make sure to include that wedding website so they can refer to it for additional information and event updates. Side note: ask for RSVPs in the formal invitation, asking for it on the STD is too early of a request if you send them out a year in advance. - Make sure you are clear on the STD if it is an adults-only affair or whether people can bring guests. This is info your guests will need to consider as they make plans to attend or decline the invite. To find out more information about booking your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  6. So you've said "yes," to tying the knot destination wedding style. But what's next? Picking your location of course! But there are many aspects to consider before you choose your destination wedding location. We've compiled our top tips to help you choose the perfect spot for you to say "I Do!" 1. Reach out to an experience destination wedding travel agent. Agents are worth their weight in gold when it comes to planning your celebration. Not only are they familiar with wedding locations regions and resort options, they can help with so many of the other variables listed below. The forum's official travel agency Wright Travel Agency helps its clients from the beginning with planning the most important travel/lodging details to overseeing any issues during the travel process through the end of the trip. These agents deal with your guests directly, so that you don't find yourself bombarded with a million travel/lodging questions that you're not quite sure to how to answer. Wright Travel agents are also aware of all the special promotions and discounts being offered at the different resorts, resulting in great savings for you and your guests. These agents also have close relationships with each of the destination resorts, which can help ease your wedding planning experience from beginning to end. Most importantly, there is no charge to use Wright Travel Agency's service. (For more information on Wright Travel Agency visit: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! 2. Timing? You'll quickly find that every location has "seasons" -- meaning, there will be times when your location of choice will be cheaper or more costly to travel to in terms of airfare and lodging. Holidays tend to be more expensive as they draw more people to the area. So consider timing because that will greatly affect the costs necessary for you and your guests to travel to your wedding location. 3. Budget/Costs. How much do you want your guests to spend? And, does that matter to you? Some couples seek to be considerate of their guests investment in the trip, while others have their heart set on a destination location and all that matters is that they're able to get there -- guests present or not. It's really up to you to decide, but bear in mind, the total investment will play a significant role in determining the size of your guests list. So If you want to draw big numbers to your destination celebration, then consider what each person will have to spend to travel and stay at your location. 4. Distance. Yep, distance matters. Costs and time will also factor into this aspect. If you decide to get married in a location that will require several of your guests to travel 8+ hours or more one way, then you have to accept the fact that some people simply may not be able to make that trip. Long distances will eat up at least 2 days of travel time, cutting into a person's time off. You also have to remember that distance will affect how much you can carry with you. If you had intended to bring a lot of your decor, then realize you will be lugging a ton of stuff thousands of miles away -- that could complicate things and make your journey tougher. So keep distance in mind. 5. Kids vs. No Kids. To have kids or not to have kids, that is the question. The answer is really up to you -- do you want children to be present at your celebration? The choice is ultimately up to you. This is an important decision to make early on because many resorts in destination locations are adults-only. So talk to your sweetheart right away about whether you want children present or not -- just remember, some guests may welcome an adults-only getaway, while others won't be able to attend because of family obligations, and you need to be OK with that. 6. All Inclusive vs. Non All-Inclusive. Deciding on whether you want to go all-inclusive or not will play a huge role in the budget/costs factor. All-inclusive options are in abundance in several Mexico destination locations like Cancun/Riviera Maya, but these options are few in places like Hawaii. While it may seem like your guests are having to pay a lot upfront costs to go all-inclusive, they will likely enjoy a more stress-free vacation experience because the main costs (dining, drinks, activities, etc.) are already paid for. The all-inclusive route may also help lower the costs you will have to spend on the actual wedding celebration at your resort. Check out our blog post about going All-inclusive to help determine whether you want to go that route. 7. Legal Requirements for Tying the Knot. Does your location have certain legal requirements when it comes to weddings? You need to look into this as soon as you begin the planning process because it may affect how early you need to arrive at your location. This will also impact who you choose to marry you, where/how you plan on getting married and what type of ceremony you'll be having -- religious, spiritual, legal, etc. Reach out to the resort planner or coordinator for assistance on these details as they should be well informed about the processes that will affect your wedding celebration. 8. Number of Guests. The size of your guest list will be a big factor in choosing your location because if you plan on having a large group, looking at smaller resorts may not be ideal. So consider this variable early on as it will narrow down your options upfront when it comes to looking at location options. 9. Wedding Planner/Coordinator? Many resorts will include assistance from a wedding coordinator or planner from their wedding department as your wedding date nears, but some couples invest in an independent coordinator/planner to take over the wedding planning process from the very start. Many brides and grooms find that planning a wedding away from home can be quite stressful, so hiring an expert to handle the details from a far could be a great investment that will make your wedding journey much more stress-free and enjoyable. To find out more information about booking your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  7. With the popularity of destination weddings and elopements continuing to rise, more and more couples are looking beyond the border to share their nuptials in epic locations they once only dreamed of. Here are five epic destination locations high on the social media trend for couples looking to explore the world while they say I Do. 1. Italy: From the grandeur of Italian architecture from ages past to the rolling hills of the Italian countryside or the incredible seaside villages along the coast -- how can you go wrong with a wedding in Italy? Make sure to do your research when it comes to weather as some months can be excruciatingly warm while others quite chilly. But cheers to Italy for a wedding landscape where you simply can't go wrong. 2. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico: Sure Mexico's coastal regions like Cancun-Riviera Maya, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, are known as havens for destination weddings, but if you're willing to go inland San Miguel de Allende can provide you with all the makings of an insanely gorgeous wedding location. This city is thriving with a richness in culture, the arts and history and because there is no direct plane access, it's preserved its authentic feel despite its growing popularity with tourists. The cobblestone streets and baroque Spanish architecture will give you a romantic setting you and your guests will soon not forget. 3. The Philippines: Southeast Asia is bursting with gorgeous island locations for the beach bride and groom, but when it comes to the Philippines you'll have thousands of islands to choose from -- more than 7,000 to be exact. A nation of islands, the Philippines offers top notch beaches, world class snorkeling and diving but if you're looking for a mix of greenery they've got that too. Palawan island is by many to be the most beautiful island in the world -- if you've been dreaming of an island wedding, can you imagine being able to say you got married on the most beautiful island in the world??? 4. Iceland: If you've spent anytime on Instagram, you've probably seen photos of couples adventuring through stunning landscapes in what's quickly grown to be a "photographer's playground" in Iceland. You'll often find incredible airfare deals for Iceland year round so it makes for a wonderful location for brides and grooms looking to explore a land like any other. Breathtaking scenery on every corner, abandoned airplanes in the middle of nowhere and of course the northern lights are just a few reasons why Iceland has become the "it" place when it comes to destination elopements. 5. Lake Louise at Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada: Ever recall seeing a beautiful couple standing in front of an unbelievably stunning turquoise lake surrounded by high mountain peaks covered with lush greenery? Yep, that's Lake Louise in Banff National Park. It's Canada's gorgeous secret and a hotspot that's becoming more and more popular for couples who love the woodsy surroundings and of course that magical lake that's known to create the most epic reflections. It's a spot that can give you harsh and snowy winters, so if you're hoping for warm weather, make sure to check the weather trends unless of course you're a winter wonderland kind of couple! To find out more information about booking a destination wedding, elopement or honeymoon, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  8. If you've been thinking about renewing your vows in front of your closest family and friends, Azul Fives Hotel in Playa del Carmen, Mexico has the perfect vow renewal package for an intimate celebration and best of all -- it's free! The Sky Rooftop Vow Renewal package at Azul Fives is ideal for couples who wish to renew their vows in an intimate setting with up to 24 guests. The celebration includes: Ceremony Inclusions Romantic ceremony location Altar table with white linen Uncovered white garden chairs Sound system with speakers and microphone Non-denominational officiant Welcome cocktail served to all guests upon arrival Cold towel service for each guest during ceremony Signature Services Expert Signature Designer to help plan your event Guest concierge* Personal onsite attendant day of the ceremony - 3 hours* Special room for your other half with gourmet bites on day of the ceremony 12pm - 5pm Reception Inclusions Dinner reservation for your group at Flavors Restaurant Personalized menu card Vow Renewal Romance Package for the Happy Couple Private four course candlelit dinner on the beach for two Chef's special gourmet breakfast in bed Chilled bottle of sparkling wine delivered to room upon arrival One-night return stay voucher for your next anniversary 15% discount on spa services Fresh tropical floral arrangement in room Romantically decorated suite with rose petals and aroma therapy Beachfront sky massage two for one* Couple's also have the ability to further customize their vow renewal experience, including adding options for photography and video as well as decor and floral options. This package is offered only at Azul Fives Hotel and the following requirements apply: - Package is available complimentary for US or Canada based couples - The couple must 3 Bedroom Sky Suite for 3 nights or more and two additional rooms - Ceremony must take place in the couples' bedroom sky deck. - Other couples can purchase this package for $950 USD. - Gourmet Honeymoon & Anniversary Package inclusions apply to wedding couple only. One massage must be purchased to receive one of equal or lesser value complimentary. - One-night return stay voucher valid for future stays of 5 nights or longer, non-transferrable, holidays excluded and must be used within 395 days of check out date. To find out more information about booking your complimentary Sky Rooftop Vow Renewal pakage at Azul Fives Hotel, or for assistance on booking an all-inclusive vacation for your honeymoon or destination wedding elsewhere, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them here. - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  9. If you're looking for a special but simple way to renew your wedding vows with the one you love, Karisma has the answer for you and it's just $399 for a celebration that begins in the morning and ends at night on your Wedding Day. Karisma Hotels & Resorts, a luxury provider of vacation properties worldwide, now offers the perfect vow renewal package to celebrate love at some of their most incredible destination locations. Vow Renewal Celebration Package: $399 (for two-person ceremony only) For couple's who want to keep it simple and intimate with just the two of you, Karisma's Vow Renewal Celebration package is the idea way to renew those I Do's. Priced at $399, this package offers: A non-denominational Minister to perform a romantic symbolic ceremony Romantic ocean