BRITTANY | Intimate + Exploratory Curaçao Destination Wedding!
Our 1st Curacao destination wedding DESTIBRIDE interview!
“yep! absolutely! I sure did!”
*Photos courtesy of Dishan Rhodes Photography
EPISODE 52
How Brittany Planned Her Destination Wedding in Willemstad, Curaçao!
Okay so I’ve said it before but….
I LOVE IT when I get to interview DESTIBRIDES who are a part of the DESTILOVERS Community! There’s nothing - and I mean nothing - like working with a beautiful bride along her destination wedding planning journey, hearing how much the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings show has been helpful for them AND THEN experiencing their excitement and seeing that big smile appear when it’s finally their turn to share the wealth of advice and their personal experience to help those coming up behind them.
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Brittany was so insightful and informative - I even learned some things that I’ll be carrying with me in my DESTICoaching sessions! I’m so grateful for the interview I’m about to share with you all - which includes a cameo from Brittany’s DESTIGROOM husband, CJ who shared some tips and advice as well!
Annnd I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕Their proposal story
💕Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕Choosing their destination wedding date
💕Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕Pushing through and planning their destination wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic
💕How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕How they picked their destination wedding vendors - photographer, DJ, etc.
💕 An unexpected destination wedding welcome bags tip!
💕 Planning a great excursion to welcome guests + explore the island’s culture!
💕Her Dreams Curaçao Wedding Department Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
in Willemstad, Curaçao?
Click Play and find out how Brittany planned her destination wedding
at Dreams Curaçao Resort, Casino, and Spa in Willemstad, Curaçao!
Enjoy!
WATCH BRITTANY’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTICOUPLE: Brittany + Cedric “CJ” Singletary
Destination Wedding Date: June 5, 2021
City & Country: Willemstad, Curaçao
Venue: Dreams Curaçao Resort, Casino, and Spa
The Gazebo (Ceremony) and Barefoot Grille (Reception)
Wedding Budget: $15,000
Number of Guests: 19
Bridal Party: NONE!
THE SINGLETARYS
Engagement Length: 18 Months
Age: Bride, 33 / Groom, 35
Occupations: Bride, HR Generalist / Groom, Computer Consultant
Hometown: Stafford, VA
(Relocated to Augusta, GA in the middle of the pandemic)
THE PROPOSAL
Fun Fact: CJ planned a surprise proposal! Here’s their story…
The day was December 20, 2019 and it was one of the happiest days of our lives, because…WE JUST CLOSED ON OUR FIRST HOME! After several hours and countless documents that needed to be signed, we were finished. We were hanging out in the parking lot with our Realtors (@TondaBookerSells) and the previous homeowner. I was on the phone and I saw CJ speaking with our Realtors (Husband-and-Wife Tag Team) then quickly turned around and got on one knee and proposed!”
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: Allure Bridals
Bride’s Shoes: Betsy Johnson
Bride’s Jewelry: Maria Elena
Hair & Makeup: Tosha (@ATotSalon) + Jael (@brighteyes_bushyhair)
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Favorite DESTI Episode: Love them All!! You learn so much from each episode. No one episode is like the other!
Favorite Color: Pink
Favorite Cocktail: Prosecco
Book Recommendation: I Am These Truths by Sunny Hostin
Follow her on Instagram @cin.cin.brittany @amoremcmxxi
THE GROOM
Groom’s Attire: Bespokuture
Groom’s Shoes: Bespokuture
Groom’s Accessories: Bespokuture
THE WEDDING
Planning: Ursula Dorthea @ Resort
Styling & Decor: Brittany + Resort
Photography: Dishan Rhodes (@DishanRhodesPhotography)
Videographer: Resort
Florals: Brittany + Resort
Cake + Catering: Resort
DJ: Resort (compliments to Stephanie @stephie_rocs for creating a dope playlist)
Paper Invitations + Details: We did save the dates..and that was it!
Wedding Website: Zola (see it here)
THE GOOD STUFF
(aka wedding package info)Which wedding package did you choose?
We chose the Dreams Ultimate Wedding Package.Any package customizations?
Of course, we customized LOL we had both the Steelband for the cocktail hour and the DJ for the reception – that was well worth paying the additional, no one wants to hear recycled music! LOL
THE EXCURSION
Etsy Vendors:
@PreppingParties,
@HigginsCreek6
@EscortTags
@RuweDesigns
@UnmeasuredEvent
@LetterwoodCo.
LINKS MENTIONED:
* = affiliate link
Omi’s Favorites: Amazon*
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: AppyCouple*
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTIFACT:
The DESTILOVERS Community Archive has hours and hours of replays, secret episodes, that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s your destination wedding’s dream come true!
TO EVERY SINGLE MEMBER OF THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY:
THANK YOU - FOR MAKING THIS SHOW WHAT IT IS!
I’m SOOO happy to finally have a place where all of my Desti Bridefriends can meet and discuss All Things Desti!
The DESTILOVERS Community is an extension of the show and is your safe space for sharing and collaboration while planning your destination wedding! Here’s what you can also look forward to:
DESTIHOUR LIVE Q+A’s! | Episode Discussions! | BRIDEFRIEND BRUNCH Connection Calls | Destination Wedding Topic Deep-dives! (w/ hours and hours of replays!) |
Secret Episodes | Special Guests! | Giveaways! | And More!
*While the main hub is in a Facebook Group, all Non-Facebookers have access to a secret portal (The DESTILOVERS Archive) to enjoy all events and festivities too!
This space is whatever you Bridefriends make it! And where I get my inspiration for the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
Bridefriends truly are the BEST friends👯♀️
xx, Omi
Thank You Brittany (and CJ)!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
in beautiful Willemstad, Curaçao!
We wish you both allll the love + positivity you can handle!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
Melissa + Mahdi PT.2 | Negril, Jamaica
MEET THE ALSTONS! We're getting into the nitty-gritty of Melissa + Mahdi's Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica destination wedding planning story! - here’s part 2!
“We could’ve found venues at home...it would have been more expensive and it just wouldn’t have been poppin’...we had to force grown folks to get passports... and that was the dope part about it!”
*Photos courtesy of Team DWP Studios
EPISODE 49
How The Alston’s Planned Their Destination Wedding @ Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica - PART 2!
HEYYY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!
WELCOME BACK to the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
I hope that you are having an amazing time planning those destination weddings of yours! Your day is about to get better because I am soo excited to share OUR FIRST DESTICOUPLE interview with you - I’LL SAY IT AGAIN…
DESTICOUPLE!!!
IT IS MY ABSOLUTE PLEASURE TO INTRODUCE YOU TO THE ALSTONS!
DESTIBRIDE Melissa + DESTIGROOM Mahdi planned their destination wedding at the magical Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica and you get to hear allll about EXACTLY HOW THEY DID IT - (and we get super detailed)!
