Trying to figure out whether a big-name resort or a cozy boutique spot is the right call for your wedding? Here’s your honest guide to resort size—what it means, how it impacts your wedding, and what to watch for. Because not every resort is a good choice (and I’ve been to 200+ to prove it).
Why Resort Size Really Matters for Your Destination Wedding
You’d think it’s all about the views and vibes, right? Not so fast. Resort size affects:
- How private your ceremony feels
- How easily your guests can find their way around
- Whether your wedding gets VIP treatment (or lost in the shuffle)
- The logistics of moving people from ceremony to cocktails to reception
Let’s break it down by size—because bigger isn’t always better, and smaller isn’t always easier.
Small Resorts (Under 150 Rooms)
Vibe: Intimate, peaceful, boutique-feel
Pros:
- You won’t feel like just another wedding on the schedule
- Easier to find your guests and keep the group connected
- Often have a more personal touch with service
Cons:
- Fewer venue options (maybe only one ceremony spot)
- Limited room types and dining choices
- Smaller staff can mean slower service if the resort is full
Best for: Smaller groups (under 40 guests), couples who value quiet, and anyone dreaming of a “rent-the-whole-place” vibe.
Tough Love Tip: Small resorts book up fast. If you’re eyeing one, don’t wait.
Mid-Size Resorts (150–400 Rooms)
Vibe: Balanced, social but not overwhelming
Pros:
- Usually offer 2–3 ceremony options and flexible reception spaces
- Enough restaurants and activities to keep guests happy
- Not so massive that you need a map to find the beach
Cons:
- Can feel busy during peak travel times
- May host multiple weddings per day
- Walkability depends on layout (some sprawl, some don’t)
Best for: Most destination wedding groups (40–80 guests), especially if you want variety without chaos.
Spreadsheet Nerd Alert: I track guest group sizes, resort layouts, and venue capacities so we pick one that actually works—not just looks good on Instagram.
Large Resorts (400+ Rooms)
Vibe: Big energy, lots to do, sometimes chaotic
Pros:
- Tons of dining, bars, pools, and activities
- More room categories (great for varying guest budgets)
- Easier to negotiate perks and upgrades
Cons:
- You’re one of many weddings (some resorts do 3+ per day)
- Guests might get lost (literally and logistically)
- Can feel impersonal unless you’re booking a private area
Best for: Larger groups (80+), multi-generational guest lists, or couples who want a built-in party vibe.
Honest Moment: If the wedding department isn’t well-staffed, big resorts can drop the ball. I vet them so you don’t have to.
Questions to Ask When Picking the Right Size Resort
- How many weddings do you host per day?
- What ceremony/reception options are available for my guest size?
- Is everything walkable, or do we need golf carts?
- Are there adult-only or quiet zones for guests who want them?
- Can guests book into different budget tiers and still stay connected?
So, What Size Resort Is Right for You?
It depends on:
- Your guest count
- Your priorities (party vibe vs. private moments)
- Your budget flexibility
- Your tolerance for crowds
Not every resort is a good choice. That’s why I match you with vetted options that fit your size, style, and stress tolerance. Because let’s be real: Google is a great place to start, but it won’t tell you which wedding team actually answers emails.
Ready to Make It Easy?
Let’s skip the guesswork. Schedule your stress-free planning call and get resort options that match your group size, wedding vibe, and budget—without the spreadsheet-induced meltdown.
FAQ
Q: Can I host a private wedding at a large resort?
A: Yes—but you’ll need to reserve private spaces and possibly pay extra. It’s doable, but not always easy.
Q: What if some guests want luxury and others need budget rooms?
A: Mid-size and large resorts usually offer multiple room tiers. I help you choose one with flexible options and no guest drama.
Q: What if I want a small resort but have a big guest list?
A: You may need to buy out the property or consider splitting the group across sister resorts. Let’s talk it through.
add a comment