Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana Destination Wedding: Mitchell & Katie

Photo Credit: Estely Mijares

When we first talked during our phone call back in November 2022, Mitchell and Katie were at that exciting crossroad – unsure if a destination wedding was the perfect fit for them.

They wanted a wedding that doesn’t break the bank. I mean, who wouldn’t want a magical celebration without the hefty price tag, right? With the idea of having a wedding in November 2023, they were excited to check out options beyond their local area. But here’s the twist – destination undecided, guest count open to possibilities, and a love for including everyone. That’s where Alpaca Your Bags came in!

Photo Credit: Estely Mijares

As they talked more about their story, it was clear that Mitchell and Katie were all about the experience, the togetherness, and, most importantly, the adventure. They’re not the usual couple chasing perfection; they’re the kind who enjoy freedom, game nights with friends, and going with the flow.

Real Wedding Q&A with Mitchell and Katie!

What were your biggest fears when planning a destination wedding?

Communication and the “unknown” of  showing up to a place you’ve never been and planning with people you’ve never met! 

Did you splurge on anything travel or wedding related? If so, what was it and was it worth it?

Yes!!! We ended up booking a scuba diving excursion – it was $1700 for the entire boat, up to 50 people and it was the BEST time! They had food and drinks for us, we scuba’d and partied and the guests that were at the resort for it had a blast. I would suggest a group activity 100x over!

Photo Credit: Estely Mijares

Did you attempt to *save* on anything travel or wedding related? If so, what was it and was it worth it?

Yes! We tried to keep decor and “add-ons” to a minimum. We figured the resort itself is beautiful enough and part of the reason we chose a destination wedding was to save some $$$, so we tried to stick to the basics and not get carried away with all the fine details. 

If you could change anything with your wedding (planning, the day itself, the location, resort, ANYTHING) – what would you change?

Absolutely nothing! The only thing I would change going into it would be my mindset ☺️ I got stressed out the 2 weeks leading up to the wedding because I wasn’t sure if everything was going to turn out how I wanted… the resort was slow to communicate (Ashley warned us about this!!) and once I showed up I realized they’re just on island time without a care in the world!! 🙂 

Photo Credit: Estely Mijares

Now that you’ve been through it, what is your #1 best piece of advice for wedding couples entering the planning process?

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Remember what your wedding day is supposed to be about and keep that in mind in ALL of your decisions

In what ways did Alpaca Your Bags Travel make this less stressful for you?

Every. Single. Way. Imaginable. I seriously would have called off the destination portion of the wedding if it wasn’t for Ashley and Mandie! Travel accommodations for guests, communication with the resort, staying on top of next steps, responding to all of our emails within 2 seconds… I have not ONE single complaint about Alpaca Your Bags. Truly the best, more stress free experience! 

Photographer:  Estely Mijares

Travel Advisor: Alpaca Your Bags Travel 

Resort: Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana