The traditional honeymoon is a cherished tradition for newlyweds, but it seems that things are changing in the world of post-wedding travel. Wedding and travel experts are noticing a growing trend of couples inviting their friends to join them on their honeymoon, creating what is now known as a “buddymoon.” While the traditional honeymoon is still popular, the concept of a buddymoon is becoming more common, offering couples a unique and shared experience with their loved ones.
The emergence of the buddymoon trend predates the pandemic and can be linked to larger shifts happening within the weddings space. Modern destination weddings have evolved into week-long affairs filled with multiple events, creating the perfect opportunity for a buddymoon to fit in. Couples are now opting for more elaborate and extended special-occasion trips, and buddymoons are seen as a natural extension of these destination weddings.
While some couples choose a buddymoon in place of a traditional honeymoon, the two are not mutually exclusive. Many newlyweds are now opting for both experiences, taking multiple post-married trips to celebrate their love and create lasting memories. This trend reflects the desire to make the most of this special time in their lives and share it with their closest friends and family.
Recognizing the growing popularity of buddymoons, some hotels and resorts are striving to cater to this market. Mexico’s Velas Resorts, for example, has introduced a special buddymoon package that allows couples to book a four-day celebration with friends either before or after their wedding. The experience can be customized and may include exciting activities such as welcome cocktail parties, cooking or cocktail classes, spa days, fishing excursions, or luxury yacht charters.
Courtnie Nichols, CEO and founder of the travel company TravelBash, has observed a significant increase in buddymoon bookings since the pandemic. According to Nichols, buddymoon clients tend to be established couples in their 30s who have already traveled together and are at a stable point in their relationship. They may be homeowners, well-established in their careers, or preparing to start a family. The buddymoon experience serves as a continuation of their destination wedding, allowing them to share this special time with their friends.
Buddymoons can take on various forms depending on the preferences of the couple and their friends. Some buddymooners choose to stay together at a resort for an extended period, while others embark on a group trip to a different location. There are couples who opt for “honeymoon-hopping,” visiting sister properties or nearby resorts with their friends. The experiences can range from booking family-friendly all-inclusives for the wedding and adults-only resorts for the buddymoon to embarking on adventurous trips, such as a 19-day African safari with other couples.
Challenges and Considerations
While buddymoons offer couples the opportunity to create lasting memories with their friends, there are additional factors to consider. Planning a buddymoon can be more complex than a traditional honeymoon due to the involvement of multiple individuals and preferences. Travel companies like TravelBash are reassessing how they categorize and organize these trips, recognizing the need for more attention to detail and coordination. Despite the challenges, the appeal of buddymoons persists, and couples are willing to go the extra mile to ensure a memorable experience for everyone involved.
A New Twist on Post-Wedding Celebrations
Luxury travel advisors, such as Rebecca East of LifeStyled Group, have also witnessed the demand for buddymoons. These trips offer a way for couples to extend the celebration and continue the joy beyond their wedding day. The buddymoon becomes a way to look forward to new adventures and keep the good times rolling with their closest friends and family. After many wedding plans were postponed due to the pandemic, buddymoons provide an opportunity for couples to relish the moment and create lasting memories with their loved ones.
The rise of buddymoons represents a new twist on post-wedding travel. Couples are navigating a changing landscape in the wedding industry, where destination weddings are becoming grander and more elaborate. The buddymoon trend emerged as a way for couples to include their friends in their celebrations and extend the joy beyond the wedding day. With hotels and resorts offering tailored packages and travel companies catering to these unique experiences, buddymoons are becoming an increasingly popular choice for newlyweds. Despite the challenges of planning and coordinating group trips, the appeal of buddymoons lies in the opportunity to share a special time with loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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