STOP THE DRAMA: Destination Wedding Bridal Party Tips *For the Couple + Bridal Party*

“let’s normalize open communication in bridal parties...”

— HEAD DESTI, OMI ALLEN

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EPISODE 50

Destination Wedding Bridal Party Drama?!?
*Tips for the Couple + Bridal Party Members*

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***QUICK NOTICE:
THIS WEEK I’M DROPPING A PODCAST-ONLY EPISODE (THIS PAGE YOU’RE ON NOW)
ANNND A SPECIAL VIDEO ON THE DESTI TV YOUTUBE CHANNEL!
We’re doubling the fun this week Bridefriends!

HEYYY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!
Today we’re going wayyy back…

Listen along with me in the BlackDesti director’s commentary cut of one of my most favoritest interviews! I’ve noticed in the DESTILOVERS Community that there’s been a recent uptick in bridal party drama and that’s okay - I’ve got exactly what you all need, so let’s have some fun this week.

Professional Bridesmaid and Author, Jen Glantz, shared her experience and best advice as a professional Bridesmaid with us over 5 years ago and I STILL refer new Bridefriends back to listen to her tips! Anyone involved in a destination wedding (couples AND bridal party members) can and will get something wonderful from this episode - especially since I'm adding my own 2 cents as we listen along together!

And if you’re like me and thought not having an official bridal party will save you from all drama…go ahead and hit play too Bridefriend + thank me later ;)

Jen tells us how to make the most of our bridal party experience and shares invaluable tips like how to pick your wedding party members, prepare for emergencies and be a great Bridefriend for your destination wedding.

Deeming herself the Wedding Party Whisperer, Jen bridges the gap between DESTIBRIDE and DESTIBestie by sharing a wealth of advice for brides, grooms, bridesmaids, and anyone else involved in a destination wedding…or any wedding for that matter. And of course, we get to talk about her hilarious new book, Always a Bridesmaid FOR HIRE!

Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:

We chatted about:
💕 What is a Bridesmaid for Hire and who would need one?

💕 Why some bridesmaids forget to be FRIENDS...

💕 How to stop people from sabotaging your destination wedding...

💕 How to deal with difficult bridesmaids and bridefriends for your destination wedding...

💕 How to be a great Bridesmaid for a destination wedding...

💕 And so much more!

Soooo…how can you be THE BEST
Destination Wedding Bridesmaid + Bridefriend?

Click Play and find out…

Enjoy!

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LISTEN ON THE
DESTI GUIDE TO DESTINATION WEDDINGS
PODCAST!

⇣ or right here on this page! ⇣

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: APPY COUPLE

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LINKS MENTIONED:

DESTICOUPLE Melissa + Mahdi’s Wedding Video is LIVE on the DESTI TV YouTube channel this week!!! Watch on DESTI TV here!

Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY

Blog post on BlackDesti.com: HOW TO GET FIRED AS A BRIDESMAID

Omi’s 200-day destination wedding planning countdown diary: DESTI DIARY

History of bridesmaids interesting article here

Omi’s favorite wedding website company: Appy Couple

You can find Jen's book, Always a Bridesmaid For Hire: Stories on Growing Up, Looking for Love, and Walking Down the Aisle for Complete Strangers at Barnes and Noble & on Amazon.com

Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!

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ON @DESTI.LAND

follow me @desti.land

💕

follow me @desti.land 💕

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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR DESTIPARTNER: APPYCOUPLE

DESTIFACT:
We used Appy Couple for our wedding and there’s a complete walkthrough in the DESTILOVERS Community!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
APPYCOUPLE!

APPY COUPLE is a modern wedding website and interactive app that practically builds itself and lets you manage and share important details of your destination wedding with ease and style. And let’s be honest, Desti weddings require more care and details and Appy Couple is the perfect choice if you want to Invite and Impress!

SEE MY APPY COUPLE WEBSITE!

I GAVE A COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH OF MY WEDDING WEBSITE (with tips of course!)IN A RECENT DESTIHOUR in the DESTILOVERS Community too!
find out more information about my favorite wedding website + app for destination weddings and let me know if you have any questions!

xx, Omi

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Thank You Jen!

Your interview is truly a classic!
We’re officially Bridefriends Forever
xx, Omi

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

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SHARE THE LOVE!

STEAL MY DESTIWedding Website!

“the travel page: it was time intensive for us...but this is where the gold is!”

— HEAD DESTIBRIDE, OMI

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EPISODE 47

DESTINATION WEDDING WEBSITES: Everything you need for yours -
w/ template too!

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GET OUT YOUR NOTEPAD BRIDEFRIENDS!

Destination Wedding websites have a much bigger job than the traditional wedding website. INFORMATION IS QUEEN and there’s so much that you can do to make your life and your guests’ lives easier! Let’s dig into what you need and what you don’t!

Q:

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How do you set up your destination wedding website?

A:

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Watch or listen to this episode because I'm sharing every single detail
so you can have the perfect website that will inform your guests and take all the stress off of you!

It's time for a
DESTIWEDDING WEBSITES DEEP-DIVE
Bridefriends!

I get sooo many questions about destination wedding websites and today I'm laying it all out for you!

In this episode, you're getting a deep deep DEEPDIVE into my destination wedding website that I designed with my hubby
and I'm sharing exactly what you need when setting yours up too.
Enjoy this DESTIHOUR REPLAY and let me know if you have any questions. 

*NOTE: Although we used Appy Couple to design our DESTIWedding website (and I highly recommend them) this information applies to any template or company you choose to use.

Soooo…what does your destination wedding website need?

Click Play and find out EXACTLY how I set up my destination website and steal all my ideas!
Enjoy!

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WATCH THE VIDEO!

YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSORS: APPYCOUPLE + MINTED

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SHOW NOTES

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STEAL MY DESTIWEDDING WEBSITE!

omianddouginmexico.appycouple.com

Since it's so old, it's archived so you'll need to log in.
Use these credentials and lemme know if you have any problems!

Email: calmeomi@gmail.com
Code: 68808

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OUR INVITATIONS

taking photos now!

*NOTE: I mentioned a funny story about designing our invitation mini-books together, but I misspoke in saying it was on the BLACKdesti Blog. I started blogging Nov. 8th and we had already sent our invitations out by then. I did however talk about it w/ Che in the “Our Destination Wedding Deepdive” series that we recorded together and in my “Biggest Mistakes” video as well. I’m posting those videos for you below in case you missed them too!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Omi’s favorite wedding website company: Appy Couple

DESTI Budget Spreadsheet Post

Minted
*OUR MINIBOOK CARD INVITATIONS @ MINTED *
We chose and customized the Sweet Confetti Style, but really all of them can be customized.
Drop a comment below if you’d like me to do a tutorial.

The “Omi's BIGGEST Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)” Episode

ON BLACKDESTI.COM : Omi’s 200 Day Destination Wedding Countdown Diary

Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!

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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT…

more about my destination wedding planning journey!

