Ultimate Honeymoon Planning Guide: 8 Things You Need to Know for the Perfect Honeymoon

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Congratulations on your engagement! You found The One, got engaged, and are in the midst of planning your magical wedding & honeymoon. YAY!

Many couples don’t know all the ins and outs of planning a great honeymoon! If you’re like most people, you probably have this idea, that you’ll just find a resort somewhere in a beautiful location, book it, get married, and head off to honeymoon bliss! But, as you start planning your honeymoon, it can be stressful and overwhelming trying to plan a honeymoon that gives you EXACTLY what you want! There is a lot of planning that comes into play to make sure you have a honeymoon full of relaxation & romance, instead of disappointment and frustration. There’s so much to consider, from which destination to choose, the best resort to stay at, as well as choosing an air itinerary that won’t have you checking in late at night, losing the entire first day of your honeymoon to travel!

This honeymoon planning guide is exactly what you need to have a honeymoon that will truly be fabulous! These 8 steps will help you put all of the pieces together for a relaxing and pampering honeymoon in paradise.

Ultimate Honeymoon Planning Guide: 8 Things You Need to Know for the Perfect Honeymoon

Ok, so let’s jump into these six honeymoon essentials!

1. Create a “Honeymoon Wish List”

Before you do any honeymoon planning, you and your future spouse need to
take some time to make a list together of what you both are hoping to get out of
your honeymoon. I call it a “honeymoon wishlist” Is gourmet food important to
you, do you prefer ala cart vs. buffet restaurants? Do you care more about
having a stunning honeymoon suite, or are you ok with the standard room? Are
you both wanting a beautiful long stretch of swimmable beach, or are pools
more important to you? What type of excursions would you like to enjoy? You
will want to have at least some of these settled before you start researching
destinations and resorts.

2. Don’t Base Your Decisions Solely on Recommendations

Recommendations are great, but you have to remember that you are a completely different couple than they are. What is great for one couple, may not be great for you! Your honeymoon is pretty important, you don’t want to take a chance on having an underwhelming or poor experience. It’s fine to take a recommendation, but use it as a starting point, not your end point. And PLEASE, don’t go to Trip Advisor until you’ve narrowed your selection of honeymoon resorts down to two or three options!

3. Do This Instead

Remember that list I told you to create in point number 1? Once you have that
list made, you’ll want to start thinking about past travel experiences, both good
and bad… What did you like or love about a trip you took, or what did you dislike
or hate, about a past vacation or getaway? Add these to your “honeymoon wish
list”. Now you will be ready to move on to point number 4.

4. Make a List of Potential Honeymoon Destinations

Now it’s time to start making a list of potential honeymoon destinations! Use
your honeymoon wish list to help you narrow down destinations that offer what
is on your list, then make a list of potential honeymoon resorts.

5. Research Possible Honeymoon Resorts in Your Targeted Destinations

Once you have a couple of honeymoon locations chosen, then it’s time to figure out which resort to have your ceremony and host your group. One of the most effective ways to choose a wedding resort & venue is to visit it first before you decide. In fact, many resorts offer special “wedding visit” packages to encourage you to visit their resort hoping you will choose them for your destination wedding.

6. Get a New Email Exclusively for Wedding Related Conversations

This is a great way to stay organized and not miss any type of important communication about your honeymoon. I always suggest that you create a special email address exclusively for your wedding & honeymoon. This way all of your wedding correspondence & conversations will be in one spot! Believe me, this will save you so much time and probably money in the end. The last thing you want is to miss a confirmation email that your honeymoon resort suite is almost sold out, booking because it was sandwiched between emails from Beach Body & your Grandmother’s cataract surgery!

7. Consider Getting a New Credit Card that Earns Miles

As long as you are going to be charging your wedding expenses, you might as well earn some reward miles to help you pay for your honeymoon, or at least pay you back for booking your honeymoon. This is a great time to open a new credit card that will earn you miles or points for future or even current travel. You could actually get a discount on your airfare if you play your credit cards right!

8. Consider Working with a Honeymoon Specialist

If you want to ensure that your honeymoon won’t be a disappointment, as well as, reduce the stress and frustration you may feel when trying to plan this all on your own, it may be worth it to invest in hiring a honeymoon planner. A properly trained honeymoon specialist knows how to take your honeymoon wishlist, and quickly narrow down destinations & honeymoon resorts, that will be perfect for both of you! They will also make sure that you receive ALL the honeymoon amenities & perks you will qualify for as well.

At the end of the day, you want your honeymoon to be your reward after
all of the stress, and time you spent planning your wedding. It should be a fabulous time of FINALLY getting away, just the two of you, where you can relax, be pampered and just focus on each other.

Whether you’re looking for an over-the-water bungalow or a secluded white sand beach where you both can unplug and unwind, putting these 8 steps in place will ensure that your honeymoon experience will be everything you hoped for, as well as one of your fondest new memories as a couple.

And, if you feel like you need a little help planning your honeymoon or just
want this pressure and stress lifted off of your shoulders, then I encourage you to schedule a free 15-minute honeymoon planning strategy session with me!

I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for your honeymoon dreams to come true!

Shimmering Sweets, Sips & Novelties for Disney Cruise Line’s Silver Anniversary at Sea

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2023 marks the 25^th anniversary of Disney Cruise Line and, to celebrate, the entire fleet will be welcoming aboard a variety of delicious eats and sips inspired by the shimmering seas. Disney has just shared a sneak peek at what tasty options you’ll have to sea to believe. As the “Silver Anniversary at Sea” draws near, the talented pastry chefs and mixologists have been hard at work creating items sure to make a splash, because what better way to celebrate than with flavor?

Let’s jump in and take a peek at all of the shimmering sweets, sips, and novelties setting sail this summer from May through September!

Shimmering Sweets, Sips & Novelties for Disney Cruise Line's Silver Anniversary at Sea — Image: Disney

First up, we’re exploring the treats that will be available. The 25^th Disney Cruise Line Cupcake features a decadent vanilla sponge cake topped with vanilla frosting, 25^th chocolate décor, and, of course, shimmering sprinkles. It’s not just beautiful, but delicious, too! This sweet selection will be available via amenities on the ship.

If you love chocolate and candy, you’re in luck because there’s a special item specifically crafted for the sweet tooths out there at all the sweet shops on each of the ships – the Mickey Chocolate Sphere. This sweet treat showcases a chocolate Mickey Mouse sphere adorned with the 25^th emblem and is filled – yes, filled – with a variety of candy pieces. Simply crack it open and treat yourself.

At both Cabana’s and Marceline’s Market locations, two of the desserts will be getting a Silver Anniversary at Sea upgrade. The 3 Layer Carrot Cake with lemon frosting will be adding 25^th chocolate décor and the Disney Cruise Line Anniversary Chocolate Marquise will feature rich chocolate truffle crème topped with the 25^th chocolate décor as well!

Are you a fan of chocolate cookies? We ‘shore’ hope so! At the concierge lounge, the Chocolate Cream Cookie enrobes a chocolate cream cookie with dulce de leche filling into rich dark chocolate and is decorated with the Silver Anniversary at Sea logo as well as the signature shimmering sprinkles. Also in concierge, the Celebration Cupcake tops a tasty red velvet sponge cake with vanilla frosting, shimmering sprinkles, and 25^th chocolate décor.

Captain Minnie is also joining in on the anniversary festivities with the Vanilla Crisped Rice Treat offered at all Cove Café locations. This vanilla-flavored crisped rice treat puts Minnie at the helm with special décor for both her and the anniversary.

Last but certainly not least for food, signature desserts throughout the entire fleet will be getting a tasty enhancement. All of these spectacular sweets will be adding a special 25^th chocolate piece to their already stunning presentation. At Palo, the classic Chocolate Soufflé with double chocolate sauce, vanilla crème anglaise, and vanilla bean gelato will also have a chocolate 25^th anniversary piece for everyone to enjoy!

What makes a refreshing Coca-Cola event better? When it’s decked out in Disney Cruise Line Silver Anniversary at Sea décor, that’s what! At Preludes and beverage locations on board, you will be able to purchase one of these special bottles as a tasty way to celebrate this momentous occasion.

For those over 21, there is an adult beverage guests won’t want to miss at certain lounges across the fleet. The signature Jubilee by the Sea cocktail combines 818 Blanco Tequilla, Luxardo Marashino, and fresh lemon juice with a sparkly, silver dusting and a shimmering blue sugar rim. Guests who purchase this exclusive cocktail will even get to bring home a special bookmark featuring a recipe for how to make this tasty beverage at home.

Additionally, as you are sipping on your favorite alcoholic or non-alcoholic cocktail, you may even see the exclusive 25^thAnniversary coaster and napkins showcased only during these celebratory sailings.

If you are looking to take some of the fun home with you, Disney Cruise Line also has you covered. Available at coffee shops on board, you can find the Specialty Coffee Mug with a unique anniversary design featuring the Disney Cruise Line fleet and even Mickey Mouse himself. These mugs also come with specialty coffee – yum!

The beer drinkers out there can also bring home a special keepsake from their sailing – the 25^th Anniversary Beer Mug sketched with the anniversary logo.

And finally, no Disney celebration is complete without a popcorn bucket! For these special adventures, you will be able to purchase the Silver Anniversary at Sea Popcorn Bucket showcasing 25 years of Disney Ships, from the very first, the Disney Magic, all the way to the fleet’s newest addition, the Disney Wish!

If you are sailing with Disney Cruise Line this summer, I hope you enjoy this Silver Anniversary at Sea with your family, friends, and loved ones – and that your trip is filled with a few shimmering delights along the way!

(Please Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

When is the Best Time of Year to Go to Disney World?

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If you are planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation, you may be wondering when is the BEST time to of year to go to Disney. Best can be mean something different to different people. Some people are looking for the “best” weather (some like it warmer or cooler than others) while others prefer the lowest price or lowest crowds. Unfortunately, there isn’t a time that will check every box on your list, but there are certainly advantages to certain times of year over others.

Overall, most guests are hoping to find a combination of the lowest crowds, best prices and most comfortable weather. Although there isn’t one “perfect” time of year that meets all of the criteria exactly, there are certain times of year that are more favorable to giving you the best experience possible. With some advance planning and insider tips and tricks, you can certainly make the most of your time in the parks and truly enjoy your time at the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Let’s look a little closer at each month and some factors you may want to consider if you’re visiting then.

January

Weather: Average high of 71 and 2 inches of rain

Seasonal events include runDisney’s Marathon Weekend as well as the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of January for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, after Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

February

Weather: Average high of 75 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts as well as runDisney’s Princess Half Marathon Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of February for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before winter break and Princess Half Marathon weekend.

March

Weather: Average high of 78 and 3.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival and runDisney’s Springtime Surprise Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of March for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before spring breaks begin.

April

Weather: Average high of 84 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of April for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is end of the month, after Easter and spring breaks.

May

Weather: Average high of 88 and 4 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of May for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, before Memorial Day weekend.

June

Weather: Average high of 91 and 8 inches of rain

Seasonal events include the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of June for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning of the month, before schools have gotten out for summer across the entire country.

July

Weather: Average high of 92 and 7 inches of rain

Seasonal events typically include the end of the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival followed by the beginning of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of July for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, after Fourth of July.

August

Weather: Average high of 92 and 7 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of August for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the middle and end of the month, as schools start to go back.

September

Weather: Average high of 90 and 6 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of September for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, right after all of the schools have gone back.

October

Weather: Average high of 85 and 3.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of October for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and end of the month, avoiding fall breaks in the middle of the month.

November

Weather: Average high of 79 and 2 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the end of the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival followed by the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and runDisney’s Wine & Dine Marathon Weekend.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of November for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the beginning and middle of the month, before Thanksgiving.

December

Weather: Average high of 73 and 2.5 inches of rain

Seasonal events include Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights at Magic Kingdom Park as well as the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays.

The best time to visit Disney World in the month of December for low crowds and the most competitive pricing is the first couple weeks of the month, before schools get out for Christmas break.

Earn FREE Gift Cards or Travel Credits through Referral Rewards

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Are you ready to take a trip to Europe, a weekend visit to Disney World, or a relaxing cruise? How about getting these trips for FREE! You can even earn money to pay for your next vacation with our Referral Rewards! Refer your friends, family, co-workers, or even the cab driver on your next trip to us and you can earn $25 for every booked and traveled referral.

Earn FREE Gift Cards or Travel Credits through Referral Rewards

Your family and friends who you refer to us will receive our exceptional service, free perks, and services (valued over $500). Plus, you’ll receive a thank you gift! What a win-win!

Earning gift cards or travel credits through our referral rewards program is as easy as 1-2-3!

