If you’ve always dreamed of getting married in a beautiful tropical paradise, but thought it was way too expensive and out of reach, you’re in for a wonderful surprise. Planning a destination wedding in Mexico is more affordable than having one 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 mostly everything from amenities, dining, drinking, activities, and sometimes airport transfers. Some of the most popular wedding packages include your ceremony, decorations, and even honeymoon extras!
The cost of your celebration will of course depend on factors like your venue, wedding date, dining options, how many 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 and will make 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.
This includes the wedding ceremony, reception venue, catering, decorations, flowers, and entertainment. Some packages are extra special with honeymoon add-ons and complimentary nights! Your guests will also enjoy infinity pools, spa services, live entertainment, activities, and fun things to see and do, adding special, memorable moments to your celebration.
How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Mexico on Average?
The cost of getting married in Mexico varies based on the date, the number of guests, your location and venue, and your all inclusive wedding package. Depending on all of those factors, your entire celebration can cost anywhere between $5,000 and $20,000.
The three biggest decisions that impact your price are the number of guests, the number of 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.
One of the most popular destinations is Cancun because it is one of the most affordable, with gorgeous venues and spectacular, romantic views. If you want a higher-end, upscale wedding and have wiggle room in your budget, consider Los Cabos, which offers top-tier vendors, lavish amenities, and one-of-a-kind experiences.
With so many decisions to make it’s important to have one of our award-winning Certified Destination Wedding Specialists on your team, ready to walk you through everything there is to offer and fine-tune your vision into a reality within your budget.
Venue and Catering Costs: Major Budget Considerations
Mexico is a treasure trove of all inclusive resorts offering incredible wedding packages. When planning your wedding, consider the venue and catering costs as major budget factors. All-inclusive resorts offer wedding packages in various tiers—basic packages might include a simple champagne toast and cake, while higher-tier options provide full catering services.
Some resorts even allow for package customization, though this typically incurs extra costs. If you opt for a more affordable package, you may have to host your wedding dinner at one of the resort’s a la carte restaurants.
Extra Costs to Consider for a Destination Wedding in Mexico
In addition to your travel, accommodations, venue, and guest list, there are additional costs that may not be part of your all inclusive wedding package. Extras like vendors for professional photography, videos, musical entertainment, top-tier decorations, and flowers quickly add to your bottom line.
Many resorts offer packages that include these extras, but they will cost more. Plus, customizing your package with special events like a welcome or farewell brunch will add to your overall cost.
Remember you are traveling to Mexico, which offers the most beautiful backdrops and breathtaking views in the world. Consider a more simple wedding and exchange vows right on the beach at sunset rather than a luxurious celebration inside an expensive ballroom. If budget concerns are an issue there are definitely ways to work around them.
RELATED: How to Get Married in Mexico on a Budget
Key Factors that Influence How Much Are Destination Weddings 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 are likely to have fewer guests than if you were getting married at home. The guest list is one of the key factors in your budget.
So are your location and venue. It’s all about location, location, location. If you get married in Riviera Maya your costs will be less than if you exchange vows in Cabo. You’ll spend between $2,000 and $12,000 in Riviera Maya, while in Cabo, which is known for upscale venues, luxury resorts, and premium ocean views. The price is 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?
It’s important to note that your wedding date will determine the rates resorts and hotels offer. Mexico’s high season is from December to April and is the most desirable and popular time for weddings and vacations in general. The weather is consistently sunny, dry, and comfortable. A few downsides are that during the high season, prices are higher and the crowds are larger. If you want to get married during this season, you need to book a venue and accommodations at least 12 to 15 months in advance.
On the other hand, the low season, between May and November, is a time when fewer tourists visit due to the higher humidity, temperatures, and chances of rain. You can also benefit from the shoulder season in May and November, where you’ll enjoy a balance of lower prices and nice weather.
Budgeting Tips: How To Save on Your Wedding in Mexico
If you are looking for ways to have a magical wedding, but stay within your budget, take a look at the following tips and ideas.
- Set The Date During Off Season: Since the low and shoulder seasons offer lower prices and special perks that can add to your special day, set the date during 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. Instead of a live band, hire a DJ that is usually less expensive.
- Limit the Flowers and Decorations: Mexico offers the most beautiful backdrops in the world. Less is more when it comes to decorating. Instead of paying for expensive arrangements, opt for smaller arrangements that complement the natural beauty.
- Reduce Your Guest List: Limit the number of guests. Invite your closest family and friends to significantly reduce your overall costs.
- Opt For A More Intimate Reception: Less is more when it comes to food and beverage options for your reception. Instead of an expensive meal, opt for a smaller buffet or cocktail party and serve hors d’oeuvres.
- Celebrate on The Beach: Instead of an expensive venue, opt for a beachfront ceremony and champagne toast reception.
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.
Why Mexico is an Ideal Destination for Your Wedding: Stunning Views, Affordable Costs
Mexico is a tropical treasure that offers you romance, natural beauty, magnificent beaches, luxurious all inclusive resorts, and magical venues. It is also 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 other extravagant destination, the costs are more affordable, whatever your budget. Whether you always dreamed of exchanging vows in a private cabana on the beach or a more extravagant all inclusive resort, Mexico promises an unforgettable, romantic experience.
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 wedding planning form today!
