The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding for 100 Guests

The bride and groom walk down the aisle on a beautiful beach as guests applaud and celebrate their destination wedding.

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Planning a wedding is no small feat—but planning a destination wedding for 100 guests? That takes vision, organization, and a little wanderlust. No matter if you’re dreaming of saying “I do” on a white-sand beach in Mexico or beneath swaying palms in the Dominican Republic, hosting a large wedding abroad blends celebration with vacation—and the memories are unforgettable.

But coordinating travel, choosing the right venue, managing a big guest list, and sticking to a budget? That’s where things get real. This guide covers everything you need to know to pull it off perfectly. We’ll walk you through the best destinations and resorts for destination weddings for large groups, how to navigate group bookings and travel coordination, budget wisely, and keep guests informed every step of the way—from the first destination wedding save the date to the last farewell brunch.

So, how do you plan a celebration that feels personal, polished, and perfectly scaled for 100+ guests? Let’s find out.

Choosing the Right Destination for Large Weddings

When you’re planning a destination wedding for 100 guests, the location sets the tone for the entire experience. From accessibility and weather to venue capacity and guest enjoyment, the destination must deliver not just beauty, but practicality too. With a large guest list, the stakes are higher, and the right setting can make all the difference.

What makes a destination ideal for a big wedding? You’ll want a place with top-tier resorts that specialize in destination weddings for large groups, offer multiple venue options, and have enough rooms to accommodate everyone comfortably. Bonus points if the destination has major airports nearby and fun local activities your guests can enjoy between events.

Top Destinations for 100+ Guest Weddings

Plan a stunning destination wedding at Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana, featuring long tables and enchanting string lights for your outdoor celebration.

Here’s a quick rundown of the standout regions that consistently rank among the best for large-scale celebrations:

  • Riviera Maya, Mexico – With its wide range of all-inclusive resorts, direct flights from major U.S. cities, and sprawling beachfront properties, Riviera Maya is a favorite. Resorts like the Royalton Riviera Cancun offer grand venues and packages specifically tailored for large guest counts.
  • Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – This Caribbean hotspot is known for its resort infrastructure and warm hospitality. Destify partners like the Hard Rock Punta Cana can host weddings of 100–300 guests with ease, complete with beach ceremonies and ballroom receptions.
  • The Bahamas – For a more upscale island feel, consider The Beach at Atlantis. It’s a destination that wows with iconic backdrops and world-class amenities, offering multiple event spaces fit for large weddings.
  • Jamaica – Friendly, vibrant, and packed with character, Jamaica offers a mix of boutique resorts and large-scale venues. It’s ideal for couples who want a balance of party and paradise.

If you’re not sure which spot fits your vision best, start with Destify’s curated guide to top destination wedding locations. You can compare travel times, venue capacity, and resort styles all in one place.

Capacity + Convenience = Wedding Success

As you narrow down your shortlist, confirm that your preferred destination has:

  • Venues that can comfortably seat 100+ guests for both the ceremony and reception
  • A range of accommodation types for different budgets (suites, family rooms, etc.)
  • Proximity to a major international airport with frequent flights
  • Reliable weather and clear seasonal trends to avoid disruptions

If you’re dreaming of an oceanfront altar or a rooftop reception with sweeping views, selecting the right destination is the first step toward hosting an unforgettable, well-executed celebration that 100+ guests will talk about for years.

How to Budget for a Destination Wedding for 100 Guests

Managing a wedding budget is always a challenge, but doing so for a celebration abroad with over 100 guests? That requires strategy and a strong sense of priorities. The good news? A well-planned destination wedding for 100 guests can still be both beautiful and budget-friendly—especially when you take advantage of resort group perks, bundled services, and built-in experiences.

Know Your Baseline Budget

Start by mapping out your big-picture wedding expenses. While destination weddings can be more cost-effective than traditional hometown weddings, larger guest counts add scale. Common expenses include:

  • Travel for the couple (flights, hotel stay, pre-wedding visit)
  • Wedding package and venue fees
  • Private reception costs (dinner, open bar, entertainment)
  • Guest experience extras (welcome bags, excursions, farewell brunch)
  • Photography/videography, flowers, hair & makeup, attire
  • Décor upgrades and entertainment

It’s helpful to use a wedding cost calculator to visualize your estimated spend. You can explore average costs across destinations in our complete wedding budget breakdown, including real-world examples based on guest count and location.

The Power of All-Inclusive Destination Wedding Packages

One of the smartest moves for large group celebrations is to choose a resort offering all-inclusive destination wedding packages. These often cover:

  • Ceremony setup (seating, altar, officiant)
  • Cocktail hour with open bar and hors d’oeuvres
  • Private reception dinner with waitstaff
  • Basic floral arrangements and décor
  • On-site wedding coordination

For example, the “Beyond Memorable” package from Dreams Resorts is tailor-made for 50–100 guests and includes multiple events (welcome party, rehearsal dinner, reception, and more), often with free nights or upgrades depending on your group size.

At the Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana, packages range from $1,999 to $11,999 depending on the scale and number of guests—providing a turnkey solution with built-in value.

Save by Scaling Smart

Kelsie and Matthew (Copy): A wedding party dressed in formalwear gathers on a beach, raising their arms and smiling as they celebrate a joyful destination wedding.

With a guest list of 100+, small per-person upgrades can add up pretty quickly. A $15 upgrade to dinner for each guest? That’s $1,500 added to the budget. The best tip is to prioritize impact. Focus on the top 2–3 elements that matter most to you—maybe that’s amazing food, a killer dance floor, or next-level florals, and allocate your budget there.

Places you can trim without losing quality:

  • Use the resort’s included décor instead of importing specialty rentals
  • Skip the multi-tier cake in favor of a dessert table
  • Choose a semi-private group dinner if a full private event isn’t in the budget

Leverage Group Booking Benefits

One major perk of having a large guest count? Group discounts. Many resorts offer benefits once you hit 10+ rooms, and even more perks at 20+. These often include:

  • One free room for every 10 booked
  • Room upgrades for the couple or VIP guests
  • Free cocktail party or event space
  • Flexible payment plans for guests
  • Free wedding package (based on guest minimum)

Your Destify travel coordinator can help secure these deals and manage the logistics. Booking as a group means you’ll maximize both savings and peace of mind.

Expect the Unexpected—Budget Buffer

Build a buffer into your budget (about 10–15%) to account for last-minute changes, especially with a large group. Maybe extra guests RSVP late, or you decide to add a custom drink station or extra décor element. A small cushion ensures you can say “yes” to those final flourishes without financial stress.

With smart planning, a clear vision, and the right partners, budgeting for a large wedding abroad becomes an opportunity—not a limitation. 

Best Resorts and Destination Wedding Packages for 100+ Guests

When it comes to planning a destination wedding for 100 guests, your resort choice is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The right resort doesn’t just provide a picturesque venue—it offers the infrastructure, planning support, and space to deliver an unforgettable experience for your entire guest list.

Many of Destify’s resort partners are specifically designed to host destination weddings for large groups, offering customizable packages, sprawling accommodations, and event venues that cater to celebrations of 100 guests or more.

Below are top-performing large-capacity resorts across Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Dominican Republic—all with proven experience delivering high-style weddings for big guest counts.

  • Royalton Riviera Cancun Hotel 1
    Destify’s favorite

    Riviera Maya Weddings

    Royalton Riviera Cancun

    Sleek and contemporarily styled, this extravagant edifice has a slew of amenities and luxuries to offer guests of all kinds, from families on budgets, to couples seeking privacy and intimacy, to even those looking to upgrade their stay and indulge themselves in opulence.
    Royalton Riviera Cancun: Read more
    • venue iconVenues: 6
    • family-friendly iconFamily Friendly
    • car icon18 Minutes
    Package Costs: $1,099$13,199

Mexico 

  1. Royalton Riviera Cancun, Riviera Maya

A modern, high-capacity resort that’s perfect for large guest lists, Royalton Riviera Cancun combines elegance with flexibility. With over 800 rooms, multiple pools, restaurants, and a breathtaking beachfront, it offers a fully immersive destination wedding experience.

  • Venues: Sky terrace, ocean pier, beach gazebo, ballroom for 300+ guests
  • Packages: From “Love” ($999) to “Luxury” and custom group options; perks include private events and room upgrades
  • Why It’s Great for 100+ Guests: Spacious venues and in-resort adults-only section (Hideaway at Royalton) allow guests to personalize their stay
  1. Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya All-Inclusive Resort, Tulum

Located on a secluded bay, Hilton Tulum offers luxury, calm, and space to spread out. The massive resort has nine pools, 13 restaurants, and expansive venues for larger weddings.

  • Venues: Beachfront altar, ocean-view terraces, lush garden settings, and indoor halls
  • Packages: Start at $2,299 and scale up based on events and guest size
  • Bonus: Proximity to Tulum’s cultural sites makes this a guest favorite for extra sightseeing and excursions
  1. Barceló Maya Caribe, Riviera Maya

As part of the larger Barceló Maya Grand Resort complex, Caribe is a go-to for weddings that need space, value, and a family-friendly feel.

  • Venues: Private beach areas, oceanfront chapels, colonial-style terraces
  • Packages: From basic elopement to premium all-inclusive receptions for 100+ guests
  • Best For: Guests of all ages; multiple room categories and activities within walking distance
  • Aerial view of Dreams Onyx, a luxurious coastal resort specializing in destination weddings, with multiple swimming pools, palm trees, and an adjacent beach with clear blue waters.

    Punta Cana Weddings

    Dreams Onyx

    With over 800 suites — 300 of which are situated in a separate family-friendly section — this immense all-inclusive resort offers a beautiful, sweeping setting and a massive range of amenities, perks, and activities.
    Dreams Onyx: Read more
    • venue iconVenues: 6
    • family-friendly iconFamily Friendly
    • car icon38 Minutes
    Package Costs: $1,499$12,049

Dominican Republic 

  1. Hard Rock Punta Cana, Punta Cana

A massive, vibrant resort with world-class amenities, Hard Rock Punta Cana is made for couples wanting big energy, top-tier service, and total flexibility.

  • Venues: Indoor and outdoor options including gardens, beaches, terraces, and 20,000 sq. ft. ballrooms
  • Packages: From complimentary to luxury Colin Cowie-designed collections; perfect for high-style large weddings
  • Why It Works: You can easily host welcome events, ceremonies, and receptions in unique, separate locations without ever leaving the property
  1. Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa, Punta Cana

This upscale resort blends family-friendly comfort with modern design and multiple venue options. It also shares amenities with Breathless Punta Cana, allowing you to diversify guest experiences.

  • Venues: Tropical garden, beach setups, or ballroom events
  • Packages: From “Elope in Luxury” to “Beyond Memorable” for large groups
  • Ideal For: Weddings with mixed-age groups or couples wanting multiple dining and entertainment choices
  1. Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa, Punta Cana

Trendy, chic, and adults-only, this resort is designed for fun-loving couples looking to celebrate with style. Breathless delivers non-stop energy and next-level event production.

  • Venues: Beach pergolas, rooftop terraces, and luxury ballroom
  • Packages: Tailored wedding packages for high guest counts; includes DJs, lighting, and creative extras
  • Why Choose It: Great for couples who want a resort that feels like a celebration every day
  1. Hotel Riu Palace Punta Cana, Punta Cana

This RIU property brings Spanish elegance and beachfront charm together with resort-wide amenities and simplified large-group bookings.

