Planning a destination wedding in a place you've never been to can be quite challenging.
You're probably wondering, how can you be absolutely sure it's the perfect fit for your dream wedding?
From the food to the service and the wedding locations – there are so many factors to consider.
That's why we highly recommend adding a pre-wedding visit to your overall budget.
It's a game-changer and in this blog post, we'll guide you on making the most of your Jamaica destination wedding with a pre-wedding visit.
Why is a pre-wedding visit important for a destination wedding?
It's the ultimate way to get a firsthand feel for everything. Here's why it's a must, especially if you're planning a destination wedding in gorgeous Jamaica:
Visualize Your Big Day: There's nothing like seeing your wedding venue in person. It helps you envision how it will look and feel on your special day. You can check out the layout, the views and the overall ambiance.
Meet the Pros: A site visit is your golden opportunity to meet with potential vendors – think florists, caterers, photographers, and musicians. You can chat about your vision and see if their style aligns with your dream wedding.
Experience the Destination: Your site visit is also a chance to explore Jamaica itself. You can hit the beach, wander around the town and savor the local cuisine.
When to plan your pre-wedding visit
The best time to plan your pre-wedding visit for a destination wedding depends on a few factors, like your wedding date and budget.
If you're tying the knot during the peak season (December to April), it's best to schedule your visit well in advance to snag reasonable travel and accommodation rates.
But if you're working with a tighter budget, consider going during the off-season (May to November) – just keep an eye on the weather and have a rainy-day plan.
How to plan your pre-wedding visit
Once you've decided on a time for your pre-wedding visit, it's time to start planning. Here are a few tips:
Book Travel and Accommodations: You'll need to secure flights and hotel rooms. If you're getting married at a resort, they often offer discounted rates for pre-wedding visits.
Budget It Out: Site visits can add up, so set a budget and stick to it.
Create a To-Do List: Before you go, jot down all the things you want to see and do during your visit. This includes venue visits, vendor meetings, and exploring the local scene.
Create a List of Questions: Be sure to ask your onsite wedding planning team questions such as, venue capacity, menu options, back up plans and decor choices etc.
Schedule Vendor Appointments: If you plan to meet with vendors, book your appointments ahead of time. It ensures you have enough time to chat with each one and discuss your wedding needs.
6 resorts in Jamaica that offer a pre-wedding visit
Here are 6 resorts in Jamaica that offer a pre-wedding visit:
Hyatt Ziva / Zilara: Enjoy a two-night all-inclusive stay for $500 per couple.
Hilton Rose Hall: Get a two-night all-inclusive stay for $500 per couple.
Iberostar Suites and Grand Rose Hall: Options include a two-night all-inclusive stay for $599 or $799 per couple.
Couples Negril, San Souci, Swept Away, and Tower Isle: Priced at $250 per night per couple.
Jewel Grande Montego Bay Resort & Spa: Offers a two-night all-inclusive stay for $500 per couple.
Royalton Resorts and Hideaway at Royalton: Priced at $179 per night per person.
Tips for making the most of your visit
Here are a few tips for making the most of your site visit:
Visit during the wedding season. This will give you a better idea of what the resort is like on a wedding day. You'll also be able to see the different wedding packages and venues in person.
Bring your partner and/or other important decision-makers. This is a big decision, so it's important to have everyone on the same page.
Don't forget to ask about the backup plan. What happens if it rains on your wedding day? Make sure the resort has a backup plan in place so that you can still have the wedding of your dreams.
Have fun! Your site visit should be a fun and enjoyable experience. Take some time to relax and enjoy the destination. After all, you're planning your wedding!
Your pre-wedding planning visit is not just a formality. It is a trip that can help you "try" before you "buy" or finalize your destination wedding plans. This will allow you to plan a destination wedding that will exceed your dreams and creates lasting memories for you and your cherished guests.
If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed and want to ensure you cover all your bases with your destination wedding planning or you would like to do a pre-planning destination wedding trip, we'd be delighted to chat with you. Tap here to schedule a complimentary 30-minute consultation.