Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Tips For Choosing Destination Wedding Travel Agents

By Natasha Moore


Choose a Truly Special Location. The one thing that will impact a destination wedding the most is the destination. When guests come away saying "That wedding was so them!" then the wedding was a success. Many different factors contribute to a memorable event, but it must be special to the bride and groom first: perhaps a favorite romantic city, or favorite vacation area, exotic locale, food city, or special one-of-a-kind opportunity. Experienced destination wedding travel agents can help in this initial step.

Timing is Everything. Consider the influences of timing when planning for destination locales. Many destinations have tourist seasons and low seasons. If in high season, book blocks of hotel rooms early, at least a year in advance if possible. It is also smart to book in shoulder season (right before or after high season) to get best deals and wider availability options.

Investigate the Destination. Doing proper legwork will likely require multiple visits to the destination in order to conduct research on venues, hotels, logistics, activities, local vendors, and amenities. Plan each visit and prioritize what is important to the event success.

Budget for Added Expenses. Anticipate budget overruns. Dealing with foreign locals, vendors and snafus all tend to drive up costs. Unanticipated influences like the exchange rates or new laws also can impact expenses. Be prepared to cut back if necessary, and prioritize what you can live without.

Utilize Professional Planners. Wedding and travel agents are important resources to utilize. Use the sage advice and services of those who do it for a living. Finding reliable travel agents and planners will save couples thousands of dollars, energy, time, and headaches. It will also ensure that the guests have a more memorable experience.

Chose Vendors Wisely. Local vendors of services may be thousands of miles away. It is important that research and references are complete and accurate. Utilize online resources, and keep in close contact with the vendors. If unable to visit personally, use online chats, and telephone calls. Planers may be able to help in this communication.

Get Advice from Family and Friends. Before you choose the specialty destination, float the idea by family, friends, and potential wedding party members. See what they like and don't like, and whether it is even feasible to do such a thing. Do not be offended if some family members and friends cannot attend due to logistical concerns.

Pamper your Guests. Arrange a series of "extra touches" for your guests.Discounted flights and rooms, shuttles to and from airports, welcome gifts for the groomsmen and bridesmaids, and VIP rooms for parents, all make for a memorable and more enjoyable experience. This not only makes the experience as enjoyable as possible for guests, but will make for a more memorable event.

Don't forget Weather. Plan accordingly with weather and what you wear. For example, avoiding hurricane season in the Caribbean, or rainy season in Wine Country are wise weather-related options.

Plan Now. Yes, one cannot over-plan. It may take more effort, but the rewards will outweigh any concerns. The key is to perform thorough research, pack visitation trips with to-do lists and follow-ups, utilize planners and destination wedding travel agents, while setting firm goals and sticking to them. Most important, remember to find time to enjoy the event with family and friends at a memorable and spectacular venue.




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