10 things
NO ONE TELL YOU ABOUT DESTINATION WEDDING
Planning a wedding in Cancun, Mexico
Planning a wedding in a beautiful place like Mexico is a dream come true for many couples. Imagine saying your vows with a stunning view and all your favorite people around you.
But, planning a wedding away from home can have its own set of challenges and surprises. As a photographers, we've seen it all, and we are here to share some important things you might not hear about destination weddings. Don’t worry, we’ll also give you tips on how to handle them!
First, don’t let these tips scare you. A destination wedding can be the best decision you ever make, just like it has been for many couples we've worked with. Let’s dive into what you need to know to make your wedding in Mexico amazing!
1. Destination Weddings Aren't Free. Well, Almost!
A lot of couples think that having a wedding at an all-inclusive resort means it’s free. Many guests believe this too, but that’s not true at all.
Destination weddings usually come in different packages depending on how many guests you have. Plus, you’ll need to pay for vendors like a DJ, photographer, hair and makeup artists, etc. While it might be cheaper than having a wedding at home, the costs can still add up!
How to be prepared:
If you want a destination wedding on a budget, you can totally do it! You just need to work with a great destination wedding travel agent and look for resorts that offer free wedding packages with awesome perks and incentives, like in the Riviera Maya.
To avoid surprises when budgeting for your destination wedding, it's important to plan your expenses carefully. For detailed budgeting tips, check out our guide on How to Plan Your Destination Wedding Budget.
2. Your Destination Wedding May Not Be Legal
Planning a destination wedding is super exciting, but there’s one important thing to think about: is your wedding going to be legal? This is key, especially when deciding between a symbolic or legal wedding.
Every place has its own rules and paperwork, which can be confusing. That’s why most couples choose a symbolic wedding. But don't let this stop you from having a legal ceremony if that’s what you want!
How to be prepared:
If you want a legal destination wedding, make sure to research the marriage requirements well in advance. This will give you plenty of time to plan and complete all the necessary paperwork.
3. You May Be Disappointed with the RSVP List
This is a big one! You might think all your friends and family will jump at the chance to join you for your destination wedding, but that’s not always true.
Some guest might find it hard to come, whether because of time or money. Be ready for different reactions - the people you expect to come might not, and the ones you think won't come might be the first to book!
On average, about 60% of your guest list might actually make it to your destination wedding. It's common for key family members or friends to have conflicts that prevent them from attending.
How to be prepared:
Don’t expect that everyone you want will be there. Prepare yourself for this reality and don’t hold it against them. If you want them to feel included, invite them to your legal ceremony at home (if you’re having a symbolic destination wedding) or plan an at-home reception.
4. You’ll Be Frustrated with Planning
Planning a destination wedding sounds like a breeze, and it can be (that’s one reason to choose a destination wedding!), but it can also get really stressful.
Whether it’s dealing with guest RSVPs, unexpected costs, guests dropping out or showing up unexpectedly, or even weather-related worries, things can get frustrating. You might even feel like giving up. But trust us, it’ll all be worth it!
How to be prepared:
Make sure to work with a destination wedding travel agent from the beginning. They can help handle most of your guest questions. Also, lean on advice from past brides in planning Facebook groups who have been through it all. And just breathe – it’ll all work out in the end!
Another great way to ease the planning process is by preparing a detailed timeline for your wedding day. Our Ultimate Cancun Wedding Photography & Videography Timeline can help you ensure everything runs smoothly, from start to finish.
5.You May Not Be Able to Get a Hold of Your Wedding Coordinator
Speaking of being frustrated, you might have a hard time getting in touch with your wedding coordinator.
Resort wedding coordinators often don’t reach out until about three months before your wedding. This can be stressful if you’re trying to get questions answered and plan your budget.
We promise this is normal. Not helpful, but normal. Coordinators are busy with weddings before yours, so while it’s understandable, it doesn’t make it easier for you!
