Joyce Mnguni, Dream Weddings Riviera Maya
REALITY CHECKS w/ destination wedding planner, Joyce! I always say “everyone needs a destination wedding planner”, today I was challenged on that statement. Retraction maybe?
“Brides know when they need a planner...”
*Omi’s Wedding Photos courtesy of Shenko Photography
REALITY CHECKS
From My Destination Wedding Planner!
Q+A, Tips, Advice, Misconceptions,
Do’s, Don’ts & Warnings
Hey Destis + Bridefriends! I’m SO happy to share this interview with DESTIPRO Joyce Mnguni of Dream Weddings Riviera Maya with you!
I FINALLY got my very own Destination Wedding Planner on the show!
Joyce is truly magical and did an AMAZING job with our Desti wedding, but rather than just go on and on about my wedding, we decided to do a REAL DEAL Q+A to make sure that every Desti Bride is prepared to find and work with their planner and also understands the destination wedding planning process as a whole - no matter WHERE in the world you’re planning your wedding.
Joyce has worked with hundreds of couples and has a wealth of destination wedding planning advice to share with us! Prepare to get a glimpse behind the scenes from the perspective of a well-seasoned destination wedding planner!
I dug deep with my Q’s and Joyce was not shy in her A’s...Here are just a few things we discussed…
DESTINATION WEDDING QUESTIONS + TOPICS:
💕How to get what you want from your wedding planner (including crazy requests)!
💕Misconceptions about destination weddings - On-resort + Off-resort!
💕 The great civil vs. symbolic ceremony debate!
💕 Does EVERY couple need a destination wedding planner?
💕How to get married LEGALLY in Riviera Maya, Mexico!
💕Safety concerns in Mexico!
💕Must-knows about all-inclusive resort wedding packages!
💕 What can you do if you can’t afford a destination wedding planner?
💕 How to become a destination wedding planner!
💕so much more!
Soooo…what do ALL brides need to know about destination wedding planners?
Click Play and find out!
I Interviewed My Destination Wedding Planner...Here’s Her Side of The Story…
Enjoy!
WATCH JOYCE’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING JOYCE!
Can’t wait to get you back on the show for MORE destination wedding planning tips!
Joyce’s photos courtesy of @cocostudiobymoni
Joyce Mnguni and her team at Dream Weddings Riviera Maya are absolutely AMAZING!
Joyce handled the planning of our own Desti Wedding Weekend and truly went above and beyond! We were so happy about our decision to choose DWRM! You can reach Joyce at DreamWeddingsRivieraMaya.com and follow her on Instagram @dreamweddingsrivieramaya
Tell her DESTI Omi sent you!
xx, Omi
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
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Desti Lisa's Prep | Santorini, Greece
Part destination wedding, part elopement, all love!
*Photos courtesy of Kapetanakis Studios
How Lisa Prepared For Her Destination Wedding in Santorini, Greece!
DESTI Lisa and her fiancé Ramon planned a romantic part destination wedding / part elopement (a virtual destination wedding, if you will) in Santorini, Greece and Lisa is here to tell us alll about it! If you’re considering (or have dreams of) an elopement - the way they did theirs was pure magic!
This interview was just DAYS BEFORE they were off to their destination and I asked all the questions to cover EXACTLY HOW this couple planned their wedding in Greece!
As a longtime podcast listener, Desti Lisa knew exactly what advice we needed to hear so she spared no detail in this interview! Here are just a few things we discussed:
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
💕How to get married LEGALLY in Santorini, Greece!
💕A GENIUS virtual destination wedding / elopement idea!
💕Finding and working with their destination wedding planner
💕Managing their Greece destination wedding costs and budgeting
💕How to make the most of your destination wedding photography
💕Their backstory + reason for having a destination wedding
💕Great ways to make your family and friends happy with your decision
💕Working together to plan their destination wedding - while living in different countries!
💕Lessons learned so far before the wedding
💕so much more!
Soooo…how do you LEGALLY plan a destination wedding in Santorini, Greece?
...And should you?
Click Play and find out!
Here’s how Lisa planned her destination wedding at the
Andromeda Villas in Santorini, Greece…
Enjoy!
WATCH LISA’S INTERVIEW!
Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to know when Lisa’s POST-Wedding Interview goes live!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
DestiCouple: Lisa + Ramon
Home: Indiana + Canada
Wedding Destination: Santorini, Greece
Wedding Venue: Andromeda Villas | TripAdvisor Reviews for Andromeda Villas
Wedding Date: July 18, 2018
Wedding Budget: $15,000
Engagement Length: 9 months
# of Guests: O!
*technically…The couple planned a destination wedding for 2 (with virtual guests!)
