Cancun is one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world, offering breathtaking beaches, rich cultural heritage, and world-class all inclusive resorts. You might wonder if this type of wedding is out of your reach and ask yourself “How much does a Cancun wedding cost?” Maybe you think you can’t afford such a wonderful getaway.
This helpful guide breaks down common expenses and covers everything from all inclusive resort wedding packages to hidden costs and budget-friendly planning tips. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate beachfront ceremony or a grand celebration with friends and family, this guide shares what to expect and how to plan the perfect Cancun destination wedding of a lifetime.
Average Cost of a Cancun Wedding
Are destination weddings in Cancun expensive? The average cost of a destination wedding in Cancun is currently around $9,400. This is an incredible price as it includes your gorgeous accommodations, an impressive wedding package, and estimated airfare. Of course, this will vary based on what package you select and any extras that you add.
Some of the most popular wedding packages include the ceremony, venue, decorations, flower arrangements, bouquets, wedding cakes, and, sparkling wine toasts! Keep in mind that your wedding costs will vary widely based on a variety of things, including the time of year, your departure location, your guest count, your preferred resort, additional vendors needed, and wedding package upgrades. The sky is the limit for a wedding in paradise.
But when you get right down to it, a Cancun destination wedding is much more affordable than the average cost of a traditional wedding at home, which averages $35,000! And you are probably not on a beautiful ocean shore! See! You can afford a spectacular wedding destination and say, “I do,” in a beautiful setting without breaking the bank! Plus, the honeymoon is automatically included in this celebration full of lasting love, forever friendship, and unforgettable memories.
To help you get a better idea of how much your personalized package would cost, our Certified Destination Wedding Specialists are here to help. They are not only passionate about wedding planning, they are experts in destination weddings and have helped hundreds of couples tailor the perfect celebration. They are ready to help you make your vision a reality and provide a personalized quote for your unforgettable wedding celebration in paradise.
Let’s take a look at some things that you need to consider during your planning journey.
RELATED: Getting Married in Cancun: What You Need to Know
Factors Influencing Wedding Costs in Cancun
How much is a wedding in Cancun? It’s important to note that you can tailor your special day to create an unforgettable celebration within your budget. You need to take into consideration several factors that will impact the overall cost of a destination wedding in Cancun.
Here’s a breakdown of the most important elements to get you started.
Number of Guests On Your Invitation List
We’re sure you would like everyone you know to join your wedding celebration in paradise, but this might not be doable for a variety of reasons. The guest list is a key factor when determining your overall budget. More guests add up to more expenses.
If you are on a budget, consider a smaller, more intimate wedding with fewer guests. Plus, not everyone you invite will be able to travel to Cancun. Those that do, can double your wedding as a spectacular vacation. As with anyone traveling, they are usually happy to cover their costs. Always make who is paying for the travel and accommodation crystal clear on your invitations so everyone is on the same page and there are no unexpected surprises.
Ask our Certified Wedding Destination Specialists about group rates, special discounts, and offers that your guests can enjoy. This will enhance your celebration and their participation in your big day.
Here’s an idea. Double the fun and host a reception when you get back home to celebrate with family and friends who couldn’t make it to Cancun. Share your photos, and memories, and toast to a lifetime of happiness.
Choice of All Inclusive Resort and Wedding Package
Cancun is an all inclusive resort playground boasting incredible amenities and wedding packages. Every resort has a star ranking based on reviews from past customers, critics, and travel outlets. This will determine how much you will pay for your accommodations and packages.
A 5-star rating is the highest and will reflect high-end amenities and accommodations, compared to resorts with 4-star and lower, which will reflect more budget-friendly rates, but are just as lovely and special.
Wedding packages vary and the more that is included, the more expensive the price will be. Whether you want to get married barefoot on the beach with your closest family and friends by your side, or an extravagant week-long celebration, there is an all inclusive resort and wedding package that will make your dreams come true.
Keep in mind the more you add to an existing package, the more you will pay. Extras like welcome parties, special entertainment, gourmet menus, open bar, and cocktail parties will add up quickly. If you are treating your guests and paying for their travel, accommodations, entertainment, special gatherings, and food and beverage, your costs will increase.
Always ask the resort for group rates that can make it more affordable, whether you pay for everyone or not. This is important to your budget planning and for a successful, seamless experience for everyone.
Time of Year Will Effect Your Rates
Are destination weddings in Cancun expensive all year long? We say, any day is an amazing day for a Cancun, Mexico wedding and is as affordable as you want it to be. But know that your wedding date will make a difference in the cost of resorts and packages.
If you get married during the off-season, when the weather is hotter and rainier, you will enjoy less expensive rates. Mexico’s peak season is from December to April and is the most popular time for weddings and vacations. The weather is consistently sunny, dry, and comfortable, perfect for outdoor events, activities, and celebrations. The downside is that prices are higher and the crowds are larger.
The low season, between May and November, brings higher humidity, temperatures, and chances of rain, but fewer tourists travel during this time. There is also a shoulder season in May and November, where you will enjoy lower prices and nice weather.
