So your wedding day has finally arrived. Guests have flown in from all over the world, gowns and tuxedos have been fitted, and butterflies are flapping around in your belly because a 70% chance of rain looms in the forecast... No need to worry! If you have chosen an El Dorado Spa Resort & Hotel or Azul Hotel, by Karisma for your Mexico wedding, you can rest assured that regardless of inclement weather, the show will go on.

Riviera Maya's mild tropical climate is warm year round and temperatures average around 80⁰F. For the most part, the "rainy" season is not very rainy and often rain showers occur in one section of the area and not in another and are gone minutes after it they begin. Winter, summer, spring or fall, there's never a bad time for Mexico weddings in this beach town. 

Since one of the elements that nobody can control is Mother Nature, there is always a Plan B ready to be executed to make sure inclement weather does not affect your function. In standard practice the hotel staff will make a weather determination four hours prior to the event. At that time, the hotel will decide if your ceremony will be held in the predetermined location or moved to an appropriate venue that will guarantee full coverage of the event. The backup plan is discussed ahead of time with all wedding couples so that on the wedding day, should the need arise to shift a location, everyone is aware of the what is going to occur. The staff's priority is to make sure that the bride and groom feel comfortable with the adjustments and that even the smallest details are accounted for.  

Expect the experienced staff at El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels and Azul Hotels, by Karisma to make your dream day come to life despite Mother Nature's sense of humor. Regardless of rain or shine, if you choose a Mexico wedding, the Mayan love gods will always be on your side.

-Paula Negrete

Chief Concierge
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels

Every couple envisions their wedding day in different ways with a unique definition of what love means to them. When a bride and groom begin planning a Mexico wedding at an El Dorado or Azul Hotel, they explain their ideas to the best wedding coordinators in the industry that make every detail a reality. Couples from all walks of life have incorporated their own creative elements- from including their children in the ceremony or taking a dip in the water- to make the experience extra special and unforgettable.

This ‘sand unity' ceremony was inspired by one couple's five year old son. When it came time to exchange wedding vows, the bride and groom shared the moment with their child, who had also prepared something special to say. As they recited their promises, each one poured vibrant colored sand in a delicate glass bottle that would hold the moment forever and signify their unity as a family. This is only one example of the many ways to customize Mexico weddings. The possibilities are as endless as the blue skies in the Riviera Maya.

Whether opting for a traditional or non-traditional wedding, a unity ceremony can add a charming touch to the ‘I Dos'. And whether it is simple or over the top, the Karisma wedding team is available round the clock to personalize and execute it in the most elegant way.

-Paula Negrete,

Chief Concierge
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels

For many couples the wedding to-do list is never ending, but ask a couple getting married in Mexico and they will assure that everything is under control. Choosing to have your wedding in Riviera Maya means that every detail- from planning the rehearsal dinner to arranging hotel accommodations for guests- is taken care of by an experienced and certified wedding coordinator. Every kind of wedding ceremony can be created and marriage requirements and documentation are minimal. The advantages of getting married south of the border are plenty and always guarantee an unforgettable celebration, tailored specifically to the requests of the bride and groom.

 

Planning your wedding: All couples getting married any El Dorado or Azul Resort by Karisma begin working with an on-site wedding coordinator within three days of setting their wedding date reservations. It usually takes anywhere between four to six months to plan the event, but the Karisma team is also prepared to put together something amazing even with the shortest of notice. No request is too large or too small, if you want two monarch butterflies released or champagne flown in from a private vineyard in France, it will be done. Most brides that have gotten married in Mexico agree that the best part of working with a wedding coordinator is that everything is completely taken care of eliminating any need to meet with caterers, florists, bakers, photographers, etc. All they have to do is get ready and show up to the ceremony they have always dreamed of.