THE DESTIPROS
Wedding Planners: Divine Weddings Santorini
Wedding Photography: Kapetanakis Studios
FUN FACTS:
💕LISA’S FAVORITE PODCAST EPISODES are:
Episode 3 w/ Ivory Perkins when we discussed destination wedding makeup!
Episode 19 w/ HitchSwitch to learn about the name change process!
💕LISA + RAMON were BOTH in Medical School
and in 2 different countries while they planned their destination wedding!
Lisa was in Grenada and Ramon in Canada.
SO HOW DID EVERYTHING GO?!?
STAY TUNED BRIDEFRIEND!
Lisa and I are going to do a follow-up DESTIChat soon to get her update. We’ll be talking about what went right, lessons learned, and everything in between! So don’t forget to Subscribe + drop your questions in the comments below!
Thank You Lisa!
It was so fun getting a peek "behind your veil" of destination wedding planning and we CAN’T WAIT to hear how everything went for you and Ramon!
You’ll always be our Bridefriend Forever!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
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Candice Coppola, Jubilee Events: Caribbean
Candice Coppola of Jubilee Events: Caribbean has been in the game for 10+years…her advice: “It’s like summer camp, for adults!”
*All photos provided courtesy of Candice Coppola & Jubilee Events
Meet Candice Coppola, DestiPro Extraordinaire on Episode 21 of the Bridefriends Podcast!
Candice is THE DEFINITION of a DestiPro - In the destination wedding business for over 10 years, She’s a wedding planner and designer, author, and founder of Jubilee Events and Jubilee Events: Caribbean, renowned event design and planning boutiques.
Clients have hired Candice and her team to design and plan adventures in Paris, Spain, Barbados, Mexico, Costa Rica and throughout the United States.
Her weddings are ridiculously luxurious and drool-worthy...so much that she’s been featured in...well...everything - but to name a few...Martha Stewart Weddings, BRIDES Magazine, Style Me Pretty, PEOPLE, ELLE and ELLE Decor, The New York Times, Glamour, and the list goes on...you name it, Jubilee Events has probably been in it.
AND NOW we can add DESTI® to her press sheet because Candice was more than happy to become a Bridefriend and share her amazing insights and REAL advice with us, to help us understand what works, and what doesn’t when planning a destination wedding!
We discussed:
· How to plan a destination wedding in Barbados
· Tips for multicultural and same-sex couples planning a destination wedding
· Must-haves when choosing your destination wedding planner and vendors
· Important factors to consider when deciding on a destination wedding location
· The best ways to plan a budget-conscious wedding in a luxurious location
· What Candice wishes every client knew about destination weddings BEFORE meeting with her
· The newest destination wedding book out on the market!
· And more!
So how do you plan a destination wedding in Barbados - and really ANYWHERE in the world?!?
Candice shares alll her best knowledge and expertise with us, so Press Play to see what to do!
Enjoy!
Links mentioned:
AppyCouple Wedding Website & App
Co-author BETH LINDSAY CHAPMAN
Key takeaway:
Destination Weddings are like summer camp - for adults!
Contact Candice Coppola:
Instagram @eventjubilee
Facebook /weddingsinbarbados
Twitter @candicecoppola
PURCHASE CANDICE'S NEW BOOK!
The White Dress: Destinations:
The Definitive Guide to Planning the New Destination Wedding
A FEW OF CANDICE'S FAVORITE PHOTOS TO ENJOY...
TO CANDICE:
Thanks so much for being a Bridefriend and sharing so much advice with us! We wish you much luck and LOVE your book, The White Dress: Destinations!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
Subscribe for Instant Notifications!
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SHARING IS CARING!
JAMELLAH | Montego Bay, Jamaica
How Jamellah planned her 78 guest destination wedding at the Royalton Blue Waters in Montego Bay, Jamaica!
*Photos courtesy of Michael Chen Photography
How Jamellah Planned Her Destination Wedding in Montego Bay, Jamaica!
This interview with DESTI Jamellah was EVERYTHING! Jamellah and her husband brought 78 guests to witness their destination wedding at the Royalton Blue Waters Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica and she tells us alll about how they did it together! Jamellah shared so much destination wedding planning advice with us!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
💕Everything before she was on her way to get married including:
💕How they met
💕Her proposal story
💕Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕Picking their date
💕Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕How they picked their destination wedding vendors - makeup, photographer, etc.
💕Her Royalton Blue Waters Resort review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding in Montego Bay, Jamaica?
Click Play and find out how Jamellah planned her destination wedding at the Royalton Blue Waters Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica!
Enjoy!
WATCH JAMELLA’S INTERVIEW!