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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: APPY COUPLE

DESTIFACT:
We used Appy Couple for our wedding and there’s a complete walkthrough in the DESTILOVERS Community!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
APPYCOUPLE FOR SPONSORING THE SHOW!

APPY COUPLE is a modern wedding website and interactive app that practically builds itself and lets you manage and share important details of your destination wedding with ease and style. And let’s be honest, Desti weddings require more care and details and Appy Couple is the perfect choice if you want to Invite and Impress!

SEE MY APPY COUPLE WEBSITE!

I GAVE A COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH OF MY WEDDING WEBSITE (with tips of course!)IN A RECENT DESTIHOUR in the DESTILOVERS Community too!
find out more information about my favorite wedding website + app for destination weddings and let me know if you have any questions!

xx, Omi

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Thank You Bridefriends!

I appreciate you hanging with me and being my Bridefriend Forever . It’s always a pleasure to give you a peek
"behind the veil" of destination wedding planning!

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

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SHARE THE LOVE!

100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding - MEET MY HUBBY!

*This episode is sponsored by the DESTILOVERS Community!

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EPISODE 36

100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding - MEET MY HUBBY!

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HEY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!

I’m soooo excited to introduce you all to my husband!!!

This man has patiently awaited this day and when I say he delivered…he deliverT (yes, with the T!)

I knew I wanted to have him on, but had to figure out the perfect episode for him and then it clicked!

Over the years I’ve received many questions about my destination wedding and I’ve answered them here and there, but they’ve never been in one place - and I was certain I didn’t remember EVERY SINGLE DETAIL…

What did we do?

I figured that the absolute best way to answer your questions AND FINALLY introduce you all to my most favorites person in the world was with this episode! I had to have fun with it and y’all know I like my numbers soooo…

Today we’re sharing 100 facts about our destination wedding with y’all in hopes that you can glean as much information for your own destination wedding planning journey - and get to know us better too!

And it was so much fun!

In fact - it was so much fun, we recorded for much longer than 1 episode can hold. Soooo this will be a multi-part episode. How many parts? All I can tell you is to make sure you subscribe and stay tuned because we go deeper…and deeper…and deeper!

I really don’t think we left any detail untouched, BUT if you have any questions or would like me to elaborate more in another video, drop ‘em in the comments!

And while you’re at it, go ahead and hit that SUBSCRIBE to my channel - I’m back doing weekly videos and if this is helpful for you, tap that thumbs up too!

And if you know of any other couples planning a destination wedding that need this, be a Bridefriend and share this post with them! They’ll thank you for sure!

Ready…let’s goooooo…..

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Soooo…what are
100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding?

Click Play and find out! 
Enjoy!

xx, Omi

WATCH PART 1 !

WATCH PART 2!

WATCH PART 3!

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YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

STAY TUNED FOR SHOW NOTES, PHOTOS + DETAILS!

I’ll update this post as so!on ASAP

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SHOUT OUT TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

If you haven’t joined, you should stop missing out NEOW!
xx, Omi

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Thank You Che!

To My Husband: I love you soooo very much and appreciate you taking the time for this episode and agreeing to be an absolute open book about our wedding! Your support means the world to me and makes me feel like I can do anything.
You’re my most favoritest person in the world and I’m looking forward to having you BACK on the show!
I couldn’t have done ANY of this without you My Love!

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RECAP OF OUR 100 DESTINATION WEDDING FACTS:

FYI: I’ll be rewatching this video soon and will update this post with photos + links that we mentioned!
Follow me on IG + join the DESTILOVERS Community to be immediately notified!

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LINKS

*OUR MINIBOOK CARD INVITATIONS @ MINTED *
We chose and customized the Sweet Confetti Style, but really all of them can be customized.
Drop a comment below if you’d like me to do a tutorial.

BUDGETING BLOG POST ON BLACKDESTI BLOG

The “Omi's BIGGEST Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)” Episode

Omi’s Wedding Website + App: AppyCouple

ON BLACKDESTI.COM : Omi’s 200 Day Destination Wedding Countdown Diary

DESTI Budget Spreadsheet Post

MORE COMING Y’ALL!
If there’s anything specific you need, drop a comment or DM me on IG @desti.land and let me know.
We covered a lot!

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So that’s it! 
I hope our facts were helpful for you!

Thanks for hangin’ out with us! 

I’ll see you next week and until then…
I’m wishing you all the best week of your lives and reminding you
to have the time of your life,
planning the best days of your life! 

Bye guys!!!
xx, Omi

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

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SHARE THE LOVE!

Sandals South Coast Virtual Valentine's Event w/ Sarah @ Time for Travel!

“pour a mimosa, get cuddly with your boo + let’s take a trip to Jamaica!”

— Sarah Kline, Time for Travel Ltd.

*This episode is sponsored by TIME FOR TRAVEL

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JOIN US FOR A
Sandals South Coast LIVE CALL
w/ Sarah @ Time for Travel!

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HEY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS! 

We may be staying home for Valentine’s Weekend but we can still have a great time! Let’s go to Sandals South Coast this Valentine’s Weekend with Sarah Kline! 

Sarah’s heading back to the beach Brideriends! And she’ll be giving us live updates every step of the way as she heads to the Sexy Sandals South Coast in White House, Jamaica. Sandals South Coast’s “unspoiled” property is part of what has been called “the uncharted land” of Jamaica and has the Over-The-Water Bungalows and the new Swim-Up Rondoval Suites too! And Sarah’s put together a GREAT event this Valentine’s Weekend!

HERE’S WHAT IT’S LIKE
RIGHT NOW!

💕 How was it traveling there?

💕 How was the new process for COVID-19 testing to return home?

💕 How's the resort?

💕And more!

Enjoy this quick Q+A and if you come up with any other Qs ask away!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Destination Wedding Podcast (@desti.land)

AND YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED! 

Join us for a LIVE Zoom Call
this Saturday, February 13th @ 10am EST!

So pour a mimosa, get cuddly with your boo + let’s take a trip to Jamaica!

Sarah will be joined by the resort sales manager or GM with the beautiful ocean and white sand beach as her backdrop. They will give us updates on the safety protocols that Sandals have implemented and all the goods you need to know!

AND BOOKING INCENTIVES!

If you’re considering this resort for a wedding, honeymoon, or just a romantic trip (you need to, btw)  Guess what! If you join the Zoom call, by clicking the link below, you will immediately qualify for booking incentives!

Here's a sneak peek of just some of the booking incentives that you can get if you join the live event and make a low deposit of $49/pp to secure your next Sandals Vacation with Sarah:

30 Minute Couples Massage

PADI Suba Certification

Catamaran Cruise

That's right!

You can get one of those incentives ONLY with Sarah because of the amazing partnership that she has with Sandals and Beaches Resorts.
Take a look at this beautiful resort! But seeing is believing and I want you to see it with me! 

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JOIN US THIS SATURDAY!

