Before my first destination wedding consultation with a couple, I always make sure I understand what they envision. Here’s what I wish I had known about planning destination weddings before that first conversation.
Think About Your Priorities Early
One of the biggest mistakes I see couples make is not thinking about their priorities before meeting with their travel advisor. Are you focused on cost? Guest experience? Ease of planning? Working with a travel advisor who understands your priorities will help you make decisions that align with what matters most to you.
Guest List Impacts Everything
Your guest list determines your venue, your room block, your budget, and even your timeline. Learn how to choose your guest list strategically early in the planning process, as this single decision will cascade through every other planning decision you make.
Location Research Takes Time
Don’t rush choosing your destination. Research multiple options, consider accessibility for your guests, and think about what kind of experience you want to create.
What I Want You to Know Before We Talk
Here’s the thing — I’ve had couples come in with nothing but a dream and a budget range, and couples come in with a Pinterest board and five resort quotes. Both are exactly where they should be. What matters to me is that you’re ready to be honest about what matters most to you, and you’re open to exploring options you might not have considered.
I’ve worked with couples at Live Aqua Cancún, Dreams resorts, Excellence properties, Hyatt Ziva and Zilara — and at each one, I’ve seen the difference between a destination wedding that feels right and one that was booked on recommendations alone. The difference comes down to alignment. The right resort for you depends on how you want to experience your wedding day with your guests.
That’s what that first consultation is really about. I’m not trying to upsell you or lock you into a resort. I’m trying to understand you — what you love, what worries you, what excites you — so I can point you toward an experience that actually fits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have a budget in mind before my first consultation with a destination wedding travel advisor?
You don’t need exact numbers, but having a general sense of whether you’re working with a tight, moderate, or flexible budget helps me point you toward the right resorts and packages from the start. If you genuinely have no idea, that’s okay too — we can talk through what different options typically cost and work backward from there.
How long does a destination wedding consultation usually take?
My initial consultations typically run 30 to 60 minutes. We cover a lot of ground — destination, guest count, timeline, budget, vibe — but I try to keep it conversational rather than running through a checklist. By the end, most couples have a much clearer picture of what their options actually look like.
What should I bring or prepare before a destination wedding consultation?
The most useful thing to bring is an honest sense of your guest list — who you’re picturing there, even if the number isn’t finalized. Everything else flows from that. If you have a destination or resort in mind, great. If not, that’s what the consultation is for.
Fill out my destination wedding inquiry form and let’s talk through what you’re envisioning for your celebration.
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