Incredible Wellness Destinations: Sendy Raymond Of Your Bali Wedding On Why & How Traveling Can Help Us Heal
An Interview With Wanda Malhotra
Prioritize Mindful Presence. When traveling, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics and the “to-do” list, sightseeing, taking photos, checking off experiences. However, one of the most powerful habits is practicing mindful presence. This means being fully engaged in each moment without distractions, allowing you to truly connect with the destination, the culture, and even yourself.
One couple came to Bali for their wedding and decided to take a day for themselves to explore the island’s natural beauty. Instead of rushing through the itinerary, they spent the day mindfully appreciating the sights, sounds, and smells around them. The simple act of being present in Bali’s serene landscapes, without thinking about the next activity, left them feeling deeply grounded and connected, which ultimately made their wedding even more meaningful.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Sendy Raymond. Sendy is the founder of Your Bali Wedding, a boutique destination wedding service that blends luxury planning with wellness-focused experiences on the Indonesian island of Bali. Raised in a small town with a deep appreciation for nature, tradition, and reflection, Raymond drew early inspiration from family travels and a lifelong fascination with global cultures. A transformative trip to Bali ultimately led her to create curated wedding experiences that emphasize mindfulness, spiritual connection, and emotional rejuvenation. Her work is informed by a belief in travel as a pathway to healing, and she has expanded her services to include pre-wedding wellness retreats involving yoga, meditation, and traditional Balinese ceremonies. Through her business, Raymond seeks to offer couples a deeper, more intentional beginning to their marriage, grounded in personal well-being and cultural immersion.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive into the main focus of our interview, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?
Thank you for having me! I grew up in a small town, where family, tradition, and community were at the heart of everything. My childhood was filled with warmth, nature, and a sense of wonder. I was always captivated by the idea of travel and exploring new cultures, which sparked a passion for understanding the world’s diverse traditions. My family often took vacations to beautiful, serene locations, where I learned to appreciate the importance of balance, well-being, and taking time for personal reflection. This connection to nature and mindfulness laid the foundation for my future career. Eventually, as I ventured into the wedding planning industry, I found myself drawn to destinations like Bali, where wellness, culture, and beauty converge. It’s fascinating how the values I grew up with, connection, peace, and cultural appreciation, align so closely with the wellness-focused travel experiences I help create today.
What or who inspired you to pursue your career? We’d love to hear the story.
My inspiration to pursue a career in wedding planning, especially in the wellness destination space, came from a combination of personal experiences and a deep love for creating meaningful connections. Growing up, I was always drawn to events, celebrations, and the way they brought people together. However, it wasn’t until I experienced a transformative trip to Bali that I realized how deeply travel and wellness could enhance life’s most important moments. The peaceful atmosphere, the spiritual healing, and the connection to nature made me feel rejuvenated and centered. That’s when I decided to focus my career on curating weddings that weren’t just about a ceremony, but about a deeper, wellness-infused experience. I wanted to help couples celebrate their love in places that were not only beautiful but also spiritually enriching. The way that Bali seamlessly combines these elements inspired me to start Your Bali Wedding, where I could offer clients a destination wedding experience that was holistic, mindful, and unforgettable. It’s been a rewarding journey ever since, watching couples start their lives together in such a peaceful and meaningful environment.
None of us can achieve success without some help along the way. Was there a particular person who you feel gave you the most help or encouragement to be who you are today? Can you share a story about that?
Absolutely, I believe that success is often a product of the people who support and encourage us along the way. For me, the person who gave me the most help and encouragement was my mentor, a fellow wedding planner who had been in the industry for many years before me. When I first started, I was overwhelmed by the complexities of planning destination weddings, especially in a place like Bali, which has such a rich cultural landscape. She took me under her wing, offering guidance on everything from managing logistics to understanding the deeper aspects of cultural rituals that are essential in creating authentic experiences. One of the most pivotal moments was when she encouraged me to embrace my unique vision for wellness-focused weddings, despite the fact that it was a niche market. Her belief in my potential gave me the confidence to carve my own path. She taught me that success isn’t just about business, it’s about creating meaningful experiences for people. That mindset helped me shape Your Bali Wedding into what it is today, and I’ll always be grateful for the impact she had on my journey.
It has been said that sometimes our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share the funniest or most interesting mistake that occurred to you in the course of your career? What lesson or takeaway did you learn from that?