front ceremony location Sound system with speakers and microphone Symbolic wedding certificate Professional services of a signature wedding designer Sunrise breakfast basket including assortment of cheeses, sweet rolls and mimosas on the morning of ceremony Chilled bottle of domestic champagne at the ceremony Romantically decorated suite with rose petals, aroma therapy and candles the night of the ceremony This package is offered at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels, Azul Hotels (excluding Jamaica), and Generations Riviera Maya, but the following requirements apply: - Valid for couples based in USA & Canada only - Valid for ceremonies taking place Monday through Thursday at 5 PM or earlier. Weekend ceremonies must take place at 2 PM or earlier. Ceremony location restrictions apply. - For those qualifying for the Memorable Moments Honeymoon & Anniversary package, the ceremony will take place at the dinner location just prior to the honeymoon dinner on the beach. - Package inclusions may vary without previous notice. Not combinable with any other promotion unless otherwise specified. Couple's also have the ability to further customize their vow renewal experience, including adding options for photography and video as well as decor and floral options. To find out more information about booking your Vow Renewal Package at Karisma Hotels & Resorts, or booking an all-inclusive vacation for your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  10. Giving your bridal party gifts is a personal preference. There is no wedding rule that requires you to gift your bridesmaids or groomsmen. But if you're a groom who decides you'd like to give those standing beside you on your Big Day something special, here are a few gift ideas that they'll be sure to appreciate. 1. A Wallet: Much like the ladies with purses, a man can never have too many wallets. Opt for something sporty and durable, or chic and made of leather. If you have time, you may even be able to pick up some wallets at your destination location -- for instance, Mexico is known for its great leather goods. 2. A Flask: If the spirits will be free flowing throughout your trip, your buddies may appreciate a flask for bringing alcohol on the go. You can get something engraved check out Etsy for a variety of options. Or maybe go for something simple, it's really up to you. 3. Bottle of the Local Spirits: If time permits, pick up your groomsmen a bottle of the local spirits. Tequila from Mexico, rum from Jamaica? It's an ode to the local culture and your guys will appreciate the thought! 4. A Pocketknife: It's like a law of life -- men love their tools. There are so many options when it comes to pocketknives, but pick something with handy tools you think your friends will find handy. 5. A Group Excursion: Want to keep it simple but memorable? Consider paying for a group excursion for your groomsmen to enjoy during your destination trip. Perhaps a dive or snorkel trip? Maybe an ATV tour or catamaran ride. Nothing beats a fun experience together. Just make sure that all your groomsmen will be in town to enjoy the outing. And if you want it to be a surprise, make sure they know ahead of time to set aside the day/time. To find out more information about booking a destination wedding or honeymoon, contact the Best Destination Wedding Forum's official travel agency -- Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  11. Some couples are set on having their wedding on a particular date that falls on a weekend. But if you're a pair who is more flexible on the date you tie the knot, you may want to consider having a weekday wedding. Here are five reasons why a weekday wedding may be the way to go for you: 1) It allows your guests to extend their trip into the weekend. While you and your sweetheart may be spending an extended amount of time at your destination location before and after the Big Day, your guests may not have that flexibility. When you plan your wedding a few days before the weekend, it may give them a chance to extend their stay by taking advantage of the weekend. For example, plan your wedding on a Thursday or Friday and that gives your guests the option to take some additional time to unwind on Saturday and Sunday. 2) May help cut down on crowds at your venue. While destination locations usually double as popular vacation spots, having your wedding on a weekday could drastically cut down on the crowds in or around your venue -- especially if you are having a beach wedding. Having your wedding ceremony on the beach on a Thursday could cut back on the chances that you'll have a bunch of swimsuited observers watching the festivities nearby. 3) It will give you some flexibility on the rest of your wedding festivities. When you plan your wedding on a Saturday, it's very likely that your guests will make plans to depart and go home on Sunday. But if you plan your wedding on a weekday before the weekend, you'll be able to schedule other fun group activities during the remaining days thereafter. You'll also have less of a chance of booking a day when another wedding will be taking place, especially if you're having it at a popular venue that hosts more than one wedding a day. 4) Popular vendors are more likely to be available on a weekday. When it comes to booking your wedding at a popular destination location, some couples will find during the planning process that their favorite or preferred vendors may already booked. Popular photographers, videographers, event planners/designers, hair/makeup stylists, DJs or bands will often book weddings several months or even a year in advance. So if you find out that your favorite vendor is already locked into another event, consider a weekday wedding to increase your chances! 