The Reality of Planning a Destination Wedding

The Reality of Planning a Destination Wedding

July 9, 2026 · 19 min · Episode 180

About this episode

This episode explores the complexities of planning a destination wedding with expert Mary Hanna.

We are diving into the complex world of destination weddings with Mary Hanna, the founder of Simply Mary'ed Travel. If you are wondering how to manage a guest list, navigate resort contracts, or handle room blocks while keeping your budget under control, this episode is for you. Mary breaks down the essential role of a destination wedding specialist and addresses the common misconceptions about who pays for what, why guest attendance is often higher than you think, and how choosing the right location can actually save you money compared to a traditional local wedding. Grab a seat at the table as we dish on: The true cost of destination celebrations and why they are often more affordable than a traditional wedding in places like New Jersey or New York. How to handle the guest experience so that your attendees feel like they are on a vacation rather than a financial burden. The secret value of room blocks, concessions, and how professional specialists manage the complex travel logistics for your group. The importance of clear communication when your guests are traveling long distances to celebrate with you. How to find the balance between your dream vision and the reality of…

People in this episode

Host: Sara Alepin

Guest: Mary Hanna

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Simply Mary'ed Travel

Places: New Jersey, New York

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