At first, trying to decide where to hold your wedding may seem overwhelming. Even after you've decided that you want to hold your wedding in Mexico, there are hundreds of resorts to choose from. It's hard to know where to begin. We've compiled a list of things to help you narrow down the choices.
Location
So you know you want to go to Mexico, but where in Mexico? Do you go to a lively city with plenty of night life and entertainment? Do you go to an old Colonial town full of history and picturesque churches? Or do you go to a secluded area where you can relax by the ocean? All three locations offer something different. Think about what you want to do while you're there. Decide whether you want to leave your resort often to experience the tastes and sounds of Mexico, or whether you want a quiet hideaway where the two of you can just relax.
Resort Size & Atmosphere
The size of resorts in Mexico ranges dramatically. Larger resorts typically offer more restaurants to give you more variety in your dining experience, and may have more to offer a diverse group. However, a big resort is not going to be as private or intimate as a small one, and may not be able to offer you as much flexibility or personalization.
Reputation
Although every guest's experience at a resort differs, it is worth checking out what other guests have to say. There are many websites that have guest ratings and forums where people share their vacation experiences. Ask your travel agent what his or her clients thought about the resorts they were sent to. And see how other guests and couples rate resorts in Mexico in the Find a Resort directory.
All-Inclusive or European Plan
Decide whether you want to hold your wedding at an All-Inclusive or a European Plan resort. All-Inclusive resorts typically roll everything into one price, including food, drinks, entertainment, accommodations, and sometimes tips. At a European Plan resort you pay for everything separately. There are definitely advantages to both. Although there's less to think about at an all-inclusive resort, you may feel restricted from eating outside the resort since you've pre-paid for your meals. If you're not a big eater or drinker, you may feel like you're paying for something you really don't need.
Adults-only or All-ages
Some resorts are family-centered, while others cater to adults. Some resorts will not allow children on the premises - not even to attend your wedding. If you are going to invite guests with children, make sure you choose an all-ages resort. It should be noted that the minimum age for adults-only resorts differs. The minimum age for an adults-only resort often ranges from 12 to 18 years old.
Resort Amenities
Think about who's coming to your wedding and what your guests may want to do during their stay. Consider the amenities the resort offers to see if it meets the needs of your wedding and of your guest list.
Accommodations
For many newlyweds, the accommodations are a very important aspect of their honeymoon. This is the time where some will splurge to have the most romantic room and view possible. Find out what the differences are between the types of rooms and views. At some resorts the room types are identical except for the view, while other resorts offer a selection of room amenities and views. Also, some resorts only offer one bed per room so make sure that the rooms are suitable for your guests.
Salon & Spa
You may want to ensure there is a salon and spa on the premises if you want to get your hair and makeup done, or enjoy a spa treatment before your wedding. Many resorts offer wonderful spa treatments and massages. For a special spa experience, consider going to a resort that offers a Temazcal (a traditional Aztec sweat bath). Or for a special treat, many resorts offer a romantic massage for couples on the beach under the stars.
Wedding/Renewal of Vows Packages
Most resorts offer a variety of wedding/renewal of vows packages that can range from free to thousands of dollars. If you like the sound of a free wedding (and most would!) be sure to look at the small print. Many of these packages require couples to book a certain number of rooms for a certain length of time. If this works for your wedding group then this might be an excellent option.
Types of Ceremonies Offered
To be legally married in Mexico your wedding must be done by a Judge or Justice of the Peace - this is called a civil ceremony. Almost all resorts offer civil ceremonies. You can also choose to have a non-legal ceremony and different resorts offer different types, including non-denominational Christian, Catholic, Jewish, and even Mayan.
Ceremony Sites
When you get married at a resort you will probably be able to choose from a few different locations for your ceremony. Typical ceremony sites include the beach, gardens, a gazebo, or an indoor location. If a quiet atmosphere is important to you, ask the resort about the privacy of each of their ceremony sites.
Reception Options
Most resorts typically hold wedding receptions in one of their à la carte restaurants. Some also cater private wedding receptions around the resort, including on the beach, by the pool, in a garden, or in a ballroom. Some options for receptions include wedding dinners (buffet or served), cocktail parties with an open bar, and dancing to a live band or DJ.
Extra Wedding Services
To customize your special day resorts offer a wide variety of wedding services that differ for each resort. Prices range dramatically from one resort to the next, so do your homework to see which resort suits your style and budget.
Number of Weddings Performed
Check to see how many wedding ceremonies each resort does every year. Some perform hundreds, while others only a few.
Price
As with everything in life, weddings cost money. Although destination weddings are usually much less expensive than holding a traditional wedding in your home country, it's still wise to do your research and make a budget. To determine how much your destination wedding will cost, you must take into account all the expenses including airfare, travel insurance, accommodations, dining, entertainment, and the wedding services. And don't forget to keep in mind the budget of your guests when choosing your resort - they'll thank you for it!
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