Average Cost of an All Inclusive Destination Wedding in Mexico

If you’ve always dreamed of getting married in a beautiful tropical paradise but assumed it would be far too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised. Planning a destination wedding in Mexico is often more affordable than hosting a traditional wedding at home.

That’s right. More and more couples are embracing destination weddings, especially those held at all inclusive resorts. All inclusive resort packages include amenities such as dining, drinks, activities, and sometimes airport transfers. Popular wedding packages include your ceremony, decorations, and even honeymoon extras!

The cost of your celebration will, of course, depend on factors such as your venue, wedding date, dining options, the number of guests, the package you choose, and more. If budgeting for your Mexico destination wedding is adding an extra layer of stress to your wedding planning, don’t worry, our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are passionate about helping you plan your big day, making it stunning and seamless, regardless of your budget.

Understanding Destination Wedding Mexico Cost: What’s Included In Your Package?

How much are destination weddings in Mexico? You might worry that the cost is too high and the extras you’ve always dreamed of are out of reach, but most Mexico resorts offer all inclusive wedding packages that include everything at one price.

And the beauty of staying at an all inclusive resort is that your guests will also enjoy infinity pools, spa services, live entertainment, activities, and fun things to see and do, adding special, shared, memorable moments to your celebration.

Ceremony Setup and Décor

Almost all inclusive resort wedding packages in Mexico include a beautifully arranged ceremony setup, featuring a decorated wedding arch or gazebo, guest seating, signing table, and aisle décor. While specific items may vary, you can expect elegant basics perfect for a stunning seaside vow exchange.

Many couples choose to enhance the standard offering with upgrades. Personal touches like custom floral arrangements, unique seating designs, or more elaborate aisle markers can be added for an extra fee. The cost of these upgrades depends on your vision. A setup for a simple beach ceremony is often the most budget-friendly. At the same time, a private terrace or grand gazebo generally has higher venue fees and more intricate decoration costs, which can affect your celebration’s overall cost.

Reception Dinner and Drinks

The reception is where a significant portion of your budget will go, and packages offer great flexibility. Standard formats include a private dinner, a semi-private reception in a resort restaurant, or a lively cocktail hour with appetizers. Most all inclusive packages base pricing on a per-person rate, which simplifies budgeting. This usually covers a set menu, an open bar for a specific duration, and service staff.

Upgrading your dining experience with premium menu selections or top-shelf liquor generally increases the per-person costs. Some resorts offer flat-rate venue fees for private spaces, such as ballrooms or beachfront palapas, with catering costs added on. Understanding whether your package is flat rate or per person is key to effectively managing reception expenses.

Photography and Entertainment Options

Capturing your special day is priceless, and resorts make it easy by including photography services in many packages. These often cover one to two hours of professional photography. However, many couples want to capture everything, from getting ready to the final dance. Upgrading to a more extensive photo or video package is a typical additional expense.

Resorts usually have a list of approved or in-house vendors for entertainment, like DJs and live bands. Using a resort-approved DJ can range between $800 and $1,500 for a few hours. If you prefer to bring in an outside photographer or band, be prepared for an “outside vendor fee” covering the vendor’s access to the resort property, which can add several hundred to over a thousand dollars to your budget.

Honeymoon Perks and Extras

One of the most exciting benefits of an all inclusive destination wedding is the built-in honeymoon! Many resorts reward you for hosting your wedding with them by offering complimentary honeymoon packages, which add incredible value and romance to your post-nuptial celebration.

Extras may include a romantic wedding-night turndown service, breakfast in bed the next morning, or a free room upgrade to a suite with a stunning ocean view. Packages can include spa credits for a couple’s massage or a private, candlelit beach dinner, providing significant savings and making your celebration even more special!

How Free Wedding Packages in Mexico Actually Work

The idea of a free wedding in paradise sounds fantastic, and these packages are a real deal. However, it’s essential to understand how they function. Typically, a free wedding package is a basic yet beautiful offering including essentials such as a simple ceremony setup, a Wedding Coordinator, a toast, and a small cake for a limited number of guests.