PART 1
PART 2
DestiCouple: Jamellah + Patrick Owens
Age: Bride, 30 Groom, 33
Hometown: Prince Georges County, MD
Wedding Budget: $15,000
Destination Wedding Date: October 6, 2017
City & Country: Montego Bay, Jamaica
Venue: Royalton Blue Waters Resort, Montego Bay
[TripAdvisor Reviews for Royalton Blue Waters Resort Resort ]
Number of Guests: 78
Bridal Party: 7 Bridesmaids + 7 Groomsmen + 1 Jr. Bridesmaid + 2 Jr. Groomsmen
Photography: Michael Chen Photography
Bride’s Dress: Cherry Blossom Bridal, Washington DC
💕DESTI Note from Bride: Black and Women-owned bridal boutique where they specialize in plus size dresses for women! AMAZING team of stylist!!!
Bride’s Shoes: BLUE by Betsy Johnson
Bride’s Jewelry: Macys
Hair: Loc's Expressions (Mother of the Bride’s salon)
Makeup: Makeup by JodyB
Styling & decor: DIY!
Flowers: DIY!
DJ: 876 Sounds
Cake + Catering: Resort | Royalton Blue Waters Resort, Montego Bay
Groom’s Attire: Men’s Formal Wear Shop in Washington, DC
Groom's Accessories: Men’s Formal Wear Shop in Washington, DC + AMAZON
Bridesmaids’ Attire: SPOSABRIDAL
Groomsmen’s Attire: Men’s Formal Wear Shop in Washington, DC
Want more pics? Jamellah’s Wedding Hash Tag was #OwensLinkUp2017, check it out on Instagram!
Thank You Jamellah!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek "behind your veil" of destination wedding planning in the lovely Montego Bay, Jamaica!
Thanks for Watching + Listening!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
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TRESSA | Cancun, Mexico
You’re not gonna regret it! No truer words have ever been spoken!
*Photos courtesy of Moments That Matter Photography
How Tressa Planned Her Destination Wedding in Cancun, Mexico!
Our 1st VIDEO interview is with this beautiful bride - Tressa - a Cancun, Mexico Desti! Tressa was married at the Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico and traveled w/ her family (including her 2yr old daughter) who lives in Detroit, Michigan and gives us her BEST destination wedding planning advice and tips!
Tressa is a Bridefriend O.G. and we go waaayyy back! Well, we’ve never actually met before this interview...but - she’s a longtime podcast listener and has been super-supporter from the beginning - I’m talking BlackDesti blog beginning! So I am super pumped to be able to share this interview with you all. You will learn something no matter what phase of destination wedding planning you’re in. I asked Tressa how to plan a destination wedding and she spilled all the ☕!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
💕What Bridal Party vs. Bridefriends means to her
💕What made her choose to get married in Mexico?
💕Choosing a destination that they had never been to before - on purpose!
💕An interesting way to send Save the Dates and Invitations
💕Why she decided to plan a destination wedding vs. local wedding
💕Dealing w/ friends and family (a big family!) against the decision to plan a destination wedding
💕Dealing w/ last-minute guest RSVPs
💕Destination Wedding Specific Hair + Makeup tips
💕Shopping for her wedding gown as a plus-size bride
💕Deciding mid-wedding to change her wedding website to AppyCouple
💕How she chose her destination wedding venue
💕Money saving tips
💕How she narrowed down the perfect resort as her destination wedding venue
💕A mini review and her experience @ Moon Palace Resort in Cancun, Mexico
💕so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding in Cancun, Mexico?
Click Play and find out how Tressa planned her destination wedding at the Moon Palace Resort & Spa in Cancun, Mexico!
Enjoy!
WATCH PART 1
Watch Tressa’s interview on DESTITV!
WATCH PART 2
DestiCouple: Tressa + Jonathan Galloway
Tressa’s Wedding Details
Destination Wedding Date: September 2, 2017
City & Country: Cancun, Mexico
Venue: Moon Palace Resort & Spa - TripAdvisor Reviews for Moon Palace Resort
Number of Guests: 36
Number of Bridesmaids/Groomsmen: 6 each (12 total)
Total Budget: Budget originally 10,000 ended up around $12,000
Photography: Moments That Matter Photography
Bride’s Dress: Bombshell Bridal Boutique (St. Clair Shores, MI)
Bride’s Shoes: Badgley Mischka - Style: Carver | Similar Style
Bride’s Jewelry: Random costume jewelry store in Troy, MI
Makeup: LePinkie Club (MUA was a bridesmaid)
Styling & decor: Zuniga (resort's preferred vendor)
Flowers: DIY! Hobby Lobby
DJ: Encore Audio & Visual (resort's preferred vendor)
Paper Invitations + Details: WeddingPassports.com
Cake + Catering: Resort | Moon Palace Resort & Spa Cancun, Mexico
Groom’s Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Groom's Accessories: Macy's
Bridesmaids’ Attire: David's Bridal
“💕Don’t forget to check out Tressa’s podcast - TheRealiTea Show! These ladies are hilarious!”
