If you’ve ever dreamed of getting married in Phuket, it’s easy to see why the island has become one of the world’s most desired wedding destinations. With its crystal-clear waters, lush landscapes, and world-class resorts, Phuket offers the perfect mix of tropical beauty and refined hospitality.
To understand what makes this destination so special for couples from all over the world, I spoke with Juanita Musickaratthamrong, founder of Phuket Romance. In this interview, she shares her story, her insights on why Thailand is such a magical place to say “I do,” and how the destination wedding scene has evolved in recent years.
Q: How did you get into the world of destination weddings? I’m curious to know more about your background!
I’ve always been drawn to places that take your breath away, which is why I studied hospitality and fell in love with the world of hotels and destinations. When I moved to Phuket, I saw it was more than a tourist hotspot. It was an island full of beauty, joy, and celebration.
Weddings became the perfect way to bring it all together: hospitality, design, and meaningful moments. And at the core, I just love love. Seeing people in love is what pulled me into this world and keeps me inspired.
Q: Why get married in Thailand? What are the main reasons couples choose it as their wedding destination?
A lot of my couples come from different countries, often living somewhere far from their families. Phuket becomes the perfect gathering spot where family and friends can come together, celebrate, and turn the wedding into a holiday. For many couples, it is often about escaping the cold winter and having that dream beach wedding that does not break the bank. Phuket offers incredible value for money along with natural beauty.
Q: Where did the idea for Phuket Romance come from?
Before starting Phuket Romance, I was running a company that planned about 50 weddings a year. It was amazing but also overwhelming. I knew there was growing interest in Phuket as a wedding destination, and I wanted to create something useful for couples, even if we were not their planners. That is how Phuket Romance was born. It is more than just a planning service. It is a platform with a blog where we share real insights and venue information to help couples. The goal has always been to make their journey easier, whether they work with us or not.
Q: What kind of services does Phuket Romance offer to couples?
We help with venue scouting and consultations for couples who want to find their dream wedding spot in Phuket. For those who need more support, we offer full and partial planning services. We also take on a limited number of weddings each year because we want to give each couple the attention they deserve.
For couples who are interested in engaging our planning services, I like to start with a video call to get to know each other and see if we are the right fit. It is not about being selective, but destination wedding planning is usually a year-long journey and it works best when there is trust and teamwork on both sides. I think of myself as their “secret bridesmaid,” and understanding their story is an important part of creating a personal and meaningful celebration.
Q: Where do most of the couples who get married in Phuket come from?
Australians and British couples have been our main clients since I started. We also see many couples from nearby Asian countries such as Singapore, India, Hong Kong, and China. In the past two or three years, more American couples have started coming to Phuket as well. On top of that, we work with a mix of Europeans who are also drawn to the island.
Q: In Italy, the “White Lotus effect” had a big impact on tourism, with couples choosing Sicily for weddings. Did something similar happen in Thailand?
This is a little brag, but yes! I have worked with all the resorts featured in White Lotus season three, both in Phuket and Koh Samui. So when I was watching it with my family, I couldn’t help but point out, “Oh, I know that one!” These hotels aren’t just picture-perfect; their service is genuinely world-class. The show definitely drew more attention to Thailand as a luxury destination.
Q: What are some of the most unique or memorable weddings you’ve helped organize in Thailand?
I have done everything from intimate barefoot beach weddings to grand luxury affairs. One that stands out was when a couple’s sister-in-law, who was ordained in the United States, flew in to officiate their ceremony here. It felt so personal and heartfelt. Another time, rain started right in the middle of dinner, but instead of being upset, everyone laughed, grabbed cocktails, and danced barefoot in the rain. That kind of joy is what makes Phuket weddings unforgettable.
Q: How do you usually work with international couples who may not be familiar with Thailand?
We guide them through everything—venues, legalities, traditions, even cultural nuances—so they feel comfortable and confident. A lot of it is about trust; most couples only come for one inspection trip, or sometimes they book everything remotely. We become their eyes and ears in Phuket, making sure their vision actually works in reality.
Q: What are the biggest challenges (or joys) of planning weddings in such a tropical destination?
The weather is definitely both a joy and a challenge. We’re in the tropics, so even in high season you can sometimes get a quick shower that sneaks up on you. I’ll never forget a couple who were glued to the weather forecast, convinced it was going to pour. We had a solid backup plan, but in the end, the skies were clear, and the sunset was spectacular. They laughed at themselves during dinner, saying, “We wasted so much time stressing over nothing!” It turned into this inside joke that carried on throughout the night.
Q: How has the destination wedding industry in Thailand evolved in the past few years?
When I first started, most clients wanted something low-key, relaxed with a beach vibe. Low-key did not mean low budget, it simply meant easygoing. In recent years we have seen more luxury weddings, with designer gowns, elaborate décor, and Michelin-level catering.
Q: Do you see any trends emerging for the next wedding seasons?
Definitely more intimate weddings and luxury elopements. Couples want meaningful experiences rather than big productions. It’s about quality time with their closest people, or sometimes just the two of them.
Q: Let’s end on a light note: What’s one of the funniest or most surprising things that ever happened at a wedding you planned?
Oh, there are many! One that comes to mind was when the groom’s friends jumped into the pool in full tuxedos right after the ceremony. The bride was shocked for a moment and then kicked off her heels and joined them. Suddenly everyone was in the pool with champagne glasses in hand. It was completely unplanned, but it turned into the most epic after-party.
