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The holiday season can be a busy and stressful time of year for many people, but when you're planning a wedding on top of that, it can send you over the edge. Between the holiday to-do list, the shopping list and your wedding to-do list -- you can easily find yourself overwhelmed and frustrated. Here are a few ways you can manage planning your wedding throughout the holiday season in an effective and efficient manner that will keep you on top of things! 1) Take advantage of holiday sales. If there are items on your wedding shopping list that you've been meaning to buy -- for instance, that perfect pair of shoes or earrings for the Wedding Day, or perhaps your sweethearts suit or the gifts you've planned to give your bridesmaids -- look out for holiday sales on those items. You may find that shopping during the holiday season will save you a considerable amount of money -- so brave those crowds or browse your favorite shopping sites for those money saving deals! 2) Take advantage of family get togethers. When your family and friends gather, don't hesitate to use that time together to ask for help planning out your wedding details or asking for advice on decisions that have you stumped. You may find that your family and friends are eager and happy to help you knock off things on your to-do list. If you want to get your bridal party together, consider throwing a holiday cocktail party just for your bridesmaids -- it can double up as a festive celebration as well as a gathering to handle some of those wedding tasks or projects you've been meaning to get to. Who doesn't love to handle DIY projects over cocktails, appetizers and desserts?!?! 3) Narrow down your registry by adding gifts to your Christmas list. Does your wedding registry seem to be bursting at the seams? Move some of those gift ideas to your Christmas wish list. Start building your life together this holiday season, by asking for practical Christmas gifts that will help you get your new home together as husband and wife started now instead of later. 4) Step away from the wedding planning and take a holiday break. Yes, you read that right. Don't plan a darn wedding-related thing this holiday season and instead enjoy the holidays to the fullest without doing any planning at all. If you've been burning the midnight oil planning your wedding, it's a great time to take a break (that is, if you can afford to take some time away from it all). And keep in mind, that many vendors will also be taking a much needed holiday break, so don't be surprised or upset if your vendors don't respond as quickly. The holidays are a time when lots of businesses slow down and step away in anticipation of the new year. 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 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 photographer and writer/blogger. -
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 information@pc.gc.ca . 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. -
Indian brides who married in Cancun Moon Palace Did you bring your own garlands for the wedding? Did you find some in Cancun? As well as all other necessities for prayers and the ceremony- where did you find everything from Cancun? Where did you find your preist? I want to have my Sangeet outdoors but they only allow outdoors until 10pm. So did you end your party then or move it Indoors because I have a lot of Indian families are used to staying up til 2am partying.
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Earlier this year, the Cancun/Riviera Maya Sakurako Yakushiji the COO and Master Florist & Decor Expert of LATIN ASIA -- a premiere wedding decor stylist team in the Cancun-Riviera Maya area -- and her design team created an incredible Indian wedding ceremony display in one of ballrooms at the Moon Palace Golf & Spa Resort. The design was inspired by rich deep tones and a variety of beautiful details to create a one-of-a-kind ceremony setup. For more information on LATIN ASIA's services, visit their website at: www.weddingcancun.mx or contact the team directly at latinasia.flowers@gmail.com - - - Sakurako Yakushiji, COO, Master Florist & Decor Expert of LATIN ASIA, has impeccable logistics knowledge, extraordinary floral design skills with a Masters degree and international license in Japanese floral art. Having her own Hindu wedding ceremony at Agra India, she and her team understand the deep meaning of what it takes to create a dream Destination Indian wedding regardless being Hindu, Sikh or Ismaili Muslim. Saku has trained people from scratch not only to execute great performances, but to make every member of LATIN ASIA a better person creating new opportunities every day. -
5 Reasons Why You Should Get Married in Costa Rica
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