Here’s how our referral rewards program works:

Refer your friends, family, co-workers, neighbors, acquaintances and more to book their travel with me (be sure to remind them to let me know who I can thank for the referral)
Receive a gift card or credit on your own personal travel when they book and complete their travel plans.
Repeat… There’s no limit to the gift cards or credits that you can earn!

Whether you want to treat yourself to a free coffee or work towards paying for your next vacation, you can earn rewards for each and every friend or family member you refer to book their travel with me.

Our Referral Rewards program does add up! One of our favorite guests has received enough Referral Rewards to actually pay for a week long vacation to Disney World. He is now saving up for his second trip on a Disney Cruise. This is an easy way to make money, just by referring your friends and family to us that already travel.

Start earning your next reward today!

Which referral reward will you choose?

2024 Disney World Vacation Waitlist is Now OPEN!

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Who’s ready to start planning a visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth? Although we aren’t even halfway through 2023 yet, it’s already time to start thinking about 2024, especially if you are considering a Walt Disney World Resort vacation next year. Sign up today to join my 2024 Disney World waitlist and be notified as soon as Disney releases 2024 vacations!

2024 Disney World Vacation Waitlist is Now OPEN!

Wondering why you should start thinking about your vacation plans for 2024 now? Here are my top 4 reasons why you’ll want to book your 2024 Disney World vacation as soon as possible:

Resort availability is limited so whether you would like a specific resort or room category or you just need extra space with a large family, you will have the best choice of both resorts and rooms when you book as early as possible.
You lock in the pricing once you’ve paid your deposit so if Disney raises ticket prices next month, you are protected from any increases before you travel. However, discounts can still be applied so you never have to worry about over paying for your vacation!
After paying a nominal deposit (just $200 for a vacation package), you can make payments and/or save towards the remaining balance which makes traveling easier and more affordable.
You have even more time to dream about and plan for all of the magic and fun awaiting you at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Plus, with TRON Lightcycle / Run now open at Magic Kingdom Park and new attractions like Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana scheduled to open at EPCOT by the end of 2023, 2024 will be an extra magical time to visit the Walt Disney World Resort.

I’d love to add you to my 2024 Disney World waitlist so you can be the first to know when 2024 Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages become available! Just enter your information here to be notified!

Plus, you’ll even receive a special offer to book your 2024 Walt Disney World Resort vacation with me 😉

The Ultimate Planning Guide: 6 Destination Wedding Essentials You Need to Know

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Congratulations on your engagement! This will be one of the happiest times of your
life, as you start planning your destination wedding! But, thinking of everything that you
need to pull together to host a destination wedding can be overwhelming. There are
so many different things that you will have to manage for everything to run smoothly.
How do you make the choice of location, venue, transportation, and all the other
destination wedding essentials that you need to concern yourself with?

This destination wedding guide will help you navigate the 6 most important details of planning a destination wedding that will truly be fabulous! It can be an arduous journey, but this will ensure that both you and your partner come out not just surviving, but actually thriving during the destination wedding planning process!

Ok, so let’s jump into these six destination wedding essentials!

Get Started Right Away

In today’s post-COVID environment, dates & availability are booking up faster
than ever before! Many couples are eager to finally say “I DO!” in an amazing
location, just as they had hoped before the pandemic! Now dates are booking
up fast, so don’t procrastinate, start researching resort wedding venues &
availability now!

2. You Don’t Have to Know it All

You may think you have to know everything about planning a destination
wedding before you begin, but that’s simply not true! You don’t need to have it
all figured out to get started. The two most important things you need to start
working on is making a list of potential destinations you would like to get
married, and then, a list of potential resort wedding venues to hold your
wedding & wedding group at.

3. Consider Doing a Pre-Wedding Planning Trip

Hey, Who doesn’t like the samples at Costco, before you buy a 12-pack of hot
chocolate bombs? Right?

Once you have a destination wedding location chosen, then it’s time to figure
out which wedding venue & resort to have your ceremony and host your group.
One of the most effective ways to choose a wedding resort & venue is to visit it
first before you decide. In fact, many resorts offer special “wedding visit”
packages to encourage you to visit their resort, hoping you will choose them for
your destination wedding.