Mexico Wedding Requirements: The standard requirements for Mexico weddings are very basic. For all legal wedding ceremonies the bride and groom must have the following documentation:  a valid passport, a tourist card (given to all visitors prior to entering the country), a blood test that is administered on property and a U.S. issued wedding certificate (for American citizens.) Also, it is required that the couple arrives three days prior to the wedding. Other requirements vary according to the type of marriage being performed; couples being married in religious ceremonies must submit official letters from their house of worship. Symbolic ceremonies do not require the bride and groom to provide a passport, blood tests or arrive three days earlier. These simple requirements are easy to fulfill and ensure that your union will be valid once you return to your home country.

The peace of mind that comes with having a destination Mexico wedding (and by Mexico, we mean paradise) is priceless. Let the wedding coordinators at El Dorado and Azul Hotels set the tone of your magical day while you worry about spending the afternoon at the spa and being in love.  It's the perfect beginning to your happily ever after...

-Paula Negrete,

Chief Concierge
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels

Spend a day in Playa Del Carmen- Riviera Maya's most spirited beach town

Once you have both chosen Riviera Maya as your Mexico wedding location, you need to start thinking about all the little details and create a fun itinerary that your wedding guests will enjoy. Not only are they traveling for your festivities, they are also looking forward to enjoy vacation time and take advantage of all the fabulous attractions in the area. Make sure to include a day trip to nearby Playa Del Carmen in their busy schedules; it will have them bragging about their getaway (and your wedding) for a long time to come.

Recognized as ‘the heart' of Riviera Maya, the breathtaking landscape of Playa Del Carmen's turquoise waters and white sand beaches stretch for miles on end. One glimpse of this sunny paradise transports you to old exotic movie scenes of Marlon Brando and a golden skinned beauty sprawled lazily by the shore. Whatever the size of your group, transportation to Playa Del Carmen can easily be accommodated. Private car, van, shuttle and even limos services are available to ensure that your guests are comfortable and relaxed to enjoy Playa Del Carmen's charm.

The small city boasts some of the most unique shopping, restaurants, bars and live entertainment for Mexico weddings. Visitors from all over the world have discovered this gem, giving it a cosmopolitan flair that meshes seamlessly with the art, cuisine and customs of the local Mexican culture. This is definitely the place to buy a few rounds of margaritas for your bridesmaids and invite your groomsmen for a ride on the wave runners or round up the entire wedding party and take a stroll on horseback along the beach... just make sure everyone is wearing gigantic sombreros, it'll make your photo slideshow so much more interesting.

It is guaranteed that a day trip to Playa Del Carmen before or after the big event will ease the stress of the occasion. Whether your guests choose to roam around the lively streets or snorkel among the impressive coral reefs, there's something for everyone to enjoy and discover in this oceanfront wonderland.

-Paula Negrete

Chief Concierge
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels

Thanks to our guest bloggers at the wonderful Karisma resorts in Mexico for this series about the Riviera Maya, which is our #1 most popular destination with our couples.  Stay tuned for more posts from the actual wedding coordinators and concierges at these great DW resorts.

Celebrate your Mexico wedding, honeymoon, or anniversary in one of the top destinations for romance.

If you're a newlywed and the flames of passion are burning bright, it's definitely a good idea to visit the pristine beaches of the Riviera Maya for one more fling before returning to the routine of daily grind. If you're not a newlywed and can't remember when the last time was that you and your Mr. Big took a long walk on the beach or played footsies under the dinner table, then it's also a good idea to plan an escape that will reignite the sparks.

 

Located south of Cancun, the Riviera Maya is bursting with activities and entertainment for Mexico weddings, and all couples. For thrill seeking types, the area offers exciting adventure tours that include zip lining through the jungle, riding wave runners and ATV's and swimming with whale sharks (the largest fish in the world). This part of Mexico is very rich in culture and history so taking time to visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum and Chichen Itza together is another not-to-be-missed experience. Also on the not-to-be-missed adventure list is exploring the ‘cenotes', majestic caverns filled with crystal clear pools of water perfect for an afternoon of diving and snorkeling. After reconnecting with nature, and your significant other, share a romantic dinner on the beach with nothing to distract you but the sound of the waves and the breeze.