ZOOM CALL DETAILS

Topic: Sandals Southcoast LIVE with Sarah Kline
Time: Feb 13, 2021 10:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

JOIN ZOOM MEETING
https://zoom.us/j/93874055105?pwd=MTc2Q09BdEpaWk1ZOURNRlp4Qmk0Zz09

 Meeting ID: 938 7405 5105
Passcode: sarah

Let’s go to Sandals South Coast!

See you there!

xx, Omi

P.S. let me know you’re going by accepting the invite in the DESTILOVERS Community or on the FB Page and I’ll look out for you! Who knows…we may or may not be working on a giveaway too - wink wink!

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THANKS FOR EVERYTHING SARAH!

Can’t wait to get you back on the show for MORE destination wedding planning and travel tips!

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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: TIME FOR TRAVEL!

TIME FOR TRAVEL is a team of FREE Destination Wedding + Honeymoon Specialists

An AMAZING choice for any Caribbean, Mexico, South Pacific or Hawaii destination wedding or honeymoon, and with over 20 years of experience helping couples fulfill their dreams, Sarah and her team will make your DESTI wedding and honeymoon exactly what you've dreamed of!

Time for Travel handled all of our travel for our destination wedding in Mexico and Honeymoon in Jamaica wayyy back in 2017 and our guests STILL rave about her and have used them for personal vacations since then. I only partner with companies that I truly believe in and I’m proud to have Time for Travel as a sponsor of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

You can reach Sarah and Time for Travel at TimeforTravelLtd.com and follow her on Instagram @time4trvl_destination_weddings

And tell them Your best DESTI Bridefriend Omi sent you and they’ll take EXTRA SPECIAL care of you ;)

xx, Omi

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

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SHARE THE LOVE!

Omi's BIGGEST Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)

*This episode is sponsored by the DESTILOVERS Community!

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EPISODE 34

My BIGGEST Destination Wedding Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)

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HEY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!

Guess what y’all…My destination wedding wasn’t perfect!

SURPRISE!!!!

annnnd… NO wedding - destination wedding or not will be perfect.

Okay, I know that probably sounds crazy to say, but I’m coming on today in this super impromptu episode to share my biggest mistakes with y’all!

I have a DESTIBRIDE interview for you next week with Laura, and I’ve made the game time decision to release her interview for Valentine’s Day Weekend so today it’s just you + me! Let’s have a BlackDesti Chat - it’s been a while!

Okay? Okay! So...

As you know, I share my experiences and wedding photos and tips and all the prettiness and I get a lot of great compliments and comments about our destination wedding and I truly appreciate them all!

And this week on the @DESTI.LAND Instagram page I brought back the HMHU 2021 polls and the questions have been soooo bomb! You all are showing out! And I’m so grateful to have you all in the DESTILOVERS Community, and showing up in the live calls and allll the things. It really means a lot to me to have you all join me, share your experiences and also trust me to help you along your DESTIWedding journeys!

I DO NOT TAKE this lightly Bridefriends! And I’m looking forward to answering alllllll of your questions and getting to know you better!

Btw, if you’re brand new and have no idea what I’m talking about when I say DESTILOVERS - make sure you join! It’s our free Community and is an extension of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings show!

AND this month’s BRIDEFRIEND BRUNCH is tomorrow, so there’s still time to RSVP depending on when you’re here…

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Destination Wedding Podcast (@desti.land)

Anyway… back to my imperfect wedding! Where was I ???

Oh yeah, HMHU - this week there was A LOT of use of the word PERFECT when it came to my wedding and I get messages from DESTIBRIDES here and there talking about how they’re worried their wedding won’t be perfect and there’s a lot of fear and anxiety - especially right now with COVID going on...

SO I told y’all that I’m following my vibes more in 2021 so here I am!

I feel compelled to shift things up and come on with y’all today with a bit of vulnerability because y’all need to understand that mistakes were made. PHOTOS ARE SNAPSHOTS - I know we know this so this is just a reminder.

I started the BlackDesti blog, podcast, YouTube channel, allll of this because I’m on a mission to help as many of you as possible know that it is possible to plan a destination wedding. Sharing my experiences and others is my way of not just showing you how to plan a destination wedding, but more importantly - letting you know that you are not alone and YOU CAN DO THIS BRIDEFRIENDS!

And I never want you to think that any of these weddings - including my own was perfect. Even if we said it was perfect - that means perfect FOR US and yours will be perfect FOR YOU!

Soooo today I’m sharing my biggest destination wedding planning mistakes with y’all in hopes that you can AVOID where possible and feel seen if you’ve done the same!

If you have any questions or would like me to elaborate more in another video, drop ‘em in the comments!

And while you’re at it, go ahead and hit that SUBSCRIBE to my channel - I’m back doing weekly videos and if this is helpful for you, tap that thumbs up too!

And if you know of any other couples planning a destination wedding that need this, be a Bridefriend and share this post with them! They’ll thank you for sure!

Ready…let’s goooooo…..

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Soooo…what were my biggest destination wedding planning mistakes
AND how can you avoid them?

Click Play and find out! 
Enjoy!

xx, Omi

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YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

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SHOUT OUT TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

If you haven’t joined, you should stop missing out NEOW!
xx, Omi

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DISCLAIMER!

Keep in mind that MISTAKES DON’T NECESSARILY MEAN REGRETS either. Sometimes you can make a mistake that actually needed to happen or even works out for the better. For some of these I’m actually glad that they happened - even if I didn’t feel that was at the time. Opportunities for growth, boundaries and conversations and decisions that needed to happen can really come from your mistakes!
I will give that disclaimer.

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RECAP OF MY DESTINATION WEDDING MISTAKES:

FYI: I’ll be rewatching this video on Monday and will update this post with photos + links that I mentioned!
Follow me on IG + join the DESTILOVERS Community to be immediately notified!

1. I WAS TOO HONEST

2. I WAS TOO EMOTIONAL

3. I WASN’T READY FOR PLAN B

4. WE MISSED A CONTRACT DETAIL

5. WE SHOULD’VE PAID CLOSER ATTENTION TO GUEST LIST

6. OUR BUDGET GOT OUT OF CONTROL

7. WE REALLY MISS 1 IMPORTANT PHOTO

8. I PHYSICALLY FORGOT MYSELF

9. I NEGLECTED AN IMPORTANT OUTFIT

10. WE SHOULD’VE PREPPED WELCOME GIFTS

11. I WASN’T FLEXIBLE ENOUGH

12. WE UNDERESTIMATED TIME

13. I OVERPACKED

14. WE DIDN’T MEET ALL VENDORS

15. THE VIBE NEEDED MORE ATTENTION

So that’s it! 
I hope my mistakes were helpful for you! I would never want to deter you from having a destination wedding - so know that wasn’t my intention.

Thanks for hangin’ out with me! 

Again, drop any questions or video ideas in the comments. And while you’re at it introduce yourself gimme that #IMADESTI and let me know when and where you’re getting married! 