If you’re in the DESTILOVERS Community you’ll know that I’ve been wanting to get a DESTICOUPLE on the show since forever and I’m so happy we now have one for really 2 reasons:
It delivered exactly what I wanted it to - the perspectives of the DESTIBRIDE,
as well as her partner, which in this case - is a DESTIGROOM
AND
Having a DESTICOUPLE as an example should help others agree to be
interviewed together too - I can’t wait to do this again!
Don’t forget that all details and a photo gallery of THE Alston’s magical wedding are waiting for you below.
ANNNNDDD If you have any questions, make sure you drop them in the comments below and we'll answer them.
And if you LISTEN to the podcast - no worries…you can ask yours in the DESTILOVERS Community - make sure you tag me so I see it - or send me a DM on Instagram @desti.land
And whether you love to watch or listen - be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you know the exact moment a new episode goes live!
This gorgeous couple experienced so much - that we had to make their interview a 2-parter. I needed to make sure you and your Bridefriends could reeeallllly take in all this destination wedding planning magic.
SO THAT’S RIGHT - IT’S A TWO-PART INTERVIEW!
AND THIS IS PART 2!
We're getting into the nitty-gritty of Melissa + Mahdi's destination wedding weekend!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕 Budget (how did they pay for it?)
Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕 Decor (they bought those where?)
Their unexpected (and wildly entertaining) destination wedding packing and decor story!
💕 Traveling (how did they get everything to their destination?)
💕 A yacht party
💕 Details on the dreamiest CASTLE destination wedding
💕 Choosing their destination wedding date
💕Their Pattoo Castle Destination Wedding Review
💕ANNND so much more...The Alstons' showed the love!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
@ Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica?
Click Play and find out how Melissa + Mahdi planned her destination wedding
at Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica!
Enjoy!
WATCH MELISSA + MAHDI’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: APPY COUPLE
DESTICOUPLE: Melissa + Mahdi Alston
Destination Wedding Date: September 19, 2019
City & Country: Negril, Jamaica
Venue: Pattoo Castle
Host Resort: Azul Beach Resort, Negril
Wedding Budget: ~$80,000
Number of Guests: 127
Bridal Party: 9 Bridesmaids + 9 Groomsmen
THE ALSTONS
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
(both originally from Connecticut)
Fun Fact: they starred on HGTV’s
You can get the rest of Melissa + Mahdis destination wedding details, photos, and alllll the other goodies in Part 1’s Show Notes.
DETAILS!
All details + a photo gallery of Melissa + Mahdi’s wedding are waiting for you in Part 1’s Show Notes!
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: Appy Couple
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR DESTIPARTNER: APPYCOUPLE
DESTIFACT:
We used Appy Couple for our wedding and there’s a complete walkthrough in the DESTILOVERS Community!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
APPYCOUPLE!
APPY COUPLE is a modern wedding website and interactive app that practically builds itself and lets you manage and share important details of your destination wedding with ease and style. And let’s be honest, Desti weddings require more care and details and Appy Couple is the perfect choice if you want to Invite and Impress!
SEE MY APPY COUPLE WEBSITE!
I GAVE A COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH OF MY WEDDING WEBSITE (with tips of course!)IN A RECENT DESTIHOUR in the DESTILOVERS Community too!
find out more information about my favorite wedding website + app for destination weddings and let me know if you have any questions!
xx, Omi
Thank You Melissa + Mahdi!
We appreciate you being my very 1st DESTICOUPLE interview!
We’re officially Bridefriends Forever
xx, Omi
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
DESTICOUPLE Melissa + Mahdi | Negril, Jamaica
MEET THE ALSTONS! Our 1st DESTICOUPLE interview shares the story of a breathtakingly beautiful destination wedding at Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica!
“We could’ve found venues at home...it would have been more expensive and it just wouldn’t have been poppin’...we had to force grown folks to get passports... and that was the dope part about it!”
*Photos courtesy of Team DWP Studios
EPISODE 48
How The Alston’s Planned Their Destination Wedding @ Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica!
HEYYY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!
WELCOME BACK to the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
I hope that you are having an amazing time planning those destination weddings of yours! Your day is about to get better because I am soo excited to share OUR FIRST DESTICOUPLE interview with you - I’LL SAY IT AGAIN…
DESTICOUPLE!!!
IT IS MY ABSOLUTE PLEASURE TO INTRODUCE YOU TO THE ALSTONS!
DESTIBRIDE Melissa + DESTIGROOM Mahdi planned their destination wedding at the magical Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica and you get to hear allll about EXACTLY HOW THEY DID IT - (and we get super detailed)!
If you’re in the DESTILOVERS Community you’ll know that I’ve been wanting to get a DESTICOUPLE on the show since forever and I’m so happy we now have one for really 2 reasons:
It delivered exactly what I wanted it to - the perspectives of the DESTIBRIDE,
as well as her partner, which in this case - is a DESTIGROOM
AND
Having a DESTICOUPLE as an example should help others agree to be
interviewed together too - I can’t wait to do this again!
Don’t forget that all details and a photo gallery of THE Alston’s magical wedding are waiting for you below.
ANNNNDDD If you have any questions, make sure you drop them in the comments below and we'll answer them.
And if you LISTEN to the podcast - no worries…you can ask yours in the DESTILOVERS Community - make sure you tag me so I see it - or send me a DM on Instagram @desti.land
And whether you love to watch or listen - be sure to SUBSCRIBE so you know the exact moment a new episode goes live!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕 How they met
💕 Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕 Choosing their destination wedding date
💕 Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕 How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕 Dealing with incompatible wedding vendors
💕 An unexpected destination wedding packing and decor story!
💕Their Pattoo Castle Destination Wedding Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
@ Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica?
Click Play and find out how Melissa + Mahdi planned her destination wedding
at Pattoo Castle in Negril, Jamaica!
Enjoy!
WATCH MELISSA + MAHDI’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: APPY COUPLE
DESTICOUPLE: Melissa + Mahdi Alston
Destination Wedding Date: September 19, 2019
City & Country: Negril, Jamaica
Venue: Pattoo Castle
Host Resort: Azul Beach Resort, Negril
Wedding Budget: ~$80,000
Number of Guests: 127
Bridal Party: 9 Bridesmaids + 9 Groomsmen
THE ALSTONS
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
(both originally from Connecticut)
Fun Fact: they starred on HGTV’s
THE GROOM
shout out to Kappa Alpha Psi® Fraternity, Inc.
THE BRIDAL PARTY
BRIDESMAIDS
GROOMSMEN
Planning, Styling & Decor: : Kara-Ann Anderson @ Petals & Promises
Florals: Floral Fantasies
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: Appy Couple
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR DESTIPARTNER: APPYCOUPLE
DESTIFACT:
We used Appy Couple for our wedding and there’s a complete walkthrough in the DESTILOVERS Community!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
APPYCOUPLE!