To qualify, couples usually need to book a certain number of rooms for a minimum length of stay for themselves and their guests. While the core ceremony is complimentary, many couples personalize their day with upgrades such as professional photography, a private reception, entertainment, or premium décor. While the ceremony itself may be complimentary, most couples budget for upgrades that reflect their overall vision.

Minimum Night Stay Requirements

To unlock a free wedding package, resorts often require the wedding couple, and sometimes their guests, to book a minimum number of nights, typically 3 to 7, in a specific room category, by shifting some of the financial commitment to your guests’ travel plans. A win-win—they enjoy a wonderful vacation while guaranteeing your dream nuptials.

Guest Count Thresholds for Free Packages

Designed for intimate celebrations, free wedding packages often include the ceremony and basic amenities for hosting 10 to 20 guests. Additional guests? You’ll usually pay an additional per-person fee. It’s important to understand that some resorts count guests attending the ceremony, while others count guests in your group block.

What’s Included vs What Costs Extra

A free package is a fantastic starting point. You can expect it to cover the Wedding Coordinator’s services, a symbolic ceremony, a small bouquet and boutonnière, a sparkling wine toast, and a wedding cake. Standard upgrades include premium flowers, a full reception dinner, a DJ or live music, professional hair and makeup services, and a photography package. These additions let you truly make the day your own, but they will increase your final budget.

Common Limitations to Watch For

While free packages provide incredible value, they come with certain limitations. Ceremony times may be restricted to specific hours, often earlier on weekdays. The choice of ceremony locations might be limited to designated public areas rather than private, premium spots. Furthermore, these packages offer little customization, requiring the use of the resort’s vendors. So be sure to read the fine print to understand all the rules and restrictions before booking.

How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Mexico on Average?

Couples often find that the cost of getting married in Mexico varies based on the date, number of guests, location, venue, and the all inclusive wedding package. Depending on all of those factors, your entire celebration can cost anywhere between $5,000 and $20,000.

The three most significant decisions impacting your price are the number of guests, the number of outside vendors needed, and the cost of your wedding venue. You also need to consider airfare, transportation to and from the airport, and any special events before and after the wedding.

With so many decisions to make, it’s essential to have one of our Award-Winning Certified Destination Wedding Specialists on your team, ready to walk you through everything and fine-tune your vision into a reality within your budget.

What Influences the Cost of a Destination Wedding in Mexico?

Venue and Catering Costs: Major Budget Considerations

Mexico is a treasure trove of all inclusive resorts offering incredible wedding packages. All inclusive resorts offer wedding packages in various tiers—basic packages might include a simple champagne toast and cake, while higher-tier options provide complete catering services. Be sure to consider the venue and catering costs when planning your special day.

Some resorts allow package customization, though this typically comes with extra costs. If selecting a more affordable package, you may choose to host your wedding dinner at one of the resort’s à la carte restaurants.

Guest Count and Accommodations

One of the most significant factors determining the costs of a wedding in Mexico is the number of guests you invite to share your grand occasion. More guests can increase catering and reception costs. However, a larger guest list also brings bigger benefits.

Many resorts offer perks, such as complimentary rooms or event upgrades, when you fill a certain number of rooms in your group block. This scalability is a major advantage of destination weddings, allowing you to host an intimate affair or a grand celebration while keeping costs under control.

Season and Wedding Date

The calendar also impacts your wedding budget. Peak wedding season in Mexico runs from December through April, when the weather is ideal. Couples often find that, due to high demand, resort rates and wedding package prices are at their highest.

For significant savings, consider the low season (May through November). While the chance of higher humidity and rain is higher, the cost difference can be substantially lower. Weekday weddings (Monday–Thursday) are almost always less expensive than weekend dates, another fantastic way to reduce the cost of your destination wedding in Mexico.

Vendors and Customizations

While all inclusive packages are comprehensive, many couples personalize their day with specific vendors or custom touches. Hiring your favorite hometown photographer or a specific DJ can increase your budget, since many resorts charge an outside vendor fee. Customizations like elaborate floral arrangements, unique lighting, or a high-end sound system can also add to the final bill. While personalizations make your day unique, it’s crucial to check your resort’s policies on external suppliers and budget accordingly.

Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremony

The type of ceremony you choose also affects your overall cost. The most popular option is a symbolic ceremony for destination weddings. It’s not legally binding, so couples need to handle the legal paperwork back home before or after they travel. This is the simpler option, with no extra paperwork in Mexico, and it’s often included in wedding packages.

A legal ceremony, on the other hand, is more complex and expensive, requiring translation fees for documents and blood tests, as well as government administrative fees, which can add several hundred dollars to your total spend.

Pre- and Post-Wedding Events

A destination wedding is often a multi-day experience for you and your guests. Hosting a welcome cocktail party, a rehearsal dinner, or a farewell brunch is a wonderful way to spend quality time with your loved ones; yet it can also increase your total spending. Many resorts offer affordable event packages, especially if hosting your wedding, adding incredible value to your special occasion.

Key Factors that Influence How Much Destination Weddings Cost in Mexico

How much is a wedding in Mexico? Remember, you can tailor your special day to meet your vision within your budget. Since you are planning a destination wedding, you’re likely to have fewer guests than if you were getting married at home. The guest list is a key factor in your budget, as are your location and venue.

It’s all about location, location, location. If you get married in Riviera Maya, your costs for the ceremony and wedding package will be less than if you exchanged vows in Cabo. You’ll spend between $2,000 and $12,000 in Riviera Maya, while in Cabo, known for upscale venues, luxury resorts, and premium ocean views, prices are much higher, up to $20,000. Both locations are lovely, offering beauty, character, and charm.

Discuss these options and more with our Destination Wedding Specialists, who will help you select the perfect location, venue, and all inclusive package.

Low Season Vs. High Season Weddings: How Much Can You Save?

Mexico’s high season runs from December through April, offering sunny, dry weather alongside higher prices and larger crowds. Low season, from May through October, is typically quieter and more budget-friendly, with greater availability and potential resort perks.

While warmer temperatures and occasional rain are possible during the low season, many couples appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and added value. A Certified Destination Wedding Specialist can help you choose the best timing based on your budget, guest experience, and wedding vision.

RELATED: How to Get Married in Mexico: Legal Steps & Essential Tips

 

Comparing Costs: Traditional Weddings vs Destination Wedding Mexico Cost

You might be surprised that planning a destination wedding in Mexico is less expensive than a traditional wedding celebration at home. The average cost of a traditional wedding in 2024 was estimated at $35,000. A destination wedding featuring an all inclusive package starts as low as $5,000. 

Yes, based on the package you choose and the extras, a destination wedding increases in price, but when compared to the $35,000 price tag at home, you are sure to get more for your money, including saying, “I do,” in a tropical paradise.

How Much are Destination Weddings in Mexico Compared to Other Wedding Destinations?

There are so many reasons that Mexico makes an ideal wedding destination. One topping our list is that when you compare costs to other popular destinations, tying the knot in beautiful Mexico is less expensive. You can get married for as budget-friendly as $5,000 with the average cost at $9,500. Compared to other destinations like Hawaii and the Mediterranean, which can start at $20,000, Mexico is the choice of many happily married couples.

Travel and Accommodations: What Couples and Guests Can Expect to Pay

Your closest family and friends that RSVP to your Mexico destination wedding can double a vacation along with your celebration. As it goes with anyone traveling, they are usually happy to pay for their airfare and accommodations. When booking your all inclusive package, ask your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist about group rates, special discounts, and offers that your guests have access to. This will sweeten the event and make it a more enjoyable experience. 

Airfare will vary based on the time of the week, year, and location they are departing from. They will also need to find safe transportation from the airport to your resort or venue. Many resorts offer a free shuttle service for guests that is convenient and regularly scheduled throughout the day and night.

RELATED: How to Get Married in Mexico on a Budget

How Location Impacts Your Mexico Destination Wedding Cost

Influenced by popularity, ease of access for travelers, and resort types, where you choose to say “I do” in Mexico impacts your wedding budget. Different regions come with different price tags. Areas with a high concentration of resorts often offer more competitive pricing on wedding packages, while exclusive, remote destinations may command a premium price tag.

