One of the first dilemmas couples are faced with when they decide to plan an overseas wedding in the Caribbean is whether to go for an all-inclusive wedding package. These packages are marketed extensively by resorts and tour operators, so they’re often the first thing you see when you start looking for inspiration and ideas.
Perhaps you’ve spotted ads for a ‘free wedding’ when you book a minimum three-night stay at certain Caribbean resorts? Often, these all-inclusive ‘free weddings’ are described as ‘customisable’. However, when you look more closely, your options are very limited, and any changes tend to incur an additional cost. In stark contrast, planning a bespoke wedding means executing every detail based on your personal preferences. Unlike off-the-shelf packages, you have complete freedom of choice.
I know how attractive all-inclusive wedding packages can appear {and how persuasive the marketing can be}. To help you make an informed decision, I’ve laid out some of the pros and cons below.
All-inclusive packages are designed to make planning a wedding easier. If you have no desire to agonise over every detail, this option could be perfect for you. The packages on offer have usually been tried and tested by countless couples, so you can be fairly confident they’re fit for purpose. All you need to do is pick one that aligns with your needs.
Although all-inclusive packages are designed to simplify planning from a distance, they tend to make it more challenging to create a wedding that’s personal and unique. If the little details matter {and we firmly believe they do}, you may find the lack of flexibility frustrating. As mentioned above, tweaking packages to fit your vision can involve adding costly upgrades and extras. You may also find you have a limited choice of vendors.
Although all-inclusive venues are usually situated in beautiful locations, you’re unlikely to find anything ‘off the beaten track’. If you’re after a more unusual, unexpected setting for your ceremony, a bespoke package may be your best option. There’s often no guarantee of exclusivity at an all-inclusive venue, so you also need to ask yourself whether you’ll mind being one of numerous weddings taking place on the same day.
If you’re at the beginning of your overseas wedding planning journey, it’s definitely worth exploring all-inclusive Caribbean wedding packages. You’ll soon figure out whether it’s the right choice for you. If you’ve been browsing our website and felt a connection to the work we do, chances are all-inclusive isn’t going to cut it. We may be biased, but we’d go bespoke every time!
At Benessamy, we’re committed to removing the stress associated with long-distance wedding planning. We can source vendors, handle negotiations, assist your guests, confirm bookings and co-ordinate every aspect of your overseas wedding or elopement. Discover our Overseas Wedding Planning Services or get in touch to arrange a consultation.
Val xx
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