Groomsmen’s Attire: Men's Wearhouse
Tressa’s podcast - TheRealiTea Show!
DESTI ❤️S ETSY!
Bridesmaids Robes – https://www.etsy.com/shop/GentleSateen
Bride’s Robe – https://www.etsy.com/shop/KatieJamesDesigns
Barefoot Sandal – https://www.etsy.com/shop/BeNelipots
💕#DestiNote from Tressa: “This snagged the hell out of the tulle under my dress and ended up breaking; I didn’t think this through when choosing the style of the barefoot sandal!” GREAT TIP! 💕Make sure you test before the wedding!
Caketopper – https://www.etsy.com/shop/HaymadeShop
Labels for Guest Tumblers – https://www.etsy.com/shop/DavetDesigns
Tumblers – https://www.dollartree.com/
Itineraries - https://www.etsy.com/shop/OneEarDesign
MORE PHOTOS!
Thanks Tressa!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek "behind your veil" of destination wedding planning in the lovely Cancun, Mexico!
We wish you & Jonathan (& baby girl Jordan) the ABSOLUTE BEST!
Thanks for Listening!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
Subscribe for Instant Notifications!
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SHARE!
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!
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!
THESE 8 DESTI Brides Taught Me Soo Much About Destination Wedding Planning!
How Do I Plan A Destination Wedding?
Rashonda
SPREADSHEETS+COMMUNICATION | Episode 1
Shari-Ann
RESEARCH, INTERVIEW, REVIEWS, REFERRALS | Episode 2
Lea
INFORMED GUESTS | Episode 5
Jackie
ASK FOR HELP | Episode 12
Porsha
DON’T BE AFRAID - BE EMPOWERED! | Episode 14
Aiesha
INFUSE YOURSELF INTO PROJECTS | Episode 18
Ericka
MAKE SELF-LOVING DECISIONS | Episode 20
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!
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!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women. ”
SHARE!
Professional Bridesmaid For Hire, Jen Glantz
Always a Bridesmaid...For Hire? A peek behind the veil of destination wedding planning from the mouth of the WORLD’S FIRST professional bridesmaid.
How can you be the VERY BEST Bridesmaid a Bride has even seen?
THE Professional Bridesmaid, Jen Glantz shares her best bridesmaid tips!
WATCH JEN’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
A bit of background: After being asked by 2 friends in one day to be a bridesmaid, Jen decided to put an ad out on Craigslist to offer her services to strangers who may need a professional bridesmaid. Since then she’s been on the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, CNN, Fox News + now HERE with us on the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast! Share this w/ your Bridefriends - anyone involved in your wedding can learn a few things from Jen.
Deeming herself the Wedding Party Whisperer, Jen bridges the gap between Desti 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.
Jen shares her crazy experiences as a Bridesmaid for a ton of brides and shares invaluable bridesmaid tips like:
💕What is a Bridesmaid for Hire + who would need one?
💕How to pick your wedding party members
💕Why some bridesmaids forget to be friends
💕How to stop people from sabotaging your destination wedding
💕How to deal with difficult bridesmaids
💕Preparing for emergencies
💕Traveling tips
💕How to be a great Bridesmaid for a destination wedding
💕and more!
And of course, we get to talk about her hilarious new book, Always a Bridesmaid FOR HIRE!
Enjoy!
THANKS JEN!
Jen - Thank you so very much for sharing the wealth on destination wedding bridal parties!
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
& on Amazon.com
CONTACT JEN GLANTZ!
Always A Bridesmaid For Hire’s Website
SHARE!
Omi's Destination Wedding Week Beauty Recap! - Part 2
Part 2 of the makeup and beauty rundown of as much as we could remember and re-live from my destination wedding weekend! Gems!
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! 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!
IVORY:
Thank you so much for being our Bridefriend and DestiBeautyPro and for just being your awesomely magical self!
MEET IVORY
Instagram @ivoryperkinsbeauty
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.”
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!
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!
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
Instagram @ivoryperkinsbeauty
behind the scenes photos…
Photos courtesy of all our great guests!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“Just wing it...life, eyeliner, everything.”
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!
ERICKA | Riviera Maya, Mexico
“He Thanked Me Later.” A fairytale engagement story and destination wedding experience as a wedding planner!
Photography courtesy of Moni & Adri Photography
Today, we have #DestiChat withDesti Bride Ericka - a Riviera Maya, Mexico Desti!
