Destination Weddings Planning Options :: PART ONE

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DIY Destination Wedding Planning

Defined :: A self planned nuptial taking place more than least two-hundred (200) miles from home.  In addition to the general wedding planning tasks, the couple will also serve as the go to person to coordinate guests travel/accommodations, supply guests with area demographics, and ensure the smooth process throughout.

Scene :: These intimate functions (10 people or less) present easy travel options.  Guests will typically self book overnight accommodations based on couple’s suggestions.

Pros :: The do it yourself option can be rewarding if the event is scaled down and simple.

Cons :: Can be an extra task that you may not have the time or knowledge to handle.

Expectations :: Do your homework and be prepared to assist your guest accordingly.

Travel Agency

Defined :: A brick and mortar agency of agents well versed in the knowledge and all aspects of travel.  These agents come with different geographic areas of specialty.  They will handle guests travel itineraries, can offer excursion group activities, keep you abreast of changes/red flags, and serve as the one travel go to for all parties involved.

Scene :: Any size event desiring the assistance of a travel professional.  Wedding and event planners often use this type of vendor as a resource to handle event travel logistics.

Note :: There is a vast selection of online travel agencies.  The larger brands are more of a call center (dealing with many different agents) of customer service/sales agents.  Although they may come with a buying power, they don’t offer the personalization of service a wedding deserves.

Pros :: You will have a dedicated person(s) that are educated and trained to answer your questions and steer you in the right direction.  They are also able to successfully embrace and handle the dynamics of complex group travel.

Cons :: This person may only bring the travel expertise to the table.  Contracting additional wedding planning experts may be necessary to successfully execute your destination wedding.

Expectations :: Everyone should book their travels through the agent.  This will help you to both keep an accurate count and reach the amenities your agent discussed with you.  Much like a real estate agent, your travel agent won’t get properly compensated for all of the blood, sweat and tears it took to properly orchestrate everyone’s travel unless he/she handles the bookings of the entire event group.

Stay tuned tomorrow as we continue the overview of destination wedding professionals!

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Destination Weddings Planning Options :: INTRODUCTION

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The idea of a destination wedding is so exciting, adventurous and romantic all the same.  We think it’s important to retain these thoughts, feelings and emotions throughout the process.

Let’s think in terms of building a home for a moment.  You have a rough sketch (ideas in your head, pictures, diaries, etc.) or maybe even a blue print at this point in time.  When it’s all said and done, your foundation will be the base that holds everything together.  The lack of a sound foundation, may lead to breaks and cracks along the way.  Keep in mind that a good foundation will still need upkeep to maintain its sturdiness along the way.  Your wedding should not be an experimental building project.  With that said, let’s review your options.

What’s the best way to get your destination wedding planning off to a right start?  Take those ideas and visions and put them to the side for a moment.  We’re sure that all those ideas and research has left you a bit confused and maybe even overwhelmed.  It’s time to decide on your ideal type of destination wedding planning assistance.  You will find that there are several options.  We think you should have an idea of who you should call on as well as what you should expect.  Don’t you?

Tomorrow we will begin by outlining these options for you.  Stay tuned, and feel free to send us your questions.  We’d love to hear from you!

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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A Closer Look At Mystery Island No. 2 :: Nevis

Nevis :: Located in the West Indies of the Caribbean

… off the beaten path

… not your overly populated tourist spot

… ideal for the nature lover

… nice getaway for the humanitarian

… unique an intimate destination wedding location

… or incorporate with a honeymoon or weddingmoon location hop

… easy access to St. Kitts, St. Maarten, and Antigua



[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Desinger Sunglass That Won’t Break the Bank!

Yes, I have a sunglasses fetish.  Don’t tell anyone!  If you’re having a destination wedding, that’s a great reason to join me on my sunglasses shopping spree.  If you’re not having a destination wedding, indulge me anyway.

Visit hiSUNGLASSES and take a look at the fantastic prices!

Visit hiSUNGLASSES and take a look at the fantastic prices!

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Are you an ideal couple for a destination wedding?

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We discussed compatibility as a key element in a successful destination wedding on day one of our ’20 Elements of a Successful Destination Wedding’ series.  As promised, we bring to you this entertaining and fun quiz to test your compatibility to wedding away!

