Category Archives: Destination Weddings

Hot Wedding Destinations in 2013

Posted on by
Reply

 

Considering a destination wedding in 2013? These 5 romantic spots are ideal for tying the knot in style!

1. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

The Caribbean islands are blessed with all the trappings for a spectacular destination wedding: powder-fine sand, crystal-clear waters and romantic resorts aplenty. But lately the tropic sun seems to shine brightest on the resort area of Punta Cana, thanks to new direct flights from wallet-friendly airlines AirTran and Frontier, it makes getting to this breathtaking (and affordable) stretch of paradise a cinch. The plethora of choices extends to lodging as well. No matter your style, there’s a resort for you: All-inclusive ease!  Resorts in this popular wedding locale come with staff planners to handle the work and packages that make pricing a breeze.

Travel Tip — Welcome your guest! Leave a gift bag in each room full of goodies for your guest. Don’t forget suntan lotion and trinkets to remind them of your wedding destination when they’re back at home.

2. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Fiestas don’t get any more authentic than in Puerto Vallarta. It’s the perfect spot to welcome guests with icy margaritas and exchange “I do’s” as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. Sheltered by the jungled landscapes of the Sierra Madre Mountains to the east with romantic views of the Pacific to the west, Vallarta provides an exotic blend of cosmopolitan culture, Mexican flavor and nature at her best. Vallarta is home to Banderas Bay, where you can enjoy the thrill of whales up close from December through April. Vallarta is divided into two general areas: Puerto Vallarta to the south and Riviera Nayarit to the north.

3. Montego Bay, Jamaica

Exchange vows on this island paradise where reggae, romance and the Caribbean sun come together. Pioneers of the all-inclusive vacation concept, you won’t find an island that does it better. For many, it’s positively addictive. The country’s pulsating heartbeat is embodied by soulful cuisine, lively reggae and generous smiles from locals who love to show off their country. Getting married here is so simple that more visitors than Jamaicans are wed on the island every year.

Travel Tip – Planning an off-season wedding or honeymoon (May – Dec) can help you save big on hotels & other costs. Jamaica’s tropical climate does not vary from season to season so marry in the “off-season” and save!

4. Maui, Hawaii – U.S.A.

Maui is a hassle-free place to make a tropical wedding a reality. Both independent wedding planners and onsite coordinators at big resorts can pave the way to I do. There are countless reasons brides and grooms flock to this ever-popular Hawaiian isle. For starters, everything about it seems to cater to couples seeking one romantic experience after another (think unlimited sunsets and picture-perfect beaches). Although Maui’s certain to exceed your expectations as a tropical paradise, its unique inland offerings will give you the opportunity to turn a fantastic beach vacation into an unforgettable adventure. Plus, with direct flights from the mainland, the island is easily accessible for wedding guests.

5. Riviera Maya, Mexico

This 112-mile stretch of coastal paradise, with its white sand beaches fronting turquoise waters, tropical jungles and ancient Mayan ruins, provides the perfect setting for your fairy-tale wedding and heavenly honeymoon.

Travel Tip – While a tropical climate might be great for your tan, it can wreak havoc on big, fluffy satin dresses. Consider lighter-weight fabrics, a shorter hemline or a strapless gown to keep you cool on your wedding day.

 

What is the ideal spot for your destination wedding ceremony?

Posted on by
Reply

as told by Maddie Horvath, Destination Wedding Specialist Intern 

If you’ve chosen your destination wedding location, you may be wondering where to hold your ceremony. It’s important to consider the size of your guest list and your personal vision for your wedding when choosing a ceremony site. Whichever spot you choose, your wedding is sure to be beautiful!

Photo Credit: Apple Vacation – Beach Wedding

Beach

For a ceremony on the beach, wedding attire is often lighter and more comfortable to accommodate the warm weather and sand. If you plan to wear heels on your wedding day, and believe your guests will do the same, you may run into trouble with a beach ceremony. Remember, brides: Mother (Nature) knows best. A wedding facing the water is scenic and romantic, but don’t forget to keep in mind the breezes and tides when booking your ceremony! At most resorts, destination beach weddings are semi-private, where the beach will not be restricted to other resort guests, but may be held in a less-populated area.