Ericka was married on June 26, 2017 at Azul Fives Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico aannndddd she just so happens to be a wedding planner so she gives us alllll kinds of great advice in this one - …and I will say that I kinda wish that I would have had this Desti chat with Ericka BEFORE my destination wedding because she really shares things that I NEVER thought about - but she got married AFTER me - so that would’ve been plain impossible - BUT at least I can pass on the love to my Destis and Bridefriends!
In this episode, we discussed:
· Making the decision to have a destination wedding
· Dealing with people who may not be supportive of your decision to have a destination wedding
· Thinking outside the box for ways to save money while planning a destination wedding
· Packing tips for your destination wedding
· Honeymooning considerations when having a destination wedding
· And more!
Ericka’s interview + more photos are below!
Enjoy!
ERICKA’S INTERVIEW!
WATCH ERICKA’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
details…details…details!
Photography courtesy of Moni & Adri Photography
The fairytale proposal!!!
MRS. PORTIS:
Thank you sooo very much for being our Bridefriend and sharing your destination wedding story! We wish you and your family (and coming +1😍) the absolute best!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“Almost any decision is better than no decision at all.”
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!
Anne Mulvihill + Nancy Latarte, Fête in France
Planning Dream Destination Weddings in France since 2006, sharing their secrets since…today.
Did you know that most destination weddings in France are symbolic ceremonies? Neither did I.
Photos courtesy of Fête in France
Sooo many dream of having a destination wedding in Paris, France and THESE ladies have planned HUNDREDS of events in France and have made QUITE a name for themselves in the industry.
Anne Mulvihill and Nancy Latart of the uber-popular Paris boutique event and wedding planning agency, Fête in France want to help you understand everything there is to know about getting married in Paris - make that all of France. So much so that they sat with me for about an hour and let me ask as maaany questions as I could. Clocking hundreds of events, this dynamic duo gives us a peek “behind the veil” of destination wedding planning in France and shares the wealth on everything from avoiding residency requirements and the best/worst wedding months, to choosing vendors and their favorite venues and so much more!
Now, Anne and Nancy may have the most comprehensive Show Notes thus far because they shared so many venues, photos and french traditions - and it’s all below just for you!
Enjoy!
WATCH FÊTE IN FRANCE’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
Anne and Nancy of Fête in France run the most experienced wedding planning agency in Paris and specialize in luxury events all over France for an international clientele.
They have been featured in numerous publications including Martha Stewart Weddings and they have entered DestiLand and agreed to be our DestiPros + Bridefriends for the day and share their BEST tips for destination wedding planning and share some great stories.
FÊTE IN FRANCE INTERVIEW DETAILS
TOPICS:
How to plan a destination wedding in France including the ever-so-popular Paris
Is it important to visit your destination before your wedding date?
What to do if you cannot visit your destination?
The best and worst months to have a wedding in Paris, France
How to get around the residency requirement and have your destination wedding in France
What makes a great destination wedding planner?
Religious ceremony options
Destination wedding planner vs. destination wedding coordinator
Money saving tips
Reasons to love France
Ways to infuse French traditions into your destination wedding
DESTI FACT:
Most destination weddings in France are symbolic ceremonies!
LINKS:
The Red Dress
Photos courtesy of Greg Finck
ANNE & NANCY'S FAVORITE DESTINATION WEDDING VENUES IN FRANCE
Anne's Favorite Venue:
Photos courtesy of Hôtel Le Marois
Nancy's Favorite Venue:
Photos courtesy of Mariage au Pavillon de Musique de la comtesse du BARRY
on Symbolic vs. Civil Ceremonies for destination weddings…
“ When you’re exchanging your vows in front of your friends & family - that’s the moment you marry each other and the rest is just a piece of paper”
A Croquembouche (or Croque-en-bouche) is a French dessert traditionally served at weddings, baptisms, and first communions. They are pastry balls piled into a cone and bound with threads of caramel and occasionally decorated with sparklers. What a treat for your guests!
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AIESHA | Montego Bay, Jamaica
Aiesha is the winner of our DIY Desti Award - hands down!
Today Desti Aiesha gives us advice and shares her experience living in Chicago, IL and planning her destination wedding at Secrets Wild Orchid Resort in Montego Bay, Jamaica - this is another good one! (Who am I kidding? They’re ALL good ones.)
Aiesha completely blew me away with her story. Be ready for laughs, DIY tips, and some great stories and advice - this is another good one! They’re all good ones, but her levels of DIY-dom (is that a word?) are astronomical! and I hope she does the same for you! She gets super real - she talks about the ups, she talks about the downs and she gives some really good tips.
