10 Things You Need to Know About Getting Married in Mexico
Mexico is a romantic place to say 'I do.' A wedding in Mexico is sure to be a special memory you'll cherish for a lifetime. All of us at StrayWeddings.com want to help you in the planning process to ensure your wedding is everything you ever dreamed it could be. We've compiled some tips and things to think about when considering a destination wedding in Mexico.
Arrive Early
Many hotels require that you arrive in Mexico at least three full working days prior to your wedding.
Weekends & Holidays
Keep in mind that in many cases you cannot hold a wedding on Sundays, Mexican holidays, or during Easter Week.
Blood Tests
Getting legally married in Mexico involves some legal paper work and blood tests. Each state has its own requirements, so be sure to check with your wedding coordinator.
Religious Weddings Are Not Legal in Mexico
Only Civil marriages are legal in Mexico. Many resorts offer religious or traditional weddings, but these are ceremonial only. To avoid legal issues, some couples choose to be legally married in their home country and hold a ceremony in Mexico. These ceremonies are often referred to as Renewal of Vows and many resorts offer packages for these types of ceremonial weddings.
Seasons
Consider the time of year for your wedding. Hotel rates vary substantially between the high and low tourist seasons. In general, the hottest and rainiest months for most of Mexico are from June to September. We also advise that you avoid hurricane season, which usually peaks between August and October, especially if you are getting married in the Yucatan Peninsula.
Separate Hotels
Some couples choose to stay at a separate hotel from their guests. This option gives the newlyweds more privacy during their honeymoon, and also allows them to stay at a more expensive property while giving their guests a more economical option. Keep in mind, these weddings can involve additional costs. For example, many all-inclusive resorts require outside guests to purchase a day and/or night pass to attend a wedding, which ranges from approximately US$50-100 per person.
Privacy
Some locations offer more privacy for weddings than others. If it is important to you and your fiancé that your wedding be a private event and not a tourist attraction for other guests, consider a boutique hotel, hacienda, private home or villa, restaurant, or a secluded beach for your wedding and reception.
Add a Personal Touch
Consider bringing decorations and wedding favors from home to add a personal touch to your ceremony and reception. Don't forget to check with your airline to find out if they have any restrictions for what is allowed on the airplane, and your Mexican consulate to find out restrictions on what is allowed into Mexico.
Discounts
Be aware that the published rates on hotel websites and in tour operator brochures may not be the lowest. Check discount travel agencies like Expedia, or ask the hotel for group discounts.
Be Flexible
A destination wedding comes with some unpredictability and you will have to let go of the need to control everything. As a guest in Mexico, your trip will be more enjoyable if you show respect for its customs and culture, and courtesy to the people. No matter how much planning you do, there will always be an element of the unexpected. If you can bring yourself to focus on planning the things that are of utmost importance and let go of the rest, you are sure to have a wonderful Mexican experience. Above all else, remember to HAVE FUN!
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