The Wedding Collective team is dreaming about the sound of waves crashing upon the shore and, surprisingly, even the chaotic nature of navigating our way through theme parks. Along with our engaged couples, we’re especially dreaming about romantic getaways with our partners.
Although going on a romantic getaway seems unheard of these days, it doesn’t mean that it is going to be this way forever. In fact, we’re anxiously awaiting safer and brighter days where we can hop on the next flight to Disneyland! Now is the perfect time to plan ahead, make must-see lists, and get hyped up for your future honeymoon with the love of your life. For many engaged couples, planning a honeymoon may seem like the last thing you want to worry about, and it is often seen as a stressful task.
Were here to make planning your future honeymoon enjoyable and easy with some tips and tricks, all while connecting you with some of our favorite local wedding travel gurus. Tip #1…
1. Make Lists + Brainstorm
This is first on our list because, well, we love lists for planning, and second, it is the best way to stay organized throughout your planning process. Creating a list gives you something to refer back to as you move forward and will keep you on track! Plus, it’s exciting to actually write down all of the travel ideas that you’ve had in your head and see them become a reality.
When listing, start with all of the places you want to go for your romantic honeymoon – do you want to travel to a different country or domestically? Will you take a road trip or hop on a plane? What kind of lodging do you want? Break it up into categories and start looking at your options. Talk to your significant other about their desires and see what you can narrow it down to. You can download the template below to help you plan your dream honeymoon:
2. Budget, budget, budget
This may seem like the dreaded aspect of planning a honeymoon, but it is really the most important part of the process because it will keep you realistic about your options. I know, sadly, not everyone has a million bucks to drop on a romantic private seaside retreat with a personal chef, and if you do, mind taking us along with you? In all seriousness, though, budgeting helps you travel without the stress of running low on funds and will result in a more enjoyable vacation with your honey.
There are lots of free budgeting apps for your phone, or you could do it the old fashioned way. Another option is to have your travel agent help you out with your budget and spending limitations. Cue the gurus!
3. Find a Travel Agent
This is where some of our wedding travel gurus come in – hurray! Working with a travel agent is important because they are incredibly knowledgable on everything travel related and can ensure you’re getting the best for your budget, time, and energy. With your interests in mind, travel agents will take the stress out of booking lodging, finding flights, and site-seeing.
Many agents specialize in certain destinations, like our own lovely Renee Cuessy with Rope Drop Travel. Renee works with couples and families to plan Disney, Universal, cruise and all-inclusive vacations. As Disney and Universal lovers ourselves, we’re pretty jealous that she gets to do this as her job! If you’re looking to bring some magic into your honeymoon, then she’s your gal! You can get in contact with Renee here for more information.
4. Research the Local Culture
Once you’ve planned your destination, you can start creating your itinerary and get familiar with the local culture. If you’re traveling out of the country, let’s say to a resort off the coast of Mexico, you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared to be able to communicate with the locals in order to get around and immerse yourself with new friends you’ll make a long the way. Exploring new food options, clothing, and languages is all part of the experience. Even if you’re staying in the states, respecting cultures should be your top priority in any place you’re unfamiliar with – and having fun + relaxing comes next!
If you want to plan your honeymoon at an awesome resort out of the country, or even in the country, another great local travel guru is Travel To Amazing Places. They will help you plan the most romantic getaways yet, all around the world! From that lovely resort off the coast of Mexico to hot-spots in Hawaii, the options are endless. You can get in contact with these experts here for more information.
5. Finally, Have Fun
Ah, the best part. You’re embarking on your first big, or even little, journey as newlyweds. The planning is over and now it’s all about having fun and getting your romance on. Keep a daily journal about your adventures and take plenty of photos that you can look back on in the future. It might even be a good idea to “disconnect” from your phone and social media so you can focus on your love for each other.
No matter what, you did it. You successfully planned a wedding AND a vacation and the rest of your life is ahead of you. Next step: share your wisdom with future brides + grooms. Do you have honeymoon tips you’d like to share? Leave them in the comments below!
Header photo by Cam Storie Photography