Get a New Email Exclusively for Wedding Related Conversations

In order to have a successful destination wedding, you have to be organized. I
always suggest that you create a special email address exclusively for your
wedding & honeymoon. This way all of your wedding correspondence &
conversations will be in one spot! Believe me, this will save you so much time
and probably money in the end. The last thing you want is a confirmation email
requesting you to verify your wedding date & time at the resort, and you miss it
in a crowded inbox sandwiched between emails from Peloton & your uncle’s
gallbladder surgery!

Consider Getting a New Credit Card that Earns Miles

As long as you are going to be charging your wedding expenses, you might as
well earn some reward miles to help you pay for your travel. This is a great time
to open a new credit card that will earn you miles or points for future or even
current travel. You could actually get your airfare paid for if you play your credit
cards right!

Consider Working with a Destination Wedding Specialist

If you want to ensure that your destination wedding will be planned correctly,
and reduce the stress and frustration you may feel when trying to plan this all
on your own, it may be worth it to invest in a destination wedding designer or
planner. A destination wedding planner or designer knows the ins and outs of a
destination wedding and has plenty of experience setting up wedding groups,
negotiating contracts, and managing all of the logistics for you and your guests.
They will also make sure that you receive ALL the amenities & perks you will
qualify for as well. Things that many resorts won’t tell you unless you ask.

I hope this destination wedding survival guide helps make your wedding planning a little less stressful and more fun. At the end of the day, you want your destination wedding to be a celebration that everyone will remember! (In a good way) By knowing these destination wedding essentials, you can ensure that your destination wedding experience will be everything you hoped for, as well as one of your fondest memories as a couple.

And, by the way, If you feel like you need a little help planning your destination wedding, or you’re ready to have all of this lifted off of your shoulders, then I encourage you to schedule a free 15-minute strategy session with me!

I would be honored to help you figure out everything you need for your dream wedding to come true!

5 Steps to Planning the Most Magical Destination Wedding on ANY Budget

Shop The Star Wars May the 4th 2023 Dated Collection!

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Shop The Star Wars May the 4th 2023 Dated Collection! Everything you need to celebrate the galactic holiday.

It’s time to travel to a galaxy far, far away and discover clothing, collectibles, and more inspired by the epic Star Wars saga! May the 4^th is approaching, Padawan, and we are excited to announce that new products have arrived to celebrate the galactic holiday. Find some of the most popular Star Wars products below.

The Force is strong with you in this Star Wars Women of the Galaxy ear headband by BaubleBar. Powerfully elegant in quilted black velvet and adorned with a white velvet bow, it features Princess Leia icon beads, pearls and crystals. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate some of the greatest women in the universe, including you.

Team up with Darth Vader and Vice Admiral Sloane to command a TIE Bomber mission with this Star Wars LEGO set. Load the torpedoes from the cart into the warhead bay. Jump into the cockpit with the TIE Bomber Pilot and take off. Fire the stud shooters at Rebel starfighters and drop torpedoes on strategic targets. May the dark side of the Force be with you!

Their imagination will take them from galaxies far, far away to waters much closer to home with this Millennium Falcon rash guard. Inspired by the Star Wars saga, it features stylized art of the film’s logo and the beloved ship. With UPF 50+ built-in UV protection, you might say it comes with its own kind of deflector shield. Han Solo and Chewie would be proud.

The one who holds the Darksaber holds the power. Inspired by the one-of-a-kind black-energy blade created by Tarre Vizsla, this Darksaber legacy set features a glowing blade, detachable hilt, display stand and keepsake box. A symbol of leadership, the Darksaber has been wielded by villain and hero alike. Which one will you be?

The Force is strong with this one. Let your little rebel show off their love for the greatest galactic saga with this jersey cotton t-shirt featuring a Star Wars logo screen print and ringer details.

Keep your eye on Grogu at all times with this plush that comes with a magnetic fabric disc that goes under your shirt. Place Grogu on top and enjoy his adorable company wherever you go! Plus, when you press his tummy, he makes lots of cute Child-like noises!

Travel to the far reaches of the Star Wars universe—including to the remote outer rim world of Batuu from Galaxy’s Edge—with this treasury of in-world space tales. Featuring lush illustrations, this beautiful collection includes 15 original fairytales, myths, and fables. Passed down through generations, spanning millennia, carried from planet to planet, these are the legends that bind the galaxy together.

Lord Vader would like to have a word with you. The striking Sith has a motion-activated Lightsaber with light and sound effects in one hand and stands ready to use the Force against any and all rebels. A button on his chest activates phrases in his iconic, mechanized voice.

