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Beach wedding setup with wooden chairs facing an ocean backdrop, palm trees, and a decorated circular arch under a clear sky.

Why Every Couple Should Use a Destination Wedding Travel Expert

By Lauren Ertl | February 25, 2025

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, but it can also be overwhelming without the right guidance. From choosing the perfect location to managing travel logistics and ensuring every detail is flawless, the process requires expert coordination. That’s where a destination wedding expert like Andrea Williams, travel agent and founder of Exquisite Vacations Inc., comes in. With over 20 years of experience and 500+ successful weddings planned across the globe, Andrea ensures a seamless experience, handling every detail from travel arrangements to resort venue selection.

A couple in formal attire smiles at each other through two openings in a teal wooden wall.Photo by Alex Rojas Photography

Why Work with a Destination Wedding Expert?

While planning a wedding in your hometown can be challenging, organizing a celebration in another country adds extra layers of complexity. A destination wedding expert like Andrea brings insider knowledge, connections, and logistical expertise to make the process smooth and stress-free. Here are our top reasons why every couple should hire a destination wedding travel specialist and, specifically, Andrea from Exquisite Vacations:

1. Expert Knowledge & Firsthand Experience

Andrea has personally visited and specializes in weddings at top resorts in Jamaica, Punta Cana, Riviera Maya, Tulum, Los Cabos, St. Lucia, Costa Rica, and beyond. Her deep understanding of each location’s unique offerings ensures couples find the perfect setting that matches their vision, budget, and style. She takes the guesswork out of the equation so couples know they are matched with the exact experience and backdrop they’re after.

A bride and groom walk down an outdoor aisle, smiling. Guests on both sides clap and cheer, surrounded by greenery and sunlight.Photo by DreamArt Photography

2. Stress-Free Planning & Coordination

From choosing a venue to handling travel arrangements and managing guest accommodations, Andrea takes care of all the details. She assists with:

  • Resort and venue selection
  • Group travel and room block reservations
  • Coordinating wedding packages and customizations
  • Handling legal wedding requirements
  • Managing on-site logistics

Instead of spending hours researching and making endless phone calls, couples can focus on enjoying their engagement while Andrea handles the heavy lifting.

Beach wedding setup with chairs facing an arch adorned with white flowers and curtains, set against a backdrop of blue ocean and clear sky.Photo courtesy of Couples Resorts

3. VIP Treatment & Exclusive Resort Perks

As an award-winning travel agent, Andrea has established strong relationships with luxury resorts and wedding venues. This means couples can enjoy: Exclusive discounts and perks (free nights, upgraded rooms, honeymoon specials), personalized wedding packages tailored to their vision and priority booking and VIP service for a stress-free experience.

4. Avoiding Common Wedding Pitfalls

Planning a wedding abroad comes with unique challenges, such as navigating local marriage laws, understanding resort policies, and managing guest expectations. With Andrea’s expertise, couples can avoid common pitfalls and unexpected surprises, ensuring a smooth and flawless event.

Outdoor beach wedding setup with round tables and wooden chairs on sand, surrounded by palm trees. Colorful string lights and a large "LOVE" sign are visible. Ocean in the background.Photo by DreamArt Photography

Top Destination Wedding Locations

With so many breathtaking locations to choose from, it can be tough to decide on the perfect wedding destination. Here are Andrea’s top recommendations:

Jamaica

With its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica is one of the most sought-after wedding destinations. Popular areas include Montego Bay, Negril, and Ocho Rios, each offering stunning backdrops and warm Caribbean hospitality.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, Punta Cana is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the Caribbean. Couples love its all-inclusive wedding packages and breathtaking beachfront venues.

Riviera Maya & Tulum, Mexico

For a boho-chic beach wedding, Riviera Maya and Tulum are top choices. With Mayan ruins, cenotes, and eco-friendly luxury resorts, these destinations offer a romantic and unique experience.

Wedding altar by the sea under a thatched roof, featuring a circular floral arch, white aisle runner, gold chairs with white drapes, and lanterns along the aisle.Photo by DreamArt Photography

Los Cabos, Mexico

If you love a mix of desert landscapes and ocean views, Los Cabos is the perfect wedding spot. Its luxury beachfront resorts, dramatic cliffs, and world-class dining make it an unforgettable setting.