APPY COUPLE is a modern wedding website and interactive app that practically builds itself and lets you manage and share important details of your destination wedding with ease and style. And let’s be honest, Desti weddings require more care and details and Appy Couple is the perfect choice if you want to Invite and Impress!
SEE MY APPY COUPLE WEBSITE!
I GAVE A COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH OF MY WEDDING WEBSITE (with tips of course!)IN A RECENT DESTIHOUR in the DESTILOVERS Community too!
find out more information about my favorite wedding website + app for destination weddings and let me know if you have any questions!
xx, Omi
Thank You Melissa + Mahdi!
We appreciate you being my very 1st DESTICOUPLE interview!
We’re officially Bridefriends Forever
xx, Omi
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
SHAR | Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
How Shar planned her romantic and intimate private villa destination wedding in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico…our 1st villa DESTIBRIDE!
“You only get one life - let’s live it to the fullest, let’s do what our heart desires...and figure everything out as you go!”
Photos courtesy of CCphotoloscabos
EPISODE 46
How Shar Planned Her Destination Wedding in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Shar was LIKE NO OTHER because she and her husband Deji’s destination wedding was at a beautiful private villa in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!!!! Something I love about Shar (other than her GORGEOUS skin) is that she was a great mix of laid-back and serious when it came to her destination wedding planning. This Villa La Roca destination wedding was sooo amazing and Shar shared all the deets so you already know - I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕 How they met
💕 A dreamy surprise proposal in Paris!
💕 Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕 Dealing with family when deciding to “go destination”
💕Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕How they picked their destination wedding vendors - makeup, photographer, etc.
💕 Setting boundaries
💕Her Villa La Roca Wedding Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico?
Click Play and find out how Shar planned her destination wedding
at Villa La Roca in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!
Enjoy!
WATCH SHAR’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: APPYCOUPLE
DestiCouple: Shar + Deji Olasimbo
Destination Wedding Date: May 20, 2018
City & Country: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Venue: Villa La Roca
Host Resorts: Riu Santa Fe (affordable option) The Cape (luxury option)
Wedding Budget: $20,000
Number of Guests: 75
Bridal Party: None
THE OLASIMBOS
Engagement Length: 17 Months
Age: Bride, 29 / Groom, 39
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
THE STORY
We originally wanted to elope but after a ton of pushback from our parents, we decided on a closer destination so that we can have everyone there. We had no bridal party (best decision ever) and the day literally went perfect!
xx, DESTIBRIDE SHAR
THE PROPOSAL
Fun Fact: Deji planned a surprise proposal in Paris and Shar posted a video all about it on her YouTube channel!
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: Vivienne Atelier
Bride’s Shoes: Nordstrom
Bride’s Jewelry: Macy’s
Hair: @hairgoalsby_lo
Makeup: Bride
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Favorite DESTI Episode: Desti Porsha [Episode 14]
Favorite Cocktail: Cali Girl Margarita
Shar’s Travel Company: Brown Girls Trippin
Shar’s YouTube Channel: SharDavisXo
Follow her on Instagram @shardavisxo
THE GROOM
Groom’s Attire: Maison Valentino
#DESTIGROOM FUN FACT:
Favorite Cocktail: Southern Gentlemen Old Fashioned
THE WEDDING
Planning: Yadira @ Villa La Roca
Styling & decor: Yadira @ Villa La Roca
Photography: CCphotoloscabos
Videography: Celestus Weddings
Paper Invitations + Details: Evite
Wedding Video courtesy of Celestus Weddings
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: Appy Couple
The Olasimbo’s post-wedding resort: - Corazón Cabo Resort & Spa (Formerly Cabo Villas Resort)
Shar’s favorite DESTIBRIDE Episode: Desti Porsha [Episode 14]
Shar’s Travel Company: Brown Girls Trippin
Shar’s YouTube Channel: SharDavisXo
Follow her on Instagram @shardavisxo
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: APPY COUPLE
DESTIFACT:
We used Appy Couple for our wedding and there’s a complete walkthrough in the DESTILOVERS Community!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
APPYCOUPLE FOR SPONSORING THE SHOW!
APPY COUPLE is a modern wedding website and interactive app that practically builds itself and lets you manage and share important details of your destination wedding with ease and style. And let’s be honest, Desti weddings require more care and details and Appy Couple is the perfect choice if you want to Invite and Impress!
SEE MY APPY COUPLE WEBSITE!
I GAVE A COMPLETE WALKTHROUGH OF MY WEDDING WEBSITE (with tips of course!)IN A RECENT DESTIHOUR in the DESTILOVERS Community too!
find out more information about my favorite wedding website + app for destination weddings and let me know if you have any questions!
xx, Omi
Thank You Shar!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
in beautiful Cabo San Lucas, Mexico!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
NICOLE PT. 2: The Wedding Weekend | Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
We're getting into the nitty-gritty of Nicole + Eric's destination wedding weekend! ✨Nicole shared it all Bridefriends + This is Part 2!
“When I stopped worrying about everybody else and started truly enjoying the moment…I was truly at peace.”
*Photos courtesy of Junior Cruz Weddings
EPISODE 42
DAY-BY-DAY:
Inside Nicole's Destination Wedding Weekend!
True story:
DESTIBRIDE Nicole + her husband Eric planned 2 (yes TWO) destination weddings - in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic! And their wedding planning journey was quite eventful to say the least... 👏🏾but 👏🏾look 👏🏾at 👏🏾that 👏🏾end 👏🏾result! 🙌🏾
This gorgeous couple experienced so much - that we had to make Nicole’s interview a 2-parter. I needed to make sure you and your Bridefriends could reeeallllly take in all this destination wedding planning gold.
SO THAT’S RIGHT - IT’S A TWO-PART INTERVIEW!
AND THIS IS PART 2!
So go grab your cutesy notebook + pretty pen, because Part 1: How Nicole Planned (and moved) Her Destination Wedding from St. Lucia to the Dominican Republic! laid out the background for us…but on this week's episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings, we're getting into the nitty-gritty of Nicole + Eric's destination wedding weekend!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕 Packing tips (what's in those bags + trunks?)
💕 Traveling tips (how did they get everything to their destination?)
💕 Deciding to host a pre-wedding boat party (good or bad idea?)
💕 Their Rehearsal Dinner experience @ the resort
💕 Details on the most gorgeous-est destination wedding that I’ve seen
💕 Day after wedding photoshoot (you gotta hear this story!)
💕 Their luxurious tropical St. Lucia honeymoon...
💕and so much more!