Keep these details in mind, and when the majority of your guests can join you when setting your wedding date. If you select a date during the peak season, you should plan at least a year or more in advance because resorts and venues fill up quickly. This will also give your guests plenty of time to make arrangements with work and other commitments.
What’s Included In Cancun Wedding Packages
Wedding packages vary but even the budget-friendly ones are impressive. Wedding packages vary from resort to resort and the time of the year you get married. If you are traveling during peak season, the packages are generously filled with necessities and extras. But if you travel during the off-season, the packages include even more perks and surprises to impress you.
Standard wedding packages offered by Cancun resorts include your ceremony and venue set-up, bouquets and boutonnièreres, wedding cake, and sparkling wine toast. Many packages are comprehensive with loads of perks and extras, but note certain amenities may cost extra. Make sure you include every single extra in your budget.
Additional Costs To Consider
This is your special day, and it should reflect your personality, preferences, and dreams. The more things you add, like welcome parties, special excursions, and activities will add to your bottom line.
Extra expenses may include:
Photography and Videography
Capturing special memories and moments so you can relive your big day is something to plan for. Professional photographers and videographers are available to hire for additional fees. Some packages include these services along with limited editing and photographs. Don’t have the budget? Consider asking one of your guests to take photos.
Entertainment
It’s fun to incorporate cultural elements, live bands, soloists, and exciting fireworks into your celebration. They will enhance your event, but cost more than recorded music or hiring a DJ. Consider asking one of your talented guests to sing your favorite song or create a special playlist instead of paying local talent. This personalizes your big day and engages your guests. Other ideas are to create a theme and ask guests to wear accessories and attire that blend in with the intimate beach theme.
Decor and Personalization Increase Costs
Cancun, Mexico offers the most gorgeous backdrops and lush tropical scenery you’ll ever see. Let the natural beauty shine. Instead of an expensive venue and paying for extravagant flower arrangements and decor, take full advantage of the ocean views or lush rainforest venues with budget-friendly simpler decorations. Fill vases with locally sourced flowers, line the runner with candles, and focus on the natural scenery.
Cost Breakdown for Guests
When booking your all inclusive package, work with your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist about group rates, special discounts and offers. They are experienced in where you can get the most for your dollar.
Then get together and share the costs that your wedding party and guests can expect to spend on your Cancun wedding adventure including:
Accommodations Top The List
Where you will stay in Cancun is a big question. Most guests who accept your invitation expect to pay for their own accommodations. Explain that you have secured a block of rooms for your special celebration in an all inclusive resort that offers generous packages and special extras.
Travel Expenses Are Next
Many of your guests will double your wedding with a vacation getaway. Guests usually pay for their airfare and that will vary based on where and when your guests are departing. If you have room in your budget, consider paying for safe transportation to and from the airport.
RELATED: Top 10 All Inclusive Wedding Packages in Cancun Under $20,000
Tips to Manage and Optimize Your Wedding Budget
You can have a wonderful wedding experience and stay within your budget with the following ideas and cost-saving tips. Just because you don’t have thousands of dollars doesn’t mean your wedding can’t make everyone feel like a million bucks!
Opt for All Inclusive Packages
Get more bang for your budget and select an all inclusive package where you pay for almost everything for one incredible price. Instead of paying for everything separately, these packages are loaded with specials and extras to enhance your stay.
Leverage Group Discounts
Resorts favor large groups and when you book a block of rooms the price per night is discounted. If you book enough overnight stays, some nights could be complimentary, sweetening the deal!
Consider Less Expensive Off-Peak Dates
Since the low and shoulder seasons offer lower rates and special perks that aren’t offered during peak season, set the date during off times. Your wedding will still be magical with the bonus of fewer tourists.
Types of Wedding Ceremonies Available
Let’s plan the wedding of your dreams. Keep in mind that the type of wedding ceremony will affect your budget. Cancun offers several ceremony types. Instead of a legal civil or cultural ceremony, plan a symbolic one which is easier and doesn’t require any legal paperwork.
Symbolic ceremonies are usually included in many wedding packages. Cultural ceremonies may require special events like additional decor or music adding to your cost. If you have a symbolic ceremony, when you get home you can make your union legal.
Best Time to Get Married in Cancun
Cancun is an amazing destination all the time. That said, your wedding day will affect what you and your guests will spend at resorts. Cancun enjoys a peak season from December to April, the most popular time of the year for weddings and vacations. The weather is sunny, dry, and comfortable, perfect for outdoor celebrations. Note that crowds are larger and prices for everything are higher.
The low season between May and November, is also a great time to get married, but the humidity and temperatures are higher with more chances of rain. The shoulder season in May and November is a nice balance of nice weather and lower prices.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Cancun Wedding?
We’re excited to help you plan the next chapter in your love story. Let’s do it in Cancun, a wedding destination overflowing with tropical beauty, romantic settings, luxurious all inclusive resorts, and endless things to see and do.
Are you ready to say, “I do” in paradise? Our Certified Wedding Specialists are here to help you make it easy with every detail you desire. Get started by completing our wedding planning form today.
Get expert advice from a Destination Wedding Specialist and plan an affordable celebration today >>