One of the funniest mistakes I made early on in my career was during my first large destination wedding in Bali. I had spent months meticulously planning every detail, but when the big day arrived, I realized I had forgotten to arrange a key element, transportation for the guests! It was a frantic moment, our beautiful venue was in a remote location, and the guests had no way to get there. Fortunately, the wedding party was incredibly understanding, and I managed to scramble together a fleet of local transport at the last minute. We turned it into a fun, unexpected adventure, with guests piling into colorful Bali buses, laughing and chatting all the way to the venue. The lesson I took away from that experience was to always double-check the logistics and to remain calm under pressure. But more importantly, I learned that sometimes, unplanned moments can end up becoming some of the most memorable parts of the experience. It taught me to be flexible and embrace the unexpected, knowing that not everything will go as planned, but the important thing is to ensure the guests are having a great time regardless!
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Why does that resonate with you so much?
One of my favorite life lesson quotes is by Maya Angelou: “We may encounter many defeats, but we must not be defeated.” This quote resonates deeply with me because it embodies resilience, which has been a guiding principle throughout my career. Building a business and navigating the complexities of the wedding industry, especially in a destination like Bali, comes with its challenges. There have been times when things didn’t go as planned, or obstacles seemed insurmountable. But this quote has reminded me that setbacks are simply part of the journey and that true success comes from perseverance, learning from those defeats, and moving forward stronger. It encourages me to maintain a positive mindset, stay focused on my goals, and remind myself that every challenge is an opportunity to grow and improve. This mindset has helped me not only in my career but in life, fostering a spirit of determination and hope that keeps me motivated even during tough times.
What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?
Right now, one of the most exciting projects I’m working on is expanding our offerings at Your Bali Wedding to include wellness-focused retreats and experiences for couples and guests before the wedding. This project is very close to my heart because it blends my passion for weddings with my belief in the transformative power of wellness. We’re curating special pre-wedding retreats where couples can engage in activities like yoga, meditation, sound healing, and Balinese spiritual ceremonies. Not only will this help couples feel more centered and present on their big day, but it will also offer them a deeper connection to the destination and to each other.
In addition, I’m working on partnering with wellness experts and local Bali healers to create a more immersive and authentic experience for our clients, ensuring they have the opportunity to nurture their minds and bodies in the lead-up to the wedding. I believe this will help people by offering them a holistic approach to wedding planning, one that doesn’t just focus on the big day itself, but on creating a meaningful, balanced journey of wellness and connection that lasts far beyond the ceremony. It’s about helping couples start their married life with a sense of peace and wellness, and I’m thrilled to bring this vision to life!
OK, thank you for all of that. Let’s now shift to the core focus of our interview about wellness destinations. Let’s dive deeper into this together. Based on your research or personal experience, why do you think travel can lead to better wellness? Can you share a story?
Travel, particularly to wellness destinations, has a profound impact on overall well-being because it allows people to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with themselves. Immersing in new environments, especially those surrounded by nature, helps restore balance and allows for personal reflection, healing, and rejuvenation. Bali, where I’ve built my business, is a perfect example. The island is not only known for its natural beauty but also its deep spiritual culture, which encourages mindfulness and self-care.
I’ve witnessed this firsthand with many of the couples we work with. One couple, for example, came to Bali for their destination wedding, but also took time to experience the island’s wellness offerings before the ceremony. They participated in a week-long yoga retreat, practiced meditation, and took part in traditional Balinese healing rituals. By the time their wedding day arrived, they were not only more connected with each other, but they were also physically and emotionally revitalized. The transformation was incredible, both their mindset and energy were completely shifted, and the wedding became an extension of that healing journey.
Travel, especially to wellness-focused destinations, has the ability to reset your mind, body, and soul, providing the space and time needed to prioritize self-care and reflection. It’s about embracing the present moment and returning home with a renewed sense of clarity and peace.
What are a few things that distinguish your property from thousands of wellness properties around the world?
At Your Bali Wedding, what sets our offerings apart from other wellness properties around the world is our unique blend of luxury, spirituality, and personal connection. Bali is a place where wellness is deeply woven into the fabric of its culture, and we’ve embraced that to create experiences that are not just about relaxation, but also about spiritual rejuvenation and meaningful cultural immersion.
First, our focus is on holistic wellness for couples, making their entire wedding journey a retreat for the mind, body, and soul. We don’t just offer a place to stay; we curate personalized wellness experiences that include yoga, meditation, sound healing, and Balinese spiritual ceremonies that tie into their wedding day. It’s about ensuring that couples don’t just arrive, get married, and leave, they depart feeling transformed, balanced, and deeply connected to one another.
Second, our personalized service is what truly distinguishes us. We work closely with local wellness experts, healers, and spiritual leaders to design a bespoke experience for each couple. This level of intimacy and personalization is not something that you’ll find in larger, more commercialized wellness properties.
Lastly, our seamless integration of wedding planning and wellness creates an environment where couples can relax, prepare, and celebrate in a way that’s deeply connected to their surroundings and the spiritual energy of Bali. Our focus is on meaningful experiences that leave lasting memories, not just another beautiful venue.
What type of experience do you want your visitors to have when they visit?
When visitors come to Your Bali Wedding, I want them to have a deeply transformative experience, one that goes beyond just a wedding or vacation. My goal is for them to leave feeling not only physically rejuvenated but spiritually nourished, with a renewed sense of connection to themselves, each other, and the natural world around them. From the moment they arrive, I want them to feel enveloped in the peace and serenity of Bali, where every detail is carefully curated to support their wellness journey.
Whether it’s a pre-wedding wellness retreat, a traditional Balinese healing ceremony, or simply taking time to relax by the ocean, I hope each guest feels a profound sense of calm and balance. I want them to experience Bali in a way that’s authentic and deeply meaningful, focusing on mindfulness, personal growth, and inner peace. For couples, I aim to create a space where they can strengthen their bond, create lasting memories, and begin their journey together in a grounded and peaceful way. Ultimately, the experience should leave them feeling recharged, connected, and transformed, carrying the spirit of Bali with them long after they’ve left.
What makes your property a beautiful escape for a body and mind recharge?
Your Bali Wedding offers a truly unique escape for both the body and mind because it blends the beauty of Bali’s natural landscape with deeply restorative wellness practices. The island itself is a sanctuary, with its lush tropical forests, serene beaches, and sacred temples, all contributing to a tranquil environment that naturally promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. The moment our guests arrive, they’re surrounded by an atmosphere of peace and calm, which makes it the perfect setting for a body and mind recharge.
Can you share any transformative stories or testimonials from guests who visited your property?
Absolutely! One of the most transformative stories comes from a couple who visited us for their destination wedding in Bali. They had been under significant stress leading up to their wedding, both from work and personal challenges, and wanted a space where they could unwind and reconnect before their big day. We arranged a wellness retreat for them that included daily yoga sessions, meditation, and private Balinese healing ceremonies designed to release stress and promote inner peace.
Over the course of the retreat, their transformation was incredible. By the time their wedding day arrived, they were not only more relaxed but had a profound sense of emotional and spiritual clarity. They shared with us that the experience helped them reconnect on a deeper level, not just as a couple, but also within themselves. The wedding day itself was filled with joy and serenity, and they later told us that their time in Bali was the most rejuvenating and meaningful experience of their lives.
We often hear from couples who say that their time with us wasn’t just about the wedding, it was a moment of self-discovery and healing that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives. That’s the kind of experience we strive to create for every guest.
Why do you think the experience you offer is so needed nowadays?
In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, constant connectivity, and the pressure of daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming, people are craving moments of peace, self-reflection, and true connection. The experience we offer at Your Bali Wedding is needed now more than ever because it allows individuals and couples to step away from the noise and focus on their well-being, physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Couples are increasingly seeking destination weddings that not only celebrate love but also offer a deeper, more holistic experience that nourishes their mind and body. Our wellness-infused offerings, such as yoga, meditation, traditional healing ceremonies, and connecting with nature, give couples the space to rejuvenate before their big day, allowing them to enter the wedding day feeling centered, grounded, and truly present.
Moreover, in a time when people are seeking authentic and meaningful experiences over material possessions, our approach aligns with the growing desire for deeper connections and purposeful travel. The combination of Bali’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and our carefully curated wellness experiences provides the perfect escape for anyone looking to recharge, heal, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s about offering a sanctuary for the soul in a world that often feels too busy.
Do you think travel enhances our mindfulness, optimism, or sense of gratitude? How? Can you please explain with an example or story?
Yes, absolutely, travel can significantly enhance mindfulness, optimism, and a sense of gratitude. When we travel, especially to destinations that emphasize wellness and connection to nature, we are often forced to step away from the distractions and pressures of everyday life. This time away provides an opportunity to be more present, to reflect on our lives, and to truly appreciate the moment. Travel allows us to embrace the flow of new experiences, expand our horizons, and foster a sense of gratitude for the world around us.
A perfect example of this comes from a couple who visited us for a wellness retreat before their Bali wedding. They arrived feeling mentally exhausted and emotionally drained from work and the stress of planning a big event. Over the course of their stay, they participated in daily mindfulness practices, from yoga to guided meditations, and had the opportunity to connect with Bali’s healing culture through a traditional blessing ceremony. By the end of their retreat, they felt not only more connected to each other but also deeply grateful for the serenity and beauty they had experienced. They shared with us that their time in Bali helped them shift their perspective, becoming more mindful of the present and more appreciative of life’s simple joys. Their renewed sense of optimism and gratitude was evident when they walked down the aisle, it was as if they had shed the weight of their previous worries and were starting their marriage with a fresh, positive outlook.
This transformation shows how travel can truly reset our mindset, enhance our ability to appreciate life’s blessings, and cultivate a sense of mindfulness and gratitude that lasts long after we return home.