  • Venues: Garden, beach, or gazebo ceremonies; dinner under the stars or in a spacious ballroom
  • Packages: From “Classic” to “Caprice,” designed for different wedding sizes and styles
  • Why It’s Ideal: Affordable group rates and easy access to sister properties for added flexibility

Caribbean Islands

  1. The Beach at Atlantis, Bahamas

An iconic setting with unparalleled amenities, Atlantis is perfect for couples who want to go big with a touch of luxury and tropical flair.

  • Venues: Oceanfront lawns, pavilion terraces, expansive indoor venues for 300–500 guests
  • Packages: Custom event planning and à la carte menus based on guest count
  • Experience: Waterpark, aquarium, casinos, marine exhibits—guests of all ages will be amazed
  1. Zoëtry Marigot Bay St. Lucia – St. Lucia

For couples who want an exclusive and elegant feeling for their big wedding, Zoëtry Marigot Bay offers boutique charm and unforgettable views.

  • Venues: Bayfront platforms, infinity pool decks, and gardens
  • Packages: Focused on wellness and luxury with small-to-mid-size scalability
  • Tip: Best for large groups that want relaxation and refinement without the mega-resort atmosphere
  1. Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa – St. Lucia

Spacious, family-friendly, and packed with group-friendly amenities, Coconut Bay is a top choice for casual-luxe weddings with 100+ guests.

  • Venues: Seaside pavilions, lush gardens, indoor reception spaces
  • Packages: From “Deluxe” to full-scale private events with entertainment and catering
  • Bonus: Includes a waterpark and adults-only section, making it great for diverse guest lists

How to Compare Large-Group Wedding Resorts

When reviewing options for your special day, you need to look beyond price tags. 

Instead, ask important questions such as:

  • Does the resort provide group travel perks like free nights or upgrades?
  • How many venue options are there, and do they vary in size and setting?
  • Are the destination wedding packages all-inclusive of major elements?
  • What entertainment and dining experiences are available for guests pre- and post-wedding?

To explore all your options by destination, guest count, and price, browse the full Destify resort collection. If you manage to grasp the right venue for you, your wedding will not only be beautiful—it will be cohesive and unforgettable for everyone attending.

Group Travel Coordination and Guest Accommodations

Planning travel and accommodations for over 100 guests might seem daunting—but with specialized strategy and support, it becomes an easier part of your celebration. In fact, well-managed group logistics can level up the entire destination wedding experience, helping everyone feel organized and ready to celebrate.

If you’re coordinating flights, arranging room blocks, or managing different travel timelines, a thoughtful approach makes all the difference when hosting a destination wedding for 100 guests.

Start Early and Communicate Often

A group celebrates a destination wedding with Aubrey and Noah, surrounded by palm trees and ocean views in this picturesque outdoor setting.

When you’re inviting a large group to travel internationally, the earlier you begin planning, the better for all involved. Aim to send your destination wedding save the date at least 10 to 12 months in advance—especially if your wedding falls during a peak travel season or holiday.

Once your venue is locked in, provide guests with:

  • The resort name and location
  • Booking instructions or group codes
  • Recommended travel dates and airport info
  • Travel deadlines, RSVP links, and payment plan options

Many couples create a wedding website or use a shared digital document to centralize all this info, reducing back-and-forth emails and keeping guests informed as plans evolve.

Room Block vs. Flexible Group Booking

When it’s time to reserve accommodation for your 100+ guests, you typically have two options—contracted room blocks or flexible group bookings:

Contracted Room Blocks

  • You reserve a set number of rooms (e.g., 25 rooms for 3 nights)
  • Guaranteed pricing for a specific window
  • You may be responsible for unsold rooms
  • Often comes with perks: one free room per 10 booked, suite upgrades, or bonus events

Flexible Group Booking (via Destify)

  • Guests book individually under a shared group code
  • No financial risk to the couple for unused rooms
  • Everyone gets access to group rates and payment plans
  • Destify manages all guest travel, booking, and communication on your behalf

For a destination wedding for 100 guests, many couples choose a hybrid: secure a conservative room block for VIPs and let others book flexibly. This reduces financial pressure while making sure your core group is housed together.