Nicole shared it all Bridefriends! And I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Soooo…how did Nicole and Eric’s destination wedding
weekend in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic really go?
Click Play and find out!
Enjoy!
WATCH NICOLE’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTICOUPLE: Nicole + Eric Pittman
Destination Wedding Date: June 18, 2021
City & Country: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Venue: Jellyfish Restaurant
Host Resort: Royalton Bávaro Resort & Spa
Wedding Budget: $13,000
(DESTINOTE: My husband said $10,000 but mentally I prepared for no more than $15,000)
Number of Guests: 42
Bridal Party: 5 Bridesmaids + 6 Groomsmen
You can get the rest of Nicole + Eric’s destination wedding details, photos, and alllll the other goodies in Part 1’s Show Notes.
DETAILS!
All details + a photo gallery of Nicole’s wedding are waiting for you in Part 1’s Show Notes!
LINKS MENTIONED:
* = affiliate link
St. Lucia Honeymoon Location: Ladera
Sterilite Trunks Nicole Traveled w/: Amazon* | Walmart*
Alternative Trunk /omi mentioned: The Container Store
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: AppyCouple*
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTIFACT:
The DESTILOVERS Community Archive has hours and hours of replays, secret episodes, that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s your destination wedding’s dream come true!
TO EVERY SINGLE MEMBER OF THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY:
THANK YOU - FOR MAKING THIS SHOW WHAT IT IS!
I’m SOOO happy to finally have a place where all of my Desti Bridefriends can meet and discuss All Things Desti!
The DESTILOVERS Community is an extension of the show and is your safe space for sharing and collaboration while planning your destination wedding! Here’s what you can also look forward to:
DESTIHOUR LIVE Q+A’s! | Episode Discussions! | BRIDEFRIEND BRUNCH Connection Calls | Destination Wedding Topic Deep-dives! (w/ hours and hours of replays!) |
Secret Episodes | Special Guests! | Giveaways! | And More!
*While the main hub is in a Facebook Group, all Non-Facebookers have access to a secret portal (The DESTILOVERS Archive) to enjoy all events and festivities too!
This space is whatever you Bridefriends make it! And where I get my inspiration for the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
Bridefriends truly are the BEST friends👯♀️
xx, Omi
Thank You Nicole!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
in beautiful Punta Cana, Dominican Republic!
We wish you + your beautiful family the absolute BEST!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
NICOLE | St. Lucia to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
How Nicole planned 2 destination weddings - first in St. Lucia before being forced to move to the Dominican Republic - thanks to the pandemic! You gotta hear this story!
“When I stopped worrying about everybody else and started truly enjoying the moment…I was truly at peace.”
*Photos courtesy of Junior Cruz Weddings
EPISODE 41
How Nicole Planned (and moved) Her Destination Wedding from
St. Lucia to the Dominican Republic!
I LOVE IT when I get to interview DESTIBRIDES who are a part of the DESTILOVERS Community! There’s nothing - and I mean nothing - like working with a beautiful bride along her destination wedding planning journey, hearing how much the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings show has been helpful for them AND THEN experiencing their excitement and seeing that big smile appear when it’s finally their turn to share the wealth of advice and their personal experience to help those coming up behind them.
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Nicole was all of that and more! Nicole and her husband brought 42 guests to celebrate their loving union at the Jellyfish Restaurant in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (right smack in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic) but not before much drama - including relocation from St. Lucia. The amount of destination wedding planning tips that Nicole shares is so unbelievable that I had to split it into 2 parts Bridefriends!
THAT’S RIGHT - A TWO-PART INTERVIEW!
and I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕Their proposal story
💕Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕Choosing their destination wedding date
💕Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕Postponing their wedding due to the COVID-19 pandemic
and then ultimately moving their wedding from St. Lucia to the Dominican Republic
💕 Planning their small intimate ceremony at home
💕How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕How they picked their destination wedding vendors - makeup, photographer, etc.
💕 An unexpected destination wedding luggage fees tip!
💕Her Jellyfish Restaurant Wedding Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic?
Click Play and find out how Nicole planned her destination wedding
at Jellyfish Restaurant in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic!
Enjoy!
WATCH NICOLE’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTICOUPLE: Nicole + Eric Pittman
Destination Wedding Date: June 18, 2021
City & Country: Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Venue: Jellyfish Restaurant
Host Resort: Royalton Bavaro
Wedding Budget: $13,000
(DESTINOTE: My husband said $10,000 but mentally I prepared for no more than $15,000)
Number of Guests: 42
Bridal Party: 5 Bridesmaids + 6 Groomsmen
THE PITTMANS
Age: Bride, 36 / Groom, 38
Occupations: Bride Registered Nurse / Groom Engineer
Hometown: North Carolina
(Bride from Scotland Neck NC, Groom from Greensboro NC)
THE PROPOSAL
Fun Fact: Eric planned a surprise proposal in Egypt! Here’s their story…
“Our proposal took place in front of The Great Sphinx of Giza, with the Great Pyramid in the background while on vacation in Egypt. Egypt had been on the top of Eric's bucket list for quite some time. We both had seen so many beautiful pictures taken in front of The Sphinx, that we wanted to take some great ones as well to add to our collection. One, in particular, was a photo that appeared as if you were "kissing" The Sphinx. It required you to face The Sphinx and pucker up!! The photographer positioned the camera to appear that the two were sharing a kiss even though you were nowhere near the statue. Nicole attempted to master the picture, let’s just say when she opened her eyes to see how the picture turned out, it was not what she expected. Behind her, Eric was on one knee with a ring. We may be biased, but that was hands down the most amazing proposal ever.”
THE VIDEO
The proposal video will drop soon so stay tuned !
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: stay tuned!
Bride’s Shoes: Betsey Johnson
(DESTINOTE: however they never made it to my feet for the ceremony lol)
Bride’s Jewelry: Ali Express + Amazon for all ceremony Jewelry; SuReina Bridal for reception headpiece
Hair + Makeup: Jasmin Abad Brito
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Favorite DESTI Episode: All Episodes with Sarah Kline!!!!!!! She is amazing and made me realize how much my TA sucked!!
Favorite Color: Red
Favorite Cocktail: Sex on the beach
Follow her on Instagram @hawt_rn
THE GROOM
Groom’s Attire: stay tuned!
Groom’s Accessories: stay tuned!
