Cherry on Top’s Blueprint for the Ultimate Destination Wedding Experience
The magic of a destination wedding isn’t just about the postcard-perfect backdrop—it’s about crafting an immersive experience where every detail feels intentional, every moment unfolds seamlessly, and every guest leaves with memories that linger long after the last dance.
In an exclusive conversation with Cherry on Top Planning Agency, we explored what makes a wedding truly magical, which destinations are shaping the future of celebrations, and how couples are redefining what it means to say ‘I do’ abroad.
Who is Cherry on Top?
At the heart of Cherry on Top are its founders, Naila and Roula, two visionaries who work with passion, not pretense—partnering with clients whose vision aligns with their creative soul. For them, every collaboration is a harmonious exchange of ideas, a fusion of minds and concepts, where the final masterpiece reflects the couple’s essence—their values, personality, and story.
Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: “We believe in engaging human-to-human, not business-to-business.” Guided by a collaborative spirit and a deep commitment to integrity, they describe their approach as “collaborative, sincere, and rooted in authenticity.” This ethos drives their ability to craft innovative, sustainable, and purpose-driven design solutions that leave an indelible mark.
The Ingredients of a Dream Destination Wedding
For Cherry on Top, a truly unforgettable wedding is one that transports guests into a carefully curated world. Scenic landscapes set the stage—whether it’s the dramatic coastline of Portugal, the vineyard-draped hills of Italy, or the regal charm of a historic château in France. But beyond the aesthetic, it’s the feeling that a setting evokes that makes the difference.
“There’s a certain magic in immersing guests in an experience where every sense is engaged,” they share. “A flamenco performance in a Spanish courtyard, a candlelit Berber feast in the Moroccan desert, a sunset welcome dinner on a Tuscan terrace—these are the moments that turn a wedding into something unforgettable.”
Yet, the logistics must be just as smooth as the setting is breathtaking. From seamless guest experiences to working with vendors who know the terrain inside out, every layer of planning contributes to a flawless celebration. “Exclusivity is key, but so is accessibility. Guests should feel effortlessly taken care of, from the moment they arrive to the moment they leave.”
Destinations That Deliver
Some wedding venues stand out not just for their beauty but for their ability to bring together exceptional service, flexibility, and an unparalleled atmosphere. Cherry on Top highlights destinations like Château La Coste in Provence, the historic Haiku Mill in Maui, and the art-laden Castel San Marçal in Barcelona as venues that exceed expectations.
“These places don’t just provide a setting; they offer different spaces for different moments,” they explain. “A welcome cocktail under the stars, a ceremony with a panoramic view, and an after-party in a secret garden—it’s about layering experiences throughout the wedding journey.”
Emerging destinations like Portugal, Turkey, and Lebanon are also gaining traction. “Lebanon is making a comeback,” they note. “Couples from the region are drawn back home for celebrations infused with culture, warmth, and an unmatched hospitality experience.”
The Biggest Challenges in Destination Wedding Planning
With great beauty comes great logistical responsibility. One of the biggest challenges in planning a destination wedding? Weather unpredictability. “You can’t control Mother Nature, but you can control how prepared you are,” says Cherry on Top. “A well-thought-out backup plan that feels just as magical as Plan A is essential.”
Other hurdles include guest travel logistics, navigating local vendor trust, and balancing personalization with practicality. “The dream is always possible, but understanding how to bring it to life seamlessly is where expertise makes all the difference.”
The Future of Destination Weddings
Weddings are evolving from single-day events to multi-day immersive experiences. “Couples want more than a wedding—they want a journey. From pre-wedding adventures to farewell brunches, the celebration is now an entire narrative.”
One major trend? The rise of full venue takeovers. “There’s something special about having an entire estate, island, or boutique hotel to yourselves. It allows for complete creative freedom and an intimate, undisturbed experience.”
Additionally, sustainability is becoming a defining factor. “We’re seeing more conscious choices—locally sourced menus, eco-friendly decor, and minimal-impact planning. The idea of ‘leave no trace’ is making its way into destination weddings.”
Where Would the Ultimate Wedding Take Place?
If Cherry on Top could design a wedding anywhere in the world, where would it be? Their answer is nothing short of poetic.
“An untouched, forgotten place—an abandoned fortress on a clifftop, where nature has reclaimed the architecture. Ivy-covered walls, flickering candlelight against weathered stone, a dinner table set under towering trees. A wedding that feels like a secret whispered through the ruins, a love story woven into a place that has existed for centuries and will continue long after.”
A New Era of Destination Weddings
In a world where weddings are no longer just about aesthetics but about storytelling, experience, and emotion, the future of destination weddings is boundless.
It’s not about where you say ‘I do’—it’s about how it feels. And when done right, it feels like magic.
And with visionaries like Naila and Roula, the art of destination weddings is only just beginning to reach new heights.
