Secrets Playa Blanca Destination Wedding: Lexi & Nick

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

If you’re sitting there thinking, “I love the idea of a destination wedding, but I have no clue where to begin,” you’re not alone—Lexi and Nick were right there with you not too long ago. They knew they wanted something that felt like a vacation for their guests. They wanted something memorable, relaxed, and FUN. But like a lot of couples, their biggest fear? “We just wanted to make sure our guests felt the trip was worth it.” (Spoiler: They did. And then some.)

Lexi’s a hairstylist (she makes magic happen with scissors), Nick works in the senior living industry, and they’ve got a yellow lab named Turner who is basically their kid. They love cooking together, whipping up fun cocktails, and hosting game nights. (Of course, Lexi’s always the host. She’s that friend!) 

And the best part? Lexi’s not the kind of bride who has dreamed of her wedding day since she was little. Instead, she’s open to all the possibilities and super chill about the vibe. She’s leaning towards boho, but she’s also open to whatever feels right!

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

When Lexi and Nick reached out, they were like so many couples I work with: excited about the idea of a destination wedding, but not really sure how to turn that dream into reality. They weren’t looking for Pinterest-perfect. They weren’t set on a specific vibe. They just knew they wanted something relaxed, memorable, and meaningful—with their favorite people all together in paradise. Sound familiar?

Lexi admitted they were still in the very early stages of planning. “We haven’t really done much research yet. We just want somewhere that feels safe for our guests and is close to the airport.” They had both been to Punta Cana and Riviera Maya before. While Punta Cana had the better beach and resort for them, Lexi had a feeling they just didn’t land at the right spot in Mexico.

That’s exactly why working with a travel pro who specializes in all-inclusive destination weddings is so helpful—you don’t have to figure it out alone. With my expertise, I can guide you to resorts that are perfect for large groups, offer the best beach experiences, and provide that ideal balance of fun, beauty, and comfort.

Real Wedding Q&A with Lexi & Nick

What were your biggest fears when planning a destination wedding?

My biggest concern was making sure my guests felt that the experience of attending our wedding was worth the effort and expense of traveling.

Is there anything about the actual destination wedding experience that surprised you?

I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop because the planning process was so easy. I was stressing myself out more, anticipating the ‘wedding planning stress’ that everyone talks about, but honestly, it was easier to plan than I would’ve imagined.

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

What is your favorite memory of your destination wedding?

Publicly saying our own vows during the ceremony and then, honestly, just everyone relaxing and having a good time on the days when there weren’t wedding events happening. Having all your people together on the same vacation in paradise is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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

We splurged by bringing our own photographer down, and it was worth every penny to have someone we know and trust capturing the photos and memories from the day.

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

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

I tried to save some money by bringing certain detailed items with us, like dinner and cocktail napkins, bar signs, and welcome bags. It ended up saving us a bit, and we had fun putting everything together.

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

The weather was super windy the weekend we were there, so some of our venues changed last minute and the wind made it difficult for hair to be seamless, but that’s the beach for you! 

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

What kind of feedback did you get from your guests?

Every guest raved about how gorgeous the resort was, how attentive the staff was, and how seamless and well-communicated all of the travel plans were. Left very little confusion! 

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

It feels stressful as a lot of the planning and details come in at the last minute, but it all comes together seamlessly. 

Photo Credit: Sierra Dykes Photography 

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

We had to deal with absolutely zero travel questions or concerns from our guests. Ashley and her team were always very quick to respond both about travel related things as well as being a sounding board for wedding related questions even though she didn’t have to!

Photographer: Sierra Dykes Photography 

Travel Advisor: Alpaca Your Bags Travel 

Resort: Secrets Playa Blanca