THE BRIDAL PARTY
Bridesmaids’ Attire: Etsy - Divine Bridal Shop
Groomsmen’s Attire: Black Tux
Bouquets and Boutonnières: Etsy - Darlas Blooms
THE WEDDING
Planning: Janelkis Garrido and Gianna Paola
Styling & decor: Gianna Paola
Photography: Junior Cruz Weddings
Videographer: Palmpalm ( Previously Weddingroll Cinematography & Photography)
Florals: Ceremony + Reception flowers were provided by Jellyfish Restaurant. Bouquet + boutonnières were purchased from Darlas Blooms on Etsy
Cake + Catering: Jellyfish Restaurant
DJ: supplied by Jellyfish Restaurant
MORE WEDDING DETAILS
Paper Invitations + Details:
Round Menu Cards, Custom Monogram for Welcome Sign and Ring Box, Seating Arrangement Signs, Guestbook Sign, Table Numbers Sign, Decal SVG for Welcome Cups - Amy with PaperTales Customs
Program Fans - Zazzle
Welcome Letter for cups - Etsy
Wedding Website: Zola (see it here)
DESTINOTE: We ended up making a wedding Facebook page and communicated on that way more
Etsy Vendors:
Divine Bridal Shop- Bridesmaid dresses
Darlas Blooms- Bouquets and Boutonnières
Bella Blossom Shop - Bridesmaids Personalized Boxes for Day-of Jewelry
Simply Mai - Wedding Hanger
2b1Wedding - Acrylic Heart Guestbook
Rawkrft - Cake Topper
Gibb Daan- Personalized Cake Cutter Set
Line Ave Calligraphy - Flat Lay Stationery Items
Mod Party - Getting Ready Robe
LINKS MENTIONED:
* = affiliate link
Sterilite Trunks Nicole Traveled w/: Amazon* | Walmart*
Alternative Trunk | Omi mentioned: The Container Store
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: AppyCouple*
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
DESTIFACT:
The DESTILOVERS Community Archive has hours and hours of replays, secret episodes, that you won’t find anywhere else. It’s your destination wedding’s dream come true!
TO EVERY SINGLE MEMBER OF THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY:
THANK YOU - FOR MAKING THIS SHOW WHAT IT IS!
I’m SOOO happy to finally have a place where all of my Desti Bridefriends can meet and discuss All Things Desti!
The DESTILOVERS Community is an extension of the show and is your safe space for sharing and collaboration while planning your destination wedding! Here’s what you can also look forward to:
DESTIHOUR LIVE Q+A’s! | Episode Discussions! | BRIDEFRIEND BRUNCH Connection Calls | Destination Wedding Topic Deep-dives! (w/ hours and hours of replays!) |
Secret Episodes | Special Guests! | Giveaways! | And More!
*While the main hub is in a Facebook Group, all Non-Facebookers have access to a secret portal (The DESTILOVERS Archive) to enjoy all events and festivities too!
This space is whatever you Bridefriends make it! And where I get my inspiration for the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
Bridefriends truly are the BEST friends👯♀️
xx, Omi
Thank You Nicole!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
in beautiful Punta Cana, Dominican Republic!
We wish you + your beautiful family the absolute BEST!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
TASHIMA | Playa del Carmen, Mexico
How Tashima planned her 45 guest, pretty, panic-free, pandemic destination wedding at The Fives Azul Beach Hotel in Playa del Carmen, Mexico! (Try saying that 5 times fast!)
“My wedding was gonna happen, even if it was just him and I...”
*Photos courtesy of Sotero Cancino Photography
EPISODE 40
How Tashima Planned Her Destination Wedding in Playa del Carmen, Mexico!
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Laura was MAGICAL! Laura and her husband brought 58 guests to celebrate their loving union at the The Fives Azul Beach Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico a and she tells us alll about their destination wedding planning journey! Laura shared so many destination wedding planning tips with us and I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕How they met
💕Why they decided to have a destination wedding
💕Choosing their destination wedding date
💕Planning and saving money TOGETHER
💕How they chose their destination wedding venue
💕How they picked their destination wedding vendors - makeup, photographer, etc.
💕 An unexpected destination wedding beauty tip!
💕Her The Fives Azul Beach Resort Wedding Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding
in Playa del Carmen, Mexico?
Click Play and find out how Tashima planned her destination wedding
at The Fives Azul Beach Resort in Playa del Carmen, Mexico!
Enjoy!
WATCH TASHIMA’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
THANK YOU TO THIS EPISODE’S SPONSOR: TIME FOR TRAVEL
DestiCouple: Tashima + Mark Haley
Destination Wedding Date: October 23, 2020
City & Country: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Venue: The Fives Azul Beach Resort (Skydeck)
Wedding Budget: $11,000
Number of Guests: 45
Bridal Party: 3 Bridesmaids + 3 Groomsmen
THE HALEYS
Engagement Length: 17 Months
Age: Bride, 40 / Groom, 41
Hometown: Atlanta, GA
THE STORY
We are one of a kind and perfect for each other. We met my freshman year and I brushed him off. I met him again in 2005 and brushed him off and I guess they say 3rd time's a charm because in 2013 it was all she wrote:).
We both went to HBCUs in the AUC ( Morris Brown and Clark Atlanta) and are from up north - he is from New York and I am originally from Connecticut. We have a beautiful 5 year old son together and I gained a bonus daughter who is 13.
This planning was special to me. All my friends were waiting to see this day because they know I am a planner by nature. Every birthday I have had has been over the top.
I love the details of it all and I was not super stressed about planning so I’d love to share my story to help another beautiful bride out. Not to mention I was also planning during a pandemic but that is another story within itself !!
xx, DESTIBRIDE TASHIMA
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: Allure
Bride’s Shoes: Blue by Betsy Johnson
Bride’s Jewelry: Etsy + Zales
Hair: Najah Aziz @ Like the River the Salon in Atlanta, GA (see interview for details!)
Makeup: Hello Beauty Mx
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Favorite DESTI Episode: Desti Erika [Episode 20]. She gave me the "GO" to start planning.
“I also listened to so many especially one podcast when you mentioned Sarah Kline. Sarah saved my life :)”
Sorority: Delta Sigma Theta
Follow her on Instagram @slplady
THE GROOM
Groom’s Attire: Macy’s
Groom’s Accessories: Nordstrom
THE BRIDAL PARTY
Bridesmaids’ Attire: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Shoes: Macy’s
Groomsmen’s Attire: Macy’s
Groomsmen’s Shoes: Aldo
THE WEDDING
Planning: Resort
Styling & decor: Resort
Photography: Sotero Cancino Photography
Florals: Corazon Luxury Weddings
Cake + Catering: Resort
Wedding Website: The Knot (see it here)
DJ: Disco Movil Cancun
DESTINote: “Ricardo was so professional and we had more than a blast …it was a wedding of a lifetime”
Etsy Vendors:
Wooden Name Plates: Engrave Celebration Etsy
Events Itinerary: Minty Paperie Shop Etsy
Brilliant Bridal Shop Etsy
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: AppyCouple
Tashima’s favorite DESTIBRIDE Episode: Desti Erika [Episode 20]
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: TIME FOR TRAVEL
DESTIFACT:
Time for Travel also handled Tashima’s wedding travel and she gives her glowing review in her interview!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR DESTIPARTNER
TIME FOR TRAVEL FOR SPONSORING THE SHOW!