Travel Planning for Large Groups

Large destination weddings involve guests flying in from multiple cities, arriving on different dates, and navigating unfamiliar airports. That’s where having a dedicated travel coordinator—like the ones available through Destify—becomes a priceless necessity. 

With Destify’s support, couples can:

  • Offer guests payment plans for rooms and airfare
  • Share curated flight options from major U.S. cities
  • Arrange airport transfers for the entire group
  • Monitor who has booked and follow up with those who haven’t

Plus, most group packages include a complimentary planning portal that lets you track room bookings and guest arrivals in real time.

Guaranteeing Guest Comfort and Choice

With lots of people, you’re likely hosting a mix of family units, couples, solo travelers, and possibly guests with accessibility needs. Choosing a resort with a range of room categories makes sure every guest can stay comfortably and within budget.

Many resorts offer:

  • Family-friendly sections with kid amenities
  • Adults-only wings for child-free guests
  • Mobility-accessible suites upon request
  • Onsite babysitting, kids’ clubs, or wellness spas for variety

At resorts like Dreams Onyx and Royalton Riviera Cancun, guests can tailor their vacation style without compromising group togetherness.

Always Schedule Group Arrivals and Transfers

To make arrivals feel coordinated and celebratory, many couples encourage guests to fly in on the same day (or two key windows) so group shuttles can be arranged. Resorts often offer discounted or even complimentary transfers for large groups when booked together.

Welcoming guests with personalized touches—like signage, gift bags, or a designated check-in area, helps kick off the festivities with ease and warmth.

If you tackle these travel and accommodation logistics early, and lean on the expertise of your planning team—you’ll avoid common headaches down the line and help your guests feel cared for from the moment they RSVP. 

Communication Tips and Timelines for a Large Destination Wedding

For a celebration of this size, the success of your wedding depends on both the planning and the communication. When you’re hosting a destination wedding for 100 guests, clear, consistent updates help everyone stay up-to-date and on track. And when your guests know what to expect, your event runs smoother from start to finish.

Between travel arrangements, event schedules, and special requests, communication needs to be strategic. Here’s how to keep 100+ guests in the loop—without losing your mind along the way. 

Send Your Destination Wedding Save the Date Early

The earlier your guests can plan, the more likely they’ll attend. For destination weddings, standard etiquette goes out the window—save-the-dates should be sent 10–12 months in advance, especially when travel, time off work, or passport renewals are involved.

What to include:

  • The wedding date(s)
  • Destination city/country (e.g., Punta Cana, Riviera Maya)
  • A short note: “Formal invitation to follow”
  • Wedding website link (if ready)

If you’re still deciding on exact resort details, that’s okay—just give guests time to plan.

Build a Detailed Wedding Website

With over 100 guests, questions will multiply—flight info, resort amenities, dress codes, and more. A central wedding website answers those questions in real time and helps reduce inbox overload.

Your website should include:

  • Travel instructions and airport codes
  • Group booking links or payment plans
  • Dress codes and weather info
  • Event schedule (with updates as plans evolve)
  • FAQs: Do I need a passport? Can I bring kids?

A well-organized site becomes your communication hub. Not tech-savvy? No problem, Destify offers planning support and templates to make this process smoother. 

Create a Communication Timeline

Large weddings benefit from a communication plan that mirrors your planning milestones. Here’s a timeline that works well for destination weddings of 100+:

  • 12+ months out: Send save-the-dates
  • 9 months out: Launch wedding website with preliminary travel info
  • 6–7 months out: Mail formal invitations with RSVP instructions
  • 4 months out: Reminder email about travel deadlines and deposits
  • 2 months out: Share the schedule of events and packing list
  • 1 week out: Final details and contact info for the wedding week

Using group email lists, a private Facebook group, or a wedding app can help maintain engagement and encourage guests to help each other with travel tips and questions.

