Karla Haygarth's First Destination Wedding in Punta Cana

Karla Haygarth and a man smile at a dining table set for a wedding reception with ocean views through glass doors

I've sold Punta Cana for a few years. I knew some of the best resorts , could recite the amenities of many resorts, and had heard countless clients rave about their experiences. But there's a difference between knowing a destination and truly understanding it. When the opportunity arose to lead my first wedding group to the Majestic Colonial, I knew it was time to finally see this beautiful place for myself.

Admittedly, I was nervous. Nearly 50 guests, a bride and groom counting on me, and my first time coordinating a destination wedding. The stakes felt high. But from the moment we touched down at Punta Cana airport, I understood why this destination has earned its reputation.

The Service That Defines a Destination

A bride and groom exchange vows under a white gazebo on a beach in Punta Cana with turquoise ocean and guests visible

What struck me most wasn't the turquoise water or the pristine sand, though both exceeded my expectations. It was the people. From our airport transfer driver to the front desk staff at check-in, every interaction was marked by genuine warmth. The smiles weren't forced or rehearsed. Staff members wanted to know where we were from, asked about our journey, and seemed genuinely invested in making our stay memorable. At the restaurants and bars, servers took time to chat, sharing stories and recommendations with patience I rarely see in busy resort settings.

The wedding coordinator at Majestic Colonial was exceptional. My bride and groom were wonderfully laid back, which helped, but the coordinator's attention to detail transformed their vision into something truly special. Watching them exchange vows with 50 of their closest friends and family, the Caribbean as their backdrop, I felt the weight of responsibility lift. This is why people choose destination weddings. This is what they're dreaming of when they come to me.

Lessons Learned from the Inside

An elegant indoor reception hall with long white-clothed tables, white chairs, and tropical floral centerpieces

One thing I'll carry forward from this trip is the importance of flexible planning. Our flight was delayed on the way out, and I received the notification early enough to contact Sunwing through our agent portal and request a later transfer for the group. Instead of frustrated guests sitting at the airport, we extended our time poolside, enjoying a few extra hours of paradise. It's a small thing, but those are the moments that separate a good trip from a stressful one. Having an advisor who can pivot in real time makes all the difference.

We didn't venture off-resort for excursions since the wedding fell mid-trip. Instead, we settled into a rhythm: a few days to unwind after arrival, the celebration itself, then relaxation before heading home. It reminded me that destination weddings aren't just about the ceremony. They're about creating space for connection, for the bride and groom and for every guest who makes the journey.

I also had the chance to explore all three Majestic properties during my stay. The decor throughout was striking, each space thoughtfully designed and meticulously maintained. It reinforced my confidence in recommending these resorts to clients with discerning tastes.

A resort pool area surrounded by palm trees, lounge chairs, and thatched-roof palapas under clear blue sky

Who Should Book This Trip

If you've always dreamed of saying "I do" with sand between your toes, Punta Cana and the Majestic resorts deliver beautifully. The wedding coordination team made everything seamless, and the setting is romantic without feeling staged. Couples who want great service, stunning beaches, and a stress-free celebration will find exactly what they're looking for here.

That said, this destination involves a longer flight for many travelers. Families with young children who struggle with extended travel time might want to consider closer alternatives. And for those with extremely specific or elaborate expectations, communication with the resort team is essential.

A woman in a pink dress stands on a grand staircase decorated with garland and white lights at an upscale resort

I returned home with more than just photos and memories. I came back with confidence. I now know how Majestic's wedding coordinators work with groups, how Sunwing supports advisors during unexpected delays, and what it actually feels like to lead nearly 50 people through a milestone celebration. My first destination wedding is behind me, and I can honestly say I cannot wait to plan the next one. For any couple dreaming of a Caribbean wedding, I'm ready to make it happen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Punta Cana good for destination weddings?

Yes, the Majestic Colonial offers reliable wedding coordination, beautiful venues, and attentive staff experienced with group events. The resort's laid-back atmosphere suits couples who want elegance without excessive formality.

What are the beaches like in Punta Cana?

The beaches are wide, white-sand stretches edged by Caribbean blue water. They are visually stunning and ideal for both relaxation and wedding ceremonies.

How is the service at Majestic Colonial?

Staff demonstrate genuine warmth and attentiveness across restaurants, bars, and guest services. They show patience and curiosity about guests' origins and needs.

Who is Punta Cana best suited for?

Destination wedding couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking exceptional beaches with warm service thrive there. Those with ultra-luxury, bespoke expectations may find it less ideal.

How do travel advisors handle flight delays to Punta Cana?

Experienced advisors can contact airlines directly through agent portals to adjust transfers and ground timing, turning delays into poolside relaxation rather than airport waits.

What should I know before booking Punta Cana?

The flight time is lengthy, so families sensitive to travel duration should consider this. The resort excels at hospitality and beaches but may not suit travelers seeking ultra-customized, high-end experiences.

Photos from this trip · 14 photos

Share this story

Crafted with Amplify

Karla Haygarth

TravelOnly Karla Haygarth

Explore more stories from this advisor

View Advisor Profile
Karla Haygarth's First Destination Wedding in Punta Cana | Reel Travel Stories