The wedding industry is extremely overwhelming and emotions tend to run high for newly engaged couples, adding to the stressful planning. Add travel to the mix and couples do not know where to begin. There is more fine print than directions for a piece of IKEA furniture. There are also many destinations to consider, hotel choices, group rates, wedding packages, and more. That is enough to make someone’s head swirl. Hiring the right people will not only eliminate all the stress but help you stay in budget. Some people choose a destination wedding to take advantage of the huge savings away from home and here are some properties that start as little as FREE! Plus, they offer reasonable group rates for your guests so your family and friends can be there for your big day while getting a vacation in at the right price!
There are so many moving pieces but what if those pieces were combined to offer one convenient, budget friendly package. Some hotel chains have an entry level package for FREE! But, is it really free? YES!
The first rule of the free wedding packages is that you need to be discerning about who you work with. Go with a reputable hotel chain and don’t shy away from asking for advice. Your travel agent should have booked the hotel countless times and have connections on-site. You should have complete confidence in a brand if you’re going to use their free wedding service. You don’t want a free wedding to be something that ends up causing you a lot of stress. Choose a resort that will minimize your stress by going above and beyond for you. Please ask us for our recommendations! Not all hotel chains offer exceptional service and not all properties can handle large groups and events. This is also the case for travel agents so do your homework!
Dreams Resorts and Spas offers nearly 20 resorts throughout Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. Each resort has 5-8 restaurants and almost as many bars, in addition to free room service in all rooms. With your free wedding package you’ll be assigned a wedding coordinator, bridal bouquet and boutonniere, preparation of your attire on the day of the wedding, wedding cake, sparkling wine for up to 10 guests, romantic turn down service and 15% off spa treatments. It also includes free nights for your anniversary stay, as well as a free massage for the bride and groom and a private candle light dinner on the beach . It is well worth it to upgrade your wedding package! For $2799 you’ll also receive a cocktail hour, reception, hair & make-up application, live music and more. You can also totally customize your décor to your liking.
The popular Hard Rock all-inclusive hotel chain offers a free package for up to 32 guests inclusive of a ceremony and setup, a themed wedding cake, bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere, sparkling wine, wedding planner and a complimentary honeymoon package. They also offer a variety of decor packages and upgrades which are visually stunning and create the wow factor without breaking the bank. From blinged out ceremonies to rustic chic, there is something for any type of bride. One of the great benefits of The Hard Rock Resorts is, that depending on how many rooms you book for your guests, you will earn free events such as welcome parties, private cocktail parties and even a 3-course sit down reception or buffet. In addition, guests will receive up to $1,500 in resort credits per room that they can use for the spa, excursions, swimming with the dolphins, room upgrades and at the salon.
Majestic Resorts in Punta Cana, DR have been a favorite amongst vacationers for years. I especially love the new Majestic Mirage but I am also super excited for the chains introduction into the Mexican Caribbean with the Majestic Elegance Playa Mujeres. We have an exclusive savings set up at the hotel for G World Travel clients only. Ask me for details! The new Majestic Elegance has unique venues like the “Sky Terrace” offering dramatic ocean views and a ballroom big enough to host 250 guests. The chain offers a free wedding package if you have guests staying for the week and includes a free room upgrade for the bride and groom, the wedding ceremony setup and decor, wedding cake, florals, champagne and more. If you would like a private reception then you’ll have to upgrade your package. Luckily, it is still within budget for those trying to keep costs down. The hotel is beautiful with several pools running throughout the lush, tropical grounds. Each of their resorts will certainly create a beautiful backdrop for wedding photos!
Royalton Resorts is a fast growing hotel chain offering an all-inclusive stay for its guests in 6 different destinations. No need to dip into your pocket if you’re going with their free wedding package. They have some beautiful event spaces from the beach to ocean view terraces and the architecturally cool wedding gazebo, you can have your pick. The hotel chain also is great for Asian and Indian cultures. What is a wedding without a wedding cake?! Your cake, champagne, flowers and a semi-private dinner is included in the free package. While there are a few different packages you can upgrade to, I find the “Paradise” package to have everything you could want and more. Starting at $3299 your package will not only include your wedding day ceremony and reception but also a bon voyage or rehearsal dinner, solo musician, cocktail party, dinner reception, extra decor and floral touches, couples massage and more! Sounds like an epic time in paradise.
There are 7 Now Resorts in Punta Cana, DR and Mexico. Their newest property is opening at the end of this year and it’s going to be a beauty! The Now Natura has a new vibe for the chain. You’ll feel like you’re in the Mayan Jungle. While the others have a more contemporary design. The new hotel and their existing properties all offer a free package when staying for the week. No need to rush to the airport with late check-out as a perk for the bride and groom. As for the wedding day, you can have your cake and eat it too! Your wedding cake, floral bouquet and boutonniere, champagne and ceremony set up are all included. If you’re looking for a private dinner reception with cocktail hour, upgrade for only $2799 to the “Eternity” package. You’ll even earn free nights toward an anniversary trip. The best value here is the private wedding reception, photographer, floral centerpieces and more.
The moment Finest Resort & Spa opened a few years back it was a hit amongst travelers and couples seeking to take the plunge and get married away from home. It is easy to see why with its modern look which is a new vibe for the area. Finest Playa Mujeres is the cool cat in town with its clean architectural lines and suites with direct pool access and two stories, so when I heard recently they were expanding in the Dominican Republic my heart skipped a beat. So, how is this goodie offering great package deals? Well, by, starting with a free package when booking a 6 night stay in one of their club level rooms! A wedding cake, champagne toast, signature decor, wedding coordinator and even photos are included at no cost! There are several packages including one for only $1500 which includes a private cocktail hour and reception for couples looking to keep the party going.
Last but certainly not least, one of the most popular properties at G World Travel is The Hyatt Ziva and Zilara chains. Whether I have a family traveling for vacation, a couple needing a romantic getaway, and yes, of course, a fabulous destination wedding, these sister properties deliver! The Ziva welcomes all types of guests and the Zilara has a no children policy, sorry kiddos! Whether you’re having an adult-only affair or extending the invite to the kids, the Hyatt all-inclusive chain in Mexico and the Caribbean creates a unforgettable wedding day and hotel stay. Their free wedding package includes a wedding cake, ceremony set-up, decorations, florals and a free private dinner on the beach just for the two of you! Upgrade your package for a small fee and you can make your day extra special with fireworks, personalized menu cards, solo musicians and more! One of my favorite perks is the Hyatt Ziva and Zilara set you up with your own personal wedding site so you can easily make payments and customize your big day right online at your convenience.
So for those looking to have a destination wedding, especially one without the extra hassle and stress, look into the options above. These hotels offer some of the best values out there. Whether you customize the packages to your liking or leave them as they are, it’s a win-win situation, if you ask me. Plus your guests will thank you with their great group rates! Who said destination weddings have to break the (piggy) bank?