With so many great destination location options throughout the world, choosing the perfect location for your wedding festivities can be a tough task. But the agents of Wright Travel Agency -- the official agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- are experts on the most popular destination regions and they are happy to share their insight when it comes to choosing the best destination area for your dream wedding celebration. Here are five reason why getting married in Costa Rica is the right choice for you. 1. You Love the Eco-Friendly Environment: When it comes to Costa Rica, being a nature lover is key because this country has it all. From beautiful beaches to epic mountains, thrilling rivers and incredible waterfalls amid the gorgeous rainforest backdrop -- Costa Rica is a haven for those who thrive in the great outdoors. And if you're a lover of sunsets, this country has some of the most lovely and dramatically colored skies at the end of each day. 2. You Thrive on Excitement and Adventure: If you're the outdoorsy type, then you'll love all the excitement and adventure that comes with it. Costa Rica is king when it comes to adventurous excursions. Hiking, river rafting, ziplining, diving, fishing, snorkeling, swimming and repelling are just a few of the exciting activities that will keep you busy in this country, So if you and your sweetheart and your wedding guests are looking to get the adrenaline pumping, this is the place to be. 3. You Love Delicious Cuisine: If you enjoy a meal that almost always includes plantains, beans and rice then this country is for you. Costa Rica has amazingly fresh seafood (the fried red snapper is a dish you'll want to try!), delicious meats and an abundance of incredibly fresh fruits and produce. Costa Rica is filled with a plethora of restaurants of varied price ranges -- head to small towns for some of the most delicious meals priced just right! 4. You Love Animals and Wildlife: They don't call this the most eco-friendly country for nothing. It's truly paradise here for animals lovers. From monkeys, sloths, birds in a rainbow of colors, insects, lizards, reptiles and butterflies galore, Costa Rica is swarming with wildlife, so make sure to always have your camera ready because you never know when you'll come across an unexpected visitor. 5. You Appreciate Warm and Friendly People: Pura Vida! It means pure life and the people of Costa Rica truly believe in this mantra. The Ticos and Ticas -- men and women of Costa Rica -- are warm, friendly and beautiful people and you'll quickly notice their zest and appreciation for life and its beauty the moment you step into this country. 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 photographer and writer/blogger. -
With so many great destination location options throughout the world, choosing the perfect location for your wedding festivities can be a tough task. But the agents of Wright Travel Agency -- the official agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- are experts on the most popular destination regions and they are happy to share their insight when it comes to choosing the best destination area for your dream wedding celebration. Here are five reason why getting married in Cancun, Mexico is the right choice for you. 1. You Enjoy a Good Night Life: There is no comparison to Cancun's nightlife in all of Mexico. Here you and your guests will have a plethora of options when it comes to late night bars, eateries and of course world renown clubs. The nightlife thrives every day of the week and when it comes to clubs, it's not just music you can enjoy, there are literally acrobats and performers coming from every corner. It's basically Cirque du Soleil for all the sexy and grown people! You will find all you can drink club options -- and when they say all you can drink, they truly mean it. If you're looking for lively nightlife, Cancun is the place to be. 2. You Love to Shop and Dine: Cancun is thriving with shops, malls and restaurants on every corner. Looking for bargain shops or high-end stores? They've got it! There is an outlet mall, a shopping mall and plazas full of your favorite establishments. When it comes to dining, you will have tons of eateries to choose from -- there is literally every international flavor of your choosing when it comes to Cancun and best of all, you don't even need to rent a car to get from place to place. Cancun has a great public bus system that is affordable and makes the rounds throughout the city all day and all night long. Taxis are also readily available on every corner. 