Here is a small sampling of places where married couples can symbolically tie the knot all over again in a simple or as elaborate a way as they choose. If your clients have a favorite island, destination or resort, chances are that with a minimum of research you’ll be able to find a blissful package or deal there to suit them.
Aruba has made an annual event out of reaffirming one’s “I do’s.” This August (dates TBA), the island will host its third group Vow Renewal Ceremony, the largest such celebration in the Caribbean. Couples from all over the world are welcome to participate in this grandiose affair on Eagle Beach, which has made numerous top-beaches-of-the world lists. Couples, along with family and friends, can participate in a complimentary ceremony with champagne, hos d’ouevres and local music.
As part of a destination-wide initiative, on-island partners offer vacation packages and romance-inspired specials. These have not been announced for 2019, but among last year’s participants were Divi, Hyatt Regency, Marriott and Ritz-Carlton hotels. If you have clients who might be interested, contact the Aruba Tourism Authority at Support@aruba.com.
Sandals’ “Retie the Knot” is free when booking five rooms or more; otherwise the package price is $300. Included are the services of a personal planning team, 30-minute foot massage, manicure for the bride; picturesque ceremony site; bouquet and boutonniere; pre-recorded musical accompaniment of couple’s choice; table setting with white linens, silverware and crystal; Chiavari chairs with cushions for all guests; cocktail reception with sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres; and Bride and Groom Signature Cocktail; honeymoon dinner for the couple and more.
At Couples’ Jamaica resorts, the $250 “Vow renewal Wedding Package” includes the services of a wedding coordinator and officiant; couple’s choice of wedding locations on the beach or in the tropical gardens; wedding cake and sparkling wine for up to six people; bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere; professional photo shoot (one 8 x 10 printed photograph); exclusive use of the resort’s sound system for MP3 Player/iPod; and celebratory T-shirts for the bride and groom.
In St. Lucia, Anse Chastanet’s “Forever You” renewal of vows package can be added to any reservation type or package. It includes choice of renewal locations on the 600-acre property; decorated location and flower arch, heart-shaped cake, bottle of champagne, tropical flower bouquet and button hole; special renewal certificate signed by master of ceremony and specially decorated dinner table.
Another St. Lucia property, Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa, offers “Everlasting” ($699) and “True Love” ($1,499) vow renewal packages for couples plus two or up to six guests, respectively. In addition to typical wedding and reception amenities, both offer the couple continental breakfast in bed one morning and romantic dinner for two; the latter adds a private chauffeured island tour.
Puerto Vallarta’s Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and adults-only Casa Velas now have a wedding consultant onsite to provide tips to help your clients get the most out of the wedding or vow-renewal Instagram posts. Some of the suggestions include jazzing up the walk down the aisle with sweet signs, greenery walls and pinwheels to add color and excitement to the photos. The resort also offers pre-wedding / renewal group activities with Mexican-inspired activities such as a private baking class with a world-renowned pastry chef or classes with the native Huichols, where guests will learn how to make traditional bracelets to keep as a personal memento of the ceremony.
In Los Cabos, a Vow Renewal Package is among the newest offerings at Grand Solmar at Rancho San Lucas Resort Golf & Spa. Accommodating up to 20 people, the deal offers ministry services, flowers, makeup and hairstyle service, a free Fish Spa treatment and a bottle of sparkling wine for the toast.
Starting in May, guests sailing between Vilshofen, Germany, and Budapest, Hungary, on AmaWaterways’ newest ship, AmaMagna, can choose the “Renewal of Vows” package. It includes a symbolic ceremony, souvenir certificate, bottle of champagne upon arrival and turndown service. Gift certificates for a manicure or pedicure and two one-hour massages are also provided. The package costs $499 per couple. Friends and family are welcome and if the couple books with a total of 10 guests, the cruise line will waive the package fee.
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