Here’s how Jackie Klemenc planned the perfect honeymoon getaway for one local couple
By Patricia Nugent
What’s important to millennials in lifestyle preferences is also what matters most when planning a honeymoon: personalization.
For Torri and Evan Sholl, who said their vows last September, a custom experience curated to their likes was top of mind.
“This is the first time we are leaving the country as adults without our families,” says Torri. “We wanted a once-in-a-lifetime trip that felt in tune with our expectations. Turning to Jackie Klemenc, who specializes in Sandals International resort trips, turned out to be a great move.”
There were oodles of details that had never occurred to Torri and Evan, such as the difference between good-better-best in terms of suites, how much proximity to the airport matters, and where the best waterfalls are to explore.
What’s the Top Destination?
According to Wedding Industry News, the Caribbean is the number one most popular honeymoon destination. The top three things respondents listed as what they are looking for in a honeymoon were all-inclusivity, beach and adventure in that order.
“To us, all-inclusivity was a no-brainer,” says Torri. “Working with Jackie, she asked a lot of questions to find out what we were hoping for. Since we’re both very busy with work, relaxation on the beach was most important. She saved us a lot of time in planning and getting the biggest bang, and the best beach, for our buck. She came up with more than 20 scenarios for us to choose from. We ended up booking at the Royal Caribbean in Montego Bay, Jamaica.”
Though chilling out was the goal, in case the couple wants to have a party night or exotic dining, Jackie told them about the shuttles that can take them to another Sandals resort, which may have more vibrant nightlife.
“Since Jackie is trained and certified in trips to all the 18 Sandals destinations throughout the Caribbean, we felt like she offered insider’s tips and tricks,” says Torri. “For instance, she knew of a promotion that would be hitting on Black Friday and had us wait to book to save money.”
Pinpointing Your Passions
During the consultation, Jackie discovers each person’s favorite pursuits, from golf and water excursions to spa time, tennis, squash, basketball, bocce, pool tables, lawn chess and pool volleyball.
“Some couples want the highest club level service with a private butler. Others could care less because they plan to spend most of the trip away from their room and should put their dollars in excursions,” says Jackie. “One of the reasons I love my job is at some point every client says, ‘wow, I never would’ve thought of that,’ which is rewarding.”
When it comes to a resort’s popularity, newer is often better. Jackie reports she’s booking a lot of getaways to the newest (and swankiest) Sandals: Dunn’s River on Jamaica’s north coast near Ocho Rios and Royal Curacao on this luxurious Dutch island.
Jackie says the romantic settings are perfect for couples of any age, not just honeymooners.
“I’m also planning lots of corporate rewards trips for clients,” she adds.
The new Mr. and Mrs. Sholl went on their honeymoon the first week of March. Look for a few fun photos from their Sandals adventure on Jackie’s socials.
Follow Jackie Klemenc on social media to find out about all the latest news. Her service is complimentary. Contact her at 440-487-1846, email her at jackie@brightwishestravel.comor visit BrightWishesTravel.com to find out more.