Half the Price and Twice the Vacation? Yes, Please!

Half the price and twice the vacation? Yes, please!

Aug 1, 2024

With the average wedding for 50 and 100 guests costing about $30k, it is not surprising that so many couples are exploring other options. Would you believe you can have a beautiful, memorable destination wedding at a Sandals or Secrets Resort for less than half the cost? In this post, we’ll share the secret to a destination wedding that won’t bust your budget.

Understanding the Financial Benefits

Traditional or at home weddings come with a list of expenses a mile long including wedding and reception venues, wedding planner, catering, florist, decor, attire, band or DJ, and photography/videography. These costs will add up quicker than you think.

Destinations weddings at resorts like Sandals, on the other hand, offer packages that cover most of these essentials. They bundle the venue, food, and even some activities, which can significantly lower your overall expenses.

The Grand Wedding package at Sandals starts at $7,600 and includes:

• wedding planning team
• 1-hour private welcome cocktail
• 2-hour private rehearsal dinner
onsite wedding team
• picturesque ceremony location
• pre-recorded musical accompaniment
• floral bouquet and boutonniere
• private 1-hour cocktail reception
• three-tiered white fondant wedding cake with rose topper
• private 2-hour dinner reception
• Two-hour DJ
• AND MORE!

Focusing on What Truly Matters

Traditional weddings tend to have larger guest lists, which can increase costs significantly. More guests mean more food, more seating, and more space. Destination weddings naturally limit the guest list, allowing you to create a more intimate and personal celebration. You’ll be surrounded by your closest friends and family, making the experience more meaningful and memorable.

Creating Memories That Last a Lifetime

Traditional weddings often follow a similar format: ceremony, reception, and maybe an after-party. While beautiful, they can lack uniqueness. Destination weddings offer unique experiences and stunning backdrops that traditional venues simply can’t match. Imagine saying your vows on a pristine beach at sunset or overlooking stunning tropical scenery.

Simplifying the Planning Process

Planning a traditional wedding involves coordinating numerous vendors and details, which can be incredibly stressful or add the extra expense of hiring a wedding planner/coordinator. We know destination weddings can be complicated and there is a lot to think about like:

• Which resort has a reception location off the sandy beach?
• How many guests will be attending?
• How many and what kind of rooms to put into your room block?
• What is attrition?
• What are group comps?

Planning this on your own might be a lot harder than you thought, this is where you need the guidance of an industry expert to take your hand and walk you through the steps of planning YOUR perfect wedding. We handle all of the important details that turn your destination wedding dream into reality while you enjoy your engagement!

Two-in-One Value

One of the biggest advantages of a destination wedding is that your honeymoon begins immediately after your wedding. By choosing a resort or location that offers both wedding and honeymoon packages, like Sandals and Secrets, you can save money and extend your celebration seamlessly.

What do you think about the idea of a destination wedding? Have any questions or tips to share? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

DESTINATION WEDDING checklist

Everything you need to know to plan the celebration of a lifetime.

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