  1. Granny may not be able to travel the distance. You...



  2. You're planning this year's family Thanksgiving gathering. You...



  3. When you think back on your childhood wedding day thoughts: You...



  4. Catering can be a huge portion of your overall wedding bill. You...



  5. The world wide web is filled with phases that spell having a destination wedding will reduce our overall wedding cost. Cost is a factor. Therefore, you...



  6. You've spent the past ten months planning the perfect beach wedding. On your wedding day, the clouds roll in and are followed by a tremendous down pour. You...



  7. Your biggest wedding guest challenge has been...



  8. When deciding on a location to host your destination wedding: You...



  9. When thinking of your honeymoon: You know that...



  10. How many events do you plan on hosting outside of your wedding day activities?



[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Have you been pondering the idea of a destination wedding?

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If you are pondering on the idea of planning a destination wedding, know that you are not alone.  Often couples will act on the idea of planning a destination wedding without being fully aware of the personality compatibility factor.  Failed compatibility may bring unwanted guests named Stress, Difficulty and Resistance.   We promised to bring you a profile quiz and we’ll do just that.  Stop by tomorrow for a live personality quiz created just for you, the prospective destination wedding planning couple!

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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2010-2011 :: A Look At Destination Weddings

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We can’t help but notice a continued trend in getting married away.  What does this mean for weddings planned for 2010 and 2011?  We are certain that weddings taking place in 2010 and 2011 will continue to experience a rise in the destination wedding market.

We’ll share with you a glimpse into the Precious Nuptials & Destinations’ destination wedding scene.  Let’s set the stage a bit.  If you are familiar with our brand, you will know that we are not the Wal-Mart brand of destination wedding planners.  As with any good destination wedding planner, we won’t claim global expertise.  That would make our services generic with no real specialty.  We do, however, stay in the know and specialize in Caribbean, Mexico, and South Pacific destinations.  Our limited clientele of destination wedding couples appreciate our focus and education on these destination wedding specific regions.

With that said, here are our 2010 findings that we feel will flow over into 2011 destination weddings:

  1. Most of our couples hail from the great state of Texas!
  2. Most of our couples are 28-32 years of age.
  3. A growing number of request derive from couples that have attended a recent destination wedding (past two years).
  4. Understandably, most are not desiring the formal ballroom fête.
  5. Most are designed around the base of a resort wedding package with added upgrades and personal touches.
  6. Most are concerned with ease of travel for their guests.
  7. Most will wed at one location and moon away to another destination(s).
  8. Most are looking to reduce the hoopla of a local wedding (i.e. traditions, size, cost).
  9. Average number of guests attending:  50-60.
  10. Although most of our couples have a reduced guest count in comparison to a local wedding,  many are spending above average per person cost.

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Destination Wedding Essential :: Wedding Website

We think a wedding website is an essential element effective guest coordination.  Today’s guests are electronically efficient and savvy.  They appreciate one search retrieval of pertinent information.  If don’t have your wedding website created, feel free to take advantage of our free trial offer.  We have a variety of templates and themes to choose from.

Click to start your free trial.

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Photography Options & The Destination Wedding

DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Understanding that each couple’s needs and desires will differ, so will the vendor selection process.  At Precious Nuptials & Destinations, we believe that images captured should be somewhere at the top of your priority list.  After all, once your day is done, other than memories, this will be your only source of reflection.

What options are available when selecting a destination wedding photographer?

Fly in your own destination wedding photographer :: starfish-iconstarfish-iconstarfish-icon

We have access to many fabulous local and/or area wedding photographers.  Many of these photographers are destination wedding photographers.  This simply means that they are available to travel to your wedding location.  Hiring a domestic destination wedding photographer allows you the greatest flexibility in finding a photographer unique to your style.  Once you have hired your perfect match, have your photographer arrive the day prior to the start of events and depart a day or two after.  This will allow time to document and capture additional gathering images such as a group welcome party, rehearsal dinner, day after brunch, and possible post wedding images.   We give this option three stars for obvious reasons.  This will be the most costly option.  However, you’ll come away with a larger number of images (possibly digital copies depending on your agreement).  You’ll also have time to become relaxed and get to know the person behind the lenses documenting your journey.