5) It may cut down on some wedding and travel costs. While destination locations are no stranger to weekday weddings, you may find that your location/venue or even vendor offers a small price break for a weekday event. It's not common, but definitely worth asking about. You may also find that your weekday event date(s) will also cut down on travel and lodging costs for your guests. To find out more information about booking a destination wedding or honeymoon, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  12. As I was planning my destination wedding several years ago, I spent many a nights with my head spinning in trying to decide what to gift my husband-to-be on our Wedding Day. There are sentimental favorites of course, like a handkerchief embroidered with his initials, a new set of cufflinks or a brand new watch. But I wanted to give him something that would knock his socks off -- something that he'd always remember and cherish. And so I decided to gift my sweetheart with an album full of boudoir photos starring me Yes, opting to book a boudoir session was something I had to talk myself into doing. Like many women, the thought of being photographed in lingerie was quite frankly freaking me out! I am definitely one of those women who isn't 100 percent confident with my body image, but I knew he would absolutely love this gift and I knew it would most definitely take him by surprise. And you know what, on our Wedding Day while he was getting ready for the festivities, he opened that album (with my photographer documenting each and every moment) and yes it made his heart skip a beat. It was ... The.Perfect.Gift. So if you're contemplating doing a boudoir session for your sweetheart as a Wedding Day gift, here are a few tips to consider when planning your boudoir shoot: 1) Do your research when booking a photographer. Look through plenty of portfolios/blogs and find a style that you love. You will find that much like wedding photography, boudoir photographers come in all price ranges -- but as the saying goes, you typically get what you pay for. Boudoir photography is an investment so look for consistency in style and quality in their work to ensure that you will get similar results. When it comes to boudoir photography, because it's such an intimate and personal experience, look carefully at reviews. Also make sure to book your session giving your photographer enough time to edit and deliver the photos before your Wedding Day (if you plan to order prints or an album, also make sure there's enough time to do this with your deadline in mind!). 2) Pick a photographer that offers products. Yes, you can certainly go the money savings route of printing your own photos or making your own album, but photographers often have access to professional labs who will create products that the typical consumer just doesn't have access to. These are high quality products that will last much longer than what you could ever find via Shutterfly or printing at Target -- plus do you really want the high school or college student working behind the counter at your local drugstore or Costco having access to such private photos? Think twice and if it's in your budget, invest in the professional grade products your photographer offers. 3) Consider the location for your photos. Does your photographer provide the location for your shoot? This is an important one to consider because it may require additional investment. Some photographers will provide the location (studio, hotel, etc.), but others will rely on you to provide the setting. Boudoir photographs can be done in the comfort of your own home or perhaps a friend's home -- just make sure you have plenty of privacy and lots of natural light! Setting matters when it comes to indoor portraits. 4) Invest in a hair/makeup stylist. This matters, trust me! Make a day of your boudoir session and get dolled up with both hair and makeup from a professional. Tell the stylist you hire that you'll be taking boudoir portraits and give him/her some inspiration photos so they have an idea of what you like. It will make a world of difference in your photos to use a professional stylist, plus you'll feel like a million bucks! And hey, plan a special date with your honey afterwards if you'd like. Take advantage of that gorgeous styling, don't let it go to waste!!! 5) Mix up your wardrobe. There is a belief that all boudoir photos have to be done with sexy lingerie. And while you should have at least a few photos with some gorgeous lingerie on, boudoir photos can be equally sexy with simple pieces. Consider wearing a jersey or clothing piece from your sweetheart's favorite sports team or college alma mater. Some of my favorite boudoir photos were shot with my bride just wearing a simple white tank with a cute pair of undies. You could also wear your spouse to be's favorite dress shirt and tie (leaving it open and unbuttoned of course!). And of course, you could also do nude or implied nude photos wearing just a simple white bedding sheet -- just make sure your photographer is OK and comfortable doing those types of photos. These photos are your vision, so make it your own and wear/bring things you think will get your honey's heart racing! 6) Relax and have fun. You're nervous, I get it. If you're not one of the 10 out of a million girls blessed with a bikini model's perfect body, then you will probably be nervous. And that's OK. If you feel inclined to diet or workout so you're in great/better shape before your shoot, do it. If you're not, hey no worries! You are perfect exactly how you are. But most women, have trouble/worry areas that make them nervous. The best thing to do is talk to your photographer ahead of time about the areas of your body that you are not confident with and share your concerns. This will give them a head's up when it comes to angling and photographing you in the best way possible. The most important thing is to relax and enjoy the process, so exhale, get pampered and enjoy the experience. Boudoir photography is a beautiful gift your spouse-to-be will love! To book or inquire about a location for a destination wedding or honeymoon, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! or visit the website atwww.wrighttravelagency.com - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife wedding + portrait photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  13. Not sure where you are getting married, but I got married in a little town called Akumal about 90 minutes from Cancun. The little stretch of beach where we got married is typically used by the vacationers who stayed at the condos in front of that beach. We did have a beach cleaning fee as well, but that was so our coordinator could pay a crew to essentially clean the beach area (pick up the seaweed, rake the sand, etc.) where our ceremony decor, aisle and arch would be placed at. It also included the take down of the items after our ceremony as well. We could actually watch the crew do the cleanup from our balcony on our Wedding Day and the fee was totally legit. Because the beaches are open to the public (and there can be TONS of people in that area at any given time), the fee allows them to clean/prep the site and manage the clean up process after. Also, allows you to close off that area for your wedding day. So you are not alone!!!
  14. Hi there! Welcome to BDW. The Bahamas is such a beautiful place! For travel agents, I would strongly suggest contacting the official travel agency for the BDW forum -- Wright Travel Agency. They will be able to help you with any and all accommodations for you and your guests. Plus they specialize in destination weddings. You can contact them HERE!