3. You Appreciate Beautiful Clear Blue Water and Soft Sandy Beaches: Cancun's sandy beaches are long, expansive, safe and swimmable. If you're dreaming about warm crystal azure waters, you will find them in Cancun. Beach activities are plentiful with parasailing, beach volleyball, snorkel and dive trips. If you're looking for fun in the sun, this is the place to be. 4. You Want a Good Mix of City and Beach Life: If you love the ocean but also want your fix of city life with shopping and dining options at your fingertips, Cancun is the right spot for you. Cancun offers a great mix of urban and beach life all in one. Cancun also offers daily transport/tours to the Riviera Maya region for activities and excursions. And there is also easy access to Isla Mujeres via ferry or private boat -- in just 30 to 45 minutes you'll find yourself enjoying island life! 5. You're Looking for a Solid Variety of Pricing and Accommodations for Your Destination Wedding: In Cancun you will find a great mix of affordable and luxury resort options -- there is truly something here for everyone. From simple elegance to high-end luxurious establishments, Cancun has everything you could possibly want or need. 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 photographer and writer/blogger. -
Secrets Maroma Beach 9th Anniversary Wedding Promotion
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, an exquisite all-inclusive luxury resort located on a beach considered by travel experts to be one of the most beautiful in the world, is offering couples an extra bonus or upgrade option if they book their wedding at the resort during the month of August 2017. Couples who book during this month, can receive one of the following options with the purchase of a Secrets Wedding Package: Upgraded reception menu and decoration for the wedding couple’s Sweetheart table Every 9th additional guest is complimentary (for wedding events) Complimentary Bonfire set up (only applicable when purchasing Secrets Ultimate Wedding Package) In addition to one of the above perks, those with a wedding date with a "9" in the date will also receive a free upgrade to their choice of wedding cakes. The wedding must be booked during the period of August 1 to 31, 2017. Travel/wedding must be completed between August 11, 2017 and December 22, 2018. Couples interested in this promotion should contact Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! This promotion applies only for newly booked weddings. No re-bookings will be allowed. This anniversary promotion can be combinable with other wedding promotions in place. Black-out dates include: Dec 31, 2017, April 1 – May 31, 2018. - - - To find out more information about booking your destination wedding at Secrets Maroma Riviera Cancun, or any other resort/location, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! -
Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun, an exquisite all-inclusive luxury resort located on a beach considered by travel experts to be one of the most beautiful in the world, is offering couples an extra bonus or upgrade option if they book their wedding at the resort during the month of August 2017. Couples who book during this month, can receive one of the following options with the purchase of a Secrets Wedding Package: Upgraded reception menu and decoration for the wedding couple’s Sweetheart table Every 9th additional guest is complimentary (for wedding events) Complimentary Bonfire set up (only applicable when purchasing Secrets Ultimate Wedding Package) In addition to one of the above perks, those with a wedding date with a "9" in the date will also receive a free upgrade to their choice of wedding cakes. The wedding must be booked during the period of August 1 to 31, 2017. Travel/wedding must be completed between August 11, 2017 and December 22, 2018. Couples interested in this promotion should contact Wright Travel Agency -- the official travel agency of the Best Destination Wedding Forum -- www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! This promotion applies only for newly booked weddings. No re-bookings will be allowed. This anniversary promotion can be combinable with other wedding promotions in place. Black-out dates include: Dec 31, 2017, April 1 – May 31, 2018. - - - To find out more information about booking your destination wedding at Secrets Maroma Riviera Cancun, or any other resort/location, contact Wright Travel Agency at: www.wrighttravelagency.com or you can contact them HERE! This post has been promoted to an article
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I keep wondering if I am missing something. I may have found the ultimate list though and I thought I would share it. sharemywedding org I bought three different books and a binder to help me organize everything but I felt like I was going in circles. I think this is finally helping me. I do need help with a venue though. Does anybody now of a nice place in the New Orleans area that has something like a ballroom to rent for the ceremony and reception together? I am looking for elegant but not overly obnoxious in price. I figure reaching out for recommendations is the best place to start and they will probably have lists of vendors.