St. Lucia

For couples looking for a mix of adventure and romance, St. Lucia offers lush mountains, breathtaking coastlines, and luxurious resorts. The famous Piton Mountains provide a stunning wedding backdrop.

Costa Rica

For nature-loving couples, Costa Rica’s rainforests, waterfalls, and pristine beaches create a magical setting. Whether it’s an intimate beach ceremony or a jungle elopement, this eco-friendly paradise offers endless possibilities.

Antigua & Barbuda

With **365 beaches—one for every day of the year—**Antigua & Barbuda is a dream wedding destination. Couples can exchange vows on powdery white sands, enjoy a sunset yacht reception, or say “I do” at a historic cliffside fort overlooking the turquoise waters. This twin-island paradise offers luxury resorts, seclusion, and the perfect blend of romance and adventure.

Three people in brightly colored dresses—pink, orange, and yellow—hold vibrant bouquets of tropical flowers.Photo by Kesha Lambert

Honeymoon Perfection in Paradise

After saying “I do,” the honeymoon is the perfect time to relax and celebrate. Andrea doesn’t just plan weddings—she also curates luxurious, customized honeymoons in dream destinations like:

Bora Bora & The Maldives – Stay in an overwater bungalow with breathtaking ocean views.

Caribbean Getaways – Enjoy a romantic all-inclusive resort experience in a tropical paradise.

African Safari Adventures – Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey with a luxury safari.

Andrea ensures that every honeymoon is tailor-made to suit the couple’s preferences, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to start planning?

Make your dream destination wedding or honeymoon a reality. Contact Andrea Williams today and let her take care of all the details while you enjoy the journey to your big day!

Featured Image by Punta Cana Creatives Photography

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🎉 BIG NEWS: IADWP x Destination I Do Partnershi 🎉 BIG NEWS: IADWP x Destination I Do Partnership! 🎉

The world of destination weddings is evolving, and now, so are your opportunities!

We are thrilled to announce an exclusive partnership between the International Association of Destination Wedding Professionals (@iadwp) and Destination I Do!

This partnership opens the door for *Gold & Platinum IADWP members* to connect directly with thousands of couples planning their destination weddings and honeymoons.

Gain exclusive visibility on DestinationIDo.com and additional exposure through our blogs, podcasts, newsletters, and right here on social media.

Expand your reach, elevate your credibility, and grow your business! 

To learn more and get started, contact: info@destinationido.com

Cover image by @mikkelpaige // Videos by @royalfilms and @keymomentfilms 

#IADWP #DestinationIDo #DestinationWedding #WeddingPro #LuxuryTravel #WeddingIndustry
Stop everything! We’re sharing expert insights o Stop everything! We’re sharing expert insights on the hottest destination wedding trends expected in 2026. 🔥

Spoiler: It’s all about intentionality, deep connection, and making your wedding feel like a custom-designed retreat.

Here are the biggest shifts coming:

✨ The Vibe: Trading the 12-hour marathon for a multi-day, multi-event schedule that builds in rest and relaxation, not just celebration.

🏰 The Venue: Couples are opting for FULL PROPERTY BUYOUTS—taking over boutique hotels and private villas to create their own exclusive world (like Adult Summer Camp, but make it chic).

🌿 The Design: We’re saying goodbye to straight lines and no themes and hello to the romance of ground-level floral installations and pop culture reception themes! 

❤️ The Focus: The ultimate priority is the thoughtful guest experience. Handwritten notes, bespoke gifting, and intentional, multi-day itineraries are now essential elements, ensuring every guest feels central to the celebration.

Comment “trends” for a link to read the full 2026 forecast and find out what destinations are blowing up next year!

Featuring insights from @gianevents @isarodriguezphotography @foxandfigphotography @casaofficiale @bweddingschicago @tarynstarkwyant @armenteros.weddings @maricarmenmaffioli
The wedding of your dreams is here, and it’s on The wedding of your dreams is here, and it’s on us. Get the best value in the Caribbean at Sandals® and Beaches®Resorts, where your whole wedding is already part of the package. Yes, really! 

Comment “sandals” for all the info! 

