WEDDING BLOG

4 Reasons You Should Have an All-Inclusive Destination Wedding

October 24, 2023 | marissa

Lexi and Marissa in the Casa Velas Presidential Suite

With the engagement ring on your finger and the wedding budget set, the next step is choosing your dream wedding venue. While searching for the ideal wedding backdrop, the options can seem endless. If a beach wedding is calling your name, we have some great advice just for you: don’t overlook an all-inclusive resort.

We’ll admit that all-inclusive resorts haven’t always had the best reputations. But it’s time to clear your mind of those preconceived notions. The days of mediocre food and stereotypical wedding ceremonies are a thing of the past. Simply look to Velas Resorts, who are single-handedly changing the game for all-inclusive resorts. A wedding at any of the Velas Resorts properties is a one-of-a-kind, exceptional event filled with luxury, sophistication, and fine dining. We’re here to tell you why it’s the perfect choice for your destination wedding.

4 Reasons To Have An All-Inclusive Destination Wedding

We had the unbelievable opportunity to visit two more Velas Resorts properties in Mexico. This time, we traveled to Puerto Vallarta to stay at Casa Velas and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit. Our phenomenal stay was full of relaxation, special surprises, and delicious food. The properties are designed with weddings in mind, with gardens, terraces, beaches, and ballrooms ready for ceremonies and receptions. Both of these unique resorts are the perfect venues for your destination wedding, and here’s why:

1. Luxury Vacation at Your Finger Tips

The all-inclusive lifestyle means your friends and family can be guests at a wedding while also experiencing a personal vacation. It’s a bonus for everyone involved. The Casa Velas and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit staff are there to make you–and all your guests–feel as pampered and cared for as possible. We can certainly attest to this.

Casa Velas All-Inclusive Resort Pool

Walkway at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

All your guests will enjoy the available in-suite dining services, beach access, onsite spas, and the gourmet culinary experience at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit’s 5 AAA Diamond-awarded restaurants. Both properties also have giant swimming pools with swim-up bars that make your poolside time oh-so relaxing and effortless. For the guests with children, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit even has onsite childcare. It’s convenient for the parents, and the kids will have a blast in the Kid’s and Teen’s Clubs.

2. Easy To Budget

It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but wedding budgets can be complicated. Think of all the different assets you have to cover–venue, rentals, hotels, food, flowers, the list goes on and on. But not when you have an all-inclusive destination wedding at Velas Resorts. Instead, you’re paying one comprehensive fee for everything wedding-related. There won’t be surprise invoices or separate vendor bills to budget for. It’s all packaged into one easy and digestible payment so that you can leave the budgeting stress behind.

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

The Gazebo Terrace at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit.

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Pool

All-inclusive resorts also make budgeting easier for your guests. Like you, they’ll pay one comprehensive bill to cover it all. Inviting guests is much easier when you know the upfront cost for their hotel and food. They’ll only need to cover the cost of their flight (in addition to the hotel cost), and they’ll be set for the weekend. They can eat and drink to their heart’s content without worrying about fees and expenses.

3. Streamline the Wedding Planning Process

As we mentioned, there are a lot of steps to planning an unforgettable wedding. And hiring the right vendors is a huge part of the process. When getting married at the Puerto Vallarta Velas Resorts, you can expect to have all the best wedding vendors at your fingertips. Most importantly, the onsite wedding planners know how to bring your complete wedding vision to life. And they do so with the utmost care, attention to detail, and dedication. That ultimately sets Velas Resorts apart–their team of incredibly talented professionals.

Grand Velas or Casa Velas, whichever you choose, both work with the best vendors in the Puerto Vallarta area. They have relationships with the top choices in DJs, live music, decor rentals, salon services, floral arrangements, and everything in between.

View from Casa Velas

View from Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Suite

Veranda of Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit Suite

Another feature that improves the planning process is a free one-night stay before your wedding. That way, you and your significant other can check out the property first-hand. You can view the multiple ceremony locations, test out menus, and get an overall feel of the wedding vibes.

4. Camaraderie and Community

With all your guests in one spot, the fun never has to end. That’s the joy of your wedding venue doubling as your hotel–it limits travel times between locations. Plus, all-inclusive obviously means endless food, drinks, and entertainment for everyone. What’s better than that?

You can meet up at Koi Bar for drinks and dancing after the ceremony or have a day of golfing at Marina Vallarta & Vista Vallarta Golf Clubs. There are relaxing options, too–like taking a water ceremony journey together at SE Spa. At Casa Velas and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, there are countless ways to spend time together.

The Casa Velas Presidential Suite plunge pool

all-inclusive destination wedding Riviera Nayarit

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit pool walkway

Lastly, Puerto Vallarta is a place for adventure. If you and your guests are looking for ways to explore the surrounding areas, try snorkeling or scuba diving, sailing in the Bay of Banderas, or taking a day trip into the charming city of Puerto Vallarta.

