Looking to add a personal (and delicious) touch to your wedding festivities? Signature cocktails are the way to go! Whether youāre planning a welcome gathering, cocktail hour, or reception, creating a custom drink menu adds charm, style, and a splash of fun your guests will love.
You can keep it simple with one drink that reflects both of youāor go for a āhis and hersā or āhis and hisā/āhers and hersā duo that showcases your individual tastes.
Need a Little Inspo? Here are some of our favorite ideas that blend classic cocktails with clever names:
š¹Ā Margarita:Ā Main-Squeeze Margarita
šæĀ Mojito:Ā Mint To Be Mojito
šĀ Mai Tai:Ā Mai Tai The Knot
šøĀ Gin & Tonic:Ā You & Me G&T
šŗĀ Beer:Ā Ale You Need Is Love
š·Ā Wine:Ā Be Mine Wine
šĀ Sangria:Ā Berry Happy Together Sangria
šĀ Apple Cider:Ā Always By My Cider
šĀ Bellini:Ā Wedding Bell-ini
šĀ Blue Curacao Cocktail:Ā Something Blue
šæĀ Rosemary Gin Fizz:Ā Just Rosemarried Fizz
šĀ Appletini:Ā Appletini of My Eye
š¶ļøĀ Bloody Mary:Ā Bloody Marry Me
Quick Tips: ā Stick to drinks that are easy to batch and serve ā Choose flavors you genuinely enjoy ā Add a cute sign or menu card to your bar setup
Whether you go sweet and fruity or bold and boozy, a signature drink is a small detail that leaves a big impressionāand gets everyone in the celebratory spirit.
Still thirsty for ideas?Ā šø Weāve rounded up two of our favorite articles packed with even more cocktail creativity:
š„Ā 36 Signature Cocktail Ideas Your Guests Will Be Obsessed WithĀ ā This fun roundup fromĀ The KnotĀ is full of creative, crowd-pleasing drinks (with super cute names!) for every wedding vibe. šĀ Browse these must-try wedding cocktails
š”Ā Bartenders Share Their Favorite Wedding CocktailsĀ ā Want something elevated or a little unexpected? This list fromĀ BridesĀ shares pro-level recipes that your guests will be talking about long after last call. šĀ See bartender-approved wedding drink recipes
Congratulations on your engagement! š Planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey, but it often starts with one big question:Ā āHow much is this going to cost?ā Read on to find your destination wedding budget guide!
Budgeting for your wedding may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right approach, you can create a budget that aligns with your vision and ensures a memorable experience for you and your guests.
In this post, weāll help you break down your destination wedding budget, explain whatās included, and give you an overview of what to expect at different budget levels. Whether youāre dreaming of a luxury getaway or keeping it simple, understanding these key points will set you on the right path.
Whatās Included in a Destination Wedding Budget?
When planning your destination wedding, itās helpful to separate costs intoĀ two categories:
Personal Costs:Ā These include expenses unique to you and your partner, like your wedding attire, flights, resort accommodations, wedding rings, and gifts for your wedding party. While important, they donāt affect the guest experience and are managed separately from your wedding budget.
Focusing on wedding-related costs helps keep your budget clear and actionable while allowing room for personal preferences.
Setting Your Budget
Destination weddings typically fall into one of four budget levels: Budget, Moderate, Upscale, or Luxury. Each level offers a different experience, ranging from simple and elegant to lavish and unforgettable.
Instead of overwhelming you with details here, Iāve created aĀ destination wedding budget guide graphicĀ that outlines the main services included in a destination wedding and how these budgets typically break down.
4 Budget Levels for Destination Weddings
Below is a helpful breakdown of destination wedding services and their estimated costs across different budget levels. Use this graphic as a guide to understand whatās possible with your budget and where to allocate your funds.
Disclaimer: The figures presented in this budget guide areĀ estimatesĀ based on destination weddings held at all-inclusive properties. Actual costs may vary depending on factors such as the location, time of year, specific vendor choices, and customizations. These estimates are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute a guarantee or promise that a wedding for 40-50 guests can be executed within these budgets. For a personalized quote, please consult with a wedding planner or your selected venue.
Match Your Vision to Your Budget:Ā Use the destination wedding budget guide to see how your vision aligns with each budget level.
Account for Personal Costs:Ā Remember to plan separately for your attire, flights, and other personal expenses. These are equally important but donāt need to complicate your wedding budget.
Work with Experts:Ā A destination wedding planner can help you make the most of your budget, from negotiating with vendors to coordinating all the details. Resources such as Wedding Wire can be especially helpful when planning your destination wedding.
Final Thoughts
Planning your destination wedding budget doesnāt have to be stressful. By understanding whatās included and setting realistic expectations, youāll be able to plan the wedding of your dreams without unnecessary surprises.
Remember, your wedding is about celebrating love in a way that feels authentic to you. No matter your budget, your destination wedding will be an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Breaking Down the Costs of a Mexico Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding in Mexico? Youāre not alone in dreaming of warm beaches, vibrant culture, and luxurious resorts for your special day. But one of the most common questions couples ask is,Ā āHow much will it cost?āĀ While prices vary depending on the level of service and choices you make, hereās a helpful breakdown of what to expect for a wedding with 50 guests.
Hiring a wedding planner familiar with your destination is one of the best investments you can make. Costs can vary depending on the level of service provided, from basic coordination to full-service planning. Planners who specialize in destination weddings often know the best local vendors, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Many planners also offer travel agent services, helping to coordinate your group room block at the resortāa valuable bonus!
Resorts in Mexico typically offer wedding packages tailored to different guest counts and preferences. These packages often include the ceremony, reception, food, and drinks. Upgraded packages with premium decor or private venues will increase the cost, but they can create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
3. Photography: $5,000 (Range: $3,000ā$10,000)
Photography services vary widely depending on the photographerās experience and package details. Many couples also choose to add videography to capture their big day, which can increase the overall cost. Investing in quality photography and videography ensures youāll have memories to cherish forever.
4. DJ or Entertainment: $3,000 (Range: $2,000ā$6,000)
Entertainment is key to a memorable reception. Costs for DJs or live bands vary depending on their popularity and travel needs. Be sure to ask about equipment and any additional fees for setup and breakdown.
Floral and decor costs can vary significantly based on your vision. From simple bouquets and centerpieces to extravagant arches and installations, the extent of the decor will determine the cost. Work with a florist who understands your style and has experience with weddings in Mexico to ensure a cohesive look.
6. Welcome Gifts: $1,500 (Range: $1,000ā$2,500)
Welcome bags are a thoughtful touch for your guests, often including items like sunscreen, local treats, or personalized mementos. The final cost depends on the items you choose and the level of customization.
7. Bridal Hair and Makeup: $800 (Range: $500ā$1,200)
Professional hair and makeup services help you look your best on your wedding day. Many packages include a trial session, which is highly recommended, especially for brides hosting destination weddings in tropical climates.
8. Tipping: $1,500 (Range: Varies)
Tipping vendors and resort staff is an important part of your wedding budget. While not always required, itās a thoughtful way to show your appreciation for their hard work.
Estimated Total Cost: $35,300 (Range: $25,000ā$50,000)
The total cost of a destination wedding in Mexico can vary widely based on your choices. While this estimate provides a baseline for 50 guests, couples can adjust their budgets up or down depending on their priorities.
Why Hiring a Destination Wedding Planner is Worth It
We highly recommend working with a Full Service Destination Wedding Planner who specializes in your chosen destination. (Definition of Full Service Wedding Planner: A wedding plannerĀ helps design and orchestrate a wedding from the beginning. As such, they help couples draw up a budget, find and hire vendors, structure and set a timetable for the ceremony and reception, and oversee everything on the wedding day.) Not only will they help manage the details, but their local expertise ensures youāll work with trusted vendors who can deliver a flawless day. Many planners also assist with travel arrangements, including group room blocks, making the process even more seamless.