Enjoy paradise and truly disconnect by staying at an adults-only resort where the opportunities for romance are without end. El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels, by Karisma offers amenities such as gourmet dining, private open air showers for two, beach beds to lounge all day (and night) and even your own beach butlers- the only finger you will have to lift is to dial for 24-hour room service! Surprise your partner with a couples massage under the moonlight and then pop a bottle of bubbly in the in-suite Jacuzzi, surrounded by candles and flower petals. The only thing that will cross your mind is why you both fell in love in the first place.

 

Nothing says ‘romance' louder than watching the sunset with the love of your life on a distant beach, with Mariachis singing old Mexican love songs. Start packing the bikini and flip flops for a rendezvous in Riviera Maya that both of you will never forget.

-Paula Negrete

Chief Concierge
El Dorado Spa Resorts & Hotels

Destination Wedding Specialist Judy H. walks us through her recent trip to this resort and why it's a great choice for Mexico weddings.

The Grand Velas All Suites & Spa Resort Riviera Maya is a luxurious All-Inclusive resort, located 5 minutes away from downtown Playa del Carmen and 35 minutes from Cancun International Airport. It offers the very best of everything from hospitality to dining to magnificent views, all catering to great Mexico weddings. The Grand Velas is a "Green" property, with the capability of producing 75% of its own electricity. In addition to several highly recognized accolades, it is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.

The Grand Velas offers 3 ambiances (sections) within the property: The Zen, Ambassador and Ambassador Grand Class. Each ambiance offers an experience unique to that ambiance.

• The Zen is surrounded by jungle and water canals. The convention center and Spa (considered the best in the area) is located here. This is a family-friendly section of the resort.
• The Ambassador is also Family oriented. The accommodations are all ocean view and it encompasses the largest inventory of ocean view rooms in the area. Coral colors set this section apart from the more neutral colors of the Zen.
• The Ambassador Grand Class features the Adult Only section of the resort. Although there are only 18 of these ocean front rooms, they have plunge pools and all face the ocean. This is a cozy, romantic and "boutique" section for Adults Only.

There are wedding packages offered, based on the size of the wedding group. In addition to the fine amenities and inclusions from each package, the bride and groom are also given the opportunity to design their own wedding ceremony site. This allows for very unique Mexico weddings.

With a picture perfect beach, fabulous infinity pool, 5 restaurants, beautifully kept grounds, flowers, and accommodations, why go anywhere else? They offer a superb Kids Club. Babysitting is also available at $16 per hour. The staff are attentive to all of your needs. This is what paradise is all about.

 

Take a virtual walk through the El Dorado Maroma Beach, courtesy of one of our Destination Wedding Specialists and see why this property is great for Mexico weddings.

With only 72 rooms this boutique property is ideal for a romantic couples get-away, which also makes it perfect for intimate Mexico weddings.  Adults only and children age 16 or older will love beautiful Maroma Beach with all the facilities of Marina Maroma right next door. Property is 40 minutes from airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen by taxi (about $20)

The lobby is small and simple. After a welcoming glass of champagne we were shown around the beautifully landscaped grounds with artfully blended driftwood and flowers and natural stone waterfalls around each corner. There are plenty of beach beds scattered around the grassy area fronting the beach. This is a green property with solar power and chemical free detergent used in the laundry room.

Karisma has their own judge whose office is at El Dorado Royale. This means that they can perform civil weddings 24/7 and weddings can be confirmed quickly. Mexico weddings can be performed on the beach or in the beachfront chapel.
Blood tests are conveniently done on site.

All rooms but the older section have private, outdoor showers with showerheads that look like driftwood, open to the stars above.

There are 4 suite categories:
The original Mi Hotelito 24 beachfront suites are closest to the
lobby, pool and beach. They have balconies and patios but no
Jacuzzis or outdoor showers.
16 jacuzzi junior suites, ocean view with private balcony and beach bed.
12 swim up Jacuzzi suites
20 infinity pool Jacuzzi suites- very romantic with candles.