We feel so fortunate to have visited two more Velas Resorts properties. We’re already missing the poolside snacks and endless generosity from the Velas staff. We can’t recommend these properties enough for your dream all-inclusive destination wedding.

This Moody & Sultry Latrobe’s on Royal Wedding Was a Nonstop Party

October 23, 2023 | justine

gold ivory kelly green white

Olivia and Jordan first met at Tulane, and ever since, the vibrant city of New Orleans held a special place in their hearts. When they decided to have a destination wedding, it was clear that they wanted their special day to capture the authentic essence of the city they love. By choosing to celebrate in the heart of the French Quarter, they were confident that their guests would truly enjoy an authentic New Orleans celebration. From the lively second-line parade to the contagious energy that filled the air, their Latrobe’s on Royal wedding day perfectly reflected the city’s vibrant spirit and their deep affection for it.

The pair aimed for an intimate wedding–like being in someone’s home–and Latrobe’s on Royal was the perfect setting. Their wedding planner advised them to embrace the unique space, which they followed wholeheartedly. Their skilled team of vendors set a moody, old-world atmosphere in the historic courtyard, adorned with lanterns and lush white florals. They said their vows under a chuppah while showcasing the incredible architecture, striking a delicate balance between tradition and the venue’s charm.

The reception that followed had a chic, sophisticated lounge vibe with plush seating around the dance floor and dimmed lights to set the sultry mood. Brimming with infectious energy, the couple’s diligent planning paid off on their special day. Keep scrolling to see the stunning photos showcase the unique, personal details that made their wedding day truly one-of-a-kind–all beautifully captured by Love is Rad.

The Couple:

Olivia and Jordan

The Wedding:

Latrobe’s on Royal, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Recommended Reading: Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Dress Shopping

Meaningful Personal Touches During Their Latrobe’s on Royal Wedding Ceremony

My father is an incredible writer and speaker with great wit and charm. He married both of my older brothers, and there was no question that I wanted him to officiate our ceremony. It was important that our officiant knew us intimately. He has a way of speaking that quiets the room and brings people into the moment. Having a chuppah as an element of our wedding was something we wanted. Still, at the same time, we didn’t want to take away from the incredible architecture of Latrobe’s courtyard. So, the four most important people in our lives brought our chuppah towards the end of our ceremony—our two siblings, best man, and maid of honor. Each held a corner of the canopy over us while we exchanged vows. It was an amazing moment and a meaningful way to end our ceremony and head into the second line.

Recommended Reading: Ceremony Backdrops to Wow Your Guests

How Their Latrobe’s on Royal Wedding Came To Be

Having met at Tulane, New Orleans has always held a special place in our hearts. Once we decided on doing a destination wedding, we wanted our venue to feel authentic to the city, and Latrobe’s is precisely that. It was built in 1822 as the Louisiana State Bank and is one of New Orleans’ most architecturally significant buildings. The space has been restored since then but still has a very authentic feel, featuring original stonework, gas lanterns, and exposed brick. Between the French Quarter location and the rich history of the building, we knew our guests were destined to have an authentic New Orleans celebration.

An Experienced Wedding Planner is Key to a Stress-Free Experience

Our wedding planning advice is to ensure you feel connected to and understood by your wedding planner. Elyse Jennings always created a calm atmosphere and always made me feel like everything was taken care of. It rained on our wedding day, and she quickly pivoted our first look to a new location. Those photos are some of our favorite ones from the whole weekend. Her demeanor allowed us to relax and enjoy each moment, knowing every last detail was thought of.

Proudly Bucking Wedding Norms Through Their Non-Stop Party Celebration

We are most proud of the energy and vibe that we created. It was a true house party. The second line kicked off our celebration, and how we designed our lounge-style reception kept the energy level high throughout the night. I am proud that we didn’t feel pressured to adhere to typical wedding traditions. We didn’t have a sit-down dinner with speeches—we had a never-ending party. I’ll also never forget dancing the hora with the women in my family surrounding me. I think sometimes it’s difficult for brides and grooms (especially brides) to enjoy the celebration fully. But we were able to be in the moment. We truly experienced our party. They couldn’t get us off the stage.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Love is Rad
Event Planning – Elyse Jennings Weddings
Venue + Catering – Latrobe’s on Royal
Floral Design – Bella Blooms Floral
Cake – The Sweet Life Bakery
Ceremony Music – New Orleans Classical and Jazz
Second Line Band – Kinfolk Brass Band
Live Music – Blue Rhythm Band
Videography – Nathan Willis Wedding Films
Invitation Design – Fine Lines of Katonah
Makeup Artist – Brittney Evans
Hair Styling – Annie Rush
Wedding Dress – Liz Martinez from Spina Bride
Shoes – Jimmy Choo
Veil – Galiah Lahav
Groom’s Apparel – Canali
Shoes – Arthur Sleep
Rings – SLD Jewels + Bijou of Katonah
Rentals – Distressed Rentals & Revival
Transportation – Big Easy Limos Inc.
Linens – BBJ LaTavola
Second Line Hankies – The Polka Dotted Bee
Cups and Cocktail Napkins – For Your Party
Bridesmaids Pajamas – Sleeper
Getting Ready Location – Virgin Hotel New Orleans
First Look Location – Maison dela Luz

Congratulations to Olivia and Jordan on their moody and sultry Latrobe’s on Royal wedding that was a non-stop party. And a big thank you to Love is Rad for capturing all the special moments and infectious energy of the happiest day of their lives.

