By A’yesha Gaetán, Multi Certified Wedding Planner, Destination Wedding Designer, and Travel Designer
Beautiful photos can make any resort look incredible.
But when you’re planning one of the biggest celebrations of your life, beautiful photos simply aren’t enough.
As a destination wedding planner, I believe every recommendation should be rooted in firsthand experience. That’s exactly why I traveled to Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. I wanted to experience the resort through the same lens as my couples and their guests, from arrival and accommodations to hospitality, wedding services, dining, and everything in between.
Welcome to another edition of Aye’Candy Unwrapped & Unpacked, where I unwrap the sweet, the sour, and everything in between so you can make informed decisions before saying “I do.”
If you’re considering Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada for your destination wedding, here’s where your journey should begin.
The Story Behind Iberostar
One of the first things I research before recommending any resort is the company behind it.
Iberostar isn’t simply another all inclusive resort brand.
Founded in Spain, Iberostar is a family owned hospitality company with a history spanning more than 65 years. Today, the brand operates hotels across Europe, the Caribbean, Mexico, and South America while remaining committed to personalized hospitality rather than becoming just another large hotel chain.
That family ownership is something guests often don’t realize, but it influences the experience.
Throughout my stay, I consistently noticed team members who seemed genuinely invested in creating memorable experiences rather than simply completing tasks. Hospitality felt intentional, and those moments matter, especially when you’re entrusting a resort with your wedding day.
Iberostar’s Commitment to Sustainability
Another reason Iberostar caught my attention is its commitment to sustainability.
Long before sustainability became a marketing buzzword, Iberostar invested in protecting the destinations that make travelers fall in love with them.
Their initiatives include:
• Coral reef restoration
• Reducing single use plastics
• Responsible seafood sourcing
• Waste reduction programs
One example I personally observed during my visit was their approach to food waste.
Rather than overproducing buffet items every day, the culinary team reviews what was consumed and adjusts future preparation accordingly. It’s a thoughtful practice that helps minimize unnecessary waste while maintaining a quality dining experience.
It’s a small detail that reflects a much bigger philosophy.
As someone who values thoughtful planning, I appreciated seeing sustainability practiced behind the scenes instead of simply advertised.
Why Puerto Plata?
When people think about destination weddings in the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana usually receives most of the attention.
But Puerto Plata deserves a place in the conversation.
Located along the country’s northern coast, Puerto Plata combines beautiful beaches with lush mountains, colorful architecture, rich Dominican culture, and a more authentic atmosphere.
One of the first things I appreciated was the convenience.
From Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), my transfer to Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada took approximately 20 minutes.
For wedding guests, especially those traveling with children or older family members, shorter airport transfers can make a significant difference.
Puerto Plata also offers opportunities to experience the destination beyond the resort, making it ideal for couples who want their wedding to feel like a vacation for everyone attending.
Introducing Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada
Nestled along Costa Dorada Beach, Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada has welcomed guests for decades and continues to be a popular option for travelers seeking an affordable beachfront all inclusive experience.
The resort features tropical landscaping, multiple restaurants, pools, entertainment, beach access, and dedicated wedding services.
While some areas reflect the property’s age, I found the grounds beautifully maintained and incredibly walkable.
The beachfront location provides stunning ceremony possibilities while offering guests plenty of opportunities to relax throughout the week.
My First Impression
As a former Flight Attendant, I naturally notice travel logistics.
From airport arrival to resort transportation, everything felt smooth and efficient.
Check in was welcoming, but what truly stood out wasn’t the lobby.
It was what happened after I arrived in my room.
It’s All in the Little Touches
This was one of the biggest surprises of my visit.
Waiting in my room were thoughtful Dominican gifts, fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate, sparkling wine, authentic Mamajuana, handwritten notes, beautiful towel art, rose petals, and personalized touches that immediately made me feel welcomed.
These details weren’t extravagant because of their cost.
They were meaningful because of the intention behind them.
As a destination wedding planner, I pay attention to moments like these because they reveal how a team thinks about hospitality.
If this level of care is extended to industry partners visiting the property, it gave me confidence that my future couples would receive the same thoughtful attention.
The Wedding Team That Won Me Over
Every destination wedding resort has beautiful ceremony spaces.
What separates great resorts from exceptional ones is the team behind those venues.
Throughout my visit, the wedding team consistently demonstrated professionalism, warmth, communication, and genuine hospitality.
They anticipated needs before they were asked.
They paid attention to details.
Most importantly, they made people feel valued.
After touring countless resorts throughout my career, I can confidently say the wedding team at Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada has become one of my favorites.
Knowing my clients would be cared for by people who truly love what they do gives me tremendous confidence in recommending this resort.
Who Is This Resort Best For?
Based on my experience, Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada is an excellent choice for:
• Couples seeking an affordable destination wedding
• Families traveling with multiple generations
• Couples wanting an authentic Dominican Republic experience
• Groups who appreciate convenience and a short airport transfer
• Travelers who value warm hospitality
Like every resort, it won’t be the perfect fit for everyone, and that’s exactly why personalized planning matters.
Finding the right resort isn’t about choosing the most expensive option.
It’s about choosing the one that aligns with your priorities, guest experience, and wedding vision.
My Planner Perspective
One thing I often remind my couples is this:
You’re not simply choosing a venue.
You’re choosing the people who will help bring one of the most meaningful days of your life to reality.
Beautiful venues matter.
Beautiful beaches matter.
But exceptional hospitality is what your guests will remember long after they’ve returned home.
At Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada, I experienced both.
What’s Next?
This is only the beginning of my Aye’Candy Unwrapped & Unpacked series.
Coming soon, I’ll be sharing:
- A complete resort tour
- Every wedding venue at Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada
- Guest room review
- Restaurant and food review
- The Sweet 🍓
- The Sour 🍋
- Hidden gems around Puerto Plata
- My final destination wedding planner scorecard
Stay tuned—there’s still so much Aye’Candy to unwrap.
Planning a Destination Wedding?
If you’re considering Iberostar Waves Costa Dorada or another all inclusive resort in Mexico or the Caribbean, I’d love to help you find the perfect fit for your vision, budget, and guests.
As a Multi Certified Wedding Planner, Destination Wedding Designer, and Travel Designer, I personally visit the resorts I recommend whenever possible so my guidance comes from real experience, not just brochures.
Schedule your complimentary Fit Exploration Call and let’s begin thoughtfully orchestrating your destination wedding together.
