Discover how a strategic choice of a travel credit card not only financed major wedding expenses but also covered the entire cost of honeymoon accommodations. The author, Samantha Grindell, shares her journey from engagement to the dream honeymoon in California, highlighting the benefits of accumulating and using credit card points wisely.

The Strategic Choice of a Travel Credit Card

Choosing the right financial tools can significantly impact your ability to manage large-scale events like weddings. Samantha’s decision to apply for a travel rewards credit card before getting engaged proved to be a game-changer. By leveraging the card's perks, she was able to accumulate substantial points through everyday and wedding-related purchases. This foresight allowed her to maximize rewards without straining her budget.

Samantha opted for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card due to its attractive sign-up bonus and travel benefits. Over the 15-month engagement period, she strategically used the card for various wedding expenses, ensuring timely payments to avoid interest charges. Each purchase brought her closer to achieving the 60,000 bonus points offered by the card. Additionally, frequent trips to Atlanta for pre-wedding preparations further boosted her point balance. By wedding day, Samantha had amassed nearly 250,000 points, setting the stage for an unforgettable honeymoon.

A Dream Honeymoon Funded by Points

The accumulated points transformed into memorable experiences during Samantha and her husband's honeymoon. They embarked on a two-week road trip through California, visiting iconic destinations like Monterey, Sonoma, and Yosemite National Park. Each stay was carefully selected to provide unique experiences while maximizing the use of their points. This approach ensured that every moment of their honeymoon was both luxurious and affordable.

In Monterey, they stayed at the high-end Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, enjoying ocean views and the hotel’s amenities. Next, they immersed themselves in wine country at The Lodge at Sonoma, where private cottages and exclusive activities made their stay unforgettable. Finally, they ventured into nature with a stay at AutoCamp Yosemite, combining glamping with easy access to the national park. The total lodging cost was covered entirely by points, leaving them with extra rewards for future adventures. The couple’s thoughtful planning not only saved money but also enriched their honeymoon experience, making it a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.