  15. Hoping to plan the perfect honeymoon trip to top off your wedding experience? We've already given you 5 tips to guide you as you plan the ideal honeymoon, but here are 5 more suggestions to ensure that your honeymoon overflows with wedded bliss. (See Tips #1 thru #5 here) 6. Fly during off-peak days and times. Opt for traveling on non-peak days and times, for example, traveling on a Tuesday or Wednesday often yields cheaper flight prices, which can be reduced even further if you're open to taking a red-eye or late night flight. That's not to say, book the flight that leaves you with 2-4 layovers, because extending your travel time can be exhausting and may require you a few days to recuperate, but definitely consider an off-peak travel schedule because it could save you big bucks in the end. Consult with a travel specialist like Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- for the best deals and to ensure that your accommodations are arranged to fit in with your travel schedule. 7. Sleep late and sleep in. Once you arrive to your destination, make it a point to sleep late and sleep in. Don't let alarm clocks wake you, this is your time to completely clock off from the rest of the world and enjoy the love of your life. So say yes to taking that late night walk along the beach to hear the waves crashing or catching that late night movie that happens to pop up on your television. And if you miss breakfast because you decided to sleep in, that's OK too. The key here is to RELAX and enjoy every minute. 8. Plan to do something new and exciting. As you plan your honeymoon, look into an activity or excursion that will bring you and your spouse's heart rate to another level. Do something new together that you'll never forget -- be it something as adventurous as a zipline tour, an amazing but challenging hike or maybe swim with the whale sharks or perhaps something as simple as taking a cooking class together or opting for a salsa dancing lesson. Create memories by doing something out of the norm and don't forget to take pictures! 9. Bring a camera and take lots of photos and video. DON'T forget, I repeat, DON't forget to bring your camera. Snap away at every wonderful moment big or small during this time away with your honey and capture the feelings, sights and sounds of your experience. Smartphones these days are perfectly capable to taking great photos and video, but if you've got an actual camera, bring that too! You will cherish these photos/video years into your marriage. 10. Stay within your budget -- remember you have to live "real life" when you get back. It's easy to go "buck wild" with the wallet when it comes to your honeymoon, but make sure you stay within your budget. If you feel inclined to purchase a fancy dinner, fun excursion or lovely trinket during your time away -- do it. But think twice before you push the button on any big purchase(s) that might break the bank, remember, when the trip is over it's back to real life and you still gotta live and pay the bills! For assistance on booking a honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  16. Hoping to plan the perfect honeymoon trip to top off your wedding experience? Here are 5 tips to ensure that your honeymoon overflows with wedded bliss. 1. Create a honeymoon fund early. Do not hesitate to start putting money aside for your honeymoon as soon as your sweetheart pops the big question. Keep the wedding and honeymoon funds separate and stick to your budget. 2. Consult in a Travel Agent. A travel specialist can give you advice on the best time/dates to travel as well as provide you with the best rates. Travel agents are also a great resource of information on things to do in your destination location. But most importantly, travel agents are there to assist you should you have to deal with any changes to your travel plans or run into any problems. They are there to help you along the way, which doesn't happen when you opt to book through a travel discount site on your own. Take the time to consult and use the services of a travel specialist like Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- it can make a world of difference! 3. Don't leave for your trip too quickly after the wedding. Some couples are under the impression that honeymoons should begin immediately after the wedding, but that is not always the case. In fact, you should give yourself some time after the wedding to unwind and relax before you part for your honeymoon trip. The weeks and days leading up to the Wedding Day are stressful enough, and when you have to make sure to pack your bags and get things in order at home before you take more time off, it can be even more overwhelming. Give yourself at least 2 to 3 days after the wedding to unwind and spend time with friends and relatives who may have traveled into town to attend your wedding. Some couples will even opt to plan their honeymoon weeks or months after the wedding -- there is no true timetable. Plus it will also give you additional time to save up for your travels! 4. Plan a honeymoon itinerary but make it flexible. While planning your honeymoon, draft up a general schedule for what you plan to do together during your time away. But don't feel pressured to stick to that schedule -- let your mood dictate timing. If there are certain sites or locations you want to make sure to visit, then set some days aside to do those things -- and spread the itinerary out. But be flexible enough to where you can switch some activities around if need be. Again, the assistance of a travel specialist can be of great help when it comes to planning your activities. 5. Give yourself time to adjust to reality before heading back to work. Much like after the wedding, you should give yourself at least 2 days to readjust to home life before returning to work. So plan to come home from your honeymoon with a few days to spare before you go back to reality AKA work. Your body and mind will thank you! Make sure to check back for additional tips in Part Two of Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon Trip! To find out more information about booking an all-inclusive vacation for your honeymoon or destination wedding, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  17. Looking to plan an adventurous honeymoon this year? Why not explore the beautiful national parks and historic spaces throughout Canada for free? In honor of Canada celebrating its 150th birthday this year, the county's park service is offering free Discovery Passes for all visitors to national parks, national marine conservation areas and national historic sites throughout the country's 13 provinces in 2017. Passes typically cost about $7 USD per person. To obtain the pass, you have to