ASTA asks Amex to restore advisor access to Privileges
ASTA has petitioned American Express to give advisors back access to Privileges programs through RezSaver. Per the item, the policy change blocks advisors from booking those programs, the Fine Hotels + Resorts-type perks that often anchor luxury honeymoon and wedding-guest stays.
The commercial risk is channel leakage. Amex cardholders who can't get the perks through an advisor may book direct instead, and the advisor then loses both the commission and the perks as a selling point.
Until Amex responds, advisors with Amex-heavy luxury clients should check how each booking is being priced and ticketed. Honeymoon clients should be told in advance if a perk they expected is no longer available through an agency booking. Watch for Amex's reply to ASTA's petition.
Southwest adds Caribbean routes for summer 2027
Southwest has opened its summer 2027 schedule with new Caribbean routes. More low-fare seats into the region could lower guest airfare for summer 2027 destination weddings and make group air easier to arrange.
Advisors can start quoting and building room blocks for summer 2027 now. Check the new routes against the resorts and airports your couples are considering, since the airline's new service may not match the airports your clients need. Confirm the specific routes and on-sale dates on Southwest's schedule before promising anything to a wedding party.
Beaches hosts KIDZ BOP Fall Fam Jam
Beaches Resorts is running a KIDZ BOP-themed Fall Fam Jam weekend, with celebrity programming used to draw family bookings this fall. It is mainly a marketing signal with little direct commercial change.
The useful angle for advisors is multigenerational: vow renewals and family-inclusive weddings, where children's entertainment is part of the pitch. Treat it as a conversation starter with families rather than a new offer or policy.