Appoint a Few Key Helpers

You’ll have a lot on your plate, so don’t be afraid to delegate. Ask a few friends or family members to serve as point people. They can help answer guest questions, organize airport arrivals, or coordinate excursions.

Think of them as your “wedding support team”—especially useful when you’re managing RSVPs or fielding questions from dozens of guests.

Keep It Personal (Even at Scale)

Even though your wedding is large, your communication can still feel warm and personal. Handwritten notes in welcome bags, personal greetings at the welcome party, or naming your guests in your speech are simple but powerful touches.

Need a starting place? Check out our guide to popular wedding dates and travel planning to help time your invitations and bookings around seasonal trends.

Ceremony and Reception Design Ideas for Large Groups

Designing a celebration for 100+ people means creating a space that’s as functional as it is breathtaking. And when you’re planning a destination wedding for 100 guests, the ceremony and reception layout is about beauty as well as flow, visibility, sound, and experience. The challenge? 

An elegant banquet hall perfect for a destination wedding, featuring round tables, white chairs, and ambient candle lighting.

Making a large event feel intimate, immersive, and uniquely you.

The good news is that large-scale weddings don’t have to feel impersonal. With the right design choices and venue, you can host a celebration that’s both expansive and deeply meaningful.

Ceremony Setups That Feel Personal—Even With 100 Guests

Traditional ceremony layouts (rows of chairs facing forward) can feel distant when the crowd grows. But thoughtful seating and venue selection can transform your “I do” moment into something magical.

Try these high-impact, guest-friendly setups:

  • Semi-circular seating: Curves bring guests closer and enhance connection with the couple
  • Wide aisles: Great for beach or garden ceremonies with dramatic floral borders
  • Elevated platform or canopy: Ensures everyone sees the vows clearly, especially in outdoor venues
  • Multiple entry points: For larger bridal parties, two entrances (bride + groom from different sides) can add drama

At resorts like Hard Rock Punta Cana, venues are designed with large weddings in mind—think wide beaches, expansive decks, and elegant ballrooms.

Reception Layouts That Encourage Flow

For a group of 100+, flow is important. People need space to move, chat, dine, and dance without feeling crowded or isolated. Here are a few popular formats for big destination weddings:

  • Banquet-style long tables: Creates a unified, grand visual and encourages mingling
  • Mixed rounds + lounges: Alternate 8- or 10-top round tables with cozy seating areas
  • U-shaped layout: Brings the focus to a sweetheart table or entertainment stage
  • Outdoor terraces with multiple seating zones: Ideal for resorts with garden or rooftop venues

Ask your coordinator to provide a floor plan mock-up to visualize spacing, especially if your reception is in a ballroom or beach pavilion.

Scaled Decor That Makes an Impact

Decorating for many guests can be expensive—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The trick is choosing fewer, larger elements that photograph beautifully and feel immersive.

  • Statement floral installations: Think arches, hanging greenery, or tall centerpieces that anchor the space
  • Lighting design: Use string lights, lanterns, or chandeliers to create intimacy in a large space
  • Customized dance floors: A monogram or vinyl overlay can define the party zone
  • Color continuity: Stick to 2–3 colors across tables, signage, and attire to keep the space cohesive

Many destination wedding packages come with beautifully curated basics—think aesthetic chair sashes, classic centerpieces, and a ceremony arch ready for your vows. These inclusions are a great starting point, and from there, you can customize and elevate every detail. If you’re dreaming of cascading florals, lantern-lined aisles, or a custom dance floor under the stars, your resort’s wedding planning team is on hand to bring your vision to life.