register online -- those interested only need to order one pass for your group or family if you plan to travel together. A 2017 Discovery Pass is valid for everyone arriving in the same vehicle at a national park, or arriving together at a marine conservation area or historic site. Do note, the Discovery Pass is only accepted at national historic sites which are operated by Parks Canada. The passes, which do not cover camping fees or tours with park rangers, are valid from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017. If you have questions on the free Discovery Pass for 2017, contact Canada's National Information Service at 1-888-773-8888 or send an email to [email protected] . For assistance in booking accomodations for a destination wedding wedding or honeymoon, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! or visit the website at www.wrighttravelagency.com - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  18. Weddings traditionally call for a celebratory gathering of a couple's closest family and friends, but it doesn't always have to be that way. These days many couples are buying into the concept of the destination elopement experience -- that is traveling to some epic location to tie the knot alone or with just a handful of family and friends, giving it a more intimate and adventurous feel. So is a destination elopement the wedding experience for you? Here are 5 reasons why you should consider opting for an destination elopement rather than the traditional wedding celebration route. 1. You want to keep it between the two of you, or perhaps just a few: Eloping can just involve you and your sweetheart, but doesn't have to be that way. Perhaps you want to invite your parents and siblings along, or your best friends. A destination elopement is an intimate experience, the hardest part is keeping it a secret. So if you plan to invite a few family members or friends, be clear to them that you want to keep it on the hush as your wedding getaway nears. 2. You don't want to deal with intricacies of wedding planning: Wedding planning can be stressful and time consuming -- don't let anyone tell you different. Perhaps you don't have the ability to hire a planner or you simply don't have the time/want to go through the process of planning a wedding. If that's the case, an elopement may be right for you. While an elopement doesn't completely relieve you of the planning process, a celebration that just involves you and your sweetheart or just a small circle definitely requires less detailed planning than a big celebration involving 20 to 100+ guests. 3. You have your heart set on putting your money toward certain wedding details and experiences: Wedding planning is a very personal experience because you can choose to plan your wedding as you see fit. Perhaps having a traditional wedding with several guests means that you have to limit your budget in other areas that you simply don't want to to make compromises in. If that's the case, an elopement might be the best option for you. Either way, what you should keep in mind is that just because your elopement may not have all the bells and whistles of a grand celebration, this is still a special day in your lives together. So don't skimp on getting that gorgeous dress you've always had your eye on and that beautiful bouquet of flowers. Make sure to still invest in a good photographer and/or videographer -- your family and friends will love that you've still captured the day in a way that they can still share in the experience. Having beautiful photos and video will also mean so much more when you can share them with your future children. And if you opt for an elopement, you can also put the money you've saved into other experiences -- for example, getting PADI certified, going on a dive trip, taking a catamaran ride with your small circle, taking a helicopter ride over a surreal location or an extended honeymoon to some epic location. Or maybe it allows you to splurge and book a few days at an amazing resort you otherwise couldn't afford or perhaps those gorgeous overwater bungalows in Mexico! When you opt to elope, you will find yourself with more flexibility in terms of experiences and budget -- so enjoy it! 4. You're Prepared to Deal With a Strong Reaction from Others: When news spreads that you've eloped, you have to be prepared for strong reactions from family or friends -- some of which may be surprising. While people may share your joy, there will be others who may express disappointment or anger that they were not invited to the festivities. You have to be strong and confident with your decision and be willing to deal with whatever responses may get thrown your way. It's OK, just be prepared to deal with unexpected reactions. (Tip: #5 might help alleviate any disappointment!) 5. You'd rather plan a Post-I Do Party: Once you've spread the word, consider hosting a party to celebrate your union at home. This will still give you a chance to share your joy with the ones you love and friends who are dear and near, but don't feel obligated to make it "a wedding." You can do something elaborate if you'd like to make it a simple dinner gathering. It's up to you if you want to go big or small. Whether you're dealing with a tighter wedding budget or feel intimidated by the thought of planning a large wedding, a destination elopement is something to consider these days. It allows you and your sweetheart to better focus on the sentiment of saying I Do. You just have to ask yourself, is it right for you? To book or inquire about a location for a destination wedding elopement or wedding, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! or visit the website at www.wrighttravelagency.com - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  19. I honestly think you don't have to worry about keeping your guests from boredom. Destination weddings are so much fun, your guests will have a blast just socializing amongst each other, getting drinks from the bar and just enjoying the fact that they are in beautiful Mexico!
  20. I would suggest doing something the next day after all your guests have settled. With flight delays and cancellations, plus exhaustion from travel, I think planning something the day everyone arrives is cutting it too close. If you'd still like to do something with your guests the day they arrive, maybe plan something really casual and optional -- like a bar meetup/mingle -- for those who want to take part. But let the official start of your wedding celebration begin the next day when everyone has hopefully arrived safely and gotten some much needed rest! The excitement will still be the same, but everyone will be much more rested and energized to celebrate your union!!!
