What to Expect on a Pre-Planning Visit?
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, and your pre-planning visit is a crucial step in making your dream day a reality. Some of our brides affectionately call it a “business trip,” but we promise you’ll be mixing business with plenty of pleasure. Here’s what to expect on your pre-planning visit with Carolina Almazán.
Your Complete Agenda
To make the most of your pre-planning visit, we recommend a thorough agenda that might include:
- Hair and Makeup Trial
- Venue Walkthrough
- Mockup Table Setup
- Food and Drink Tasting
- Meetings with Photographer, Videographer, and DJ
This list can be tailored to your priorities and how far along you are in your planning.
Here’s a deeper dive into each element:
Hair and Makeup Trial
Feeling amazing on your big day starts with a great hair and makeup trial. This is your chance to test different looks with one, or even two makeup artists (MUAs). The trial helps you connect with your MUA, experiment with styles, and provide feedback to ensure you’re thrilled with your look. For tropical destinations like Puerto Vallarta, a trial is especially important to see how your skin reacts to the products in a different climate.

Venue Walkthrough
If you’ve already booked a venue, the walkthrough is essential. You and your coordinator will tour the property, visualizing where your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception will take place. This is also a good time to discuss a plan B in case of rain. If you haven’t selected a venue yet, you’ll spend a day or more visiting various locations that cater to your wedding needs.

Mockup Table
After sharing your inspiration with your planner, they’ll set up a mockup table featuring different options for tableware, silverware, chairs, linens, and flowers. This hands-on preview lets you see, touch, and choose the elements that will bring your vision to life.

Food and Drink Tasting
This is one of our favorite moments, and since most of our couples are foodies, for them as well. You’ll sample items from the menu*, including appetizers, entrées, desserts, and possibly wine pairings and cocktails. Pay attention to flavors, how the tastes flow together, and the presentation of the dishes. This is a delicious way to ensure your wedding menu is perfect. *Pro tip: make sure you have a light meal hours before your tasting.

Photo, Video, and DJ Meetings
Depending on what’s most important to you, you’ll meet with your photographer, videographer, and DJ. These meetings are a chance to get to know each other, discuss inspirations, the mood of the party and outline must-haves like key photos or specific songs for your big day.
What If You Can’t Make the Trip?
Life happens, and sometimes you can’t make it to your pre-planning visit. Don’t panic! Most of these tasks can be handled through video calls and emails. While you won’t get the live experience, it’s completely possible to plan a stunning wedding remotely. This is where the expertise of Carolina Almazán truly shines, as we guide you toward the best options that align with your budget and vision.
Trust in Experience
At Carolina Almazán, we pride ourselves on turning your wedding dreams into reality. With years of experience and a passion for perfection, we’re here to ensure every detail is meticulously planned. Your pre-planning visit is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey, and we’re thrilled to be part of it.
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting adventure, and your pre-planning visit is a crucial step in making your dream day a reality. With a thoughtful agenda and the expertise of a dedicated wedding planner, you’ll feel confident and excited as you move closer to saying “I do.”