Royalton Bavaro: A Beautiful Resort with a Not-So-Beautiful Surprise
Royalton Bavaro in Punta Cana is one of the most sought-after all-inclusive resorts for destination weddings. Its oceanfront ceremony spots, family-friendly amenities, and luxury branding make it a favorite among North American couples.
But many brides and grooms have found themselves blindsided by an unexpected “cocktail-hour upsell.” This hidden cost can significantly impact your budget—and it’s not always presented upfront.
1. What Is the Cocktail-Hour Upsell?
After your ceremony, the venue may offer a standard cocktail hour included in your wedding package. However, if you want hors d'oeuvres, live music, an upgraded drink menu, or a private area, they’ll ask you to upgrade—for an extra $20 to $50+ per guest.
❗ The Problem:
You expected a celebratory cocktail hour as part of your package, but the version included is often bare-bones—and the “real” experience costs extra.
✅ The Solution:
Request written confirmation of what’s included during the cocktail hour. Ask questions like:
“Are food and drinks included in the cocktail hour? Is it private or shared with other guests?”
Better yet, work with a planner like Sertuin Events who can create a fully customized cocktail hour on a private beach—without surprise upsells.
2. Why Is This Fee So Common at Royalton Bavaro?
The resort's base wedding packages are priced to attract couples, but they often leave out key experiences like premium drinks, passed hors d’oeuvres, or exclusive space. You’re then presented with “optional enhancements” that are, in truth, almost essential.
❗ The Problem:
You’ll need to upgrade your cocktail hour if you want it to feel personal or premium—but those upgrades weren’t part of your initial budget.
✅ The Solution:
Skip the resort’s upsells. Sertuin Events offers complete wedding packages that already include:
Elegant cocktail set-up
Gourmet appetizers
Personalized drink options
Music and entertainment
Private beach access
3. Can You Host the Cocktail Hour Somewhere Else?
Absolutely. Many couples choose to have the ceremony at Royalton Bavaro, then move to a nearby private beach or venue for a more intimate, upscale cocktail hour and reception.
✅ Real Example:
A couple from New Jersey held their ceremony at the resort but booked their cocktail hour and dinner through Sertuin Events. They saved nearly $1,700 by avoiding Royalton’s upsells—and got a private beachfront setting with gourmet tapas, a custom bar, and live guitar music.
4. Why Don’t Couples Hear About This Sooner?
The cocktail-hour upsell is often hidden in vague wording like “light refreshments included.” The actual upgrade options only appear after your deposit is made and the planning begins.
❗ The Problem:
You’ve already paid a deposit and made travel plans. At this point, the pressure to say “yes” to every upsell is high.
✅ The Solution:
Bring in a third-party wedding planner like Sertuin Events from the start. They’ll review the resort’s offerings, find better alternatives, and help you stay in control of your wedding vision and budget.
5. Sertuin Events: Cocktail Hour Done Right (and Done Your Way)
When you book with Sertuin Events, your cocktail hour becomes an experience—not an add-on. You get:
✔️ A private beach or venue for your cocktail hour ✔️ Premium hors d’oeuvres and drinks tailored to your taste ✔️ Professional sound system and live music (if desired) ✔️ Full planning, set-up, and teardown ✔️ Clear pricing with zero hidden fees
All in one package—no last-minute surprises.
Choose from signature experiences like:
Romantic Huppa Premium Picnic
Sign of Love
Infinity Love
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Does Royalton Bavaro include a cocktail hour in their wedding packages?
Yes, but it’s usually very basic. Upgrades for food, drinks, or private space cost extra.
How much is the cocktail-hour upgrade at Royalton?
It can range from $20 to $50+ per guest, depending on the selections you choose.
Can I host my cocktail hour outside the resort?
Yes! Many couples plan their ceremony at the resort and host the cocktail hour on a private beach with Sertuin Events.
Is it cheaper to plan everything off-site?
Often yes. Sertuin Events offers bundled pricing that includes cocktails, music, food, and decoration—with no resort fees or restrictions.
What makes Sertuin Events different?
They provide transparent, all-inclusive pricing, creative freedom, and access to private venues near the resort—so you stay in control.
Final Thoughts
Royalton Bavaro is a stunning venue, but its cocktail-hour upsell is a hidden cost that can sneak up on you. Don’t let it derail your budget or limit your vision.
With Sertuin Events, you’ll have a personalized, luxury cocktail hour that’s crafted to match your love story—without the fine print.
🌴 Contact us today and let's create a celebration that’s truly yours—from vows to cocktails to forever.
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