Why Planning A Destination Wedding In The Dominican Republic Is The Right Choice For You
Are you planning a destination wedding? It’s a hot-button topic that almost every newly engaged couple finds themselves talking about. What is the difference in cost? Who will come? What makes it better than a local wedding? If planning a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic is something that you’ve found yourself interested in considering, let me tell you exactly why it’s the right choice for you.
1. It can be as hands-on or hands-off as you want
There is a misconception that planning destination weddings always leave for very little customization. And while this is true in many cases, it is not the only option. First, let’s talk about the hands-off variation.
Many destination wedding venues are all-inclusive
Depending on what you’re looking for, this can be the perfect option for your wedding. All-inclusive venues tend to have a selection of different packages. These can include food, decor, alcohol, use of hotel facilities, room blocks for your guests, and more. With this option, costs tend to be significantly lower in the Dominican Republic than they would be in the US. This is great news for many couples! All-inclusive venues overseas allow couples with tighter budgets to have the weddings of their dreams for an affordable price. Plus, most of the hard work is already completed for the happy couple.
While for some couples this may sound like a dream, the downside to this option is the lack of creative freedom when it comes to design. These venues are well-oiled machines when it comes to hosting weddings. They have a set routine and it works for them. However, this means that they are not going to accept any outside vendors to come in and customize it exactly like you have been planning on Pinterest. Limiting those options to their pre-planned packages is exactly what gives them the opportunity to make planning destination weddings accessible to many couples.
But guess what…you don’t have to book an all-inclusive venue
Now, you also don’t have to have your wedding at a resort or typical venue! And while yes, there are many things about it that are convenient (including offering discounted hotel rates for your guests) there are other options that may be better suited to your wants and needs.
If your budget allows it, consider renting a private villa in the location of your choosing. Contrary to what you may believe, this is not an option that is reserved solely for the rich and famous. According to this post from Wedding Wire, “most couples spend between $3,000-$11,000 on their wedding venue.” And that information is for a wedding in the United States. Renting a “luxury home” to have your wedding in can be as simple as booking an Air Bnb. Literally. Air Bnb is an amazing resource for this exact purpose! You have the flexibility to set your price parameters into a budget that you are most comfortable with. This gives couples a vast number of options when it comes to planning destination weddings.
More specifically, companies like Luxury Retreats offer a selection of beautiful homes all over the world that would be excellent to host a wedding in. Unlike traditional Air Bnb’s, many state in their descriptions that they are available for weddings and events. This way, you can book a number of nights to accommodate yourself, your family. and your entire wedding in one easy place.
With the location host’s approval, you now have the ability to customize the wedding of your dreams. You can bring in multiple vendors that fit your needs to best style and execute your wedding. From catering to lighting to seating and everything in-between, you are in control of your vision.
2. You have more time to see family and friends
Not only is traveling to get married fun and romantic, but one of the great benefits of having a destination wedding is the extra time you get to spend with loved ones. Often times the bride and groom will host “welcome events” for their guests as a thank you for traveling out of their way to celebrate the couple’s union. And in some cases, the bride and groom may also host a brunch the morning after the wedding for their families and those in the wedding party. This is incredibly valuable time that does not occur on typical wedding days.
It’s very common to hear the phrase “our wedding day just flew by.” And this is not just a saying. Any opportunity to spend more time with family and friends in celebration of love is always worthwhile in the end. Oh, and it’s even better with a piña colada in hand.
3. You Get An Instant Honeymoon
If you are looking to jump straight into your dream honeymoon right after getting married-a destination wedding is the right option for you. You’ll instantly be in the beautiful location of your dreams, and the magic of married bliss can begin! Countries like The Dominican Republic, Mexico, and Puerto Rico are excellent options for beach-loving honeymooners. With picturesque landscapes, stunning water views and amazing accommodations, you’ll be so grateful you chose a destination wedding.
A Destination Wedding in the Dominican Republic Can Be For You!
Whether you’re looking to have the stress of planning alleviated from you, or you’re looking to have an extravagant affair, destination weddings are truly a memorable experience for all. All of the beautiful photography featured in this post is by Asia Pimentel and all photos are of The Dominican Republic. Be sure to check out my other posts on what to know before scheduling your bridal appointment and how to shop for your wedding dress during quarantine!
