From the moment I first connected with Melissa and Matt, I knew this was going to be a a wonderful ride! Melissa was the kind of bride every destination wedding planner dreams of—sweet, organized, and full of grace. While Matt brought the fun with his humor, heart, and deep love for his bride. Together, they were the perfect match, not just for each other, but for a destination wedding in Cancun that would blend elegance & romance with a lively energy.
They didn’t hesitate when presented with the stunning Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach in Cancun, Mexico. Within hours of receiving their proposal, they were sold! The resort was the perfect stage for the Cancun destination wedding they envisioned. Melissa’s romantic, timeless style paired effortlessly with Matt’s flair for entertaining, creating a joyful and classic celebration their guests will remember forever.
A Wedding Day Full of Emotion and Just a Little Rain
Like many couples planning a beach wedding, Melissa & Matt dreamed of an outdoor ceremony overlooking the ocean. But as fate would have it, the weather had other plans. Just before the ceremony, the skies opened with a downpour, but then, as if on cue, the clouds parted and made way for the celebration to continue outdoors, just as they had hoped!
Watching from home, I sat on pins and needles. It wasn’t just the weather that had me emotional. On their check-out day, I called Matt to confirm their transportation and, with tears in his voice, he said something I’ll never forget:
“Thank you for helping make everything perfect for my bride.”
(Spoiler: I cried, too.) After they returned home, we hopped on a video call to relive it all, and, you guessed it, there were more tears. These moments are why I do what I do.
From Planning to Paradise: What Set This Wedding Apart
Working with Melissa & Matt was a dream. They trusted me from the very beginning, leaning into every recommendation and staying focused on what mattered most to them—each other and the people they love. Their willingness to stay flexible, their grace through the challenges, and their joy in every milestone made the planning process truly rewarding.
They were intentional about creating a meaningful experience for their guests, and it showed. With over 100 guests traveling to celebrate in Cancun, it was no small feat. But every detail came together beautifully. From seamless airport transfers to curated travel timelines and close coordination with the resort’s onsite planner, every moving part was managed with care so Melissa & Matt could stay present, joyful, and stress-free on their big day, even with the weather debacle!
Melissa & Matt also thoughtfully incorporated Filipino wedding traditions into their ceremony, honoring Melissa’s heritage in a beautiful and meaningful way. They included the traditional cord, veil, and coins, symbolizing unity, protection, and prosperity in their marriage. It was a touching moment that added depth and cultural significance to their vows, and it beautifully reflected the blending of family, faith, and tradition in their love story. I love that they also gave a nod to the location with a traditional Mariachi band at their cocktail hour. It was the perfect transition from a meaningful and romantic ceremony to an energetic and lively reception.
Melissa & Matt’s Real Talk about their Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Destination Wedding: A Q&A with the Couple
Now that you’ve seen the story from my perspective, here’s a closer look at the day through the couple’s eyes.
What was your favorite part of the destination wedding planning process (prior to traveling)?
When Dana presented her design proposal. It was amazing to see all of our thoughts and planning come together.
What were you most nervous about leading up to the wedding?
Weather, and hoping everything was executed the way we pictured it. But mostly WEATHER!
What would you say to a couple who has decided on a destination wedding?
If you’re planning a destination wedding, choosing DWD Travel is a no-brainer. Dana made everything stress-free—from guest travel to last-minute changes—while treating our wedding like it was her own. Her attention to detail, lightning-fast responses, and genuine care set her apart. She didn’t just plan our wedding—she became family.
What was one part of your wedding planning that you knew you couldn’t (or didn’t want to) do alone? How did DWD help with that?
Transportation for all of our guest. It made things very seamless and let us not be constantly worried about everyone getting to the resort ok.
In Their Words: Melissa & Matt’s Review of Working with DWD Travel for their Cancun Destination Wedding
“Dana was incredible from start to finish. She helped us plan our destination wedding in Cancun for over 100 guests and made the entire process stress-free. From organizing airport transfers to working closely with our resort’s onsite coordinator, Dana handled everything with professionalism, warmth, and lightning-fast responses.
She went above and beyond with thoughtful touches that made us feel truly cared for. We had lots of Zoom calls throughout the planning process, and by the end, Dana felt more like a close friend than just a wedding planner.
If you’re planning a destination wedding, we couldn’t recommend DWD Travel more. Dana is the best in the business, and we’re so grateful we had her by our side. We LOVE Dana!”
Their words mean the world to me, because this is what I strive for with every couple: support, joy, and a wedding that feels effortless, intentional, and unforgettable.
Planning Your Own Cancun Destination Wedding
If you’re dreaming of your own Cancun destination wedding, Melissa & Matt’s story is proof that it can be both magical and stress-free with the right support. Whether you’re envisioning a romantic oceanfront ceremony, a lively celebration for 100+ guests, or a more intimate gathering, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Want to learn more about planning your wedding in Cancun or elsewhere in the Caribbean? Book your complimentary consultation today, and let’s create something beautiful—together.
Destination Wedding Vendors
Travel & Wedding Coordination: Dana at DWD Travel & Destination Weddings
Resort: Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach
Transportation: Lomas Travel
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Sunrise & Sunset Terraces
Photography & Videography: DreamArt Photography
Florals & Rentals: Canteiro Weddings
Hair & Makeup: Sara Tamargo
Melissa & Matt’s Cancun Destination Wedding | A Few Favorite Moments in Photos
