TIME FOR TRAVEL is a team of FREE Destination Wedding + Honeymoon Specialists owned by Sarah Kline who is known for saying:
“We have personally visited each venue we recommend,
so we know which venue is a Perfect Match for you and your guests!”
An AMAZING choice for any Caribbean, Mexico, South Pacific or Hawaii destination wedding or honeymoon, and with over 20 years of experience helping couples fulfill their dreams, Sarah and her team will make your DESTI wedding and honeymoon exactly what you've dreamed of!
More Destination Wedding Questions?
Don’t be shy, Bridefriend! - reach out to Time for Travel and see how they can help you plan your DESTI Wedding!
And tell them Your best DESTI Bridefriend Omi sent you and they’ll take EXTRA SPECIAL care of you ;)
xx, Omi
Thank You Tashima!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
in beautiful Playa del Carmen, Mexico!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding - MEET MY HUBBY!
Alllll about our destination wedding - EVERY. SINGLE. DETAIL…Hope you’re ready!
*This episode is sponsored by the DESTILOVERS Community!
EPISODE 36
100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding - MEET MY HUBBY!
HEY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!
I’m soooo excited to introduce you all to my husband!!!
This man has patiently awaited this day and when I say he delivered…he deliverT (yes, with the T!)
I knew I wanted to have him on, but had to figure out the perfect episode for him and then it clicked!
Over the years I’ve received many questions about my destination wedding and I’ve answered them here and there, but they’ve never been in one place - and I was certain I didn’t remember EVERY SINGLE DETAIL…
What did we do?
I figured that the absolute best way to answer your questions AND FINALLY introduce you all to my most favorites person in the world was with this episode! I had to have fun with it and y’all know I like my numbers soooo…
Today we’re sharing 100 facts about our destination wedding with y’all in hopes that you can glean as much information for your own destination wedding planning journey - and get to know us better too!
And it was so much fun!
In fact - it was so much fun, we recorded for much longer than 1 episode can hold. Soooo this will be a multi-part episode. How many parts? All I can tell you is to make sure you subscribe and stay tuned because we go deeper…and deeper…and deeper!
I really don’t think we left any detail untouched, BUT if you have any questions or would like me to elaborate more in another video, drop ‘em in the comments!
And while you’re at it, go ahead and hit that SUBSCRIBE to my channel - I’m back doing weekly videos and if this is helpful for you, tap that thumbs up too!
And if you know of any other couples planning a destination wedding that need this, be a Bridefriend and share this post with them! They’ll thank you for sure!
Ready…let’s goooooo…..
Soooo…what are
100 Facts About Our Destination Wedding?
Click Play and find out!
Enjoy!
xx, Omi
WATCH PART 1 !
WATCH PART 2!
WATCH PART 3!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
STAY TUNED FOR SHOW NOTES, PHOTOS + DETAILS!
I’ll update this post as so!on ASAP
SHOUT OUT TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
If you haven’t joined, you should stop missing out NEOW!
xx, Omi
Thank You Che!
To My Husband: I love you soooo very much and appreciate you taking the time for this episode and agreeing to be an absolute open book about our wedding! Your support means the world to me and makes me feel like I can do anything.
You’re my most favoritest person in the world and I’m looking forward to having you BACK on the show!
I couldn’t have done ANY of this without you My Love!
RECAP OF OUR 100 DESTINATION WEDDING FACTS:
FYI: I’ll be rewatching this video soon and will update this post with photos + links that we mentioned!
Follow me on IG + join the DESTILOVERS Community to be immediately notified!
LINKS
*OUR MINIBOOK CARD INVITATIONS @ MINTED *
We chose and customized the Sweet Confetti Style, but really all of them can be customized.
Drop a comment below if you’d like me to do a tutorial.
BUDGETING BLOG POST ON BLACKDESTI BLOG
The “Omi's BIGGEST Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)” Episode
Omi’s Wedding Website + App: AppyCouple
ON BLACKDESTI.COM : Omi’s 200 Day Destination Wedding Countdown Diary
MORE COMING Y’ALL!
If there’s anything specific you need, drop a comment or DM me on IG @desti.land and let me know.
We covered a lot!
So that’s it!
I hope our facts were helpful for you!
Thanks for hangin’ out with us!
I’ll see you next week and until then…
I’m wishing you all the best week of your lives and reminding you
to have the time of your life,
planning the best days of your life!
Bye guys!!!
xx, Omi
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
LAURA | Oranjestad, Aruba
How Laura planned her 58 guest destination wedding at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort in Aruba!
“The theme of my whole wedding was, I just wanna get it done!”
*Photos courtesy of Elnathan Hijmering Photography
EPISODE 35
How Laura Planned Her Destination Wedding in Oranjestad, Aruba!
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Laura was MAGICAL! Laura and her husband brought 58 guests to celebrate their loving union at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort in Oranjestad, Aruba and she tells us alll about their destination wedding planning journey! Laura shared so many destination wedding planning tips with us and I can't wait to hear how much you love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕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 Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort Wedding Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding in Oranjestad, Aruba?
Click Play and find out how Laura planned her destination wedding
at the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort in Oranjestad, Aruba!
Enjoy!
WATCH LAURA’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
DestiCouple: Laura + Chris Clark
Destination Wedding Date: October 5, 2019
City & Country: Oranjestad, Aruba
Venue: Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort
Wedding Budget: ~$25,000
Number of Guests: 58
Bridal Party: 2 Bridesmaids + 2 Groomsmen
THE CLARKS
Engagement Length: 12 Months
Age: Bride, 29 / Groom, 29
Occupations: Project Manager and Telecommunications
Hometown: Dallas, TX
THE STORY
We met for the first time in high school during a cotillion (debutante ball) rehearsal in 2008 in our hometown. During that time, we did not talk much but knew of each other.
Shortly after, we connected while in college (thanks Facebook) and even went on a date on one of our breaks! Our first official date was to TGI Fridays in our hometown. Being in two different states (at two different schools) just would not work out for us so we went our separate ways.
Once more, we ended up running into each other at a mutual friend's house in Washington D.C. during a homecoming event for Howard University. We even stayed at the same house during that weekend. We talked briefly and we both, again, went our separate ways.
Finally, we connected on Facebook after several years (Thanks Facebook again!). We both decided we would meet up and fly to Orlando during Labor Day weekend 2014 and we have been inseparable ever since.