  21. Imagine having 24/7 butler service while you and your family enjoyed a luxury vacation on a private property with all the comforts and convenience of an all-inclusive resort in a tropical paradise. Well that experience can be yours at Karisma Hotels & Resort's Villa Carola property in Puerto Morelos, Mexico. Villa Carola, an exquisite two-story private villa, is adjacent to the Azul Beach Hotel in the Riviera maya and offers 10,700 square-feet of luxury and privacy for 12 adults and 8 children, 6-ocean view bedrooms and bathrooms, and a private pool, beach and jacuzzi. But one of the villa's best perks is 24-hour assistance from your own personal Majordomo -- a butler of sorts who is there to make all your special requests and preferences come to life. The pampering at Villa Carola begins even before you arrive to the property, with pre-arrival service by your butler, who will make sure your vacation experience is perfect from beginning to end. No matter your requests, your Majordomo is ready and at your service because no wish is too far fetched and it always comes with a warm smile. According to Carlos, the Majordomo for Villa Carola, he communicates with guests from the very start even before their vacation begins, obtaining information on their likes/dislikes and preferences for food, activities or comforts and necessities inside the villa. Carlos is also there to help with planning reservations at any of the Azul Beach eateries, the Vassa spa or to help arrange any off-site excursions or transportation. "I am here to help and assist with any requests or needs the Villa Carola guests have," he said, adding that no requests is too big or too small. Besides the services from your personal Majordomo, guests at Villa Carola can also enjoy the delicious offerings of the Gourmet Inclusive Experience, including daily maid service, non-motorized water sports, daily activities, private beach butlers, delectable cuisine, and 24-hour room service. To find out more about staying at Villa Carola or the other two Karisma Villas in Riviera Maya, Mexico, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  22. If you and your sweetheart are one of the many couples that got engaged over the holiday season, you're probably wondering, what do we do now? Here's a list of to-do's to help get you started on the journey toward the wedding of your dreams! 1) Call family and close friends: Start making those phone calls or sending those messages to let those closest to you know, you are to be wed! 2) Make it social media official: Once you've let your closest circle know the good news, make it social media official. Post a photo of the proposal or perhaps one of you and your spouse-to-be with your new bling. 3) Get ring resized if need be: If the ring doesn't fit the way you want it to, make plans to get the ring properly sized as soon as possible. And if you have the means, get your ring insured. Always better to be safe than sorry. 4) Begin looking at dates: Sit down with your sweetheart and begin the discussion on when you'd like to get married. It doesn't have to be an exact date right away, but at least start thinking about the season and year you plan to tie the knot so that you can start planning accordingly. Your wedding date will help determine your timeline for the rest of your wedding to do's. 5) Decide on a local wedding vs. a destination wedding: The location of your wedding is typically dependent on how big your guests list will be. Do you want it to be a huge celebration? Or do you prefer a smaller more intimate wedding? Keep in mind, destination weddings tend to weed out a lot of people on your guests list simply because some won't be able to travel, take time off work, or afford the trip. So bear in mind that when it comes to planning a destination wedding, your guests will be incurring their own costs to attend. But most importantly, plan your wedding at a location you both agree on -- this is your day to celebrate your love. 6) Start an inspiration board: When it comes to weddings, there are tons of details involved. And whether you plan on having a wedding planner or not, you can start the planning process by creating a vision board of what you want your wedding to look or feel like. Pinterest is the most popular option for creating an inspiration board. So start searching for those ideas and pin away! 7) Wedding planner vs. self planned: Wedding planning is hard work. So if you can, invest in a planner/coordinator who can take care of the big details -- or at least hire a day-of coordinator at the very least. You'll find that having someone to organize and take care of the overall planning will help a ton when it comes to alleviating wedding stress. If you don't have the means to hire a planner or coordinator, then invest in a good planning book and ask your friends/family for help. Keeping yourself organized is most important if you plan to do it on your own! 8) Create a wedding budget: Determining your wedding budget is often the hardest and most stressful part of wedding planning. Sit down and talk with your sweetheart about wedding finances and also take time to determine whether you will have any financial support or help from your parents. And always keep in mind that there are typically unexpected expenses that will come up during the planning process so plan to set aside extra money as needed. 9) Start saving $$$: Planning for your wedding can be a huge expense. So after your plan your wedding budget, set aside some time to determine how you plan to save along the way. Perhaps it means cutting back on other expenses in your life, just remember, saving up for your wedding is temporary. Also don't go broke planning the wedding of your dreams -- a wedding only last for a day, make sure to plan for your marriage and life together as well after the Big Day. 10) Start booking priority vendors: If you've had your heart set on booking a particular vendor (i.e., photographer, entertainer, caterer, venue, florist, hair/makeup stylist, etc.), it's important to reach out to those vendors right away to secure your date. The earlier you book these important vendors the better, as vendor pricing can often increase without notice. 