The cost of a destination wedding in Mexico fluctuates significantly from the vibrant Caribbean coast to the dramatic Pacific shoreline, so exploring your options is key to finding the perfect location that fits your budget and style.

Cancun

Cancun is renowned as one of the most budget-friendly wedding destinations in Mexico, with an international airport offering numerous direct flights, making travel convenient and affordable for guests. The area boasts a vast selection of all inclusive resorts, leading to highly competitive wedding package prices.

Riviera Maya

Stretching south from Cancun, the Riviera Maya offers a more secluded and eco-luxury vibe. Costs here can be slightly higher than in Cancun due to the emphasis on sprawling, nature-integrated resorts and unique venues like cenotes. However, it still offers an excellent venue—and value—for the lush, tropical wedding of your dreams.

Los Cabos

Los Cabos, situated on the Baja California Peninsula, is renowned as a premium, upscale destination. It attracts a luxury market with high-end resorts, world-class golf courses, and dramatic desert-meets-ocean landscapes. Expect higher venue fees and vendor costs, making it a top choice for couples with a larger budget.

Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta strikes an outstanding balance between affordability and authentic Mexican charm. Nestled on the Pacific Coast, it has a diverse range of resorts, from budget-friendly all inclusives to luxury boutique hotels. This variety allows couples to find great value while enjoying a culturally rich and scenic backdrop.

Budgeting Tips Real Destination Wedding Couples: How To Save on Your Wedding in Mexico

If you’re looking for ways to have a magical wedding, yet stay within your budget, consider the following tips and ideas.

• Plan the Date for During the Off-Season: Why not travel during the low or shoulder seasons, when prices are lower and special perks can enhance your special day? Set your special day for the off-season.
• Set Priorities: Instead of hiring a professional photographer and paying a few thousand dollars, ask a talented guest to take memorable photos. Or hire a DJ to bring the tunes; this is usually easier on the wallet than a live band.
• Limit the Flowers and Decorations: Mexico offers some of the world’s most beautiful backdrops. Choosing a few simple arrangements that complement the surroundings can create an elegant look while keeping costs in check.
• Reduce Your Guest List: Invite your closest family and friends to limit the number of guests and significantly reduce your overall costs.
• Opt For A More Intimate Reception: Less is more when it comes to food and beverage. Rather than an expensive meal, opt for a smaller buffet or cocktail party and serve hors d’oeuvres.
• Celebrate on the Beach: Plan a romantic beachfront ceremony and champagne toast reception instead of an expensive venue.

How to Create a Realistic Destination Wedding Budget

Creating a realistic budget is the first step to stress-free wedding planning. Begin by researching wedding costs in your preferred Mexico destination, reviewing all inclusive wedding packages, and setting a baseline allocation for vendor fees, travel expenses, and unexpected costs. It’s wise to plan a contingency fund of 10-15% of your budget.

Be transparent with your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist so they can align your financial comfort zone and your vision. Let us help plan your perfect celebration. We’ve got you covered — from your departure date through your return home; you can count on us to be there for you.

Prioritizing Must-Haves vs Nice-to-Haves

To make your budget work for you, sit down with your partner and create two lists: “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” Prioritize your must-haves, which are the non-negotiable elements, like stunning photography or a specific venue type. The nice-to-haves, such as elaborate floral arrangements or a live band, can be considered if there’s room left in the budget. This ensures your wedding reflects what, as a couple, is most important to you.

Accounting for Guest Travel Expectations

The resort hosting your special occasion affects not only your costs but also your guests’ travel and accommodations. Being mindful of guests’ expenses is a thoughtful gesture that your loved ones will appreciate on your special day. Selecting a location known for affordability or with a range of room prices can lead to a better turnout.

Happy guests make for a joyful celebration, and working with an Award-Winning Certified Destination Wedding Specialist brings the peace of mind that you and your guests will be taken care of.