In this episode, we talked about:
💕The perks of having an on-site vs. off-site resort destination wedding
💕Dealing with guests, travel agents and wedding planners before and during the destination wedding weekend.
💕Ways to save money while planning a destination wedding
💕DIY and packing tips for your destination wedding
💕And more!
Enjoy!
WATCH AIESHA’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
LINKS + DETAILS:
Secrets Wild Orchid Montego Bay Resort
Glass Etching (Video explanation)
· THERE’S more!
We are pulling together the photos and spreadsheets and a list of the DestiPros that we mentioned, so hold tight - Aiesha's show Notes are underway!
AIESHA:
Congratulations on your new baby boy! andThank you so much for being our Bridefriend and sharing your experience with us! Your story helped me along my journey and I know it will help others too!
Sending love to you + your family!!!
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“We each are special, we each are unique, we each are these brilliant things. Just allow yourself to be that person.”
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💕AS PROMISED, HERE'S THE ABC "IESHA" VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS MY SINGING + RAPPING PERFORMANCE 👇🏾🤗
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Aimee Monihan, Tropical Occasions + Mountain Occasions
Aimee of Tropical and Mountain Occasions shares 20 years of advice in planning weddings and events in the most beautiful places on the planet.
DestiPro and Bridefriend Aimee, of Tropical and Mountain Occasions, graces us with her 20 years experience in planning incredible Desti weddings and events in the most beautiful places on the planet. Aimee’s enthusiasm and passion for her work can be felt in this interview where she shares her super usable tips no matter what stage of planning you’re in and no matter where you’re planning your Desti Wedding!
Enjoy!
WATCH AIMEE’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
Thanks again for being our DestiPro Aimee!
The Beautiful Aimee Monihan of Tropical Occasions + Mountain Occasions shares her wealth of almost 20 years experience planning Desti weddings and events!
You can reach Aimee at Tropical Occasions & Mountain Occasions
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Quote of the week:
“People will forget what you said,
People will forget what you did,
But people will never forget how you made them feel.”
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30 Days to My Destination Wedding! - THE RUNDOWN
Our founder, Omi is @ 30 days! To celebrate she’s sharing her proposal, engagement, and stories along destination wedding planning journey! Somebody pop a bottle!
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!
Interview w/ Sarah Kline of Time for Travel (my Travel Agent!)
Secrets Maroma Beach (Our Resort!)
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Name Change 101: Destination Wedding Edition w/ HitchSwitch.com
Wondering what it takes to change your name after you get married? We go over it all in Name Change for Dummies/MythBusters style!
WATCH JAKE’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
How to Change Your Name After A Destination Wedding
Changing her name? Changing his name? Hyphenating your last name, changing your middle name, not changing your name, or not sure? This episode is for you!
Jake Wolff, is Co-Founder of HitchSwitch.com and NewPassportPhoto.com joins us to go over the many intricacies of changing your name after marriage. These 2 companies are the name-change-life-saving brainchildren of Jake Wolff and Josh Gelb - two friends and attorneys that felt the need for a streamlined, dummy-proof process following their own marriages, so they made it a reality - a 3 step process to change your name!
This interview came in perfect timing because I was right at the beginning of figuring out how to change my own name, so I dug deep and got specific with my questions, which turned into an impromptu name change Mythbusters session.
Listen in to hear about the easiest way to change your name in any state and find out what you need to know about changing your name before AND after your destination wedding -- that's right - I said before AND after.
In this episode, we discussed:
· The origin of HitchSwitch.com and NewPassportPhoto.com
· The difference between a marriage application, marriage license and marriage certificate
· How to change your name after your wedding
· The processes of changing your first name, middle name, last name, and hyphenated last names
· The different State regulations and requirements to change your name
· How to change your name on your passport after marriage
· How to change your name in the US when you had a legal/civil ceremony for your destination wedding.
· The different processes for changing your name due to marriage, having children, divorce and death and everything else in between
· Can men change their name after marriage?
· How to change your name as a same-sex couple for marriage
· And more!
Things mentioned:
U.S. Department of State - International Travel Info.
(Choose your country and the "Local Laws & Special Circumstances" Section provides marriage, same-sex, religious advisories and so many more details)
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT PROMO CODE
BRIDEFRIENDS for 10 % off
Jake Wolff, is Co-Founder of HitchSwitch.com and NewPassportPhoto.com. These companies are the name-change-life-saving brainchildren of Jake Wolff and Josh Gelb - two friends and attorneys that felt the need for a streamlined, dummy-proof process following their own marriages, so they made it a reality - a 3 step process to change your name!