 

Photo Credit: Apple Vacations – Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort Destination Wedding, Gazebo

 

Gazebo

If you like the ocean breeze and beautiful views, but don’t want to sacrifice your dress and shoes for the sand, a gazebo wedding might be perfect for you. Generally, the bride and groom will stand in a gazebo, while the guests sit on the surrounding deck or patio. Guests might not be as close to the “I do’s” as you would like, so keep this in mind when planning your nuptials! Like the beach wedding, gazebo ceremonies are often semi-private and may be more- or less-crowded depending on the date and time of your ceremony. Play up the beach theme by adding seashells to your décor, so you can get the beach look without the sand beneath your feet!

 

 

Garden

If you love flowers and greenery, see if your resort has a garden wedding option. You can still feel the warm sun and cool breezes of the beach, but have your wedding ceremony in a beautiful, unique location. You could also save some money on floral decorations by holding your wedding ceremony surrounded by nature’s finest blooms! Don’t forget to tell your guests to bring the bug spray!

 

We know you’ve dreamed of this day for a long time. Few things in life are as important as this day and few options as romantic as a Destination Wedding. When properly planned, a Destination Wedding can actually save you a lot of money…but most Brides and Grooms don’t know where to start. That’s where we come in. Apple Vacations will not only help you find the perfect destination; we’ll make your wedding easy and affordable for friends and family too!

 

Newly Engaged?
START PLANNING TODAY
or call 800-815-9000

 

 

Nuptials at NOW Larimar Punta Cana

Posted on by
Reply

as told by Dani Laverty, Destination Wedding Specialist 

Couple: Kari and Neale

Wedding date: November 7, 2012

 

When the Kari’s mother, Christina (Chris), initially contacted me in March 2012 to assist her with planning her daughter’s destination wedding in Punta Cana, little did I know it would mark the beginning of a wonderful journey of not only planning the travel details for the wedding party of 16, but also what feels like a lifelong friendship.

Kari and Neale had already decided on the resort to host their special day by the time Chris reached out to me to begin the travel planning process.   I reached out to Now Larimar’s wedding coordinator, Cristina, in order to verify the resort’s availability.  Although there were a few minor hiccups when securing the ceremony date with the Punta Cana judge, as he is a very busy man with quite the jam-packed schedule, once the date and time was set, it was smooth sailing from there on out.

Over the 8 months of planning, the mother of the bride and I formed somewhat of a bond as we discussed travel and wedding-related details leading up to the big event.  From the purchase of Kari’s gorgeous wedding gown to the pre-wedding celebration party at home, Chris always kept me in the loop and shared wonderful pictures and stories that made me feel truly involved and connected to my bride and groom.  Fast forward a few months and it was time for Kari, Neale, and their closest family and friends to pack their bags and jet off to Paradise!  I anxiously awaited their return home mid-November so I could hear all about their trip.

Upon their return to reality, Chris shared all of the fabulous tales of their journey and described how the wedding and entire trip was nothing less than perfect.  Kari and Chris adored their wedding coordinator, Francina, who seemed to make everything happen just the way Kari and Neale requested without hesitation.  They met with Francina on Monday, two days before the ceremony, to confirm all of the final details of their ceremony and reception.  Francina arranged a rehearsal dinner the evening before the ceremony at “Capers,” Now Larimar’s delightful Italian restaurant, complete with personalized menus for the entire wedding group.  The wedding day came along with the sunshine, as every destination wedding couple hopes for.  Their quaint and simple ceremony was held on Now Larimar’s white sand beach, overlooking the rolling waves of the turquoise-blue Caribbean Sea.  Following the “I do’s,” the festivities continued with a seated lovely reception dinner on Now Larimar’s Quiet Pool Deck.  Although it was a warm evening, the group kept their cool by standing with their feet in shallow end of the pool.  A highlight of the reception was when the groom’s brother, Neale, caught the bouquet!

Along with any wedding, especially one planned in another country, there are sure to be a few glitches and delays along the way.  But, even though the beautiful bride happened to spill her mimosa on her dress just hours before the ceremony, there were no “bridezilla” moments; the crises was averted, the gown was salvaged (and looked flawless), and everyone got a good laugh!  The wedding photographer even complimented Kari and Chris for not having a bridal “meltdown” in the midst of the debacle.  Chris commented that the photographer the resort provided was “outstandingly talented, climbed all over the sand and everything else in sight, was very personable and very professional,” and that she would highly recommend his services for any destination wedding in Punta Cana.