How to be prepared:
If you’re having trouble reaching your wedding coordinator, ask your travel agent for help. It also helps to have a list of questions ready for when you do connect, so you cover all your bases. Facebook groups for the resort where you’re getting married can also be great for getting answers without waiting for your coordinator.
6. Everything Costs Extra
Taxes, vendor fees, exchange rates – it all adds up!
Destination weddings can surprise you with extra costs. We’ll be honest about that! From taxes and tips to additional guests, setup fees, and last-minute expenses, it can feel like the bills never stop coming.
How to be prepared:
Make sure to have some extra room in your budget for these surprises (to avoid too much stress)! If there are unexpected changes in pricing due to your wedding contract, keep a copy of the original contract handy to compare any updates. Once you lock in your wedding contract, the pricing should stay the same even if there are price increases.
Packing smartly can help reduce extra costs, especially when you bring along some key essentials. Check out our Ultimate Destination Wedding Packing Checklist to ensure you have everything you need, without going over budget.
7. The Weather May Not Be Sunshine and Blue Skies
Alright, let’s talk about the weather – it’s a big deal for your destination wedding. While we all hope for perfect weather, sometimes Mother Nature has other plans, like rain on your special day. That’s why it’s essential to have a backup plan for both your ceremony and reception.
One of the smartest moves you can make is preparing for the possibility of unfavorable weather.
Start early by exploring backup options to avoid any last-minute stress. Believe it or not, we’ve witnessed some stunning setups that turned out even better than the original plan because of unexpected weather changes!
For instance, we once worked at a destination wedding where it poured just before the reception on a rooftop terrace. We smoothly transitioned to an indoor ballroom with air conditioning, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere that everyone loved.
How to be prepared:
Always have a backup plan in case nature decides to surprise you. Before you finalize your destination, check weather patterns to anticipate any potential challenges. Remember, while we can’t control the weather, we can adapt and make the most of your special day!
8. The Privacy May Not Be What You Expect
Let’s talk about privacy, especially if you’re planning your destination wedding at a resort. It’s common to have bystanders around, unintentionally becoming part of your wedding backdrop.
While resorts often designate secluded areas and coordinate quieter times for ceremonies, you might still notice some curious onlookers.
Reflecting on weddings we’ve photographed in Mexico, couples often didn’t notice spectators until after the ceremony – and it didn’t bother them at all!
How to be prepared:
Keep your expectations realistic. A destination wedding may not guarantee total seclusion. Embrace the unique atmosphere and remember, a few observers won’t diminish the magic of your special day.
9. Things May Not Go to Plan
Hey there! Let’s talk about the reality of planning your destination wedding. No matter how well-prepared you are, surprises can happen – it’s all part of the adventure!
You might have everything carefully organized, but unexpected twists can still pop up – like flight delays, last-minute vendor changes, or small decor mishaps (trust me, we’ve seen it all!).
How to be prepared:
Stay flexible and remember that some things are beyond your control. Instead of stressing over every detail, focus on the joy of marrying your best friend. Embrace any unexpected moments as part of your unique wedding story. Keep handy contact numbers for all vendors, and lean on your wedding coordinator to handle any unexpected challenges that arise.
10. The Wedding Blues Hit Hard
After any major life event like your wedding, it’s common to experience a mix of emotions once it’s over. Many couples find themselves wishing they could relive the day again and again. Despite any stress leading up to it, your wedding day is a significant milestone in your lives.
How to be prepared:
We want to assure you that it’s normal to feel a bit nostalgic after your wedding day passes. It’s a time filled with memories and emotions. Remember to prioritize having fun and enjoying each moment. Joining wedding planning communities, planning an anniversary trip, creating keepsakes, and exploring new hobbies can help ease the transition.
And feel free to reach out – whether for advice or just to discuss your experience. You can also see lots of relevant articles in our blog.
The day itself may pass, but the memories captured in photos and videos will always bring you back. We’d love to help capture every moment of your special day. Explore our Cancun wedding photographer page for more insights, and if you have any questions or are looking for a photographer for your wedding day in Mexico, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’d love to continue being a part of your journey.