Listen to Jake’s full-interview with Omi on the Desti Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
Find and follow HitchSwitch on Instagram @hitchswitch and YouTube
and don’t forget to get 10% off your HitchSwitch by using promo code BRIDEFRIENDS
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Desti Porsha's Prep | Paris Engagement + Montego Bay Wedding
Following a ridiculously romantic Parisian engagement, Porsha was married in Montego Bay, Jamaica and gives us the rundown 1-month BEFORE her destination wedding!
All photography courtesy of Pierre Torset - Paris Photographer + Jillian Mitchell Photography - Montego Bay Photographer
How Porsha was ENGAGED in Paris, France + PLANNING Her Destination Wedding in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Following a ridiculously romantic Parisian engagement, Porsha was married in Montego Bay, Jamaica and gives us the rundown during the month BEFORE her Destination Wedding! We talk about everything from venue scouting, budgeting, choosing her vendors, pleasing wedding guests and most importantly - Porsha gives us some positive Desti Empowerment Vibes!
Topics Covered:
💕Her proposal in Paris, France
💕Her 5-day venue scouting tour to find her wedding venue + resort
💕Her favorite resorts + wedding venues in Montego Bay
💕How to choose wedding vendors
💕Great ways to make your guests happy
💕Taking care of YOURSELF as a #DestiBride bride
💕so much more!
Enjoy!
WATCH PORSHA’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
DestiCouple: Porsha + Terry
Porsha’s Pre-Wedding Details
Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to know when Porsha’s POST-Wedding Interview goes live!
Wedding Date: June 24, 2017
Engagement: Paris, France
Wedding Venue: Tryall Club, Montego Bay, Jamaica
Resort: Half-Moon Bay
Photography:
Pierre Torset - Paris Photographer
Jillian Mitchell Photography - Montego Bay Photographer
Florist: Tai Flora
DJ: Eddie - Elite Media
Expected Budget: ~$30-50,000
ADDITIONAL MENTIONS
Porsha went on a 5-day scouting trip to find her wedding venue. Here are her Top 3 Resorts:
Round Hill
Half Moon
Tryall
Quote of the week:
“Can you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be?
”
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Sarah Kline, Time for Travel, Ltd.
Do you need a travel agent for your destination wedding? Yeah, you really do. We triple-dog-dare you to disagree.
“There’s no reason to NOT use a travel agent”
WATCH SARAH’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
You Need A Destination Wedding Travel Agent!
w/ Sarah Kline of Time for Travel
After planning travel for and working with thousands of couples and destination weddings around the world, Sarah Kline of Time for Travel Ltd. is ready to spill the beans. She helped me decode the mystery we know to be called “travel agents” and shares her best advice on destination wedding travel.
I’m very happy to introduce my own personal destination wedding travel agent, Sarah Kline who I originally found in Destination Weddings and Honeymoons Magazine. She’s absolutely amazing and I thought about how awesome it would be to get her on the show to pick her brain and get destination wedding planning advice from the perspective of a well-seasoned destination wedding travel agent -- I can’t wait for her to introduce herself and her company to you so let’s not wait any longer --Let’s get right to it, here’s Sarah Kline of Time for Travel, Ltd.
“If you’re not going all inclusive, stay home!”
DESTINATION WEDDING PLANNING TOPICS :
How do travel agents make money on destination weddings?
The benefits of hiring a destination wedding travel agent
How to choose your travel agent for your destination wedding
How to choose your wedding destination
Choosing an All-inclusive vs. Non-Inclusive Resort for your destination wedding
How to keep costs down for your destination wedding
The hottest up and coming resorts for destination weddings in 2017
How to get guests to make payment deadlines for your destination wedding and stay on track with travel
Different ways to reserve your room blocks
...and SO MUCH more!
THANKS FOR EVERYTHING SARAH!
Can’t wait to get you back on the show for MORE destination wedding planning tips!
Sarah Kline is an absolutely amazing travel agent! We used her for both our own destination wedding AND our honeymoon! You can reach Sarah at TimeforTravelLtd.com and follow her on Instagram @time4trvl_destination_weddings
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Ivory Perkins, Destination Wedding Makeup Artist
You need to know how to prepare for your destination wedding makeup! To Pro?…or not to Pro?…these are your answers.
WATCH IVORY’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
All of my wedding photos are provided courtesy of Shenko Photography
Time for DestiBeauty Chat! I had an amazing time discussing destination wedding makeup with Ivory Perkins of Ivory Perkins Beauty!
Ivory is not only my personal Destination Wedding and Makeup Artist, she is also one of Washington, DC’s preferred Beauty & Bridal Specialists! Earning many certifications from multiple makeup & hair courses across the country and internationally, these days, in addition to making Desti Brides' dreams come true on the biggest day (or weekend) of their life, Ivory's client list includes Cosmopolitan Magazine, Maybelline New York, Cirque du Soleil, BET, Centric TV, USA Today and A&E Networks (and your hostess - BlackDesti) to mention a few.
