Are you anxious to see and experience a resort before booking your destination wedding? You aren’t alone! Many of my couples opt to have me plan a site inspection so they can make a confident decision (and catch up on some much-needed R&R!). 

In this post, I’ll outline the goal of a site inspection, booking, and what to do each day of your visit. I hope this knowledge will empower you to find the right resort for you—and never to settle!

What is a Site Inspection?

During a site inspection, you’ll tour a resort or stay there for at least one night to get a better feel. You’ll get to physically inspect the rooms, restaurants, wedding venues, and common areas. In addition, you’ll get a feel for the resort’s clientele, cleanliness, and overall vibe. And, if you’re just touring, they may even let you sample some food along the way!

When to Book Yours

Wedding dates are filling up quickly at the best resorts. Accordingly, it’s nearly impossible to schedule a last-minute inspection. Most resorts require a window of three to five months’ notice for booking.

If your wedding is in the next 16 months, I recommend booking your wedding date FIRST. Then, book your site inspection six to nine months before your wedding date. By then, you should know how many guests to expect and be familiar with the resort’s wedding packages. That way, you can arrive fully prepared with a checklist of detailed questions to help you finalize your wedding preparations (I’m also happy to help with this!). If your wedding date isn’t for another 24+ months, you have plenty of time to plan visits to multiple resorts if you choose.

Pro tip: Bring your photographer if you’re visiting after securing your wedding date! They can snap some photos of you and your soon-to-be-spouse for your wedding website and save-the-dates. Plus, you can get in some good old-fashioned bonding time! After all, apart from your planner, your photographer is the vendor you’ll spend the most time with on your wedding day.

When to Travel

Sunday through Wednesday are the slowest days at any resort, so this window of time will be the preference of their wedding team. If you arrive on the weekend or around a holiday, there’s a good chance they won’t be able to see you at all! Weddings and holiday travelers will be swamping them, and it’s unlikely you’ll come away with your questions answered.

FAQs

Can I receive a discounted rate on my stay?

Most major resort brands offer a discounted rate for a two-to-three-night stay. If you’d like to stay longer, you’ll have to pay for the extra nights at the standard rate.

Will I receive credit toward my wedding?

It’s possible! For example, AMResorts offers a Love At First Site package that includes a discounted rate plus $500 toward your wedding package if you book your wedding date within 30 days of your stay.

Can I sample a tasting menu while I’m there?

Yes. Just be sure to request one at least 14 days in advance to provide adequate preparation time, or it’s likely they won’t be able to offer this to you.

Sample Itinerary (For One Resort)

Day 1: Check in and enjoy a nice dinner with your partner

Day 2: Meet with the wedding team (don’t forget your checklist of questions!) and attend your tasting

Day 3: Enjoy the pool, beach, and all the resort offers!

Day 4: Check out and head home

If you’d like to visit multiple resorts, narrow down your choices to two or a maximum of three. Try to split your stay into two to three nights at each resort to get the most accurate feel for each one. Experiencing resorts versus simply touring them is always the best option!

Schedule Your Site Inspection

I strongly suggest scheduling a site inspection if you have the time and money. You’ll not only get a good look at the resort of your choosing, but you’ll have the opportunity to build rapport with their wedding team. Plus, you’ll get a feel for the transportation company you and your guests will use!

Your destination wedding travel specialist will arrange this for you, including your transportation. Interested? Contact us today!