From the planet Endor comes an adorable Big Feet design for the cuddly Ewok, Wicket. This soft, shaggy Star Wars plush toy boasts embroidered features and oversized feet!

The legendary bounty hunter is featured in amazing detail in this PVC Boba Fett statue inspired by his triumphant return in Star Wars: The Mandalorian. In his first ever gallery diorama, Boba Fett is captured in 1/7th scale wearing his all-new black outfit and wielding his blaster.

The Top 7 Honeymoon Trends of 2023

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It’s no secret that your honeymoon will be one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life, second only to your wedding day. Even years from now, your friends and family will still be asking you about the most memorable events from your honeymoon. Plus, your honeymoon is just one of many choices you’ll have to make as you plan your wedding. With literally thousands of options to consider for planning your dream trip, I have put together a list of the Top 7 honeymoon Trends for 2023 so you can be sure you’ve booked the perfect honeymoon. These top honeymoon trends will give you a good idea of what the future of “honeymooning” will look like in 2023 and beyond! Enjoy!

1. Planning Earlier than Before

Before the pandemic, it was customary for a couple to book their honeymoon around 6
months out, but as the world has opened up again, many couples are doing what I call
“revenge travel” for all of the lost and postponed trips couples have had to deal with
these last three years. In 2023, there is higher demand and lower inventory, which
also drives up prices.

BOTTOM LINE: The sooner you can discover the destination & resort you want for
your honeymoon, and book it, the better!

2. Premium on Service

In 2023, couples are putting a premium on pampering, luxury, and service. They are
looking for great value. Not a low price, but a honeymoon that includes extra touches of
service, such as a private airport shuttle or having a butler welcome you with a refreshing drink and moist towel, and then entering your honeymoon suite to see a chilled bottle of champagne, with gourmet snacks waiting for you as you enter your honeymoon suite.

3. Bucket List Stays & Experiences

In 2023 couples are looking to do a “bucket list” experience for their honeymoon. More
and more couples are expecting their honeymoon to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, including staying in an over-the-water bungalow, a luxury honeymoon suite, or even renting a private yacht. Many couples now want their honeymoon to include some type of archaeological tour or visit to historical landmarks or cities.

PRO TIP: If you don’t quite have the budget for a full 7 or 14-night stay in an
over-the-water bungalow, then I always suggest to my clients doing a split stay. Maybe
start your honeymoon off with a bang at the more expensive “WOW” factor room, and
then finish your honeymoon in a room that allows your whole honeymoon to fit your
budget.

4. Group Moons

No, this isn’t a honeymoon for swingers, but many couples who had to postpone their
weddings or honeymoons during the pandemic want to make up for the missed
opportunities to travel, as well as now being new parents. They still want a big fun
celebration, and therefore they are now bringing their closest family and friends to join
them to celebrate with them on their honeymoon.

5. Focus on Health & Wellness

Many couples will be planning their honeymoon with a focus on rejuvenating both
mind & body. These honeymoons will include an itinerary of farm-to-table food
experiences, eating at local fresh food restaurants & markets, as well as pampering spa
treatments, sunrise yoga sessions, meditations, and activities that promote all-around
health and vitality.

6. Honeymoon Registries

With rising inflation, and couples looking to have an above-average honeymoon experience, many couples will create a honeymoon registry or fund that their family and friends can give as a wedding gift to help them pay for their dream honeymoon.

7. Consulting with a Honeymoon Specialist

In 2023, couples are consulting and hiring a honeymoon specialist to help them make sure they are getting everything they want and the maximum value out of their honeymoon. Couples are busier than ever before as they work, start their family, buy a new home, and try to fit in time for each other, all while trying to plan their wedding. It’s worth the investment to spend a little extra to get their honeymoon planned right, and take the stress & frustration of planning the perfect honeymoon off of their plate!

As you can see, you now have more honeymoon options at your fingertips than ever
before. There will always be a place for traditional honeymooners who just want to get away with their new spouse and relax on a beautiful beach. But, if you’re looking for something a little more inspirational, consider some of these trends without sacrificing what’s ultimately important to you for a romantic and pampering honeymoon. These may be 2023 trends, but old-fashioned romance never goes out of style!

