In this episode of Passports and Promises, Shalene reunites with Michael Morimoto and David Geist to discuss their 98-guest destination wedding at Secrets Moxché in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. What started as wedding planning overwhelm with destinations ranging from Greece to the Dominican Republic became a masterclass in detail-oriented planning, thanks to the couples' spreadsheet savvy and creative problem-solving. David and Michael upgraded to Impression Moxché for their accommodations and chose the Sky Deck venue at Moxché, a decision that proved perfect when a cyclone hit their wedding weekend.

Michael and David share the real talk about hidden fees that caught them off guard, why they hired an outside photographer instead of simply using the resort's team, and how transparent pricing earlier in the process would have changed their experience. They also reveal why keeping their entire celebration on the enclosed Sky Deck (instead of moving to the pool deck as originally planned) turned out to be the best decision they never knew they were making. Couples planning large destination weddings will appreciate the practical advice on guest list management, the adults-only resort decision, and why starting to plan 14 months ahead made all the difference.

Listen to the full Passports and Promises episode for more details on managing large destination wedding groups and navigating resort planning processes. Reach out to Latitude Concierge Travels to start planning your own next travel destination and wedding celebration.

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What started as a sun-drenched ceremony in the over-the-water chapel turned into an unforgettable indoor celebration when tropical rains sent the entire group sprinting for cover. With 26 rooms full of educators finally traveling after pandemic lockdowns, the energy was electric, and even the resort staff called them "one of the most fun groups we've had in weeks." In this episode of Passports and Promises, host Shalene Dudley sits down with longtime friend Paul to relive his August 2022 wedding at Sandals South Coast Jamaica.

Paul shares how a last-minute $750 chapel upgrade became the best decision of the trip, why flexible booking dates helped more guests attend, and the one thing he wishes they'd done differently with their wedding photos. The conversation also touches on the recent devastation of Hurricane Melissa, which destroyed the very chapel where Paul and Jenny exchanged vows. Couples considering a Caribbean destination wedding will walk away with real insights on group dynamics, resort inclusions, and why sometimes the unplanned moments make the best memories.

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Sandals Resort

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Not all destination wedding stories involve chaos and disaster. Sometimes, careful planning, the right venue, and experienced coordination create celebrations that couples remember fondly years later. In this episode of Passports & Promises with Shalene, Kimberly shares her 2018 Dreams Onyx wedding story that proves destination weddings can be both cost-effective and flawless. Referred by her hairstylist , Kim worked with Shalene to narrow down options across multiple Caribbean islands before finding the perfect Dominican Republic resort with the stone gazebo that captured her vision. Her husband, Chad, was actively involved in planning, helping with decor decisions and seating arrangements.

Seven years later, with zero regrets, Kim recently attended a poorly-coordinated destination wedding at a resort in Grenada that made her even more grateful for her Dreams Onyx experience. She shares insights about butler service that went beyond expectations, special accommodations for her ill father, celebrating her daughter's birthday during the trip, and why choosing the right resort and working with an experienced travel advisor matters tremendously. This episode offers valuable perspective for couples planning Dominican Republic destination weddings, demonstrating what proper venue selection and experienced coordination can achieve when everything comes together beautifully.

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Latitude Concierge Travels Ltd
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Dream Onyx Resort & Spa
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