GUATEMALA WEDDING PLANNER
FAQ
Thank you for visiting our FAQ section. We are Zeeba Productions, your future destination wedding planner Guatemala. We are excited to provide you with more information about our services. Please click on the links below to easily access the information you are looking for.
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How long have you been planning destination weddings?
We obtained our business license in 2022. However, our experience dates back to 2013 when our lead wedding planner began coordinating international events and providing travel concierge services to participants from different continents. She has hosted events in countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama and Colombia. Before transitioning to wedding planning, Zeeba founders supported family and friends and planned their own destination wedding in Guatemala.
Can you provide examples of past destination weddings you've planned?
Wedding planning takes time. Most of our clients are still in the planning phase, but you can find a successful wedding story under this link.
Do you specialize in specific destinations or are you familiar with a wide range of locations?
Our focus is on Antigua Guatemala Weddings since couples and their guests traveling from overseas usually have limited time to explore the country and prefer a convenient and short connection once they arrive at the destination. Guatemala offers breathtaking settings for special occasions, and we recommend considering them for elopements and intimate celebrations.
Have you planned weddings in the destination where I'm interested?
To us, Guatemala's landscapes, like Tikal, Coban, Rio Dulce, and Huehuetenango are very familiar, but it is not often that people want to have their destination wedding there. While some couples like the views from Lake Atitlán, we do not think it is a good idea for large groups and would highly recommend Antigua Guatemala over any other location.
What services are included in your wedding planning packages?
Our signature package provides guidance on navigating local regulations and coordinating dream Guatemala weddings for foreign couples. Additional services can be provided upon request.
Can you customize packages based on specific needs and budget constraints?
We have created our signature wedding planning package to provide a comprehensive and personalized white glove service to couples. We understand that this package may not fit every budget, so we are continually developing alternative support packages for those who prefer a more hands-on approach. If you're interested in learning more about our packages or have any questions, please don't hesitate to send us an email. We'll be happy to help you find a package that works for your needs.
Do you have preferred vendors in the destination, such as local florists, photographers, and caterers?
We have a list of preferred vendors, categorized by price range. Both our affordable and luxury vendor options follow a minimum quality standard, and we only work with vendors who meet those standards. If you have a vendor in mind, please consult with us first to determine whether they meet our criteria for hiring and we will take it from there.
How do you handle negotiations and contracts with destination vendors?
Vendor contracts are typically created to protect the interests of the vendor, not necessarily with the client's best interests in mind. At Zeeba Productions, we take the time to carefully review and analyze vendor contracts to identify any gaps or loopholes that could potentially be detrimental to our clients. We work with vendors to ensure that their contracts are revised to include the specifications that we require or to modify policies that may not align with our client's needs. Our goal is to ensure that our clients have a voice and that their preferences are prioritized throughout the contracting process.
What is your preferred method of communication? (Email, phone, video calls)
Our primary method of communication will be via electronic mail. We find email communication to be a reliable and long-lasting means of recording our agreements, allowing us to revisit previous conversations and track our progress. Additionally, collaborative tools, such as those offered by Google Suite, are invaluable in maintaining long-term relationships during the wedding planning process.
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While we recognize the importance of live interaction, we also schedule regular check-in meetings with our clients to ensure that we remain aligned. Our contracts exclude text messaging, as it is lacking in structure, and text platforms typically discontinue file sharing over time. However, in the event of an emergency during the week of the wedding, we permit text messaging for support purposes.
How frequently can I expect updates on the wedding planning progress?
During our discovery call, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the comfort levels of each couple and incorporate the findings into a customized quote. As an initial offering, we provide five online calibration sessions and monthly email updates until the conclusion of your contractual agreement. In the event that additional planning cycles are needed, such services can be requested and purchased at a later time via our member site.
Do you assist with travel arrangements for the couple and guests?
Couples who elect to host a destination wedding are usually hands-on people who don’t require individualized assistance in this sense. Our wedding websites provide all the pertinent information that couples and their guests require to navigate during their stay. Couples who opt for a white glove service can request a personalized quote at any point during the contracting process.
How do you handle transportation and accommodations for guests?
We take care of managing transportation bookings for your wedding day as part of our signature package. We also offer options for the getting ready area to ensure a seamless experience. We'll work with you during our calibration sessions to evaluate your needs and provide you with the best possible choices.
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When it comes to additional travel concierge services, we'll tailor our approach to your requirements, whether you prefer us to handle things one-on-one with your guests or on a group basis.
Are you familiar with the legal requirements for getting married in the chosen destination?
We have a clear understanding of the regulations governing international civil marriage in Guatemala, both written and common practice. You will receive this information as a part of your Signature Package. Alternatively, you can purchase selected wedding support packages that include this information.
Do you understand and respect the local customs and traditions of the destination?
We are fortunate to have family and friends who were born and raised in this beautiful country and have taught us about its customs and traditions. Both of the founders come from diverse cultural backgrounds, but they have learned to respect and value the local customs.
What backup plans do you have in case of unexpected weather or other emergencies?
Contingency plans vary for each event. Once you become a member of our Signature club, we will provide you with an onboarding information package and take care of all necessary accommodations during your contract.
How do you handle unexpected challenges during the event?
Unforseens are meant to happen during wedding planning, especially during wedding days. At Zeeba, we anticipate a series of events from the moment we start negotiating vendor contracts until the day we actually participate in your wedding. We are always ready to adjust our plans as needed and ensure that we keep your overall goals in mind throughout the entire process.
How do you handle the budget?
As a company policy, we do not handle our clients' money directly. Instead, we support them in finding the best payment method that suits their needs. We keep track of every transaction and proof of payment on the back end. From the discovery call to the planning phase, we will discuss budget allocations and provide coaching. We will ensure that each partition adheres to your overall budget goals.
What is your payment structure and refund policy?
To initiate the wedding planning process, we request that a down payment of 50% of the total cost be made. Once we have secured your primary vendor, which is typically the venue, an additional 25% advance payment will be required. The remaining balance must be settled one month prior to the wedding day. Please be advised that the down payment is non-refundable. However, the remaining balance is subject to a cancellation policy that is contingent upon the nature of the unforeseen event. A detailed outline of this policy can be obtained from the wedding planning contract.
Can you provide references from past clients?
We recognize the importance of privacy for our clients. While we understand that reviews and comments can be helpful for potential customers, we only share them if the couple has given us permission to do so. We respect our clients' privacy and never disclose any information without their consent.
Do you have testimonials or reviews from previous destination wedding clients?
Sure, please visit our Google listing to see some reviews left by our verified clients.
Are you responsible for obtaining the necessary permits for the wedding event?
We take full responsibility for helping you plan your event at the venue* of your choice. This includes figuring out all the necessary requirements, processes, and timelines for your civil or Roman Catholic wedding celebration. Once we provide you with instructions, it is your duty to complete all the required documentation. In case you need any additional support, we can also provide you with mail and shipping services.
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*If you are interested in booking Colonial Ruins in Antigua Guatemala as a venue, the process may vary. In this scenario, we can handle the bookings and payments for you as the process must be done manually and in person. Please note that charges will apply.
How do you handle legal aspects, especially if the couple is from a different country?
We highly recommend all our couples handle their legal paperwork back at home or in the country where they plan to establish themselves. This is due to their own convenience, both in the preparation and filing of the paperwork. If you already live or desire to live in Guatemala, we can help you arrange a meeting with a local lawyer who can provide you with all the assistance you need and rekindle to make sure everything is in place for your wedding day.