11) Ask for parents' input on guest list: Once you've decided on a venue and budget, it's time to start drafting up your guests list, consult with your parents on their thoughts as well. Take into consideration their input when it comes to who gets invited, and then make it a joint effort with your spouse-to-be to decide on who makes the cut. It's normal to have various revised guests list and keep in mind that the location of your wedding may affect who attends your wedding as well. 12) Go dress shopping: Some brides likes to go dress shopping early, some like to wait till later. But at the very least, start looking at the different styles and designers of wedding gowns that catch your eye. Remember that some designers will require that you order your dress months in advance, also keep in mind that styles change, so if you don't plan on getting married for a year or more, it may be better to wait. And don't forget, to set aside time and money for alterations! Most importantly, enjoy the process of wedding planning. It can be a stressful process, but just remember that in the end you'll end up marrying the love of your life. So enjoy the journey! To book or inquire about any destination wedding venue/resort, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! or visit our website at www.wrighttravelagency.com - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  23. Destination Vow Renewals are a growing trend -- after all, it's an opportunity to do it all over again and perhaps this time around, do it even better than the first! Here are five steps to helping you create the destination vow renewal of your dreams: 1) Pick a location: First and foremost sit down with your sweetheart and pick the site of your dream vow renewal together. For many couples, committing to your second round of I Do's together means you're in a better place financially compared to when you were newlyweds just starting off. So don't hesitate to pick a location that is epic and on your travel bucket list, unless of course you want to return to the site where you first said your I Do's -- whatever route you decide, make sure it's a place that you both agree on! Karisma Resorts & Hotels offer a plethora of beautiful locations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean, some locations even include a free vow renewal ceremony or special rates for vow renewals. You may also want to consider renting one of Karisma's private villa to celebrate your special occasion in absolutely luxury and style. 2) Narrow down your guest list: Unlike your wedding day, vow renewals don't have to include everybody and anybody. This celebration can focus on just the two of you or include just your closest circle of family and friends. It's totally up to you because this time around, you don't have to worry about offending that aunt or cousin you didn't really want to invite but had to in order to avoid family drama. Make your guest list as little or big as you want it to be, and if you want it to be an elopement vow renewal party of two -- so be it! 3) Pick family to be in your bridal party, if you decide to have one: Should you decide to have a bridal party, consider picking your children or perhaps siblings, parents or other close family members or friends to stand by your side. There's nothing more beautiful than seeing a bride walked down the aisle by her children. Much like your celebration, keep your bridal party small and meaningful. 4) Go simple on the details and focus on the experience: Perhaps you were one of those "go bananas on details" brides your first time around. Well this time, you don't have to go "there" if you don't want to. Instead of focusing on all the crazy little details, why not keep your mind and heart focused on the experience you'll share with your spouse and anyone you invite to join you. Make it all about the experience rather than the details, this is your time to truly celebrate love and live in the moment. 5) Make it a vacation to remember: Plan activities, excursions and outings together with emphasis on enjoying the experience. This time around you don't have to go big on a Welcome party, rather plan something special for your group -- maybe a day trip snorkeling or diving. Or perhaps a fun outing like an ATV tour or camel safari. Keep your Destination Vow Renewal focused on making unforgettable memories together! To book or inquire about any destination wedding venue/resort, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE! or visit our website at www.wrighttravelagency.com - - - About me: I am a former BDW Bride AKA as MarieSam and I was addicted to this forum as I planned my own wedding in 2009. Since 2010, I have been the proud owner of MarieSam Sanchez Photography -- a husband and wife photography team based in Southern California and documenting love all over the world. I am also a mother to two girls, an avid traveler and a destination wedding writer/blogger.
  24. Was your 2016 holiday season extra special because your sweetheart proposed? If you happened to get engaged over the 2016 holiday season, we'd love it if you shared your proposal story with us! And if you've already got started on your wedding plans, we'd love to hear those details too!
  25. Besides the incredible massage and spa services the Vassa Spa offers at Azul Beach Hotel in Puerto Morelos, brides, bridesmaids and wedding guests can also enjoy the spa's full service hair and makeup salon to ensure they're picture perfect for the big day. The Vassa Spa salon staff is comprised of trained hair and makeup stylist who are very receptive to their client's inspiration photos and styling preferences. The staff also suggest that brides schedule a trial before the Wedding day to ensure that you get the look you've envisioned for your I Do's. "I would definitely suggest brides do a trial ahead of the Wedding day," says Yidan Ortiz, who has been one the salon's stylists for six years. Ortiz says that it can be challenging when the bride wants to try out a style or changes her mind on the day of the wedding because not all styles or looks work for every person's face or hair. Trial runs allow for the stylist and the client to nail down the perfect look for the final run come the big day. Hair and makeup trials should be scheduled in advance and requests can be made to work with the same stylist during both the trial and the Wedding day. The spa, which typically has at least four stylists on staff, uses Mac products for all makeup services because of its propensity to last in hot and humid weather conditions. Airbrush style makeup is also available upon request. Aside from hair and makeup services, Vassa Spa and salon also offers manicures and pedicures by appointment. Click here for more information about Vassa Spa's treatments, services and prices. And to book your stay at Azul Beach Hotel, contact one of the Best Destination Wedding travel agents who specialize in destination wedding and honeymoon travel. You can contact them HERE!
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