Micro destination weddings are proving that smaller guest lists can lead to bigger experiences.
“When it comes to luxury, I believe two things,” says Marsha Ann Donaldson, Corporate Director of Weddings and Romance, Sandals Resorts International. “One, a more intimate wedding party size is becoming a more popular standard, 20 guests, for example. Because what I’m seeing is that they really want to choose their close friends and family. And two, as a result, instead of diluting it and having more, they’re going for quality time, quality connections and quality experiences.”
You talk about micro-weddings, but can Sandals also accommodate larger weddings?
“Oh, without question. From a destination wedding standpoint, we have wedding party sizes that go up to as many as 150 persons. But when it comes to what are some of the more popular sizes, especially today, and folks choosing to travel at this time, they’re really, really centring on what would be considered, even within the band of microweddings.”
What amount of guests makes a typical micro-wedding? Is it 50 people?
“No, not necessarily. I think 20 is a really nice, popular, sweet spot that’s not uncommon in today’s world. When it stays as intimately sized as that, what couples want to be able to do is capture as many experiences that they can.”
Does that help foster inclusiveness in the celebration?
“It’s intimate enough for the couple to say, ‘oh, we want to have an adventure experience together or a beach party and live music.’ So, it really feels like that mini group. They’re having that together, so it’s not too big.”
And when it comes to budget?
“With fewer people, you may have more money to spend, let’s say. And for most of the guests who are travelling for a destination wedding, they are paying for themselves. And so what couples are truly focusing on and what’s of extreme value to them is to be able to also have a solid upgraded honeymoon room category. So they’re spending more, let’s say, on their photography and videography. And also on their honeymoon.”
Are much of the wedding details all-inclusive?
“For certain categories of bookings, yes. The couple themselves would have to book seven nights or longer in a Club or similar category, and guests typically book for a minimum of three nights. They would have their pre-wedding planner, resort wedding planner and officiant. They’re having their one-hour cocktail party and a two-tiered wedding cake. The florals are also included – from a bouquet and boutonniere standpoint.
“What’s important to note is the administrative side of it, we do all of that: the processing of marriage licences, the respective officiants and all of the documentation, until it becomes an actual certificate. We have what’s called a wedding administration and government fee, island by island, and that is honoured with every booking.”
Are you seeing repeat guests?
“If you mean renewing your vows, which is another phenomenal niche that we must always talk about, you can still have the length and breadth of how you want it to look, how you want it to feel.
“A lot of couples today are excited about renewing their vows because some of them did a legal wedding back home, but none of their friends and family were aware of it. So it may be a vow renewal but they’re treating it as their first-time destination wedding experience, with friends and family witnessing the I dos.’”
How far in advance should I start planning a wedding at Sandals for 50 people?
“One of the things that we often encourage, and it’s going to vary by the couple getting married, but typically speaking, it’s a good marker to start planning 12 months in advance. Ask what’s most important to us as a couple? Oftentimes the date is a very significant sentimental date.
“So, the first thing to do is pick the date you know you want, and if there’s significance to time, pick the time that supports that date. Determine the availability. Know the destination you want, know the date and the time. What becomes important now is that based on the number of people you invite, you want to be able to send out a save-the-date in advance as a courtesy to the guests.
“This allows couples to plan their lives and budgets accordingly. That’s why the 12-month marker is suggested. Those who are planning wedding sizes that are 50 people and over, you’ll typically find them planning 14 to 16 months in advance.”
Do you have a favourite Sandals resort when it comes to weddings?
“Each resort has its own DNA. I would speak about them as personalities. If someone is looking for a little bit more adventure and diversity in excursions, I would say that Sandals Dunns River check the boxes, especially for a larger wedding party.
“Also, Sandals Saint Vincent is the newest gem in the crown. For couples looking for an overwater chapel, overwater bungalows and a destination that is untouched with phenomenal food and a variety of land and water-based excursions, it’s a great mix and a very romantic resort.”
sandals.com/weddings
Lesley TurnerEditorial Content Writer
Lesley is a freelance writer and content strategist with a serious love for all things wedding. With a background in bridal fashion and over a decade of industry experience, she creates stylish, scroll-stopping content for Today's Bride and beyond.
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