Destination wedding packages and prices vary, but many resorts offer options that cover every detail of your special day. These packages cover everything from pre-wedding events to your honeymoon, ensuring a seamless experience. Whether you’re dreaming of a private elopement or a grand celebration with 100 guests, there’s a package tailored to your vision.
Let’s dive into the typical features of all-inclusive destination wedding packages and prices, and highlight important considerations to remember.
NOTE: Every resort brand has its specific wedding packages and pricing; this blog aims to give you a “ballpark” idea of what your wedding package options include and the type of pricing you will discover for each package.
Destination Wedding Packages and Prices: Complimentary Options for 30 Guests
Most destination wedding resorts offer complimentary wedding packages, but you’ll typically need to meet certain conditions to qualify. To qualify for the complimentary package, you typically need to meet specific requirements. This may include booking five rooms or a minimum number of guests for three nights.
To avoid any surprises or disappointments when finalizing your plans, make sure you fully understand the requirements for the complimentary wedding package. Working with a knowledgeable destination wedding travel advisor can help you set up your destination wedding correctly to qualify for the complimentary package.
What is Typically Included in a Complimentary Wedding Package?
For the Ceremony:
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- Outdoor location for the ceremony
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- Minister to perform symbolic ceremony (if required)
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- Complimentary wooden pergola & matching wooden ceremony table
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- Witness (If required and needed)
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- 30 white avant-garde chairs
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- Sparkling wine during the ceremony
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- Basic audio system
For the Reception:
Semi-private dinner reservation for up to 30 guests in one of the resort restaurants, with standard restaurant decor. Please note that the complimentary package won’t include a dance floor or beach set-up.
When Is a Complimentary Destination Wedding Package the Best Choice?
A complimentary wedding package offers you the flexibility to fully customize your wedding. I often recommend this option to my destination wedding clients, especially when other packages included things they didn’t want.
Why pay for something you won’t use?
Exploring Wedding Package Options by Guest Count
1. Destination Wedding Packages and Prices for Up to 24 to 28 Guests
Price Range: $7,600-$24,500
Compared to the above complimentary wedding package, here is an example of an upgraded Destination Wedding Package for up to 24 people that is USD $10,000 and $199 per person for additional guests (staying onsite)
In this example, you can enjoy a quality destination wedding while adding personal touches to make it truly yours. The $10K destination wedding package typically includes essentials like music and photography, which are often must-haves for couples.
While the $10K package offers value, I prefer the complimentary package as a starting point. It offers a solid foundation to build upon, though it’s important to remember that adding extras—such as a DJ or band, enhanced photography, bistro lighting, elaborate table centerpieces, a dance floor, and live music for a wine & cheese hour—will likely push the total cost well beyond $10K.
Comparing Options for Different Group Sizes
Now, let’s explore a deluxe wedding package designed for up to 50 guests.
2. Destination Wedding Packages and Prices For 50-100 Guests
Price Range: $14,000-$30,000
A wedding package for up to 50 guests may include a complimentary night when you celebrate your first anniversary at any resort in the same chain.
Here is a breakdown of what would be included in this example Wedding Package:
This package offers a range of additional features, including a two-hour welcome cocktail party, hair and makeup services, and four hours with a standard DJ. It’s a fantastic option for the right couple. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for those with 40 guests, or for couples who aren’t planning a welcome cocktail party or prefer a live band over a DJ.
Popular FAQs About Destination Wedding Packages and Prices:
Q1: Can I substitute items?
Answer: Most resorts don’t allow substitutions (though it would be great if they did), so I usually recommend that clients choose the wedding package that covers their key needs and add the rest à la carte.
Q2: What if I want a band instead of a DJ? Can I just pay the difference”?
Answer: Some resorts may allow this, but if not, opt for a package that doesn’t include DJ services.
Q3: Can I substitute the flowers?
Answer: Generally, yes, but there will be a price difference that will be higher, not lower.
Q4: Can I bring my own photographer/videographer?
Answer: Many resorts have excellent professional photographers, but if you prefer to bring your own, be prepared for either an external vendor fee or a requirement to book a minimum stay—usually at least three nights at the resort.
Here are a few more tips regarding wedding packages:
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- Packages often include complimentary venues, but additional fees are common. For example, a sky wedding terrace may cost $1,500, and renting a restaurant could be $5,000. Beach wedding venues may also come with extra setup charges. I’m here to help guide you through all these details.
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- If a resort requires you to choose a package, check if you can make changes before signing the contract. Typically, upgrades are allowed, but downgrades are not. Therefore, if a less expensive wedding package is available, consider selecting the more affordable option for your contract.
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- Guest inclusions typically apply to those who book within the wedding group. Guests staying at a different resort or booking outside the group may incur a separate per-person rate. I recommend your guests book within the wedding group to avoid unexpected fees.
REMEMBER: Each resort brand has its own pricing and packages. A successful destination wedding is always planned in these three steps.
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- Choose the perfect destination resort venue for your wedding.
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- Secure your wedding date and time.
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- Select the wedding package that closely matches your desires, avoiding anything unnecessary.
I strongly recommend working with a destination wedding travel agent/advisor who can help you easily choose and plan a destination wedding that matches your dreams, sparing you the stress of handling everything on your own.
We’ve outlined various destination wedding packages to help you find the one that best aligns with your vision and budget. Keep in mind that the ideal package will cover the essentials while allowing you to add personal touches that make your wedding day truly unique. Take your time, ask the right questions, and you’ll be well on your way to planning the wedding of your dreams.
You can use the information in this blog post to help you figure out the best wedding package for your destination wedding, or you can just hit the easy button and schedule a complimentary 30-minute destination wedding strategy session with me.
I can help you figure out the ideal resort, location, and package to create an unforgettable destination wedding experience. Click this link to schedule your complimentary 30-minute strategy session today!