For Sherri and Brandan, choosing to have a destination wedding and say “I do” in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico was a no brainer. The southern California couple regularly vacation south of the border and chose to have their destination wedding held there because of their love of the country and convenience from their West Coast home. The wedding venue was the couple’s main hurdle and even that turned out to be a breeze.

“We chose [Cabo del Sol] because of the privacy and the friendly staff who made it exceptional,” recalls Sherri. “Not only is Cabo del Sol beautiful, but it also enabled us to have the entire property [to ourselves] without other people entering the venue.” If possible, it’s a great option to do a property buy-out like Brendan and Sherri. You can often get a bulk discount and it will really feel that you’re on a private family vacation.

Both the bride and groom had demanding, full-time jobs, so a great wedding planner was essential. This not only gave them the inside scoop on local vendors but allowed them to relax a bit when it came to the planning process. “When your wedding is far away and in another country, you kind of have a more ‘go with the flow’ attitude which was really nice and refreshing,” says the bride.

The couple went above and beyond to make sure the trip was worth it for their guests. Everyone was given a “welcome” bag upon their arrival which included locally baked cookies, a map of the area and a schedule of events. Brendan and Sherri also showered their guests with great food, affection and an overall, party-like atmosphere.

While the couple was sure to enjoy time with their guests throughout their destination wedding, they stress the importance of not forgetting about yourselves. At the end of the day, your wedding is about you, your new spouse and the love you have for each other. Make sure you have time for yourselves as well. “We decided to have a sweetheart table at dinner which I would recommend to everyone,” recalls the bride. “It gives you a chance to breathe, actually eat and take in everything around you.”

Vendors: Photographer: Kelly Wood Photography; Ceremony/Reception Site: Cabo del Sol; Wedding Planners: Karla Casillas & Veronica Miranda; Florist: Living Art; Gown Designer: Monique Lhuillier; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Armani