Hire a photographer local to your destination :: starfish-iconstarfish-icon

If you’re allowing for planning trip(s), this can be an option to consider.  Resorts, hotels, and local wedding vendors will be a good resource to obtaining a good referral list of destination local photographer options.  Depending on the depth of work performed, you may not receive your final product until after you’ve returned home.  This will mean that much of your communications will be done from a distance.  However, if you are planning an extended honeymoon, extended area stay, or booked a photographer that does not offer extensive edits, chances are your order will be ready to take home as you depart.  We give this option two stars.

Use of the resort provided photographer :: starfish-icon

Resorts offer their photography as part of their wedding packages or as an upgrade option.  With this option you’ll receive X amount of images from your wedding day.  Rather small in number and usually only in printed form, we give this option one star.  Resorts usually train thier staff of photographers through their select training program (i.e. Kodak Event Photography).  This option may be better suited for a couple only elopement.  This is not a bad option.  It’s simply not the best option available.

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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Welcome Bags for Your Beach Wedding!

If you’re into maximizing the experience for the guests attending your beach destination wedding, here’s your chance to offer a grand welcome!  As part of creating the experience, you’ll create a lasting memory and over hear your wedding guests saying, “Oh!  Wasn’t the welcome tote from Tamara and Steve simply fabulous?!”

Step One :: Find a keepsake tote that’s makes a statement

Spotted at Newport News for a bargin $24!

Spotted at Newport News for a bargin $24!

Aggie Fan clear beach tote only $12.95 at Football Fanatics!  Don't worry your team is listed too!

Aggie Fan clear beach tote only $12.95 at Football Fanatics! Don't worry your team is listed too!

Personalize this Chino Deck tote with a picture of the happy couple for about $10!

Personalize this Chino Deck tote with a picture of the happy couple for about $10!

Pick your flip flop and your guest's name for only $14.95 at Personal Creations.

Pick your flip flop and your guest's name for only $14.95 at Personal Creations.

Make a cultural statement.  This Miller Home Fashions tote was found at Amazon for $28.99 each.

Make a cultural statement. This Miller Home Fashions tote was found at Amazon for $28.99 each.

Step Two ::  Add fun and necessary items

Don’t over personalize your items, but bottled water is a nice way to bring in your event brand.  We love Bottle Your Brand (the source of these great pics)!

Add a picture...

Add a picture...

... include a welcome statement

... include a welcome statement

... or simply brand it!

... and/or brand it!

Step Three :: Add a few essentials

With all the special baggage requirements on flights these days, travel sized items will be a hit!  If guests haven’t traveled in a while, or had to forfeit items at security check, they’ll love you more because of your thoughtfulness.  Other essentials may include items like a beach towel or flip flops.

My all time favorite one stop shop for anything trial size!

My all time favorite one stop shop for anything trial size!

Another great source for travel size items of all sorts!

Another great source for travel size items of all sorts!

Top it off with Sephora lip balm if you really like them!  {wink}

Top it off with Sephora lip balm if you really like them! {wink}

Step Four ::  Add a little local flair

Local favorites of food, crafts, maps, wine, et cetera….

Step Five :: Add a little fun

A deck of cards for adult down time and fun for the child at heart.  Your guests will appreciate you giving them a little something to do during down times.

Dollar Days offers discount board games suitable for adults.

Dollar Days offers discount board games suitable for adults.

Family Travel Gear offers travel sized games for the little ones.

Family Travel Gear offers travel sized games for the little ones.

Step Six :: Include your Wedding Guests Itinerary

Don’t forget to include a copy of your wedding guest itinerary.  We reviewed this briefly on day three of our 20 Elements of a Successful Destination Wedding Series.

Helpful Hint ::  Most of these items can be shipped to your destination

Don’t forget to check with your hotel policy ahead of time.  We suggest add this to the shipping address:

Hold for :  Jane Doe / Check in 00/00/2011

You will need to set up a system to track delivery confirmation.  Since you will be arriving ahead of time to ensure residency requirements are set, this will be a good time to assemble bags (or have your Destination Wedding Planner team do it for you).

[To your precious nuptial :: Cheers!]

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