Introducing the ABC Destination Wedding Planner Designation
A New Path to Growth, Credibility, and Opportunity
The wedding industry is evolving—and destination weddings are leading the way.
Couples today are choosing experiences over tradition, trading hometown venues for breathtaking beaches, luxury resorts, and unforgettable multi-day celebrations. As this demand continues to grow, so does the need for planners who are equipped to confidently guide clients through the unique logistics of destination weddings.
That’s why the Association of Bridal Consultants (ABC) is proud to introduce our new Destination Wedding Planner Designation Track, designed to help you grow your expertise, elevate your credibility, and expand your business.
A Designation That Grows With You
The ABC Destination Wedding Planner track is not just a single certification—it’s a professional pathway that recognizes your experience, education, and industry involvement at every stage of your journey.
Whether you are just getting started or already planning destination weddings, there is a level for you:
Certified Destination Wedding Planner (CDWP)
This is where your journey begins.
The Certified Destination Wedding Planner designation recognizes planners who have taken the step to gain foundational knowledge in destination weddings and are ready to begin working with clients in this space.
It demonstrates your commitment to learning and positions you as a planner who understands the essentials of:
Destination wedding logistics
Resort and venue partnerships
Travel coordination basics
Guest experience planning
Professional Destination Wedding Planner (PDWP)
As you gain experience, your next step is the Professional Destination Wedding Planner designation.
This level recognizes planners who are actively working with destination wedding clients and building real-world experience.
It signals that you are not only trained—but you are applying your knowledge, managing clients, and navigating the complexities of destination planning.
Accredited Destination Wedding Planner (ADWP)
The Accredited Destination Wedding Planner designation is for those who have established themselves as experienced professionals in the destination wedding space.
At this level, you are recognized for:
Consistent destination wedding experience
Professional growth and continued education
Industry involvement and leadership
This designation positions you as a trusted expert among both clients and peers.
Master Destination Wedding Planner (MDWP)
This is the highest level of recognition.
The Master Destination Wedding Planner designation represents excellence, leadership, and a deep level of expertise in destination weddings.
Planners at this level are:
Highly experienced
Actively contributing to the industry
Leaders within the ABC community
This is where your reputation as a top-tier destination wedding professional is fully established.
Introducing the New Designation Badges
With each level earned, you will receive an official ABC Destination Wedding Planner badge—designed to showcase your achievement across your website, social media, email signature, and marketing materials.
Each badge reflects your level of expertise, allowing you to visually communicate your credentials to clients and industry partners.
From Certified to Master, these badges are more than a symbol—they are a statement of your professionalism and commitment to excellence.
Why This Matters for Your Business
Earning a designation is not just about recognition—it’s about opportunity.
With the ABC Destination Wedding Planner designations, you can:
✔ Build trust with potential clients
✔ Differentiate yourself in a competitive market
✔ Expand into destination weddings and travel services
✔ Increase your earning potential
✔ Position yourself as an expert in a growing segment of the industry
Your Next Step: The Points Grid
Here’s the exciting part—many of you may already qualify for one of these designations.
ABC uses a Points Grid system to evaluate your experience, education, and industry involvement. This means your past work, participation, and professional growth all count toward your designation.
In many cases, members simply need to complete and submit their Points Grid to take the next step.
Submit Your Application: Members@abcweddingplanners.com
Be Recognized
All newly earned Destination Wedding Planner designations will be recognized and published in Wedding Planner Magazine, giving you additional visibility within the industry and celebrating your achievement among your peers.
The Future of Wedding Planning Is Global
Destination weddings are no longer a niche—they are a major part of the future of our industry.
This is your opportunity to grow, evolve, and position yourself at the forefront of that movement.
We invite you to take the next step, submit your Points Grid, and begin your journey toward becoming an ABC Destination Wedding Planner.
Your future clients are dreaming of destination weddings.
Now is the time to become the expert who brings those dreams to life.
