In today’s digital age, where so much information and accessibility to travel planning exists, it’s still a great idea to hire a travel agent when it comes to your honeymoon. I know you’re probably asking yourself two things: “Do Travel agents still exist?” and “Why would I pay a Travel Agent to help plan my honeymoon when I’ve planned countless trips on my own?”

Photographer: tPoz Photography

Let’s start with the answers to those questions: Yes, travel agents do still exist and we are a thriving community! In the age of quick booking sites like Expedia and Kayak, travel agents have adapted and utilize many different resources to create the perfect trip for you. I’ll answer the second question by posing another: Have you ever baked a cake, arranged flowers, made a killer playlist or planned an incredible party? I’m sure you have, and yet for your wedding day you are hiring a professional for these details. Shouldn’t your honeymoon work the same way? There are so many professional wedding vendors you will consult and work with to make that one day spectacular. Your honeymoon should get the same attention!

Photographer: Love By Serena (iPhone)

So why should you hire a travel agent for your honeymoon? Let’s break it down:

• Less Stress: As any married couple can attest to, planning a wedding is stressful. There are wedding planners to help alleviate that stress. Planning a honeymoon can be stressful too, and that’s where travel agents come in to help!
• Less Work: Not everyone requires a travel agent for their honeymoon. If you have 20 spare hours to spend comparing flight costs, contacting hotels and booking tours then you probably don’t need our help. But let’s be honest, in the months leading up to your wedding, free time is unheard of! Wouldn’t it be simpler to work with someone who knows your preferences and have them assemble the perfect combination of details?
• Personalized Vacation: After you tell your travel agent what your preferences are, they will be able to find and choose the perfect accomodations and activities that will fit you and your spouse perfectly!
• Bonuses: Often travel agents will be able to get nice perks for you that you wouldn’t be able to get by yourself (i.e. a welcome bottle of champagne or a couples massage, or even a generous room upgrade!)

Photographer: Sarah Culver Photography

Most travel agents do charge a consultation/planning fee, but this small fee won’t break the bank and you will often be given some pretty nice perks But the greatest benefit of working with a professional is the personalized, tailored service you will receive from the agent throughout the process. For many couples their honeymoon is a once in a lifetime trip and a chance to continue making unforgettable memories with the person they love. Whether you dream of watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu or strolling hand in hand on the black sand beaches of Santorini, the world is a remarkable place with so many moments just waiting to be experienced. Start your wonderful adventure of marriage off on the right foot and allow a travel professional to help make your travel dreams a reality.

Editor’s Note: Interested in learning more about how travel agents can help you plan your vacation? Come meet Mackenzie, The Destination Designer, at The Mix Event on February 22, 2014! Stay tuned as she continues to guest post about other fabulous vacation destinations.