Top Destination Wedding Locations for COVID Safety Protocols in 2021

So, I know there are a million things going on, and regulations are changing, and there’s a lot — like a LOT — to keep up with. 

A big part of my job (and a big part of why it’s super smart to hire me!) is staying on top of these things, communicating them clearly to my clients, and making any adjustments to reservations and bookings along the way if necessary. 

I know many of you might already be aware of the new CDC regulations that took effect on January 26th, 2021. While some of these are slightly more strict than before, the good news is that these precautions don’t halt travel, and they also ensure that if you decide to have that intimate wedding on a gorgeous beach — you’ll be surrounded by people who, like you, all tested negative before they got on the plane! 

I also know some of you might be wondering how or if you can still have a fabulous destination wedding as COVID is hanging around. And I say yes! If there’s ANYTHING 2020 taught me, it’s that challenges call out our creativity and resilience and that learning to roll with the unexpected is one of our greatest skills as humans. 

As I’ve mentioned before, destination weddings are a great choice, even now:

• They’re often smaller, so it’s not hard for guests to keep socially distant.
• You can do everything OUTSIDE, in the fresh fresh air, so in addition to the breathtaking scenery, it’s easy to have breezy happy hours and dinners and celebrations, as well.
• You can book a trusted, top-quality, world-renown resorts that are operating at half capacity, are strictly adhering to cleaning and COVID protocols, and that have the option of even booking private villas — so family groups who are in the same “bubble” can easily share space.
• It’s not hard to integrate technology into services and events so that those who can’t be there in person can still feel a part of all the festivities.

So, if you’re ready to start planning and booking for 2021 and beyond, let’s take a look at LOCATIONS LOCATIONS LOCATIONS, shall we? 

Here are some of the best places to say I do this year!

The Dominican Republic (My Motherland!) 🇩🇴As you know, I am a teensy weensy bit biased about the DR, as it is the place I was born and where I nurtured my love of beaches and travel. 

But bias aside — this place is an AMAZING place to have the wedding of your dreams. 

The Dominican Republic has both Atlantic and Caribbean-facing beaches, which provide an incredible variety of vistas, plant life, biodiversity, and opportunities to explore. The resort towns are full of life and color, the beaches are pristine, and it is truly a paradise for loungers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The Caribbean side has clear waters and white-sand beaches, perfect for snorkeling and diving (or getting married!). Or if surfing, quaint fishing towns, and lush tropical rainforests are more your vibe, the Atlantic side delivers. 

I recently fell in love with Casa de Campo, an unbelievably gorgeous, luxurious, mind-blowing historical resort on the southeast Caribbean coast. Their villas had me swooning, with all kinds of pampering (can you say personal chef?), and they are a wonderful option for families or family groups that are able to share space. 

Photo Credit: Wedding Photographer Punta Cana.

Mexico (My Second Home Away from Home) 🇲🇽

Whether you want Pacific, Caribbean, or Gulf beaches, or sweeping mountain vistas, or the bustling colorful streets and music of San Miguel de Allende — Mexico has so much to offer! Golfing, snorkeling through brilliant coral reefs, white water rafting, exploring Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away, you can take your pick of an almost endless array of beautiful adventures. Each area has its own unique style and vibe, and you can pick which one suits you best. 

Known for consistently pleasant weather, warm, welcoming locals, and incredible tequila, the resorts and towns, and cities in Mexico are brimming with rich culture, mouth-watering food, and some of the world’s best known and most luxurious resorts. My husband and I said our vows in style in February 2017 in the Riviera Maya — and it’s still one of my favorite places in the world! 

Photo: Sarani Photography

Costa Rica (The Eco-Weddings Heaven for Nature Lovers. Pura Vida!) 🇨🇷

Costa Rica is small, but it is PACKED with jaw-dropping natural beauty between its Pacific and Caribbean coasts. This is a wonderful destination for couples who want to explore the amazing and diverse ecosystems that Costa Rica has to offer. And because it’s compact, you really can experience so much, even in a single week. You can drive coast to coast in under three hours — so you can enjoy a pristine black-sand beach in the morning, go snorkeling, and return for dinner and a sunset horseback ride in the evening. What could be dreamier? 

Photo: Dreams Las Mareas

Jamaica (Ya’Mon!) 🇯🇲

For laid back style, friendly open culture, and unbelievable white- and gold-sand beaches, you can’t beat Jamaica! As the Caribbean’s third-largest island, Jamaica boasts over 700 miles (!) of coastline, including some of the most beautiful beaches in the world where you can snorkel in uncrowded, pristine surroundings.

From the bustling and iconic tourist destinations like Montego Bay to the quiet, authentic, off-the-beaten-path places like Negril or Treasure Beach (and everything in-between!) — Jamaica offers a wide range of experiences for any couple. Climb a waterfall, zip line through the rainforest, sample the delicious cuisine, or explore one of the many secluded coves with its sparkling turquoise waters.  

Photo: Palace Resorts Wedding.

Photo: Hyatt Ziva/Zilara Resorts

I’ve been to dozens of resorts in all of these locations. I know the landscapes, the cultures, the wedding packages, and the possibilities that each place uniquely holds. 

There’s never been a better time to make your destination wedding dreams come to life!