I’ll see you next week with DESTIBRIDE Laura’s interview and until then…

I’m wishing you all the best week of your lives and reminding you
to have the time of your life,
planning the best days of your life! 

Bye guys!!!
xx, Omi

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

---

SHARE THE LOVE!

DESTI Guide to Destination Wedding Budgeting!

Hey Destis + Bridefriends!

It’s heeeerrrreeee!!!

The biggest baddest destination wedding planning spreadsheet is officially done! And it’s quite beautiful If I can say so myself!

SEE…

Okay so here goes…With all the craziness going on, I know that money is on your mind…you can’t help it.

So use this destination wedding budget spreadsheet to know exactly where you stand.

And…

DESTIHOUR: MONEY BAG!

And if you missed out on the DESTIHOUR: Money Bag Call, check it out in the DESTILOVERS Community Homepage - I went through budgeting in detail and shared my personal spreadsheet too!

Current DESTILOVERS Members: Find it here!

Future DESTILOVERS Members: Join here for access!

THIS PAGE WILL GROW!

I’ll continue to update this page with more Budgeting Advice, so bookmark it Bridefriend!

As usual, let me know if you have any problems or questions. Email me here or DM me on Instagram here

Happy budgeting!
xx, Omi

NOTICE:

You MUST Read the 1st Tab as soon as this document opens. It contains VERY IMPORTANT information!

GET YOUR DESTI WEDDING SPREADSHEET HERE!

TELL ME WHERE TO SEND YOUR DESTI WEDDING SPREADSHEET

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SHARING IS CARING!

SHOPDESTI IS BACK + I'VE GOT SOMETHING SPECIAL FOR YOU...

Hey Destis + Bridefriends!

I’m declaring this weekend a DESTIWEEKEND! Whyyyy you ask?

ohhh I’m sooo glad you asked!

I announced it in last night’s DESTIHOUR and sent an email to the DESTI∙NATION list this morning, so you may already know this…but if not - I did a thing this morning…

SHOPDESTI IS BACK!

SHOPDESTI IS BACK!

SHOPDESTI IS BAAACK!

And to celebrate this blessed weekend, I’m giving DESTI∙NATION 25% off any purchases over $50 (yes, for real!) and the only catch? This deal only lasts until July 13, 2020 at midnight PST. So check your email! And if you’re not on the list yet - join here now so you don’t miss out.

Not engaged?

No sweat - SHOPDESTI has something for everyone! Don’t believe me? See for yourself!

Happy shopping!
xx, Omi

INTRODUCING: DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!

Hey Destis + Bridefriends!

The past few months have been ABSOLUTELY C R A Y for me and we’ll get into all of that soon enough, but right now it’s announcement time!!!

I sent an email to DESTI∙NATION email list over Valentine’s Day weekend, so you may already know this…but if not - it’s happening!!!

And btw…sign up so you don’t miss out again!

Anywho…I’m SOOO happy to finally have a place where all of my Desti Bridefriends can meet and discuss All Things Desti!

The brand spankin’ new, super secret, but not so secret DESTILOVERS Facebook Community is an extension of the show and is your safe space for sharing and collaboration while planning your destination wedding!

Not on Facebook?

No sweat - I totally get it! Sign up anyway and I’ll send you a special link to a page where you can still participate in our Live Q+A’s!

Here’s what you can also look forward to:

💕LIVE Q+A’s! (1st one beginning 02.20.2020 so don’t miss out!)

💕Episode Discussions!

💕Topic Deepdives!

💕 Weekly Desti Happy Hours!

💕 Special Guests!

💕 Giveaways!

💕And More!

This space will be whatever you Bridefriends make it! We’re a family here, so let me know what you need!

We have A LOT of catching up to do and I’ll be updating you on what’s been going on with me in this week’s live Q+A.

See you in there!
xx, Omi

Tales of a Motherless Destination Wedding

💕This is by far my MOST REQUESTED post, and with good reason. It’s an important topic and it also helps that I added it to my COMING SOON section and then left it sitting there like that last slice of pizza with the least bit of toppings on it...nobody wants to touch that...but you know you do. That was on March 15th, and you haven’t heard a peep from me since. Talk about fear! (more on that later) Adulting has taught me that if you’re avoid something and it’s holding you back, that’s all the more reason to do dat shit! 
SO I’M BACK and this is ohsoimportant and close to my heart. so do dat shit I shall...here goes: 

I knew it was coming, I just didn’t know when...and then...whoop there it was.

“Hi Omi...I noticed in your 200-day journal that you never mention your mom...

Is she alive?...If so, which one is she in your pictures?..."

Eeek! gasp! pearl clutch! 🙀 - all of the feelings

Why? Because, well as you can tell by the title...my mom wasn’t there. 

I knew I wanted to talk about it with you all, make that needed to talk about it, but I didn’t want to be bitchy or ranty because that helps no one. I’m not interested in shitting on my mother and putting that energy out there because, well, I believe it always comes back and I’m not perfect in anyone’s eyes (including my own, more on that later too) and I’d hate a rant post to be done to me. 

💕Side bar: Has anyone ever searched “my mom’s a bitch” on Google? Don’t lie Bridefriend... NO?!? Oh that’s just me? Well…I did it for research and there’s actually some entertaining and informational stuff out there in the interwebs if that’s your vibe.

That google search confirmed my feeling that ranting here would be a waste of energy and has been done. Annnd I’m actually in a great place about it since it’s been almost 4 years since I’ve spoken to my mom and coming up on 3 years since my destination wedding. And I can’t count, the hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in therapy that have been invested in myself over that time. Not a perfect place. Just a great enough place to speak clearly and intelligently on it. 

And my biggest reason for wanting to share this is to highlight allll of the good shit that came out of my experience. That’s why I do what I do! As I always say, 

“I’m learning these lessons the hard way planning my destination wedding, 
so why not share the wealth?" 

Hard way, check! Wealth sharing, currently in progress…

So let’s talk about my takeaways because I’m putting on my wise old Bridefriend veil and  my Big DESTISister heels and she’s feelin’ super cute right now…

Okay here’s the quick and dirty:

My mom didn’t come to my destination wedding.
And I lived. I had the best weekend of my life.
She is alive, she was invited, shit got real, and she didn’t come to my wedding.
And it was the best decision FOR ME. Emphasis on FOR ME.
And did I say that I lived?

And speaking of truth…
This is probably also a great time to make it clear that I am NOT a doctor, therapist or psychologist or mental health professional by any stretch of reality or the imagination. This post is simply my opinions and experiences and although I speak quite definitively of topics related to mental health, this is an opinion and should not be confused for or taken as a diagnosis from a professional.

I’m simply highly opinionated. #therapyrocks! 

So what happened?

I LEARNED A LOT! About myself and life. Life lessons galore! 

Along my motherless destination wedding planning journey, I’ve come across and gone through some phases, principles epiphanies and concepts that have helped me along the way.  I believe something in here will undoubtedly help you no matter where you are in your own journey. 