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: Mori Lee (purchased at Terry Costa – Dallas, TX)
Bridal Alterations: Altered For the Alter
Bride’s Shoes: No Shoes! Barefoot Bride
Bride’s Jewelry: Sam Moon Dallas, TX
Hair & Makeup: Hair - Bride and Makeup - Aruba Makeup Agency
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Favorite Color: Pink
Favorite Cocktail: Whiskey + Ginger Ale
Favorite DESTI Episode: 15 Things to Never Forget While Planning Your Destination Wedding
Follow her on Instagram @lalababy08
THE GROOM
Groom’s Attire: Franklin and Anthony Clothier
Groom’s Accessories: Franklin and Anthony Clothier
THE WEDDING
Planning: Bride + Lisa Dimmerman @ Resort
Styling & decor: Bride + Lisa Dimmerman @ Resort
Photography: Elnathan Hijmering Photography
Videography: Ogenio Films
Florals: Shar’s Flowers
DJ: DJ Tino
Paper Invitations + Details: Lucky Lady Paper on Etsy
Cake + Catering: Resort
Wedding Website: Zola (see it here)
Etsy Vendors:
Invites and Save the Dates: Lucky Lady Paper Etsy
Bags: MyWeddingStore Etsy
Hexagon Place Cards: BetterWeddingDecor Etsy
Other Miscellaneous Vendors:
Welcome Boat Party: Pelican Tours (video above)
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding website company: AppyCouple
Join the DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
Thank You Laura!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek
"behind your veil" of destination wedding planning
on the beautiful island of Aruba!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
Omi's BIGGEST Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)
PLEASE learn from my mistakes Brideriends…it’s storytime!
*This episode is sponsored by the DESTILOVERS Community!
EPISODE 34
My BIGGEST Destination Wedding Mistakes! (And How to Avoid Them)
HEY DESTIS + BRIDEFRIENDS!
Guess what y’all…My destination wedding wasn’t perfect!
SURPRISE!!!!
annnnd… NO wedding - destination wedding or not will be perfect.
Okay, I know that probably sounds crazy to say, but I’m coming on today in this super impromptu episode to share my biggest mistakes with y’all!
I have a DESTIBRIDE interview for you next week with Laura, and I’ve made the game time decision to release her interview for Valentine’s Day Weekend so today it’s just you + me! Let’s have a BlackDesti Chat - it’s been a while!
Okay? Okay! So...
As you know, I share my experiences and wedding photos and tips and all the prettiness and I get a lot of great compliments and comments about our destination wedding and I truly appreciate them all!
And this week on the @DESTI.LAND Instagram page I brought back the HMHU 2021 polls and the questions have been soooo bomb! You all are showing out! And I’m so grateful to have you all in the DESTILOVERS Community, and showing up in the live calls and allll the things. It really means a lot to me to have you all join me, share your experiences and also trust me to help you along your DESTIWedding journeys!
I DO NOT TAKE this lightly Bridefriends! And I’m looking forward to answering alllllll of your questions and getting to know you better!
Btw, if you’re brand new and have no idea what I’m talking about when I say DESTILOVERS - make sure you join! It’s our free Community and is an extension of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings show!
AND this month’s BRIDEFRIEND BRUNCH is tomorrow, so there’s still time to RSVP depending on when you’re here…
Anyway… back to my imperfect wedding! Where was I ???
Oh yeah, HMHU - this week there was A LOT of use of the word PERFECT when it came to my wedding and I get messages from DESTIBRIDES here and there talking about how they’re worried their wedding won’t be perfect and there’s a lot of fear and anxiety - especially right now with COVID going on...
SO I told y’all that I’m following my vibes more in 2021 so here I am!
I feel compelled to shift things up and come on with y’all today with a bit of vulnerability because y’all need to understand that mistakes were made. PHOTOS ARE SNAPSHOTS - I know we know this so this is just a reminder.
I started the BlackDesti blog, podcast, YouTube channel, allll of this because I’m on a mission to help as many of you as possible know that it is possible to plan a destination wedding. Sharing my experiences and others is my way of not just showing you how to plan a destination wedding, but more importantly - letting you know that you are not alone and YOU CAN DO THIS BRIDEFRIENDS!
And I never want you to think that any of these weddings - including my own was perfect. Even if we said it was perfect - that means perfect FOR US and yours will be perfect FOR YOU!
Soooo today I’m sharing my biggest destination wedding planning mistakes with y’all in hopes that you can AVOID where possible and feel seen if you’ve done the same!
If you have any questions or would like me to elaborate more in another video, drop ‘em in the comments!
And while you’re at it, go ahead and hit that SUBSCRIBE to my channel - I’m back doing weekly videos and if this is helpful for you, tap that thumbs up too!
And if you know of any other couples planning a destination wedding that need this, be a Bridefriend and share this post with them! They’ll thank you for sure!
Ready…let’s goooooo…..
Soooo…what were my biggest destination wedding planning mistakes
AND how can you avoid them?
Click Play and find out!
Enjoy!
xx, Omi
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
SHOUT OUT TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO THE DESTILOVERS COMMUNITY!
If you haven’t joined, you should stop missing out NEOW!
xx, Omi
DISCLAIMER!
Keep in mind that MISTAKES DON’T NECESSARILY MEAN REGRETS either. Sometimes you can make a mistake that actually needed to happen or even works out for the better. For some of these I’m actually glad that they happened - even if I didn’t feel that was at the time. Opportunities for growth, boundaries and conversations and decisions that needed to happen can really come from your mistakes!
I will give that disclaimer.
RECAP OF MY DESTINATION WEDDING MISTAKES:
FYI: I’ll be rewatching this video on Monday and will update this post with photos + links that I mentioned!
Follow me on IG + join the DESTILOVERS Community to be immediately notified!
I WAS TOO HONEST
I WAS TOO EMOTIONAL
I WASN’T READY FOR PLAN B
WE MISSED A CONTRACT DETAIL
WE SHOULD’VE PAID CLOSER ATTENTION TO GUEST LIST
OUR BUDGET GOT OUT OF CONTROL
WE REALLY MISS 1 IMPORTANT PHOTO
I PHYSICALLY FORGOT MYSELF
I NEGLECTED AN IMPORTANT OUTFIT
WE SHOULD’VE PREPPED WELCOME GIFTS
I WASN’T FLEXIBLE ENOUGH
WE UNDERESTIMATED TIME
I OVERPACKED
WE DIDN’T MEET ALL VENDORS
THE VIBE NEEDED MORE ATTENTION
So that’s it!
I hope my mistakes were helpful for you! I would never want to deter you from having a destination wedding - so know that wasn’t my intention.
Thanks for hangin’ out with me!
Again, drop any questions or video ideas in the comments. And while you’re at it introduce yourself gimme that #IMADESTI and let me know when and where you’re getting married!