#sandalsweddings #destinationwedding #caribbeanwedding
Magical moments from Bali and James’s wedding at Magical moments from Bali and James’s wedding at The Sablewood in the Catskills of New York ✨

Catch more on destinationido.com or comment “wedding” on this post for a direct link! 

Photography@daniparadaphoto 
Planner @alivelyevent 
Dress @kleinfeldbridal
Glam @fluffmebyfania artistrybytd_
Florals @blooms4rooms
Video @christie_captures
DJ @completewedo
Venue @thesablewood 
Bride @balichristinaa
What No One Tells You About Wedding Planning in So What No One Tells You About Wedding Planning in Southern Italy… 

Plan Amalfi ceremonies earlier as the cliffs steal the light fast.

Shoot Alberobello portraits at sunrise to avoid tourists.

Southern Italy weddings run slow. Build out a relaxed timeline for the day. 

Expect wind, heat, or sudden storms. Have shade and a backup plan! 

Best months to plan your wedding for May–June & Sept–Oct for light and fewer crowds.

Comment “Italy” for more insider tips from the experts! 

Wedding planner & design: @maritacampanella @luana.palmisano 
Photography: @nathanjaffanphoto 
Gowns: @mariacalellaspose 
Beauty: @rossana_barratta_makeup_
Models: @florianasem + @marcoromito5 
Florals: @ifioridimelany 
Stationery: pressedpaper
Venue: @masseriamavugliola @pizzeriacasapinto
Concierge: @natalino.battaglia
If the feeling this Tuscany destination wedding gi If the feeling this Tuscany destination wedding gives could be sold in a bottle, we’d buy a whole case. ✨ 

Amanda and Jonathon’s wedding at Villa Valentini Bonaparte was a three-day love letter to la dolce vita, filled with pasta making, fireworks, fine wine, and even their dog, Riley, in a tuxedo! 🥹

Photography @francescospighi 
Planner @oliviasodi_wed 
Venue @villavalentinibonaparte 
Florist @vogliadiverde
Naima and Harun’s Bangladeshi and Somali fusion Naima and Harun’s Bangladeshi and Somali fusion wedding in sunny Dominican Republic ✨

See more on destinationido.com ❤️

Photo @ushnakhanphotography 
Planning @sbeventsandco 
Venue @romanceparadisusdr 

@pranamabykrishna @memories_films @mercaflor_rd @empiredjs @inspiresolutionsdr @alkifiestard
@mspaintedlady @stylingtrio @omshantimehndi @romanceparadisusdr @shahidhoqueofficial @destinationpick @tilfi_banaras @shopkynah @panachebysharmeen
WARNING, Dan and Carol’s wedding in Mérida, Mex WARNING, Dan and Carol’s wedding in Mérida, Mexico might “Put a Spell On You,” and have you planning a destination wedding  faster than you can say “Mariachi!” ✨🪇

📸 @asteriaphoto 
📍 @catherwood.mx (Tamchen)
💐 @casablancacatering 
💄 @eigenseeartistry
In the wake of destruction in the Caribbean, here In the wake of destruction in the Caribbean, here are some vetted organizations to donate to:

@projecthopeorg 

@afjcares 

@footprintprjct 

@worldvision 

@globalempowermentmission 

Comment “aid” for a list of links to these organizations! Share this post to get the word out.
✨ Why have one wedding day when you can have a w ✨ Why have one wedding day when you can have a whole experience? ✨

Multi-day destination weddings are the new “I do” — because when your guests travel across oceans, you want to make it worth the trip. 🌎

Think: welcome parties, group adventures, beachside brunches, and endless moments that actually let you connect. 💛

It’s not just a wedding anymore — it’s a mini-vacation with everyone you love.

✍🏼 @ed_cotton with @iadwp 

📸 @meglaymanphotography @aneeatelier @marcusjollyweddings @cortiellaphotography @dkphotofilms
When you book 7+ nights in a Club or Butler Suite, When you book 7+ nights in a Club or Butler Suite, your wedding is on @sandalsresortsweddings ✨ Call it our gift to you! 

#freewedding #destinationweddings #sandaslresorts #sandalsresortsweddings #yourweddingonus

**s p o n s o r e d**
Can you imagine being this iconic on your wedding Can you imagine being this iconic on your wedding day? Georges and Jessica’s destination wedding at @chateaudechamplatreux on the outskirts of Paris is just that. 