The best part? At most popular resorts, no request is too big or too bold. From unique cultural touches to personalized color palettes, planners work closely with you to layer in details that reflect your personality and love story. Regardless if you’re going for quiet luxury or modern romance, they’ll help source custom rentals, specialty linens, or creative lighting to make the space feel entirely your own.

We know that your dream wedding should feel like your own—and with expert teams and flexible decor options, there is no reason why it can’t. 

Logistics That Make a Big Wedding Feel Effortless

Design goes beyond decor—it’s also about functionality. With 100+ guests, a few extra logistics ensure smooth flow and a positive guest experience:

  • Multiple bar stations: Prevent long lines and keep drinks flowing
  • Extra waitstaff: Confirm staffing ratios with your planner for timely dinner service
  • Clear signage: Use welcome signs, seating charts, and timelines to guide guests
  • Sound system checks: Ensure your officiant, speeches, and music can be heard throughout the space

And don’t forget weather contingencies—many resorts provide backup indoor venues or tents. Make sure you love your Plan B almost as much as Plan A.

Vendor Coordination at Scale

When your wedding includes hundreds of guests, vendor coordination becomes less about picking individual services—and more about managing a symphony of moving parts. Luckily, most destination weddings come with a secret weapon: a resort-based wedding coordinator whose job is to orchestrate the entire experience, so you don’t have to.

Still, it’s important to understand how vendors operate at scale and how to work with them effectively when you’re planning a destination wedding for many guests. 

Lean on Your Resort’s Wedding Coordinator

Most all-inclusive resorts include a professional wedding coordinator as part of their destination wedding packages. These coordinators are your eyes and ears on-site, guaranteeing that every vendor—from the florist to the DJ—is aligned with your vision and your timeline.

For larger weddings, your coordinator becomes your logistical lifeline. They’ll:

  • Handle room setups and event timelines
  • Coordinate vendor arrivals and equipment needs
  • Keep events on schedule (cocktail hour, dinner, first dance)
  • Troubleshoot unexpected issues discreetly and efficiently

At properties like Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya or Breathless Punta Cana, these planners have years of experience managing large, multi-day events—so they know how to balance creativity with coordination.

In-House Vendors vs. Bringing Your Own

Many resorts offer in-house vendors for floral design, photography, entertainment, and officiants. These vendors often come bundled in your wedding package or are available as add-ons. This setup is convenient and cost-effective, especially when planning from afar.

However, if you have a specific photographer you love or want to bring in a cultural vendor (like a mariachi band or religious officiant), check with your resort in advance. Some properties allow outside vendors for a small fee—others waive the fee if your vendor is staying on-site.

Tip: If you’re bringing a vendor with you (like your hairstylist or planner), ask the resort if they require a vendor pass or liability insurance.

Scale Vendors for a Larger Crowd

With 100 guests, the average vendor package may not be enough. Here’s how to scale effectively:

  • Photography/Videography: Ask about a second shooter or additional hours to capture more candid moments across a wider area.
  • Hair & Makeup: Schedule services early in the day or request extra stylists to accommodate bridal parties and family.
  • Catering: Double-check staffing ratios to ensure smooth service during dinner and drinks. Consider adding more bartenders or servers for speed.
  • Entertainment: A solo musician might get lost with a big crowd. Instead, opt for a full band, upbeat DJ with pro sound equipment, or unique acts like fire dancers or drummers for a show-stopping moment.

Timeline and Flow Considerations

Weddings with 100+ guests naturally move at a different pace than smaller ones. It takes longer to seat guests, serve food, and manage transitions between ceremony and reception. Work with your planner to pad your schedule with 15–30 extra minutes between major events, just in case.

Some couples also assign a point person (like a bridesmaid or groomsman) to help direct guests throughout the evening—this can be a big help in keeping things flowing and guests informed without the couple needing to manage it in real time.

Personalization Ideas That Scale for Big Weddings

Elegant gift box for a destination wedding, featuring a scented candle, dried flowers, a white rose, dark vase, and luxurious cream container.