What are your “5 Habits You Should Develop In Order Make Travel Into An Opportunity For Wellness & Personal Growth?”
1. Prioritize Mindful Presence
When traveling, it’s easy to get caught up in the logistics and the “to-do” list, sightseeing, taking photos, checking off experiences. However, one of the most powerful habits is practicing mindful presence. This means being fully engaged in each moment without distractions, allowing you to truly connect with the destination, the culture, and even yourself.
One couple came to Bali for their wedding and decided to take a day for themselves to explore the island’s natural beauty. Instead of rushing through the itinerary, they spent the day mindfully appreciating the sights, sounds, and smells around them. The simple act of being present in Bali’s serene landscapes, without thinking about the next activity, left them feeling deeply grounded and connected, which ultimately made their wedding even more meaningful.
2. Embrace Daily Movement
Incorporating movement into your travel routine is key to boosting both physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s yoga, swimming, or simply walking through nature, staying active while traveling enhances circulation, reduces stress, and promotes a positive mindset.
I had a couple who joined one of our wellness retreats before their wedding. Each morning, they engaged in sunrise yoga on the beach, followed by a walk through the rice terraces. This daily habit allowed them to release tension, reset their mental focus, and feel more centered. By the end of their retreat, they felt physically refreshed, mentally clear, and ready for their ceremony.
3. Practice Gratitude for New Experiences
Travel is a beautiful opportunity to broaden your horizons and experience different cultures, perspectives, and environments. Developing a habit of gratitude for each new experience helps enhance emotional resilience and fosters personal growth.
Story: One of our guests came to Bali and initially felt overwhelmed by the unfamiliar culture. However, she adopted a habit of journaling every night, reflecting on the things she was grateful for that day, from a friendly interaction with a local to the beauty of a temple she visited. By the end of her trip, her attitude had completely shifted, and she saw Bali through a lens of appreciation, which made her experience much richer and more fulfilling.
4. Detox from Technology
A critical habit for wellness while traveling is detoxing from technology. This doesn’t mean disconnecting entirely, but consciously limiting screen time, especially social media, to fully engage with your environment and foster deeper connections with the people around you.
Story: During a destination wedding in Bali, a bride and groom decided to disconnect from their phones for the entire week leading up to their wedding. They embraced this digital detox, spending quality time together without the constant pull of emails and notifications. This habit allowed them to be fully present, fostering stronger emotional connections with each other and with the experiences they were having. Their wedding day was filled with pure joy, with no distractions pulling them away from the moment.
5. Engage in Self-Reflection
Travel offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection, especially when immersed in a peaceful, serene environment. Take time to pause, breathe, and reflect on your life’s journey, your goals, and how you’re evolving. Journaling, meditating, or simply sitting in silence can help uncover insights that promote personal growth.
Story: I had a couple who arrived in Bali overwhelmed by the chaos of their busy lives. During their pre-wedding retreat, they set aside time each morning for meditation and journaling, allowing themselves space to reflect on their journey together and their future. This habit of reflection helped them feel more at peace and aligned with each other, allowing them to approach their wedding day with clarity and intention.
Based on your experience, where do you see the future of wellness travel heading in the next 5–10 years?
Based on my experience and the growing trends I’ve observed, I see wellness travel evolving significantly in the next 5–10 years, becoming even more integrated into mainstream travel experiences. People are increasingly seeking travel opportunities that offer both relaxation and personal growth, with an emphasis on holistic well-being, mind, body, and soul.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we both tag them 🙂
What an exciting question! If I could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, it would be Oprah Winfrey. She has been an inspiration to me for so many reasons, her dedication to personal growth, her commitment to wellness, and her ability to inspire and uplift others. Oprah’s journey, particularly her focus on mindfulness and spiritual well-being, aligns so closely with the philosophy behind Your Bali Wedding, the idea that life’s most important moments are about connection, self-discovery, and healing.
If Oprah happens to see this, I’d love to invite her to breakfast or lunch and hear her thoughts on wellness, travel, and personal growth!
How can our readers further follow your work online?
The best way to stay updated with my work is through Your Bali Wedding’s website at www.yourbaliwedding.com.au, where we regularly post about our latest destination wedding packages, destination wedding tips, and wellness travel destinations. You can also follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, Youtube and Facebook for stunning visuals of Bali, behind-the-scenes moments from weddings, and wellness inspiration. I’d love for everyone to join us on this journey to create meaningful, transformative travel experiences. Thank you for the opportunity to share our work with your readers!
Thank you for these really excellent insights, and we greatly appreciate the time you spent on this. We wish you continued success.
Incredible Wellness Destinations: Sendy Raymond Of Your Bali Wedding On Why & How Traveling Can… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.