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I first learned of the Fish Foot treatment when one of my friends posted pictures of her experience during her trip to Asia, and I was immediately fascinated by this method of getting rid of the dead skin from your feet by way of tiny fish basically nibbling at your feet. Yes, at first the concept sounds a little crazy, but everything I read mentioned how effective it was at truly exfoliating your feet — and I’m a sucker for wanting smooth feet because as a Southern California I pretty much live and flip flops and sandals. So while on my last trip to Dreams Playa Mujeres, when found out the Dreams Spa by Pevonia at the resort offered this unique spa services, I jumped on the opportunity to let this box of fish do their work The first part of the treatment included getting my feet cleansed and pampered first to ensure that I didn’t have any lotions or oils on my feet that would damage the fish — the cleansing and quick foot massage was a pleasant surprise to say the least. Then it was onto the chair where I’d sit of the next 15 minutes while the fish did their thing. I was initially hesitant to put my feet in the water, but I was assured by the spa staff that the fish nibbles wouldn’t hurt but instead it would feel like a little tickle — and about 20 seconds into the treatment, they were totally right. Those initial nibbles are a little alarming, mostly because it’s probably a sensation you’ve never felt before, but they feel just like tiny little pulses along the pads of your feet and it is not painful at all. About a minute into the treatment, you’ll be totally at ease and you can sit back and relax — or if you’re like me, you’ll continue to be fascinated by the idea of what’s going on and take photos and video of your experience. My 15-minute treatment went by in a flash and when the spa therapist dried off my feet, I was happy to feel the new smoothness on my heels as well as the pads of my feet. This treatment totally works! Due to lack of time, I only opted for the 15-minute session, but I would recommend a longer treatment if you can swing it. This is definitely a unique and fun experience you’ll enjoy and remember, and of course the bonus is, you’ll end up with beautifully smooth feet! 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. -
Hi – My fiancé and I are on the hunt for a non-beach destination wedding. We estimate about 40-50 people in attendance from Mexico, Canada, and the United States. We are leaning towards fall 2018. We narrowed our search to Mexico, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica based on locations with non-beach based venues. I loved Rancho Santana in Nicaragua. However, I fear the rest of our family (and many of our friends) just are not adventurous enough. I love a lot of the smaller hotels in Arenal, Costa Rica. We came across Playa Fiesta in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It offers a non-beach based venue. It is a small hotel that allows us privacy and intimacy. The reviews are also pretty incredible. I really have not found another venue that can offer as much as Playa Fiesta. We are really thinking of booking Playa Fiesta. Anyone have advice or suggestions for someone beginning the process of planning a wedding in Mexico / Puerto Vallarta / Playa Fiesta Hotel? Thank you, N
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Hey everyone, I am so excited to just start this journey to planning a destination wedding in Cabo! We are looking to book something very affordable but also something that makes sense and is all in inclusive and simple.. does anyone have any Cabo suggestions? We can't wait! Also I would love to see photos of destination wedding dresses what is your dress inspiration? I am struggling and feeling so bogged down with traditional gowns (which are beautiful!) which just aren't the right fit for my easy laid back ceremony... help?
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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. -
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. -
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. -
Hello, I ordered vinyl labels from Davet Designs for my tumblers to give out at our wedding this coming October. She sent me a proof and I okayed it and then she shipped me the labels. What I received and what the proof looked like really differed. The colours were wrong. I asked her if there was a printing issue and she blamed my camera. I had expected her to just reprint them and reship them- I didn't order a custom colour, I ordered the colour from the sample she had on the etsy listing. I sent her two photo's from two cameras. She said she would reprint them to check and then responded with: "k, I reprinted, it is just a muted version of the blue, but I see where you think it appears slightly grey. I don't normally do reprints for color, but if you want to mail them back and pay shipping, I will reprint them in a different color." I told her I didn't want a different colour and asked her if she was able to print in the original colour as promised and she wrote back: "what would you like for me to do? I NEVER reprint because of color and I'm offering a compromise to reprint" I am very disappointed and a little shocked after reading all of the positive reviews on here. I'm just going to use them anyway even though the colours are different than I had hoped since I have already paid for them...