A larger guest count doesn’t mean your wedding has to feel impersonal. In fact, one of the most rewarding parts of planning a destination wedding for 100 guests is finding creative ways to weave your personality, story, and culture into the experience. The key? Focus on touches that make a big impression—even if they’re small in size.

Whether it’s custom welcome gifts or a personalized playlist, destination weddings for large groups can still feel incredibly intimate and meaningful with the right attention to detail.

Welcome Gifts with Local Flair

Your guests have traveled far to celebrate with you, so why not start the celebration with something memorable? Welcome bags are a tried-and-true favorite and scale beautifully—even for 100 guests.

Ideas include:

  • Mini bottles of local spirits (like rum in the Dominican Republic or tequila in Mexico)
  • Personalized itineraries with wedding weekend details
  • Custom luggage tags or beach totes with your monogram
  • Local snacks or treats (try Blue Mountain coffee in Jamaica or handmade confections in Riviera Maya)

Resorts like Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana offer concierge support to help organize and distribute these gifts at check-in, taking one more task off your plate.

Custom Ceremony and Vows

With a larger guest list, many couples worry their ceremony will lose its emotional punch. But personalization keeps it grounded. Whether you’re writing your own vows, incorporating a cultural tradition, or choosing readings from your favorite books, these heartfelt moments make your ceremony feel close—even when your chairs stretch across the sand.

Want to go further? Try:

  • Including a short welcome message or program with a note from the couple
  • Having a close friend or family member serve as officiant
  • A group blessing or guest vow that invites your attendees to affirm your union

Interactive Guest Experiences

Personalization isn’t just about decor—it’s also about engagement. Large groups love interactive moments that spark connection. Some of our favorite scalable ideas:

  • A memory wall with photos of your relationship and blank cards for guests to add their own
  • A custom “mad libs”-style guestbook station
  • Polaroid photo booths with custom backdrops or themed props
  • A signature cocktail station where guests “build their own” using your favorite ingredients

At resorts like the Barceló Maya Caribe, on-site planners can help set up lounge areas or installations that invite interaction without overwhelming the event flow.

Personalized Paper and Stationery

Even in a digital world, tangible paper details make a strong impression—especially when you’re hosting 100+ people. Think menus with your love story printed on the back, place cards that double as favors, or table numbers that correspond to meaningful memories.

For a more immersive effect, consider carrying your monogram, wedding logo, or motif throughout the weekend—from invitations and signage to napkins and dessert toppers.

Musical Moments That Reflect Your Story

With so many guests present, your music choices matter more than ever. From a pre-ceremony playlist filled with “your songs” to a choreographed first dance, music is a powerful way to reflect who you are as a couple.

Bonus points if you mix in local sounds—think a reggae welcome set in Montego Bay or mariachi during cocktail hour in Riviera Maya.

The magic of personalization lies in making every guest feel seen and appreciated. With thoughtful planning and a little creativity, your destination wedding for 100 guests can feel every bit as meaningful as a micro-wedding—just on a more unforgettable scale.

Making It All Happen: Your Big Destination Wedding, Perfectly Planned

An outdoor evening destination wedding celebration, with string lights glowing above guests gathered around tables by the pool.

If you’ve made it this far, take a deep breath—you’re already well on your way to planning an unforgettable destination wedding for 100 guests. Yes, it’s a big celebration. Yes, it takes coordination. But it’s also an incredible opportunity to bring all your favorite people together in one beautiful place, creating memories that will live on long after the last toast.

This kind of wedding is about more than logistics and headcounts. It’s about joy, connection, and turning your love story into an experience your guests will never forget. With thoughtful planning, the right resort, and support from expert wedding teams, a large destination wedding can still feel personal, intentional, and deeply meaningful.

And the best part? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Reach out to Destify today to make your destination wedding a reality. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

Get a free consultation from our wedding planner specialist

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