Working with wonderful brides, grooms, and their families, like Kari and Chris, is what makes my job so fun. I can’t even begin to describe the joy I experience when, after months and months of planning, I have  the opportunity to hear all about the beautiful details of the destination wedding, learn about the wonderful memories made, and see the gorgeous pictures when my brides and grooms return home.

 

Christine, Mother of the Bride’s, comments:

Describe the experience with your destination wedding specialist:

“Dani was like a gift from heaven. We felt so overwhelmed until we met her.  We feel like have made a friend for life!”

What was the most memorable moment of your destination wedding?

“Seeing all the relaxed smiles on my families’ faces as my son walked my daughter down the aisle” .

 

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort – Perfect for a Destination Wedding.

Posted on by
Reply

Photo Credit: Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - Destination Wedding in Gazebo

Sandos Cancun is a boutique resort just 10 minutes from the Cancun airport. Read my review. When I visited I immediately thought this is a perfect location for a destination wedding.

 

Photo Credit: Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - Gazebo for Destination Wedding

Cancun itself is a great place for a destination wedding not only because of the beauty, charm and history, but there are so many accessible flights in and out of the U.S.  It makes it easy for your guests to travel.  The resort is just 10 minutes from the airport, making it easy for guests to come in for a short stay if needed.

 

 

 

Photo Credit: Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - Destination Wedding on Beach at Sunset

It is a smaller resort, just over 200 rooms. A destination wedding in a smaller resort makes the experience more intimate. Even if you book a small amount of rooms, you still have a large share of the hotel.  If you book just 20 rooms  – that’s 10% of the hotel.  If you have a really large wedding party and group, you can even do a take – over of the hotel (book in advance!) They day I was there they were working on details for a bride who was doing a take – over of the hotel for her wedding.

 

 

Photo Credit: Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - Congratulations on your nuptials!

There is perfect spa, for a little bachelorette time pre – wedding, and also a beauty salon on property, to get ready for the wedding.

There is a perfect gazebo to get married, really a unique and exquisite location. I thought this is ideal because you can get married at the beach, in a stunning gazebo, with a beautiful Caribbean blue ocean or sunset in the background without being actually on the sand.  Spectacular beach options and terrace options are also available for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

 

Photo Credit: Eileen Herncane - Bali Bed's on Cancun Beach

There are many romantic spots at this resort for you to start your married life. Perfect “table for 2” at Seasons restaurant overlooking the Caribbean sea and private dining on the beach.  The food at this hotel spectacular and will not disappoint your wedding guests.  There are bali beds for 2 and swinging lounge beds that add to the romantic charm of the resort.

 

 

 

If you are planning a destination wedding, make sure you add Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort to the list of hotel to consider.

 

 

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort

Posted on by
4

Located directly on the beach in the heart of the Hotel Zone, this resort is bordered by the Nichupte Lagoon to one side and the Caribbean Sea to the other.

Congratulations to Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort, a recent winner of an Apple Vacations Golden Apple award for superior staff and service. I had the pleasure to visit this luxury resort on my recent trip to Cancun and I was very impressed.

 

Sandos Cancun is a boutique resort just 10 minutes from the Cancun airport. When you walk in the resort there is understated elegance. Note – If you are looking for an all – inclusive with a kids club, huge buffet restaurant and miles of a meandering pool and crazy games, in my opinion this is NOT the place for you.

 

If you are looking for a sleek, luxury, intimate resort (just 214 rooms) with several a la cart restaurants offering a fine dining experience and an AMAZING Spa, then this IS the place for you.

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - Lobby

The lobby is smaller with a nice relaxing modern lobby bar -  Bar One , small gift shop and two a la carte restaurants to the right  off the main lobby. I dined at Zango and my lunch was delicious.  I always think it is nice to have an a la cart dining option in resort for lunch, it’s nice to get out of the sun and have a good, relaxing meal.  There is another A an a la cart Seasons which is open for dinner and is beautiful and offers stunning views of the Caribbean sea.

 

 

Sandos Cancun Room

The rooms at Sandos Cancun were exquisite with more than ample space. All of the rooms are ocean view with stocked mini bars, marble bathrooms, robes, slippers and even a safe that is wide enough for a lap top. The décor os neutral tones and made for a relaxing feel to the rooms.

 

 

 

Outside there were three pools that cascade one into another.  There were ample lounge chairs, bali beds and lounge beds on swings. The swinging beds were my favorite! There was a pool  – side restaurant of drinks and meals outside.  I have to say this was one of the nicest pool areas I have seen in Cancun, all the chairs were really nice, there was ample space between them for privacy and there were plenty of them.

