1. Start Early: Ideally, start planning and reserving your destination and venue 12-18 months before the Big Day.

2. Why use a Travel Agent Instead of a Wedding Planner? Travel Agents specialize in logistics from booking flights, hotels, groups (your wedding party and other guests), and activities to navigating local regulations. Your travel agent may even have insights on resorts that offer a free wedding and reception, with a minimum group booking of rooms.

A travel agent will:

• Help you choose the perfect destination and venue based on your style and budget.
• Coordinate group travel and accommodations for the bride and groom, the wedding party, and all the guests.
• Liaise with the on-site coordinators at resorts or venues.
• Offer insider tips on timing, weather, and legal marriage requirements in your destination country.

A great travel agent is your behind-the-scenes organizer, negotiator, and destination expert - often at no extra cost to you (ME)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Planning with a Travel Agent:

• Set your Budget and Guest Count before diving into choosing destinations or venues. Know your budget and headcount. Your travel agent needs this information to recommend the best locations and deals.

4. Picking a Destination and Venue: When deciding on a destination, take into consideration that destinations outside the country will require everybody to have valid passports. Also, consider the time of year and weather at the destination. Based on your preferences, whether it is tropical, mountains, beach, perhaps even a castle, theme, adventure, or off the beaten path, your travel agent will narrow down possible resorts or venues that match your preferences, offer wedding packages, and perhaps even include free coordinators.

5. YAY, You have chosen your Dream Wedding Destination: Time to reserve your special date and travel plans. Your travel agent will block out dates, negotiate group rates, and create a custom booking portal for your guests.

6. Work With the On-Site Wedding Coordinator: Once your travel agent has everything locked in, you will be introduced to your wedding coordinator, who will help you decide on everything, from flowers to cake, menu, photographer, and ceremony set up.

7. Plan the Extras for Before and After the Wedding: Your travel agent will also help you plan activities, excursions, welcome dinners, and farewell brunches for your wedding guests.

8. Tips for a Smooth Experience:

• Stay organized: Keep all of your emails, contracts, travel documents, and guest RSVPs in folders in one place.
• Communicate OFTEN: Stay in touch with both your travel agent and on-site coordinator.
• Obtain necessary documents: Make sure your passport is up to date and valid for at least 6 months beyond completion of travel (requirement for most foreign countries). If visas or proof of vaccination documents are required, make sure to obtain these, ahead of travel as well. Your wedding coordinator will handle the wedding formalities, so make sure to follow up with your coordinator.
• Visit if You Can: If you can, a pre-wedding trip to the destination can help finalize any loose ends and ease nerves. Your travel agent will set this up for you.

Planning a destination wedding without a wedding planner is absolutely doable - especially when you team up with a skilled travel agent. From booking your dream venue to handling your guests' travel needs, your travel agent will help bring your vision to life with less stress and more fun. With the right support, your destination wedding will be an unforgettable, magical, and beautifully orchestrated celebration.

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HAPPY TRAVELS