I’ll see you next week with DESTIBRIDE Laura’s interview and until then…
I’m wishing you all the best week of your lives and reminding you
to have the time of your life,
planning the best days of your life!
Bye guys!!!
xx, Omi
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
Don’t miss an episode of the
DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings!
SHARE THE LOVE!
ALEAH | Playa Mujeres, Mexico
How Aleah planned her 104 guest destination wedding at the Dreams Playa Mujeres Resort in Playa Mujeres, Mexico!
“It was perfect! perfect! perfect! perfect! perfect! perfect!”
*Photos courtesy of Mayan Riviera Photography
EPISODE 31
How Aleah Planned Her Destination Wedding in Playa Mujeres, Mexico!
This interview with DESTIBRIDE Aleah was EVERYTHING! Aleah and her husband brought 104 guests to witness their destination wedding at the Dreams Playa Mujeres Resort in Playa Mujeres, Mexico and she tells us alll about how they did it together! Aleah shared so much destination wedding planning advice with us - I know you’re gonna love it!
Destination Wedding Planning Topics Covered:
We chatted about:
💕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 Dreams Playa Mujeres Review
💕and so much more!
Soooo…how do you plan a destination wedding in Playa Mujeres, Mexico?
Click Play and find out how Aleah planned her destination wedding at the Dreams Playa Mujeres in Playa Mujeres, Mexico!
Enjoy!
WATCH ALEAH’S INTERVIEW!
YOU CAN LISTEN ON THE PODCAST TOO!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
DestiCouple: Aleah + Terrance Jordan
Destination Wedding Date: November 10, 2019
City & Country: Playa Mujeres, Mexico
Venue: Dreams Playa Mujeres (Central Garden)
Wedding Budget: $30,000
(originally budgeted for $20,000 - see interview for explanation)
Number of Guests: 104
Bridal Party: 8 Bridesmaids + 8 Groomsmen
THE JORDANS
Engagement Length: 17 Months
Age: Bride, 32 / Groom, 35
Occupations: Bride: Consumer Marketing Consultant / Groom: Psychologist
Hometown: Elkhart, IN -- currently residing in Atlanta, GA
THE BRIDE
Bride’s Dress: Morilee
Bride’s Shoes: Jeffery Campbell Block Heels
Bride’s Jewelry: Etsy + Elegant Designs, Elkhart, IN
Hair & Makeup: Hair - Cousin and Makeup - Sara Tamargo and Team
#IMADESTI
DESTIBRIDE FUN FACTS:
Aleah’s nickname is Laya
Favorite Color: Pink
Favorite Cocktail: Champagne
Book Recommendation: The Four Agreements
Laya is also a lifestyle blogger and has a great wedding section with great destination wedding tips ! Find her blog @ TheLayaB.com and follow her on Instagram @thelayab_
THE WEDDING
Planning: Bride + Resort
Styling & decor: Bride (Shout out to Mother of Bride + Homegirl Chanel)
Photography: Mayan Riviera Photography
Florals: Resort (Bride Provided Pictures)
DJ: Ceremony - Resort / Reception - DJ Carver
Paper Invitations + Details: Etsy and Minted
Cake + Catering: Resort
Wedding Website: Riley & Grey
Etsy Vendors:
Welcome Bags: @WeddingUkraine Etsy
Fans at ceremony: @pbpaperie Etsy
Getting ready shirts: @WhatALuvely Etsy
Champagne place cards @RagandRoots Etsy
Hair comb: @GlamourBrideUSA Etsy
Cake topper: @Rawkrft Etsy
Other Miscellaneous Vendors:
Tumblers: Save a Cup + Sticker Mule
Drink Floaties: DH Gate
Advil/Pepto: Dollar Dayz
LINKS MENTIONED:
Omi’s favorite wedding posts on Aleah’s LayaB blog:
The Guest List: HOW TO BUILD YOUR WEDDING GUEST LIST WITH LESS STRESS
Shopping for your dress: HOW TO SHOP FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS WITHOUT THE STRESS
Everything Else: See all Pink Links above!
Thank You Laya!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek "behind your veil" of destination wedding planning in the beautiful Playa Mujeres, Mexico!
Thanks for Watching + Listening Bridefriends!
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!
SUBSCRIBE FOR INSTANT NOTIFICATIONS!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
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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!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
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. ”
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Omi's Destination Wedding Week Beauty Recap! - Part 1
Strolling down destination wedding hair and makeup memory lane w/ Beauty Pro, Ivory Perkins. Back to Mexico we go!
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!
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.”
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
💕AS PROMISED, HERE'S THE ABC "IESHA" VIDEO THAT EXPLAINS MY SINGING + RAPPING PERFORMANCE 👇🏾🤗
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LEAH | Antigua, Guatemala
She had a dreamy destination wedding in the beautiful Antigua, Guatemala…MOVED there…and opened her boutique and “huipil textile heaven”, Aline Mayan. Here’s how.
*Photos courtesy of Tim King Photography
How Desti Lea Planned Her Destination Wedding in Antigua, Guatemala...and Then Moved There!
In this episode, we have a great Desti Chat with Desti Lea, who chose to have her destination wedding in the beautiful Antigua, Guatemala and then MOVE to Antigua and open her boutique and “huipil textile heaven”, Aline Mayan.
Lea opened up to us and shared the wealth, telling us how she planned and shares her views on Desti body image, staying stress free and so much more while planning her destination wedding. She shares the details on her budgeting, choosing her venue, vendors, and has an interesting story about her wedding dress too!
Enjoy!
WATCH LEA’S FULL INTERVIEW ON DESTITV!
DETAILS
Lea’s destination wedding was in the beautiful Antigua, Guatemala. Now, if you’ve heard of Antigua, but don’t know where it...or Guatemala is, don’t feel bad...I got you! Guatemala is a country in Central America just south of Mexico.
Let’s get into the vendors Lea used for her destination wedding in Antigua, Guatemala!
LEA’S DESTIPRO LIST:
Wedding Venue:
Porta Hotel Antigua
Photography:
Tim King Photography
THE LADIES…
THE GENTS…
… AND THE PAARTAY!
Thank You Lea!
We appreciate you being our Bridefriend Forever and giving us a peek "behind your veil" of destination wedding planning in Antigua, Guatemala!
We wish you and John the ABSOLUTE BEST in Antigua!
*As of present (May 17, 2017) Lea's online boutique in Etsy is moving so that she can branch out on her own, so you can find her and contact her on Instagram @aline_mayan.
Thanks for Listening!
Don’t miss an episode of the DESTI Guide to Destination Weddings Podcast!
Apple Podcasts | Google Play | Stitcher | Spotify | YouTube
SHARE!
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!)
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
Our 1st Curacao destination wedding DESTIBRIDE interview!