Tips for Planning a Destination Wedding in Mexico
Set a Realistic Budget:Ā Understand which elements are most important to you and allocate funds accordingly.
Consider Videography:Ā Many couples regret not capturing their big day on videoāitās an investment worth considering.
Start Early:Ā Popular resorts and vendors book quickly, so aim to secure your dates at least a year in advance.
Communicate with Guests:Ā Send save-the-dates early to allow guests time to plan and budget for travel.
FAQs About Destination Weddings in Mexico
Q: How much do wedding packages cost in Mexico? A: Packages for 50 guests start around $10,000 but can go up significantly based on upgrades and customizations.
Q: Why do floral and decor costs vary so much? A: The range depends on the complexity of your decor vision, the types of flowers used, and the scale of installations requested.
Q: Can a planner help with group travel? A: Yes! Many destination wedding planners also act as travel agents, coordinating room blocks and ensuring a smooth booking process for your guests.
I am thrilled to share my recent guest appearance on theĀ Amor y Bodas podcast, where we talked all aboutĀ destination weddings in Mexico! If youāre planning your dream wedding, this episode is packed with expert insights,Ā Mexico wedding planning tips, and advice on choosing the bestĀ all-inclusive wedding venues. Being featured on theĀ Destination Weddings Mexico PodcastĀ episode was such an honor, and I loved discussing my journey as aĀ destination wedding planner.
Amor y BodasĀ is all aboutĀ destination wedding expert advice, covering everything from choosing the perfect venue to navigating theĀ legal requirements for weddings in Mexico. Tune in for insider knowledge onĀ the best resorts for destination weddings in MexicoĀ and other valuable insights.
It was such an honor to joinĀ Elizabeth PetersenĀ for thisĀ destination weddings Mexico podcast featureĀ and share my journey as aĀ destination wedding planner. The experience was an absolute delight, and Iām so grateful to have had the chance to connect with listeners who share a passion forĀ all-inclusive wedding planning in MexicoĀ and beyond.
During our conversation, I had the chance to discuss my background, my passion forĀ creating unforgettable wedding experiences in Mexico, and why I loveĀ beach wedding planning in Mexico. ThisĀ Amor y Bodas podcast featureĀ was a fantastic opportunity to dive into the details of what makesĀ Mexico one of the top wedding destinationsĀ and why so many couples choose to say āI doā here.
Whether youāre just starting yourĀ destination wedding planning journeyĀ or looking for expert guidance, I invite you to listen in and gain valuableĀ destination wedding trends in Mexico.
Why you need an expert for your Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya Wedding
Are you imagining your wedding day with the sand between your toes and the gentle sound of waves as your backdrop? Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya is a stunning choice for a beach wedding in Mexico. But planning a wedding here is about more than just picking a beautiful spotāitās about understanding the unique charm and possibilities this resort offers.
Iāve had the pleasure of hosting over 500 guests across 8 weddings at Valentin Imperial in the past two years, so I know this place inside and out. My role goes beyond that of a typical travel agent; I partner with you to ensure every detail is just right. With Valentin Imperial being such a popular choice, itās no surprise theyāre always bustling with activity. Thatās where my experience comes in handy. Iām familiar with the ins and outs of the resort and can answer most questions without needing to bother the busy resort coordinators. And if thereās ever something that needs a quick answer, my close relationships with the wedding staff and sales teams mean I can get the information fast.
My goal is to be your guide, helping to make your wedding at Valentin Imperial as seamless and special as possible.
Why Iām the Right Fit for Your Valentin Imperial Wedding
Having the right person by your side makes all the difference. With my extensive experience at Valentin Imperial, Iām here to help you navigate every step, from securing the best room rates for your guests to coordinating all the little details that make your celebration unique. My strong connections with the resortās team ensure smooth communication and quick solutions if anything unexpected comes up.
By working with me, youāre choosing an expert partner whoās committed to making your vision come to life at Valentin Imperial. My background, connections, and the success stories of past couples speak for themselves.
Check out the reviews from couples who have entrusted me with their Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya wedding. Their stories speak to the seamless and unforgettable experiences I help create.