Some of it is simpler basics, and others will require some deep soul searching in the mirror when your fiancé is away type of reflection. Certain parts could be common knowledge and others will blow your socks right. the fuck. off. You may take only 1 with you and throw the rest away...but then come back 2 years down the road when you’re ready for another. I’ll be here. You may hate me or love me in the end. I’m hoping for the love, because

ALL OF IT IS MEANT TO BE HELPFUL. 

To end this disclaimer, know that this is meant to be support for you with your parent(s)...or really any strained relationships, but I’m keeping this mother centric because...well, titles...but feel free to sub out mom/mother for any other title and do you boo boo!

So let’s jump in!

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My Mom Skipped My Destination Wedding - Here’s What I Learned…ABC Style!

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Anxiety

Anxiety is a bitch and you can’t let her get the best of you.

Destination wedding planning stress is anxiety food. And unchecked anxiety will spin out of control, making you feel like life is out of control. Bitch almost stopped me from writing this post. It took me 8 months to get this to you. But we gotta check her.

How? Gotta name these feelings to treat them. 

Enter Dr. Gloria Willcox’s "The Feelings Wheel". I use mine often and even gave it a special shout out on Day 121 - This is experience speaking.

View fullsize

This is "The Feelings Wheel" by Dr. Gloria Willcox, it helps to identify the root of feelings by tracing back to one of the main emotions in the center of the chart.

Boundaries

via GIPHY

Setting boundaries is necessary. Really fucking hard, but necessary.

Planning a destination wedding naturally forces you to develop your own set of personal boundaries - with your planner, Bridefriends, guests, family, coworkers, strangers, partner - really anyone you come in contact with - especially yourself. And enforcing said boundaries with your mother is probably the hardest job in childbiz. Know that setting new boundaries is healthy and goes a long way in making sure that your wedding planning experience and life happens on your terms.

Codependency

It’s not your job to make other people happy and healthy.

I always thought it was my job to make sure that others were okay. They’re okay, I’m okay. The Lies!

via GIPHY

There’s a word for this: I was codependent.

I learned that I am responsible for my own happiness - and that’s a full-time job in itself. I can’t control others and don’t want the responsibility of managing anyone’s emotions but my own.

This book was a life-changer - I recommend the audiobook...it’s good, pinky swear.

Depression

Depression runs in the family and when it hits, it hits hard.

via @notthelastbreath

I’ve struggled with depression for a large portion of life and planning a destination wedding provides a great distraction. It’s easier to mask pain when you have sooo many other things to give your attention to - until you don’t.

Do moms cause depression? Hmmm...no? Well, maybe. But not intentionally. Epigenetics suggest that family trauma including depression is inherited.

My depression may never go away, but it’s getting easier to identify and attack before the damage settles. If you think you may suffer from depression, don’t play - get help.

Eco-system

You have the power to control and protect your environment.

I’m super selective about what I let inside my life...at times characterized as being closed off or selfish, but best described as Preserving MY ECO-SYSTEM.

MY eco-system is made up of people who respect and value me and my relationship, welcoming honesty and encouraging growth. It’s a physically, financially and emotionally stable household, loving, supportive and positive actions. It’s my safe space. And it’s a sensitive space. I understand that the introduction of unhealthy behavior, relationships, and energies actually threaten its lifecycle - What we surround ourselves with can have dire consequences. Bullshit drama and unloving actions of any kind are not welcome here.

What’s in your eco-system?

Family

A family is a system and any disruption of a system comes with consequences. 

What you’d love to be just between you and your mother will most likely stretch further into the family. But what you are willing to do for your own health and happiness may not be understood or appreciated by your family. Opinions will be shared and alliances forged.

via @desti.land

And something that I hadn’t placed much thought in was also the fact that if I decided to cut ties, that decision would apply additional pressure on siblings - causing them unintentional, but still very real discomfort and frustration. 

Your reasons are your own, but they can affect others and I wouldn’t be a true Bridefriend if I didn’t warn you that you could end up the ostracized one in the end.  It could really go either way.

Gratitude 

There’s a huge difference between gratitude and guilt.

Don’t be ungrateful...ohhh, this one here. 

It was hard to raise you, money was tight, you were a difficult child, she was a single mom, she walked 50 miles barefoot in the snow to go to school - all of it...WE GET IT!

But sacrificing yourself and your future because of the past are costs you shouldn’t budget for. 

That’s not gratitude, that’s guilt - another G word, by the way. 

via @desti.land

Guilt used to manipulate is harmful and is often packaged in a gratitude box because it looks and sounds prettier - but don’t be fooled. 

Get grateful for the current. Your loving partner, the life you’re building and the privilege of being able to plan a destination wedding. Not everyone can do this, so appreciate that shit. That’s gratitude.

Her Side of the Story Doesn’t Matter

You gotta end the unhealthy cycle in dysfunctional relationships.

There are 2 sides to every story and I learned that neither are worth the drama. 

via GIPHY

See, there’s this bitch called the Drama Triangle (aka Karpman Triangle). She has 3 points (because, triangle) - Persecutor, Rescuer, and Victim. These are roles, not people which means that we (people in conflict) can play musical chairs in these roles and power struggle by sliding from one to the next - inflicting pain and taking it back until the cows come home. 

It’s addictive, but so damaging - as addictive things usually are. Cut that shit out.

And yes - pettiness counts!

Insecurity

You are not worthless. And don’t forget it.

Insecurity plagues us all, especially women, and most definitely if your relationship with the one woman whose primary job is to nurture your physical and emotional growth is fractured. 

via @desti.land

Insecurity latches on to as many life events as possible, always sure to whisper sweet horribilities in your ear…

I mean, if my own mother doesn’t see the value in me and is willing to not be in my life - how worthless am I? Turns out, not worthless at all. I just had to remind myself and seek out assistance from my bomb ass support system.

Self-confidence doesn't just happen. It takes work. Every. Single. Day.

Jealousy and other Toxic Mother/Daughter Behaviors

Mothers can be toxic too.

I’m sure this will rub someone the wrong way but I’m saying it anyway. Life happens to people. Moms are people. And as it turns out, mother/daughter relationships are susceptible to toxic behaviors and patterns.

via GIPHY

Like mothers who are:

1. Dismissive, 

2. Controlling, 

3. Unavailable/Abandoners, 

4. Enmeshed/Vicarious, 

5. Combative, 

6. Unreliable, 

7. Self-involved/Narcissists, and 

8. Role-reversed

Mothers are human and imperfect creatures - WE ALL ARE. Refusing to acknowledge this fact does us all a disservice. This is just reality and experience of many children in this world.

Know that NOTHING is permanent 

Your destination wedding is just an event. 

via @desti.land

It’s the most gloriously amazingly best thing to ever happen to you right now, but it’s still just an event. It’s not a marker for the end of the world and anyone - including your mother missing your destination wedding doesn’t mean that you’ll NEVER see/speak to/reconnect/reconcile in the future. Just as it doesn’t mean you’ll be lifelong BFFs with every guest.

