How to Plan Your Dream Wedding in the Caribbean or Mexico

APRIL 1, 2024

For those dreaming of saying "I do" with sand between your toes and a backdrop of the Caribbean Sea or the serene beaches of Mexico, you've landed in the right place. Congratulations on choosing one of the most exhilarating and laid-back ways to tie the knot. Opting for a destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort marks the beginning of your journey in style and relaxation.

Feeling the weight of planning a grand celebration abroad? Take a deep breath – you're more than capable of handling this.

As your guide, a travel agent with a focus on crafting unforgettable destination weddings across Mexico and the Caribbean, I'm here to share invaluable advice on embarking on your destination wedding planning journey. Let's get started.

Envision Your Ideal Wedding Day

Imagine the day of your dreams. Where are you? Is it a beach wedding with the waves as your symphony, or perhaps a majestic gazebo with the ocean stretching into the horizon? Maybe it's the romance of a sunset rooftop ceremony or the charm of a secluded garden.

Visualize who's standing with you. Is it a grand celebration or an intimate gathering? Or is it just the two of you, embarking on this journey together?

What's the theme? Bohemian chic, classic elegance, or sleek and modern?

Now, open your eyes and jot down everything. This is where it all begins.

Budgeting Basics

Yes, the budget conversation is crucial, but it opens the door to realizing your dream wedding. Discuss with your partner and set your financial boundaries.

Here’s the exciting part: a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean can be surprisingly affordable! Compared to the average local wedding costs of $29,000 in 2023, destination weddings can start from as little as $0 to $3,000 for basic packages, with our clients typically spending around $10,000 for a complete celebration. That's substantial savings for an unforgettable experience!

Creating Your Guest List

Determine the size of your celebration. This early decision is key to aligning your vision and budget.

Think about who you saw in your daydream. Family, friends, colleagues, and those lifelong connections deserve a spot on your list.

Remember, the guest count significantly influences your budget. Most all-inclusive resorts offer attractive packages for 20-30 guests. A larger gathering might mean a higher budget, but resorts are catering to every size and budget.

Selecting the Date

Choosing your date is more than just picking a day; it’s about finding the perfect moment. Consider significant dates, availability of loved ones, and academic calendars. Weather patterns and travel seasons in your destination are also critical. To stretch your budget further, avoid peak travel seasons and weekends.

Choosing Your Perfect Location

Now comes the fun part – selecting your dream destination! Collaboration with your travel agent, who's well-versed in each locale's unique offerings, is key. Legal or symbolic ceremony? The latter tends to be easier and more cost-effective. Consider your guests' travel ease and budget, alongside the climate and geography of your chosen spot, ensuring it aligns with your vision.

Selecting a Resort and Venue

Narrowing down to a destination, it's time to pick your resort. A knowledgeable travel agent can be invaluable here, translating your dream into the perfect resort choice.

Consider the type of resort, its size, distance from the airport, and the overall atmosphere. The quality of your experience – from accommodation to service and food – hinges on this choice. Legal or symbolic ceremony? The latter tends to be easier and more cost-effective. Consider your guests' travel ease and budget, alongside the climate and geography of your chosen spot, ensuring it aligns with your vision.

Finalizing Your Wedding Details

With your resort and venue picked, secure your wedding date and room block. A deposit will typically be required for both, ensuring rates and availability for your guests.

Announcing Your Date

Having made the key decisions, announce your plans with save-the-dates, ideally around 10 months prior. Include all the essential details to ensure your guests can prepare and book in time.

Contemplating a Site Visit

Many resorts offer discounted visits, potentially credited against your wedding costs. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the wedding team, explore venues, and finalize details.

Embarking on the journey to plan your destination wedding can be as thrilling as the day itself. For personalized guidance and to make your planning seamless and enjoyable, consider scheduling a complimentary consultation with me. I’m here to help make planning your destination wedding as fun & stress-free as possible!

DESTINATION WEDDING checklist

Everything you need to know to plan the celebration of a lifetime.

Say “I do” in paradise—stress-free. Download our free guide and and feel confident you’ve got it all covered.