Get a DM link to gather more inspiration from their day by leaving “iconic” in the comments 💬

Photography @petarjurica 
Venue @chateaudechamplatreux 
Planning @whodid____this 
Flowers @les__ephemeres 
Dj @charbelnasrallah @discodabke 
Dress @joycesaadehcouture 
Catering @grandchemintraiteur 
Furniture @lamaisonvachon @maison_options
A new season brought new trends for the world of b A new season brought new trends for the world of bridal fashion! Take a peek at the styles you’ll start seeing a lot more of in 2026. 

Comment “dress” for a link to our NYBFW fw26 recap! 🔗

📷 @aliciarinka 
🎥 @casaofficiale
They said “I Do” above the Aegean Sea, and the They said “I Do” above the Aegean Sea, and then they jumped off a yacht in their wedding attire! 🤯

Bridgette and Chandler skipped the big guest list for a spontaneous, intimate elopement in Santorini, Greece, with their closest ten friends. This wedding was nothing short of cinematic.

📷 @meglaymanphotography 
🗓️ @juliaandevita 
💐 @bettyflowerssantorini 
📍 @cycladica
Tucked away in the scenic mountains of North Georg Tucked away in the scenic mountains of North Georgia, The Lodge at Old Mill offers an idyllic destination for couples seeking a nature-rich, intimate wedding weekend without sacrificing elegance. 🌸

Photographer: @nicolefalcophotography
Venue: @thelodgeatoldmill 
Wedding & Floral Design: @ivymarieweddings 
Wedding PR: @publishedandpretty 
Paper Goods & Live Painting: @estokescreations 
Styling Blocks: @sourced_co 
Styling Mat: @chasingstone 
Ring Boxes: @the_mrs_box 
Jewelry: @masinadiamonds 
Vow Books: @weddingstorywriter 
Ribbon: @silkandwillow 
Dresses: @annebarge 
Shoes: @badgleymischkabride 
Beauty: @vior_makeupstudio 
Faux Florals: @septembertreerentals 
Furniture & Specialty Rentals: @arynoliviadesigns 
Linens: @nuagedesignsinc 
Tableware Rentals: @theprissyplatecompany 
Cake: @confectionperfectioncakes
Shots from just a few of last week’s incredible Shots from just a few of last week’s incredible New York Bridal Fashion Week shows! 

What do you think of the looks this year? Is there any trend you’re spotting that excites you? 

🎥 @casaofficiale
A Santa Barbara weekend that was a vibe and a half A Santa Barbara weekend that was a vibe and a half! ✨ From wine poured straight from the groom’s personal collection to custom stationery featuring the couple and their son, Suzy & Ray’s destination wedding at @matteistavern was equal parts heartfelt and high-style. 💐

Comment “wedding” for a link to see the full feature! 🔗

Planning + Design + Florals: @jasonroars @floralroars of @therheefined 
Photo: @alibeckphoto 
Hotel + Venue + F&B: @matteistavernauberge 
DJ: @dj.kara 
Beauty: @teamhairandmakeup 
Specialty Linens: @luxe_linen 
Stationery: @velvetfoxdesigns 
Babysitting: @thebabysittingcompany 
AV + Lighting: @groypresents 
Event Rentals: @townandcountry_eventrentals 
Table Top: @casadeperrin 
Disco Ball: @bellavistadesigns 
Attire: @emiliopucci @viviennewestwood @isseymiyakeofficial @brunellocucinelli_brand 
Jewelry: @alexandrabeth 

#santabarbarawedding #destinationweddinginspo #matteistavernwedding #CaliforniaWeddings #weddingweekend #destinationido
Rose Hall Great House is an iconic Georgian mansio Rose Hall Great House is an iconic Georgian mansion, perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Its historic architecture and rich heritage provide a dramatic and romantic setting for ceremonies and receptions - much like Tuomas & Sarah's! 

Comment "Rose Hall" for a link to discover this property through the lens of this beautiful couple's wedding day!