Think of it as a snapshot in time.

And coming up on my 3rd wedding anniversary, I can tell you that many more snapshots are in store for you.

So be open - not to bullshit...fuck the bullshit, and fuck the Oreos too cuz #weddinggowngoals… but be open to life shifting and growth.

Because nothing, nothing, NOTHING is permanent - unless you want it to be.

Love Languages

What’s love to you may not translate as love to me.

In a random lightbulb moment (don’t we all have those?), I realized that if we all have LOVE LANGUAGES that express how we give and receive love, then it could be useful if applied to all relationships, including that of me + mom. 

That lightbulb shined a tad too late for me, but maybe it could help you. 

Take the 5 Love Languages Quiz with your spouse and send it to your Bridefriends and key family members too.

My Love Languages are Quality Time and Receiving Gifts. Emphasis on Quality Time - what are yours?

Mortality 

We don’t sell ourselves short because people might die.

via GIPHY

What if your mom dies and you regret not having her in your wedding?

Here’s your rebuttal: “What if I die and my mother regrets never being the mother that I needed her to be? What if I die a miserable child that never could choose my own health and happiness because of my mother? What if I die always wishing I could’ve had my dream destination wedding, but didn’t because of my mother’s selfish hang ups?”
Need I go on? Because I will.  

BOTTOM LINE: We’re focusing on life right now. Agreed Bridefriend?

New New

You don’t HAVE TO do the work, you GET TO do the work

via @desti.land

Desti weddings provide a seemingly never-ending to-do list. It’s all on you and if we let ourselves, we can go down a rabbit hole of negativity. But don’t forget that we’re working for The Great Life!

On Day 23, I learned the importance of focusing on what is gained instead of lost - New Life, New Goals, New Priorities and changed my language. 

It’s about the New New baby!

Opportunity 

You can’t make people do the right thing. But you CAN give them the opportunity to do the right thing. 

via @desti.land

I am NOT saying that everyone deserves a shot (or second shot), because I’m a respecter of boundaries (see above) and I also know there are levels to the toxic mother/daughter relationship (see above again), but don’t sleep on the power of opportunity. 

• You never know how things will work out. 

• If it goes well, great! 

• If it goes bad, at least you can say that you tried. 

• And sometimes you need that last straw situation to provide a painful comfort in knowing that you did your best.

Preparation 

You must prepare yourself for what can go wrong.

You can bet your sweetDESTIAss that I was worried about how I’d feel on my wedding day. So I prepped my ass OFF.

It’s better to be proactive than reactive so, instead of avoiding, attack it:

via @desti.land

• See a professional

• Read books

• Take notes

• Roleplay with your hubby or a Bridefriend

• And prepare for questions

I was ready for the questions...all but the catalyst for this post. I wasn’t ready for that one. But I’m working through it now and sharing it with you so - progress! (another P word. I’m on a roll here.)

Annnd you’re reading this post, so you’re already taking steps in the right direction. Right on my sistah!

Quality Relationships

Surrounding yourself with quality relationships is a game-changer. 

When you do, something funny happens...

the more you’re accustomed to people treating you with respect and valuing you as a person, the harder it gets to accept anything less. Then you get the “oh you think you’re too good for us” or “you forgot where you came from” bullshit. 

To that, I say, Yup! 

I know I deserve to be treated with respect and refuse to be a part of YOUR drama and bad behavior because guess what: I know what quality relationships look and feel like. 

Maybe if they knew better they’d do better too.

Reality Checks

Keeping it real with yourself is not optional.

When life is good, your glasses get rosy. All is well in the world, nothing can go wrong, people are perfect and your destination wedding is the center of the universe. Sorry Desti, time for a reality check!

via GIPHY

SNAP OUT OF IT.

What is your life like? What is their life like? And who are people...reeeally? 

People are gonna be who they are and the fact that you’re planning a destination wedding will not make a zebra change its stripes.

When you get real, you gain clarity. And with clarity comes confidence...and fewer surprises.

Sentimental

I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t miss my mom 

because I did...and at times, I still do. Random memories pop her into my mind, milestones pass and Mother’s Day happens every fucking year. Hell, I chose a wedding gown that I KNOW my mom would’ve loved. 

via @destiland

So its true. 

I DO get sad that I don’t have the relationship I wish I had and think I deserve - I’m human and sensitive about my shit.

Does that make me throw everything else I value out the window? Nope, it just means that sometimes I get sentimental.

Therapy

Therapy is hard work, but oh so worth it.

Add a therapist to your destination wedding team...and then can keep it going. I’ve had mine for years and she was incredibly helpful in my destination wedding countdown days. I couldn’t imagine going through these times without her - it’d be...ugly. 

via @desti.land

I know it’s easier to make up excuses to not go to therapy than to actually put in the work. But taking the time to heal ourselves of emotional and mental trauma is the best thing we can spend our energy on.

I read somewhere that people in therapy often go to therapy to deal with the people in their lives who won’t go to therapy.

I'll just leave that there.

Unconditional Love 

Unconditional love doesn’t hurt - it feels great.

via @desti.land

Learning that it’s okay to express my feelings, have my wants and needs, enforce boundaries, make mistakes or just plain disagree with a loved one - and still be loved, respected and supported was an amazing gift.
A hard to receive and remember I own at times kind of gift, but I’m lucky to have that problem AND a spouse that’s willing to keep reminding me that it’s mine whenever I forget.

And I now understand how to appreciate someone despite (and sometimes because of) their flaws, mistakes, or bad ideas, and to judge individuals solely based on how they treat me, not based on how I benefit from them. 

Mutual empathy and support just because of who I am?!? A girl can get used to this.

Venting 

If you gotta blow off steam, do it responsibly.

via @desti.land

All Bridefriends are not created equal so watch out with this one and choose your ventee carefully.
Make sure they:

• Are the right person for this issue, 

• Have your best interest at heart,

• Will keep your conversation private,

• Are in a good space to listen to you,

• And understand what you need - do you need a fixer or listener?

And PUH-LEASE don’t text vent...we don’t drink and we drive and don’t vent text either. Trust me on this one.

Wedding

The wedding will be here before you know it!

The clock on the wedding planning countdown seems long, but it ticks quickly! 

via blackdesti.com

Make enjoyment your mission because this wedding of yours is special and you’re not getting another one (unless your Jackie Christie) so enjoy this time and bask in all your DESTI wedded glory! 

• Journal like I did (privately works too), 

• Talk to everyone about it, 

• Celebrate your milestones along the way,

• And try to make the hard parts fun too. 

Your wedding will be filled with supportive faces - so the great time is there for you if you want it. Shift your focus on the wedded endgoal which is what? 
Say it with me:

TO HAVE THE TIME OF YOUR LIFE, PLANNING THE BEST DAYS OF YOUR LIFE!

Xerox

Don’t forget where you came from.

via @Amazon!