I hope that my list of the top honeymoon trends of 2023 will help you plan your future honeymoon even better. And maybe, it will even give you a few ideas that you didn’t know you wanted!

If you are in the midst of planning your honeymoon and feel like you’re stuck or not
getting very far, I encourage you to schedule a free 30-minute strategy session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything you need for a relaxing & magical honeymoon!

Summer 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries

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Would you like to be among the first to experience Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s new island retreat in The Bahamas? This new destination will celebrate both the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of The Bahamas. Or, you can set sail on an incredible adventure exploring the history of Europe, the wilderness of Alaska or the tropical islands of the Caribbean. All of these magical adventures and more await you on the summer 2024 Disney Cruise Line itineraries. Plus, you’ll enjoy the world-class entertainment, gourmet dining and award-winning attention to detail Disney Cruise Line is best known (and appreciated) for!

Summer 2024 Disney Cruise Line Itineraries — Image: Disney

Although destinations like Alaska and Europe tend to be at the top of bucket list destinations, we think this new exotic locale of Lighthouse Point will quickly join your list of “must visit” destinations.

Lighthouse Point

Lighthouse Point, Disney Cruise Line’s new island destination in The Bahamas, on the island of Eleuthera will welcome families for the first time in June 2024. Lighthouse Point was designed with families in mind, imbued with the color and energy of Bahamian artistry and developed with sustainability and conservation.

On June 6, a three-night preview sailing on the Disney Magic from Fort Lauderdale will give cruisers a sneak peek of Lighthouse Point with limited access to some areas of the island.

A seven-night inaugural cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy from Port Canaveral, Florida, on June 8 will allow you to be among the first to make a splash in the crystal-clear waters of this new beach retreat. This ultimate Disney Cruise Line island destination itinerary will feature not one, but two stops at Lighthouse Point … and that’s not all! One day of sun-drenched serenity at Castaway Cay also awaits your family on this once-in-a-lifetime sailing.

After the inaugural cruise, Lighthouse Point will be a featured stop on select three-, four- and five-night sailings to The Bahamas and Caribbean on the Disney Magic out of Fort Lauderdale throughout the summer. These South Florida-based itineraries will vary stops between Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay, with five special sailings including both Disney Cruise Line island destinations.

Europe

Can you think of anything better than sailing the Mediterranean with Captain Mickey and Captain Minnie at the helm? Those dreams can come to life in next summer as the Disney Dream returns for the second time to exciting European destinations in the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, British Isles and popular locales in the Norwegian Fjords and Iceland.

These sailings will feature a number of new ports of call, including Valencia, Spain; Haugesund, Norway; and Hamburg, Germany, along with three Mediterranean destinations that will return for the first time since 2014: Catania, Italy; Kusadasi, Turkey; and Valletta, Malta.

Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises from Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome) will range from five to 11 nights, while northern Europe and British Isles sailings will offer itineraries anywhere from three nights to one 12-night voyage that includes the Norwegian fjords, three days in Iceland and an overnight stay in Reykjavik.

Alaska

Cruises to Alaska from Vancouver, Canada, will return on the Disney Wonder from May through September 2024, offering more chances for your family to experience the natural splendor and adventure of “The Last Frontier” with five-, seven- and nine-night sailings. Majestic wildlife and stunning scenery in iconic places like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap will blend with Disney’s world-class entertainment, dining and guest service to create a family-friendly vacation that celebrates the spirit of Alaska both on land and on board.

The Bahamas and Caribbean

In addition to the inaugural season of Lighthouse Point sailings from Fort Lauderdale on the Disney Magic, the Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish will sail to sun-kissed islands throughout The Bahamas and Caribbean in summer 2024. All sailings on these Port Canaveral-based ships will feature a visit to Castaway Cay, a Disney’s original private island paradise in The Bahamas that offers something for everyone in the family, from fun and relaxation to adventurous water activities.

The Disney Wish will continue to offer three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas out of Port Canaveral while the Disney Fantasy will visit popular ports in both the eastern and western Caribbean on seven-night cruises. One five-night Disney Fantasy voyage in July will visit Nassau and feature two stops in Castaway Cay, while a special 10-night southern Caribbean sailing will give your family another opportunity to visit Lighthouse Point with additional visits to the islands of Antigua, St. Lucia, Dominica, Tortola and Castaway Cay.

You can view all summer 2024 Disney Cruise Line itineraries and dates here.