I highly recommend this resort for a romantic vacation, girls getaway or spa getaway. It is also a perfect spot for a destination wedding.

Check out the pictures of Sandos Cancun and please leave comments if you have any questions.

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort - View of Pools

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort bali beds on beach

 

 

Sandos Cancun Luxury Resort View of Caribbean Sea

 

 

Destination Wedding Ideas with Personality

Posted on by
Reply

as told by Dani Laverty of Apple Vacations Destination Weddings Department

Couples are incorporating more and more creativity into their wedding photos in exotic locations. From themed props and accessories to exotic modes of transportation and natural scenery, here we highlight some of the ways couples are really using the destination to their advantage in order to showcase their personalities and style within their chosen locale.

Trash the Dress

One of the more daring wedding traditions we’re seeing couples partake in is a “trash the dress” ritual.  Typically, the day after the wedding, newlyweds (and sometimes their bridalparty) will put on their wedding-day ensemble and drive into the ocean, splash around in a pool, or play in the sand.  It incorporates the couple’s quirks and personalities and many say it’s a daring, dramatic, and fairly romantic gesture.  It sounds like fun, if you ask me, and it’s sure to make an awesome addition to the wedding album!

 

Playful Pics

Windy weather?  Have the bridal party hold parasols or umbrellas on the beach together.  Let the umbrellas turn inside out and choose funky poses for a relaxed, fun look.  Pick colors that match your theme to tie it all together with the rest of the occasion.

If you’re anywhere near a beach, there tends to be plenty lounge chairs and hammocks lying around.  You can be sure to benefit from these beach-related props by setting them up in a variety of arrangements.   Everybody is sure to look happy and relaxed, isn’t that the look you were going for?

If there is a golf course nearby, see if you and your gang can use the golf-cart as a focal point to gather around, in, and on.  Try a similar technique with a convertible, motorcycle, or trolley.

There is sure to be plenty of water surrounding you on your big day.  Whether it’s a Jet Ski, surfboard, canoe, or speedboat, the motion of the ocean is sure to bring out some good shots between you and your beloved or even the whole group!

Take a picture as newlyweds and kill two birds with one stone by writing your names and your wedding date, “Just Married,” or “Thank You” in the sand and make it double as your thank you cards.

Arrive (or Depart) In style!

Give your guests something to remember when you roll (or fly, or float, or trot) up to your wedding ceremony.  Make a statement atop of a white horse trotting along the beach, let your hair blow in the wind as you come rumbling in on a motorcycle, or pedal yourself up to your own ceremony on a vintage-looking beach cruiser followed by an entourage of your wedding party.

Or, let your guests’ mouths drop as you and your sweetie make a dramatic exit out on a speedboat or private canoe.  Fulfill that dream of feeling like a prince and princess and make your grand getaway via a romantic horse-drawn carriage.  Think big, hot-air balloon rides and helicopters are sure to make your grand entrance or exit extra-special.

The sky is the limit!  Anything fun, exotic, or just plain goofy at your location could be the perfect creative touch to your wedding day! Check out our destination wedding ideas on Pinterest!

Say I Do with Apple Vacations

Unbelievable Group Deal

Posted on by
2

My family has grown so much over the past few years! With relatives getting married, kids being born, new in-laws, even going out to dinner is a huge production! So when BlueBay Grand Esmeralda, in Cancun’s Rivera Maya, announced their group rate of 7 nights from $899.99 (per person) I was thrilled! Going on a dream vacation can include more than the spouse and kids – invite the grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, whomever you can think of!  Whether you’re interested in a destination wedding, a family reunion, or even a group of your closest friends – everyone will thank you for taking them to an amazing tropical location at a luxurious oceanfront resort with all the amenities they could hope for. You will be saving them hundreds (or more) on meals, drinks, entertainment etc. – because it’s already included in the price!

The BlueBay Grand Esmeralda group rate of 7 nights for $899.99 includes everything!!!  There’s roundtrip airfare, hotel accommodations, transfers to and from the airport, all meals, all drinks, tips, entertainment and so much more!  There’s even a 1 hour welcome group cocktail party!  This resort has it all! There are large swimming pools, special facilities for children, luxurious rooms, and numerous restaurants to choose from (buffet or a la carte).

My recommendation for you is – if you know there’s going to be group travel in your future and you want your group to have the time of its life, book an all-inclusive group travel package today.