Why Summer Is The Perfect Time To Plan Your 2026 Or 2027 Destination Wedding
- Christine M.
- Jul 14
- 2 min read
If you're dreaming of a 2026 or early 2027 destination wedding, summer 2025 is the time to start planning. While it may feel early, the truth is that the most sought-after venues, especially at luxury resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, are already booking up. Planning ahead not only ensures access to your dream location and ideal dates. It also allows for a more curated, stress-free experience for both you and your guests.
So, Why Now?
Prime Dates Go Fast
Saturday's during peak season (January - May) are always the first to go. Resorts limit how many weddings they host per day, and often per weekend, especially for larger guest counts.
Room Blocks Take Time
If you're inviting 40+ guests, securing a hotel or resort room block is essential. Rates, room categories and group perks are often based on availability. Planning now means better pricing and more options.
Vendor Selection Is Competitive
Want that amazing photographer you found on Instagram? Or the hair and makeup artist whose work you love? Destination vendors book just like local ones, sometimes even faster, especially if they travel between countries and islands seasonally.
Your Guests Need Time
Not everyone can jump on a plane next month. Giving your guests 12 - 18 months to plan financially, request time off and organize childcare makes a big difference in attendance (and stress).
Real Talk: What The Process Actually Looks Like
Every couple's journey is difference, which is exactly why we don't believe in one-size-fits-all planning. Take Annah & Chris, for example. They're planning a spring 2027 wedding in Mexico with 120 guests, and we've already been working closely this summer to narrow down the perfect destination and resort.
Here's What We've Done So Far:
Initial Discovery: We started with a deep dive into their wedding priorities - guest experience, setting, food & beverage minimums and overall aesthetic. Their vision: modern elegance with lush surroundings, incredible food and a celebration that feels like a truly unforgettable party.
Custom Venue Guide: I curated a detailed venue selection guide highlighting 14 standout properties across Los Cabos, Riviera Maya and beyond. Each option included pricing estimates, guest capacities, pros & cons and images so they could visualize each space side-by-side.
Personal Recommendations: I reviewed every venue through the lens of their style, values and guest list size. Some properties were ruled out due to capacity limits or being adults-only, details that aren't always clear online.
Collaboration with RTC: Because destination weddings require seamless travel logistics, we've partnered with The Rodriguez Travel Company, our exclusive travel concierge, to handle group bookings and guest communication.
The result? Annah and Chris are able to move forward with confidence knowing every detail, from location to logistics, is being considered and customized for them.
Your Wedding, Your Way - But Start Now
Whether you're picturing garden ceremony in Punta Cana or a beachfront celebration in Los Cabos, the window to start planning is now. At CM Event Design, we guide you from vision to venue to vows, with strategy, experience and an eye for effortless elegance.
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