Summer 2024 Disney Cruise Line bookings open to the general public on March 30, 2023, with early access for Castaway Club members.

Let’s start planning your dream vacation today!

The 7 Most Popular Destination Wedding Trends of 2023

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Planning an amazing destination wedding could wind up being a stressful
endeavor. There are literally thousands of options you’ll have to consider when putting
all the pieces together. From creating a memorable guest list, and deciding on the perfect resort, to figuring out your ceremony theme & decor, the journey to the destination aisle promises to be a special one!

I’ve researched 7 destination wedding trends taking place in 2023 to give you some fresh inspiration & ideas, even if your wedding isn’t until 2024 or beyond. Take note of these destination wedding trends because one of them might be the perfect fit for you.

1. Plan EXTRA EARLY:

Top 7 Destination Wedding Trends for 2023

Before the pandemic, it was customary for a couple to reserve their wedding resort venue and room block around 12 months out, but as the world has opened up again, many couples are finding resort and venue space filled up for the dates they originally want. In 2023 and beyond, expect higher demand and lower inventory, which also drive up prices. Couples are now looking at approximately 15 months in advance in order to secure the room inventory and pricing that they would like.

BOTTOM LINE: The sooner you can discover the destination, wedding venue, & resort
you want for your destination wedding, and reserve your date, the better!

2. Toes NOT in The Sand

In 2023, brides are looking to get married in an Instagram-worthy location, with a
breathtaking backdrop, but they DON’T want their feet in the sand. Many destination
wedding venues now are putting in beautiful above-the-sand platforms, sky weddings,
garden gazebos, and over-the-water gazebos which are growing in popularity.

3. Exclusive Private Experiences:

In 2023, couples are looking to do private, exclusive experiences with their wedding
groups, such as private receptions to welcome their guests complete with a mixologist
who creates a special cocktail for just your group. Couples are also scheduling their own
private events such as fire shows, beach parties, tequila or rum tasting, and even a
private tour or excursion for just your wedding group.

4. Over The Water Ceremonies!

As I previously mentioned, more and more wedding couples don’t want their feet in the
sand, but they still want the breathtaking backdrop. One way to achieve this is to have
an over-the-water ceremony. Many resorts now contain wedding venues that are built
over the water. This not only gives the normal amazing view but also adds a
3-dimensional beauty to the ceremony.

5. Focus on Incorporating Cultural Traditions:

Many couples will be incorporating both local and cultural traditions into their destination wedding experience for both them and their guests! Today’s couples want to do more than just have a “wed-cation.” They want to give their entire wedding group an authentic experience with the location they have chosen for their destination wedding!

6. Including Local Cuisine & Cocktails:

Along with my previous trend of including cultural traditions in their wedding, many couples also include local cuisine and even cocktails in their wedding events. For example, in Mexico, there is a special liquor called Mezcal. Couples will hire a mixologist to use a liquor like that in creating a cocktail native to the location they are getting married in. In addition to a cocktail, they may also include some type of authentic delicacy on their menu.

7. Consulting with a Destination Wedding Expert

In 2023, couples are choosing to consult with a destination wedding specialist to help them make sure they are getting everything they want and the maximum value out of their destination wedding. One of the reasons being that wedding couples are busier than ever as they work, finish school, start their family, and possibly move to a new home, all while trying to find some time for each other. Today’s couples believe that it is well worth the investment to spend a little extra to get their destination wedding planned right as well as take the stress & frustration of planning their destination wedding off of their plate!

As you plan your own destination wedding, you might want to consider some of these
trends. It’s not just about having a unique, memorable day for you and your guests. It’s
also about looking for some extra inspiration as you continue to plan your destination
wedding so that your wedding will be everything you dream it will be.

So… What will these destination wedding trends mean for you?

Well, I hope they will help you to plan the Destination Wedding of your dreams today.
These 7 trends are only going to gain more popularity, as couples continue to push the
envelope for a more unique experience for both themselves and their guests. And hopefully, it will at least give you a few ideas that you didn’t even know you wanted!

If you are in the midst of planning your destination wedding and feel like you’re stuck
and not getting very far, I encourage you to use this link, to schedule a free 30-minute
strategy session with me! I would be honored to help your figure out everything
you need for an amazing & magical destination wedding!

5 Steps to Planning the Most Magical Destination Wedding on ANY Budget