Okay so this one was tricky - I needed an X word because I’ve made it so far! Stick with me here…it makes sense. 

Remembering your past provides an opportunity to memorialize your growth and also, pain. And what’s great for memory preservation? Xerox copies!  YAYYY!

As They say,  Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. George Santayana, poet + philosopher is They.

So keep a physical or mental Xerox memory of WHY you are where you are. And anytime you’re quizzed, judged or waver about your decision you can literally or figuratively go back to your file - more magic.

You Matter

Two Words: You Matter

My mantra!
I share this with everyone in the middle of difficult decisions especially my Desti Brides because balancing what other people want/need/think, with what do YOU want/need/think is no easy feat.

via GIPHY

You gotta put your oxygen mask on first so if there comes a time to choose sides, choose yourself. And you know who else will be on your side? Your spouse. And if you need a reminder, hit me up too! I’m here for the You Matter Chatter all day.

ZERO TOLERANCE

We all need non-negotiables!

A wedding (or life) without non-negotiables is the Wild Wild West. There’s confusion and chaos and thennn when the crazy stuff starts to pop off and everyone is surprised at your flip out - you can only be mad at yourself.  

via GIPHY

We discussed boundaries, but there are levels and non-negotiable boundaries are where the gold is.

With boundaries, you have wood and chainlink fences, barbed wire, glass panels and brick walls...Or think about it big bad wolf style - you get my point. The non-negotiables are your brick walls...the lines that cannot be crossed. Don’t make me go on here, I’m running out of words. Just nod so I know you’re with me.

Okay, great.

Decide what you ABSOLUTELY will not allow, communicate it to all interested parties and then make it clear that you’re instituting a zero-tolerance policy. And enforce said policy. 

I can’t do this one for you, well I can’t do any of this for you...wellll maybe a few things, but I don’t know how happy you’ll be cuz I’m about to call myself a bitch…so, yeah.

BONUS! Because 27 is better than 26.

The bond needs to match the title.

via Shenko Photography

In the wise words of the DESTIBeauty Pro who happens to also be my awesomesauce Bridefriend, Ivory Perkins, “The bond needs to match the title.”

Look: All mother/daughter relationships are not created equal. Crazy idea, I know, but we’ve been over this.  For many kids, the idea of being estranged from their mother is equivalent to capital punishment or death by acid drip.

But titles are earned.

And that goes for both mother and daughter. If a person isn’t honoring their own title, then why would I? Just because you have a title, it doesn’t mean you must be treated with a blind level or honor and respect, especially when you’re not honoring your own damn title. That’s a dictatorship.

And my life isn’t a dictatorship - or maybe it is, but I’m the Bitch. Okay, wait... this can get sticky, let me get back to my point:

A mutual bond and respect for titles is in order. Plain and simple.

NOW I KNOW MY ABC’S!

Learning to be there for myself is the best gift I could have earned and I never would have thought that this would happen to me. In all of this, I went through a hell of a lot of self-discovery and most importantly, I’ve learned to love and fight for the woman that I love - Omi. 

Do I love my mother? Absolutely.
Do I think she loves me? If I’m being honest - it depends on which day you’re asking me. My mom could think she loves me, or maybe she just loves me in her own way, or it’s even possible that she hates me. I honestly don’t know and may never know.

But that’s the point of this entire post, it doesn’t matter how she feels about me. What does matter is how I feel about myself. 

WHAT I DO KNOW is that I’m a Smart, Complex, Beautiful, Sensitive, Genuinely Loving and Phenomenal Woman. (RIP Maya Angelou) Every day I gain a clearer understanding of who I am and what I stand for and I look forward to finding out more and more about myself every day. 

Although I didn’t have my mother with me at my destination wedding, I know that this is what I needed. It broke me down and pushed me to build myself up in ways that I never could have imagined. I came out a harder, better, faster stronger woman on the other side. 

What I also know is that I have certain needs that I wouldn’t say she’s not capable of...I’d just say she’s not ready to take them on right now...And I’m okay with that. 

It doesn’t mean that I’m not good enough, not worthy of love, or a bad person...it just means my mom didn’t come to my destination wedding.

I lived to talk about it, and so will you. 

Destination wedding, check! Self-discovery + love project... still in progress. 

xx,
Omi

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💕Hey Destis + Bridefriends!

Hope you enjoyed this post!
If you did, please let me know in the comments below 👇🏾
and share it with anyone who you think needs this.
Sharing is caring!
More feelings posts are coming soon!

3 Years of DESTI!

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WHAT TO EXPECT IN THE NEW DESTILAND!

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🍾 Time to celebrate! Listen on Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube

Links mentioned:

DESTI on Instagram @desti.land

Help Me Help You IG Story on @desti.land - VOTE NOW!

Omi’s 200 Day Journal: Day 200!

The much awaited Mom Skipped My Destination Wedding post

The fabulous DESTI∙NATION Email List

Past ASKADESTI LIVE Q+A’s - more coming soon!

1st #ASKADESTI Letters post: Yay or Nay to Pre-Wedding Events?

💕 And I’m finishing up a few things but these are links coming too ya’'ll!

NEW Super Secret DESTI LOVERS Facebook Group

Key takeaways: 

November 8, 2019 is DESTI’s 3rd Anniversary!

NEW DESTI EVERYTHANG!!!

Join everywhere and see what’s coming up!

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Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

SUBSCRIBE for Instant Notifications!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube

15 Things to NEVER Forget While Planning Your DESTI Wedding!

EPISODE 13

Let's have BlackDesti Chat and dig into 15 (out of a zillion) things I learned while planning my own destination wedding! DestiChat is always the best...We get personal, but that's what we're here for damn it! 

💕btw…this is Episode 13 of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

Be sure to listen to my fulllll breakdown! The quickie list is below.

WATCH ON DESTITV!

YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!

🎙Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

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Here are 15 Things to NEVER Forget While Planning Your DESTI Wedding:

#1 Have 2 Dates on your Radar!
#2 Lie about your Wedding Date!
#3 Get a wedding planner!
#4 Don’t forget the details
#5 Forget the details on your wedding day!
#6 Have Plan B’s!
#7 Consider your period!
#8 Think about your guest’s experience!
#9 Ideas for guest welcome packages!
#10 Packing and traveling with fragile items!
#11 Don’t overpack!
#12 Bring Emergency Money!
#13 Think about YOUR experience!
#14 If anyone says you can’t/shouldn’t do something as a Desti - ignore them!
#15 Take Help! Ask for it AND accept it if offered!

BONUS

🙌🏾 Bring your hair/makeup artist if you can

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Omi💕Destination Wedding Slayer (@desti.land)

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Download your tips to keep them handy!

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Our LIGHTING AND PAPEL PICADO as Referenced in Episode 13!

Read the Full Blog Post

View fullsize

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Our Custom Designed Destination Wedding Guest Welcome Boxes as Referenced in Episode 13!

Read the Full Blog Post

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Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!

Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube

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SHARE THE LOVE!

I Interviewed 8 Other Destination Brides - Here’s What I Learned…

I asked each bride how to plan a destination wedding and they delivert! - with a t!

To kick off the NEW SEASON, I needed to first - reflect on my favorite destination wedding planning lessons learned from each Desti Bride that I had the pleasure of interviewing in Season 1 of the DESTI (formerly Bridefriends’) Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!  

So I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing quite a few Destis and the interviews will continue through Season 2 and beyond, but the RELEASED episodes were those of 8 #DESTIBride trailblazers by the names of Rashonda, Shari-Ann, Lea, Chevita, Jackie, Porsha, Aiesha, and Ericka. I was able to chat with these ladies in pretty much every stage of my planning my destination wedding - early stages, in the middle, right before and even after so I’ve absorbed their advice from different perspectives...

Soooo…I thought it’d be fun and hopefully helpful in the process to share my favorite tip from each of them.

Here are my most favoritest destination wedding planning tips from each DestiBride…

Enjoy!

WATCH THE FULL VIDEO ON DESTITV!

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THESE 8 DESTI Brides Taught Me Soo Much About Destination Wedding Planning!

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How Do I Plan A Destination Wedding?

Rashonda

SPREADSHEETS+COMMUNICATION | Episode 1

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Shari-Ann

RESEARCH, INTERVIEW, REVIEWS, REFERRALS | Episode 2

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Lea

INFORMED GUESTS | Episode 5

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Chevita

A DRESS (OR OUTFIT) THAT YOU LOVE

Episode 9 - Pt.1 | Episode 10 - Pt.2

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Jackie

ASK FOR HELP | Episode 12

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Porsha

DON’T BE AFRAID - BE EMPOWERED! | Episode 14

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Aiesha

INFUSE YOURSELF INTO PROJECTS | Episode 18

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Ericka

MAKE SELF-LOVING DECISIONS | Episode 20

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The Formula

These Destis of Season 1 provided the ultimate formula for a successful and happy destination wedding planning experience…

ORGANIZATION AND COMMUNICATION + THOROUGH RESEARCH + INFORMED GUESTS + A DRESS [OR OUTFIT] THAT YOU LOVE + ASKING FOR HELP + BEING FEARLESS AND EMPOWERED + INFUSING YOURSELF INTO PROJECTS + MAKING SELF-LOVING DECISIONS …

That’s all you need to pull off a successful and stress-free destination wedding!

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TO MY DESTIS OF SEASON 1:

I COULDN'T HAVE DONE IT WITHOUT YOU!!!

I appreciate you being my Initial Bridefriends and for helping not only me plan my own destination wedding, but you’ll forever be able to help countless others through your open and honest interviews as well.

I am so grateful for you!

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Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women. ”

— MADELEINE ALBRIGHT, 1ST FEMALE US SECRETARY OF STATE

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SHARE!

Omi's Destination Wedding Week Beauty Recap! - Part 2

All of my wedding photos are provided courtesy of Shenko Photography

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What went RIGHT and what went WRONG for my destination wedding weekend?

We go through it ALL in my #DestiBeauty chat w/ Ivory Perkins - who I hired to come along to Mexico with me to do my makeup and hair for my wedding weekend! In Episode 3, we chatted BEFORE my wedding, and then, of course, I got married and we ended up with plenty more to share, so this is our conversation that we had AFTER everything.

It’s a rundown of as much as we could remember and re-live and there are some gems in there for sure for you! This is Part 1 and here we share the wealth on everything including:

💕What you should look for and warning signs when interviewing your Desti Beauty Pro for hair + makeup for your destination wedding

 💕What to do if you can’t bring a professional makeup artist or hairstylist with you to your wedding destination

💕Day-of tips for your destination wedding + how to channel your energy

 · And more!

Enjoy!

💕FIND TO EPISODE 16 - PART 1 FIRST!

IVORY:
Thank you so much for being our Bridefriend and DestiBeautyPro and for just being your awesomely magical self! 

MEET IVORY

IvoryPerkinsBeauty.com

Instagram @ivoryperkinsbeauty

 LISTEN TO OUR 1ST INTERVIEW ON EPISODE 3

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“Ideas can come from anywhere and at any time. The problem with making mental notes is that the ink fades very rapidly.”

— ROLF SMITH, AUTHOR

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Thanks for Listening!

Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!

SUBSCRIBE FOR INSTANT NOTIFICATIONS!

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Omi's Destination Wedding Week Beauty Recap! - Part 1

Strolling down destination wedding hair and makeup memory lane w/ Beauty Pro, Ivory Perkins…Back to Mexico we go!

All of my wedding photos are provided courtesy of Shenko Photography

What went RIGHT and what went WRONG for my destination wedding weekend?

We go through it ALL in my #DestiBeauty chat w/ Ivory Perkins - who I hired to come along to Mexico with me to do my makeup and hair for my wedding weekend! We have plenty to share, so this is our conversation that we had AFTER everything. It’s a rundown of as much as we could remember and re-live and there are some gems in there for sure for you! This is Part 1 and here we share the wealth on everything including:

💕Roadblocks encountered before and during my destination wedding

💕What we did well, what could have been improved, what was expected etc. during my destination wedding weekend

💕Getting the most out of your wedding photos

💕Prepping your partner and Bridefriends

💕The Different Types of Makeup + Beauty Professionals and how to pick the right one for you

💕and more!

And just like episode 3, we are silly + chatty Bridefriends for real, so THAT’s why I decided to split it into 2 episodes. It’s a lot of information, so I hope you enjoy it!

WATCH PT. 1 ON DESTITV!

IVORY:
Thank you so much for being our Bridefriend and DestiBeautyPro and for just being your awesomely magical self! 

MEET IVORY

IvoryPerkinsBeauty.com

Instagram @ivoryperkinsbeauty

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behind the scenes photos…

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Photos courtesy of all our great guests!

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

“Just wing it...life, eyeliner, everything.”

— UNKNOWN

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Thanks for Listening!

Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!

Subscribe for Instant Notifications!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube

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SHARE!

30 Days to My Destination Wedding! - THE RUNDOWN

WATCH MY FULL VIDEO ON DESTITV!

DestiChat w/ BlackDesti:

30 Days to My Destination Wedding!
Proposal, Engagement, and the Beginning of My Desti Planning Journey

In this episode, I’m feeling all warm and fuzzy since my Desti wedding is in less than 30 days, so we have  1-on-1 Desti Chat with me...yours truly...your hostess, Omi aka, BlackDesti! I share how I met my amazing fiancé, the beginning of our destination wedding planning journey, give a couple of tips and celebrate 30 days!

Links as promised!

Tripadvisor

Interview w/ Sarah Kline of Time for Travel (my Travel Agent!)

Secrets Maroma Beach (Our Resort!)

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Thanks for Listening!

Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!

Subscribe for Instant Notifications!

Apple Podcasts  |  Google Play  |  Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube

SHARE!