Tiffany & Christopher

Important Wedding Information

How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
We wanted a place for everyone to feel comfortable from our parents, families to our nieces and nephews. Entertainment was a big thing for us especially since we didn’t want to feel like we had to be everywhere 24/7. We wanted our guests to have freedom to enjoy their vacation and to gather with us for events throughout the hotel. It definitely took the pressure off of us. We also wanted a unique ceremony so the glass over the canal had us sold. We were going to choose another hotel, but we felt like Hard Rock had things for everyone to do since it was like a different world in there. Also, with a big family there comes politics and I wanted everyone to feel comfortable.

Were your guests wowed by the resort and the all-inclusive concept? What was their reaction upon arrival?
My guests absolutely loved the resort even though some found it to be too big, but it had a lot of entertainment for everyone, which was one of the reasons why we choose The Hard Rock. It certainly had its pros and cons, but overall, it fit for us. It was a place that if you wanted to party you could or if you had children there was a waterpark or if you wanted to relax you could also relax. In a sense it created unity because in such a big place people still managed to find each other and enjoy their vacation.

What were some of your biggest fears about having a destination wedding?
The vendors and food because the location did not do a tasting and I was not physically there to see everything. It took awhile for the Miami office to respond to pricing and negotiations. Also, the constant changing of planners was extremely frustrating. I was also worried that the DJ would not be great or that the weather would not be nice since I had to move my wedding location outdoors.

How easy/difficult was it to travel with your wedding dress? Did you carry-it on, where did you store it? Did you get a lot of comments at the airport?
My wedding dress was heavy to carry. I strongly suggest you taking it on its hanger and carry it to avoid wrinkles, messing up the color, or even losing it. All of our luggage did not arrive on our arrival so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Once you get on the plane you can give it to an attendant and they can hang it up for you. I had my mom take it with her since I got ready in her room on wedding day.

What would you do differently? What advice would you give to couples just starting the planning process?
I would advise couples to do an on-site inspection. It makes a huge difference so you can get a feel of the place. I would also ask to see actual centerpieces or decorations because sometimes it does not look like the catalog. Also, ask if there are additional fees for bringing outside vendors. Maybe ask who will be present on the actual day of the wedding. The actual wedding planner, DJ, MC, etc just so that everyone is on the same page.

In what ways did Destination Paradise make the planning less stressful for you?
Destination Paradise took care of guests concerns and problems promptly throughout the days of the event, which gave me the ability to take care of other things on site.
Would you recommend Destination Paradise to other couples who are considering a destination wedding?
I would because Tiffani handled things well during the circumstances and she was very understanding throughout the process.