All accommodations include: CD/DVD player, shower, coffee maker, telephone, radio, room service (24-hour), balcony, smoke detector, hairdryer, refrigerator, television, air conditioning, safe deposit box, ceiling fan, sprinkler system, mini-bar and alarm clock.

At night you can see the twinkling lights of Cozumel across the water.

Our Destination Wedding Specialists recently took a trip to Mexico to inspect resorts for weddings, and thank you to Valerie B. for the following review and photos on Mexico weddings at this popular resort.

Distance from the airport : Minimum of 45 minutes
Maximum of 2 weddings a day. Bride & Groom must arrive 3 days prior, and Sunday weddings are available. No Catholic Mexico Weddings available at this property.

Several Wedding sites are available (see pictures) plus a Gazebo with paved area for bride with "heels".

Receptions available in outdoor locations with open air covered theater area for "rain" disruption. Can bring own photographer using the "day pass" charge.

Adults only resort with 282 rooms, Garden, Swim up, ocean view & ocean front plus 3 Honeymoon suites that share their own pool.

Golf carts are available to get around if needed. Computers available at $6 an hour, but no internet access in rooms. The layout of the resort is great.  Beautiful pools with lots of beach area, 95 beach beds. The beach does have the enlarged sand bags. There is also a quiet pool area. Especially liked the Swimup Junior Suites with their location near a swim up bar plus a large pool with another swim up bar.

For the Romantics there is a Candlelight dinner on the beach available. Also 3 times a month they offer a "sky candlelight dinner in the elevated massage platform.
Very nice property, however not available for wedding parties with children. This is 4-5 star & mid to higher price.

 

We took our Destination Wedding Specialists on a trip to Mexico recently to tour resorts for weddings, and thank you to Valerie B. for the following photos and info on Mexico weddings at this lovely resort.

Distance from the Airport: 25 Minutes
Resort offers two weddings a day. Bride & Groom must arrive at least 3 days in advance for legal Mexico weddings & two days for symbolic.

Free Mexico weddings are available with a minimum 7 night stay in an Excellence Club Junior Suite Ocean View. Other Wedding Packages are available, and this hotel is part of our Circle of Love program that offers many more bonuses.

No Catholic Weddings are available.  There are many wedding sites available, on the beach & a Gazebo location. There are also several reception locations including the restaurants. Depending on the day of the week a restaurant is closed and the couple can have a reception in that restaurant.

Adults only location. Resort offers the Excellence Club at additional charge which entitles other benefits including a private lounge & private pool plus private checkin.

Three pools of the six are heated in the winter. There are several room types available all are Junior Suites. Rooms start with pool & spa view & Ocean View is available with the Excellence Club. Wifi is available in all rooms. Spa facilities available.

This is a very nice property with a 5 star rating, however no children are allowed.

We took our Destination Wedding Specialists on a trip to Mexico recently to tour resorts for weddings, and thank you to Paula D. for the following photos and info on Mexico weddings at this lovely resort.

The Catalonia Playa Maroma is a four star property with a typical European style and all inclusive family friendly resort. It is located thirty five minutes south of Cancun in the Mayan Riviera on the beach of Punta Maroma. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. It's a twenty dollar cab fare to the closest town of Playa del Carmen.

The resort has 376 superior rooms and suites; all rooms have a balcony or terrace.
All rooms are equipped with:

• Air conditioning
• Cable TV
• Complete bathroom w/ hair dryer
• Safety deposit box
• Direct dial phone
• Mini cooler

There are three bars and four restaurants located on hotel property; International Buffet, Mediterranean, Mexican, and litefare.

Bride and groom should both arrive three days prior for both legal and symbolic Mexico weddings. They do not perform catholic weddings. Weddings are held in a garden area or on either end the beach. They set up arbors with floral arrangements in colors of the bride's choice. Special amenities can be set up for the bride and groom such as a lobster dinner or massages with special request. Free Mexico weddings are provided with a minimum of booked nights.