Trends in Destination Weddings

The popularity of destination weddings continues to rise, with 25% of marriages now considered destination weddings. When coordinating these bookings, it’s important to understand what couples are looking for as well as what options are available to them and their guests so the couple can evaluate choices they may not have thought of themselves. Among the rising trends in destination weddings are pre-wedding visits to check out the host-city and venue, the ability to customize and add in a cultural element, and after the wedding, returning to the same place for an anniversary visit. With the Caribbean and Mexico being two of the top three locations for destination weddings taking place outside of the U.S., there is sure to be an AMResorts® branded property to fit every couple’s needs.

The First Look

When planning a destination wedding, many couples now want to experience the city and venue ahead of time to ensure they’re choosing the right place for them. At AMResorts® branded properties, the newly-engaged can take advantage of the Love at First Site package, which provides special rates to couples visiting a resort before booking their destination wedding. The package allows them to take a site tour, preview ceremony and reception location options, and meet one-on-one with the resort’s wedding coordinator to talk about details like décor, menu options and more. The package also provides credit for the couple to use towards wedding extras for wedding events, a bachelorette party or the honeymoon if they book within 30 days of their return. Lovebirds can take advantage of this across the AMResorts® portfolio of more than 60 resorts, from Dreams® Playa Bonita Panama and Secrets® Papagayo Costa Rica, to Zoëtry® Agua Punta Cana and Now® Amber Puerto Vallarta.

Bridal Suite at Secrets® Cap Cana Resort & Spa

Custom, Authentic and Localized

The ability and flexibility to customize options is vital as couples move away from cookie-cutter options in their desire to craft their own unique experience. On-site wedding coordinators are experienced professionals who know the resort inside and out and work closely with couples to tailor everything from flowers and décor to music and more. Secrets® Cap Cana Resort & Spa, for example, includes the option of a live Caribbean music trio during the cocktail hour.

Increasingly, destination weddings are not just a getaway, but a chance for couples and their loved ones to have an authentic cultural experience tied to that area. One option couples tying the knot at Zoëtry® Paraiso de la Bonita can choose is to have mojigangas. These oversized puppets are traditional wedding dolls brought to Mexico from Spain in the 1600s that not only add a fun element, but also tie back to the culture of the destination.

Anniversary Return Trips

At AMResorts® branded properties, wedding packages include complimentary anniversary nights, encouraging couples to come back and relive their happiest moments together and celebrate their love once again. For couples who wed elsewhere but are still looking to enjoy an anniversary getaway, the properties also offer a complimentary Newlywed & Anniversary Package that includes fresh fruit, a bottle of sparkling wine, turn-down service, breakfast in bed with mimosas, romantic décor in room upon arrival, and a 15% discount on all spa treatments.

When it comes to planning the perfect destination wedding, couples will rely on their agents to know the lay of the land and all the options available. It is critical to stay up-to-date on the latest trends, packages being offered, and range of locations couples can choose from.

For more information on AMResorts branded properties’ corporate values, practices, and resources for travel agents, visit AMResorts’ supplier showcase.