Your wedding day is a chance to have fun and celebrate your love in your own special way. Whether it’s choosing a meaningful spot or skipping traditions, make it uniquely yours. You’ve got countless ways to tell your love story, and with the perfect team of vendors, the options are limitless. So, make your big day exactly as you dream it!

Should You Have an Adults Only Wedding?

October 22, 2023 | justine

Keep scrolling for important tips for hosting an adults only wedding. Image by Jennifer See Studios.

When crafting your wedding guest list, the power is in your hands. If you envision a gathering exclusively for the grown-ups, that’s totally fine (in fact, many couples opt for it!). But, arranging an adults-only celebration can pose some questions. How should you word your invitations? How can you address guests who need to know the arrangement? Don’t worry. We’re here to assist with some great advice: be honest and kind. Check out these important tips for hosting an adults only wedding without causing any hard feelings.

Image by Daniela Ortiz

Top Tips for Hosting an Adults Only Wedding

Establish and Stick to Your Age Rule

When creating your guest list, sit down with your partner and decide on an “age rule” for your wedding. This could mean no guests under 16 or any other age that feels right to you. Once you set this rule, it’s crucial to stick to it. If you plan on making exceptions, like having your own children or a few young relatives in the wedding party, clarify these exceptions right from the start.

Be Direct and Clear

If you’re hosting a kid-free wedding, being upfront with your guests is essential to avoid any confusion. Using clear and straightforward language is key. We understand that these etiquette situations can be tricky, but having your wedding your way is worth having those awkward conversations.

Let Your Inner Circle Help

Talk with your close family members and wedding party members about your “no kids” rule as soon as possible. Inform them about your decision so they can assist in answering questions from other guests. Some friends and family who don’t want to bother you with questions may ask your close family members if they can bring children. They don’t need to announce it loudly, but having them informed will make them better equipped to handle inquiries.

Don’t Make Exceptions Selectively

It’s crucial to apply your “no kids” rule consistently. Making exceptions for some children and not others can lead to awkward situations and hurt feelings. Stick to your decision and be firm but polite if questioned.

Be Ready for Difficult Conversations About Your Adults Only Wedding

Some guests may not understand your “adults only” rule despite your efforts to communicate it clearly. Be prepared for questions or requests to bring kids, and respond with kindness but firmness. Mentioning “budget constraints” can provide a more understandable reason.

Help Guests Find Childcare

As a kind gesture, assist your guests in finding childcare solutions. You can ask for babysitter recommendations from your network or even hire a babysitting service to watch the kids in a separate area at your venue.

Don’t Let the No-Shows Bring You Down

Understand that some guests may not attend due to childcare issues, which does not necessarily reflect their feelings towards you or your wedding. Focus on celebrating with those who can attend rather than dwelling on those who cannot make it.

Image by Nahuel Aseff Photography

Adults Only Wedding Wording for Invitations

On the Invitation

If you’re concerned that it might not be clear that your wedding is for adults only, you can gently indicate this on the save-the-dates and wedding invitations. Mention only the names of the invited guests. And if you’re inviting parents, use only their names on the envelope.

For a direct but courteous approach on the invitation itself, you can use phrasing such as: “We kindly request the pleasure of your company at our adults-only celebration. Additionally, on the RSVP cards, you can include a line that says “___ adults will be attending out of ___ total guests,” where you fill in the first blank with the number of adult guests invited in that particular group.

On the Wedding Website

If you have a wedding website, consider adding a dedicated FAQ section. Under “Can guests bring kids?” or on the information page, include a clear statement like: “While we love all of the children in our lives, we have decided to keep our wedding and reception an adults-only event.”

If some guests still need childcare options, you can mention: “While we understand that some guests may need to travel with children, we recommend local babysitting services for your convenience.”

For Guests Who Ask for Exceptions

If guests inquire about bringing their children as a replacement for a plus-one, you can kindly explain: “We appreciate your understanding, but our wedding is designed as an adults-only event, and we’re unable to accommodate children. This decision is based on the type of event we’re hosting, which is intended for adults.”

Image by Nomad NK

Your wedding day is about celebrating your love, and you can curate your guest list just as you imagine. While handling the “no kids” rule may require some tact and communication, it’s all part of creating the special day you envision.

As you move closer to your dream celebration, remember that wedding invites set the mood for your big day. Whether you’re planning a summer or fall wedding, we’ve got you covered with plenty of inspiration. From the latest design trends to the best websites to buy invitations, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Image by Through The Glass Paris

WEDDING BLOG

4 Reasons You Should Have an All-Inclusive Destination Wedding