Planning & Design: @lesloevents 
Photographer: @myphotomagic.studio 
Venue: @rosehallweddingsandevents 
Host Hotel: @iberostarrosehall
Stationery: @paperandmorecreationsllc 
Floral & Decor: @taifloraluxe 
DJ: @djvinceadams
Violinist: @daynaviolin
Steel Drum Band: Linval Allen N Friends
Catering: @pinkapronja
Cake: @astidesignzz_cakezzz
Hair: Erie Perkins & @zurihairstudio
MUA: @rasicharyn 
Gowns: @inesdisanto & @secondcitybride
Bridesmaids' Gowns: @amsale
How to Bring Your Wedding Flowers Home (Without Br How to Bring Your Wedding Flowers Home (Without Breaking TSA Rules!)

Many destination brides feel devastated at having to abandon their blooms after 
the celebration.

Enter: the Travel Flower Press Kit, making preservation possible on the go!

Use the kit a day or so before your flight so your bouquet stays safe and fresh during transit!

After pressing, your flowers can be turned into resin trays, wall decor, or other custom pieces.

Comment “flowers” for a link to learn more about preserving your flowers and the @wildcoastflowerpreservation kit!

Photos by @olivofilm @wildcoastflowerpreservation
With a destination wedding, a little extra etiquet With a destination wedding, a little extra etiquette goes a long way and making it smooth and stress free for everybody! 

Photography @pascal.vo 
Venue @lemasdebellecombe 
MUAH @fannywong.beauty 
Floral design @byemilyalarcon 

Comment “tips” for a direct link to the full article!
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✍🏼 @ofdconsulting 
Expert tips by @jaclynwatsonevents 
@nicolechanphotography @petermanphotoandvideo 
@kevinheslinphotography 
@keymomentfilms @tintedevents @flyinglittlebirds @momental
Coming off the heels of an incredible press trip t Coming off the heels of an incredible press trip to Austria, we felt it was only fitting to share Blair and Alex’s iconic Vienna destination wedding. They even shared vows in the famous Belvedere Palace! 

Scroll to see more or comment “Vienna” for a direct message link to the full article. 

Photographer: @liliia.chuba.photo 
Venues: @belvederemuseum @palaiscoburg 
Planning: @makeithappenevents.at 
MUAH: @sfumato_weddings 
Flowers: @ilvirasblumen
Keep it one hundred, IreLAND 🎶 A centuries-ol Keep it one hundred, IreLAND 🎶 

A centuries-old stone building amongst the rolling green hills of Ireland set the scene for Sasha and Michael’s weekend-long wedding at Kilkea Castle.

Comment “Ireland” for a DM link to see more of this storybook wedding! 

Photography: @mandamartignettiphotography 
Second shooter: @stephaniencabrera
Venue: @kilkeacastle
Content: @lavish_weddingcontentcreation
Florist: @theirishflowerfarmer
Band: @arthur_theweddingband
Ceremony Music: @dublinstringquartet
Cake: @thecakecuppery
Bridal Boutique: @lovelybrideprovidence
Hair: @irma.hairstylist
Makeup: @makeupbyannemarie
@naturhotelforsthofgut is truly heaven on earth! 🌍 

Tucked into the charming Austrian Alps, this hotel is a honeymooner’s dream. With a focus and devotion to wellness at every point, you’ll never want to leave. And with views like this, why would you?? 

#honeymoon #honeymoontrip #europetraveltips #austria #honeymoonideas
Okay, can we just start with how adorable this is? Okay, can we just start with how adorable this is? Victoria and Derrick first connected on Twitter… over a song. Yep, “The Matrimony” by Wale, to be exact. If that’s not the sweetest, modern meet-cute, I don’t know what is. 

Fast forward to their very own matrimony planning, and the couple opted for a Guanacaste, Costa Rica destination wedding. The reason was simple: it’s where the jungle meets the ocean! 

See more on destinationido.com 💖

Planner: @redvelvet_weddings 
Photographer: @sylviaguardia_photography 
Videographer: @dwstories_ 
Decor: @artflowercr 
Beauty: @nadiacambronero_weddingsmua 
Stationery: @thewhiteroomcr 
Rentals: @costamesaeventrentals 
Cake: @victoriazoch 
DJ: @djbryanlaverde 
Dance floor: @thepoint_cr 
Photobooth: @thevoguepose
Venues: Marina Esplanade & @andazpapagayo
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