That's why working with a Destination Weddings Specialist is key to ensuring every detail is just as perfect as you've imagined since the days of playing dress-up in your mother's robe.
Unfortunately, not all travel agents are cut from the same cloth. Just as you would carefully vet a general contractor for home repairs or choose a doctor for your precious newborn, it's crucial to take a few preliminary steps before diving headfirst into wedding planning.
Step 1: Meet With Them
Get to know the person that will be putting these dreams together. First impressions are everything and considering that you will be working with them for the next year or more, you want to make sure that they share the same vision, professionalism, and goals as you and your spouse. Whether it is a video call or face-to-face do not book an agent without a consultation.
Step 2: Communication is Key
What are your agent's hours?
There are over 1,000 ways to communicate in the world today. How does your agent make themselves available? Phone and Email are the most popular ways to communicate but what about text and Video Conference?
If you've found the most amazing inspiration for colors but you aren't sure if the resort is able to accommodate, can you video chat your agent to ask, or do you have to try and describe the color over a call? If you are a hands-on bride, you're going to want to work with an agent who offers multiple communication channels.
Step 3: One size does not fit all
A travel agent with a niche is key to a unique experience. Ask the agent what they specialize in. It takes time to get to know each destination and each vendor. If your potential agent specializes in domestic travel, cruises, Europe, the Caribbean, and Mexico, they may be stretching themselves too thin. However, if they have taken the time to visit and get to know a few areas really well, you know that you're going to be able to get the answers that you need.
How does your agent represent themselves online? Take the time to look over their website and social media accounts, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. If you are looking at Punta Cana weddings but all they post about is Cathedrals in Italy, you may need to look into another agent who is more aligned with the destination you are looking for.
If you realize that the agent you are speaking to is great at what they do but may not be representing the destination you are looking for well, ask them to refer you to another agent. Destination Wedding Specialists who are well established usually have a network of agents who they can refer you to in order to help you create your dream wedding.
4. Knowledge is Power
As in any profession, the longer you've been in the business, the more you have seen. You want your agent to have been around the block a few times. How long have they been in the travel industry? Have they ever worked in hospitality or handled travel outside of being the booking agent? You're going to get a much different experience from a professional agent who has a well-rounded background.
Continuing education is key to keeping your skills sharp as a travel agent. If your agent sold a Sandals vacation 4 years ago and hasn't had any interaction with the brand since then, they won't be up-to-date on their latest offerings. If you are interested in a cruise through the Caribbean but your agent has never stepped foot on a Princess cruise line, you could have a problem.
Make sure they are engaged in your destination on a regular basis, whether that is through classes or first-hand travel.
How many weddings does your agent plan per year?
Too many and you could be dealing with a wedding factory. Too little and they may be out of touch with the industry, doing weddings only as a side-business to their agency. You want to make sure that your agent has enough time to tend to you and your guests throughout the duration of the planning process.
If your particular agent is planning more than 3 to 5 weddings per month, they could be overextending themselves. Keep in mind, that's per agent, not per agency.
I understand that my services may not be a fit for everyone, and that suits me perfectly. I operate as a boutique agency, and I only take on a limited number of couples each year to ensure I maintain my highly personalized approach for which I am recognized for.
Unlike my 'no-fee' counterparts, I'm here to address your queries and make every effort to accommodate special requests. I will collaborate closely with you, offering candid advice and the kind of supportive guidance you'd expect from a caring friend.
It's an entirely distinct experience—one that, according to the feedback from our couples, is genuinely invaluable.