Planning for Currency Exchange and Resort Fees

When budgeting for your wedding in Mexico, don’t forget the details. Keep an eye on the exchange rate between your home currency and the Mexican Peso, as it can affect your final costs, especially for payments made directly to local vendors.

Also, be sure to ask your resort about any additional charges, such as service fees, government taxes, or gratuities that may not be included in the initial package price. Planning for these helps avoid any last-minute financial surprises.

 

 

Comparing Costs: Traditional Weddings vs Destination Wedding Mexico Cost

You might be surprised to learn that planning a destination wedding in Mexico is often less expensive than hosting a traditional wedding at home. In 2024, the average cost of a traditional wedding was estimated at $35,000. By contrast, all inclusive destination wedding packages in Mexico can start as low as $5,000.

Depending on the package you choose and the extras you add, destination wedding costs can rise above those entry-level options. Even so, they’re typically far less than the average $35,000 wedding at home, while offering greater value and the unforgettable experience of saying “I do” in a tropical paradise.

How Much are Destination Weddings in Mexico Compared to Other Wedding Destinations?

There are so many reasons that Mexico makes an ideal wedding destination. One topping our list is that when you compare costs to other popular destinations, tying the knot in magnificent Mexico is less expensive. You can get married for a budget-friendly $5,000, with the average price at $9,500. Compared to other destinations like Hawaii and the Mediterranean, which can start at $20,000, Mexico is the choice of many happily married couples.

Travel and Accommodations: What Couples and Guests Can Expect to Pay

For close family and friends who RSVP to a Mexico destination wedding, the trip often doubles as both a celebration and a vacation. As with most destination events, guests typically expect to cover their own airfare and accommodations.

Working with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist can help make travel more affordable for everyone involved. When booking an all inclusive package, Specialists can often secure group rates, special discounts, or exclusive offers that help reduce overall costs and simplify the planning process.

Airfare prices vary depending on the time of year, day of the week, and departure city. Guests will also need transportation from the airport to the resort or venue, though many resorts offer complimentary shuttle services that run regularly throughout the day and night.

Why Mexico is an Ideal Destination for Your Wedding: Stunning Views, Affordable Costs

Mexico is a tropical treasure that offers romance, natural beauty, magnificent beaches, luxurious all inclusive resorts, and magical venues where romance meets travel. It’s a destination providing you and your guests with excitement, adventure, entertainment, and more than they ever imagined.

Compared to a wedding in your hometown or another extravagant destination, the costs are more affordable, no matter your budget. Whether you always dreamed of exchanging vows in a private cabana on the beach or a more extravagant resort, Mexico promises an unforgettable, romantic experience. 

FAQs: Average Cost of a Destination Wedding in Mexico

Is a Mexico destination wedding really cheaper than a U.S. wedding?

Absolutely! The average cost of a destination wedding in Mexico is often significantly lower than a traditional wedding in the U.S. With all inclusive packages starting at around $5,000, you can have a beautiful celebration in paradise for a fraction of the cost. Let us help plan your perfect celebration.

Why are Mexico weddings more affordable than local weddings?

Affordability comes from a few key factors: competitive all inclusive packages that bundle services, naturally beautiful venues that require less decoration, and a more intimate guest list. These elements combined help keep the average cost of a wedding in Mexico down without sacrificing quality.

Does wedding timing really affect total cost?

Yes, timing is everything! You can save thousands by choosing a date in the low or shoulder season (May-November) instead of the peak season (December-April). Getting married on a weekday instead of a weekend can also lead to significant savings on venue and vendor rates. Speak with a Certified Destination Wedding Specialist today to get personalized venue recommendations and a free quote.

Which Mexico destination offers the best value?

For the best overall value, Cancun and the Riviera Maya are fantastic choices due to their wide range of affordable all inclusive resorts and competitive package pricing. Puerto Vallarta also offers a great balance of cultural charm and budget-friendly options for your dream wedding.

Ready for Your Dream Wedding in Mexico? Let’s Make It Happen!

Ready to plan the destination wedding of your dreams? Our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are passionate about weddings and want to help you every step of the way. We’ll help you from setting the date to planning every detail along the way. 

Get started by completing our online wedding planning form today!