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Hello! My name is Kimmie, and I work for Discovery Studios - the in-house production company for Discovery Communications. We are making a pilot with a wedding planner duo, and are looking to connect with brides who would be interested in FREE day-of coordination! We are looking to film from April 11th-April 17th and April 25th-April 30th, 2017. If your wedding in those dates and you would be interested in the free coordination, please email kimmie_lucas@discovery.com or call 323-308-3751.
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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. -
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. -
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. -
5 Reasons Why the Weekday Wedding Is the Way to Go
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
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. -
Boudoir Photos: It's the Gift Your Sweetheart Will Love
MarieSamSanchezPhoto posted a article in Planning
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. -
I'm two months away from our big day and working out a few add on's with our planner (adding guests, changing some minor details) when she hits me with a $350 "beach cleaning fee". Our ceremony is on the beach that is in front of the restaurant that is our venue... I'm already paying a good deal of restaurant fees and also fees to set up chairs on the beach ($5/head) and now this? Moreover, we signed our contract nearly a year ago and it did not include this. She makes a flat fee, but has not exactly been easy to negotiate with- i.e. I tried to ask her to negotiate with the officiant, and she reduced $25, but said she didn't want to negotiate with him. I feel that all her prices are probably well padded but it's a destination wedding and hard to micro-manage. I'm pretty annoyed about this fee though, because it's a significant amount of money. Has anyone heard of a beach cleaning fee before? It doesn't seem like something typical when I googled it.
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I wanted to share with you all how I ended up choosing the resort I am getting married in in Cancun. I found this to be the most difficult and daunting part of planning. You all have been so helpful so I wanted to return the favor for any others looking or getting started. I also have more info on my flowers and budget and I will post that separately so people can get an idea of what things will cost. I was very concerned with pricing and I know asking what you paid for your wedding is a little sensitive but I will start a new thread with my wedding flowers cost. I knew I wanted to get married in Cancun, not Riviera Maya or Playa Mujeras, but downtown Cancun as I have been there many times before and for my group it would be a perfect destination between partying and beach/resort/relaxation. I started out by writing down all the hotels I liked and then I started emailing info. All I got from the coordinators were the pdf files with the packages, but realistically, that was not enough to make a decision. With my personality, I need to know all the ins and outs and what to expect before I choose a resort. I've heard things can add up and there are a lot of hidden fees. I don't mind spending money but I want to know in advance what I'm getting into to avoid any arguments later. I also received lots of recommendations to get a travel agent and they would be able to help me. I did get a travel agent but making the decision on which resort still came down to me knowing all the facts. With the above being said about my personality, a lot of people on this forum as well as the coordinators recommended to choose a hotel based on where I saw myself getting married and which grounds I liked. For me, this wasn't enough. I badgered the coordinators to show me all of their fees, including outside vendor fees, how it works with the extras such as dj, photographer, and decor, as well as extra guests and linens, etc. The hidden fees I found were astonishing, some hotels were charging extra money to walk in sand if you had your reception on the beach or to keep the food warm. Off the bat, I discounted those hotels since those were things I didn't want to deal with. I chose my resort on one thing alone after all my research: Outside vendor fees. I wanted a resort with low outside vendor fees as I didn't want to be bamboozled into paying high resort pricing when I could get the same thing outside for cheaper. The resort I chose is Dreams Sands Cancun and the date is 1/28/17. Dreams Sands outside vendor fees are $150 per a vendor which is very reasonable compared to the others who charge $800 or $1000. I made sure this fee was per vendor and not per person. The resort is not as beautiful as lets say the Hyatt Ziva, but ultimately I would be very agitated had I found out these high fees later on when I started planning. The coordinator at Hyatt Ziva was actually not very helpful when I contacted her and was trying to get me to book the package on the very first day that we spoke on the phone. After receiving a more detailed email from them, I crossed Hyatt Ziva out. Thats it, I based it on one factor. I also made sure this hotel is in a great location right near party city and its affordable for guests and allows kids. So far, planning seems ok. Dreams Sands seems easy to work with but I will definitely fill you in on all that as I get closer. How did you all choose your resort?- 4 replies
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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.