And today we get a destination wedding beauty primer - I’m telling you now - we’re silly…but serious about our makeup. Let’s get to it!
Destination Wedding Beauty Topics Covered:
How far in advance should you be booking your destination wedding makeup and hair beauty specialist?
What to expect from your destination wedding makeup and hair trial and why it is important.
How to book the popular Instagram and social media makeup and beauty pro you've always wanted.
How to save money and make your bridal makeup budget affordable.
How to communicate with your destination wedding beauty pro to make sure you get what you want.
What to do if you can't afford a professional makeup artist for your destination wedding.
Why does the bride's makeup cost more than the bridesmaids and bridal party?
Makeup tips from beauty counters like Sephora
How to maintain your makeup in different types of weather, combat sweat and protect your makeup for your destination wedding.
Airbrush vs. traditional makeup
How to "get your money's worth" and maximize your services from your beauty pro
DestiGroom - makeup & grooming tips for men.
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
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SHARI-ANN | Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Shari-Ann + Kofi’s tale of trashing the dress, shady videographers and no regrets for their destination wedding in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico - according to Shari-Ann…
*Photos courtesy of Aurora G Photography
So, our Desti Shari-Ann’s family is from Jamaica and her husband Kofi’s family is from Ghana and they decided to have their destination wedding in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico which is on the Western coast of Mexico. I’m so happy that Shari-Ann was willing to open up to us and share the wealth and tell us how she planned and infused their different cultures into their wedding. She also has a cautionary tale of photography that we all need to take note of...so before I spill the beans...here you go!
WATCH/LISTEN TO SHARI-ANN’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
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Quick Details:
DestiCouple: Shari-Ann & Kofi Sasu
Destination Wedding Date: June 25, 2011
City & Country: Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
Venue: Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit
(TripAdvisor Reviews HERE)
Number of Guests: 12
Total Budget: ~$15,000.00
(The original budget was $10,000, but they ended up closer to $15,000)
Listen to find out exactly how Shari-Ann planned their beautiful destination wedding in Riviera Nayarit, Mexico! You can thank us later!
More Photos!
To see the full photo album of Shari-Ann's Destination Wedding,
see their Real Weddings feature in Munaluchi Bridal Magazine.
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
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RASHONDA | Riviera Maya, Mexico
Our VERY FIRST Desti Interview! Today we find out how Real Destination Wedding Couple, Rashonda + Maleke planned their destination wedding in Riviera Maya Mexico! While working full-time…and pregnant!
All Photography courtesy of by Petronella Photography
BEST. INTERVIEW. EVER! Because this is our VERY FIRST Desti Interview!
In today's #DestiBride Interview, we find out how Real Destination Wedding Couple, Rashonda + Maleke planned their destination wedding in Riviera Maya Mexico!
Rashonda was more than willing to share the wealth and tell us how she planned while working her full-time job…and…PREGNANT!
WATCH RASHONDA’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
SEE BELOW for more details on how Rashonda + Maleke planned their destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico!
THANKS FOR WATCHING!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
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Desti:
Rashonda
DestiCouple: Rashonda Ambrose + Maleke Black
Destination Wedding Date: November 19, 2010
City & Country: Riviera Maya, Mexico
Venue: Barcelo Maya
(TripAdvisor Reviews HERE)
Number of Guests: 35-40
Total Budget: ~$16,000.00
Listen to Rashonda's Desti Interview & See the Show Notes Below
for more details on how Rashonda + Maleke planned their destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico!
Rashonda + Maleke's Destination Wedding Vendors
What She Wore
Bridal Gown: Kleinfelds
Price: $2,000 - $4,000
Bride’s Shoes: Pink Paradox-London
Hair & Makeup: Bride with Nickey from TRAX
Listen to Rashonda's interview to find out where this beautiful wedding dress is NOW!
What They Wore
Rashonda's DestiPros...
...and Everything Else you need to know
Venue: Barcelo Maya
Wedding Planner: Bride & Groom together with Barcelo Maya
Photographer: by Petronella Photography
Caterer: Barcelo Maya
Cake: Barcelo Maya
Florist: Barcelo Maya
Entertainment: Local Mariachi Band
Ceremony Programs: Cherish Paperie
more photos!
To see the full photo album of Rashonda + Maleke's Wedding, see their Real Weddings feature in Munaluchi Bridal Magazine.
Thanks Rashonda!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever by giving us a peak behind your veil of destination wedding planning!
And Your family is beautiful!
