Blog - Page 2 of 17 - The French Connection Events

Your Quick Guide to Planning a Dream Wedding in Mexico

Essential Steps for Planning Your Wedding in Mexico

Planning your dream wedding in Mexico? Our fun and easy-to-follow infographic above breaks down the essential steps to make your big day as magical as you’ve imagined! But there’s more to it—let’s dive a little deeper into making your destination wedding truly unforgettable.

Choosing the Best Season for Your Mexico Wedding

Mexico offers a variety of breathtaking locales from the vibrant beaches of Cancun to the serene landscapes of Cabo San Lucas. Each location has its unique charm and optimal seasons. So, whether you envision a spring wedding with ocean views or a cozy autumn exchange of vows amidst historic ruins, Mexico has it all. Remember, choosing the right season and location can set the perfect backdrop for your special day.

Budgeting for Your Mexico Destination Wedding

Let’s talk numbers—but make it fun! Setting your guest list and budget early not only helps in planning but also ensures that you can manage your resources wisely. Whether it’s a lavish affair or an intimate ceremony, knowing who’s contributing and how much can help you allocate your budget for maximum effect—like perhaps an extra hour of that mariachi band you love!

Why Hire a Travel Agent for Your Mexican Wedding?

While a travel agent can get you and your guests to Mexico without a hitch, they primarily focus on logistics like travel and accommodation.

The Role of a Wedding Planner in Mexican Destination Weddings

Hiring a full-service wedding planner ensures that every detail is personalized to your taste and that your day runs smoothly. This means less stress for you and more time to enjoy margaritas by the beach!

Deciding Between a Legal and Symbolic Wedding in Mexico

Decide if you’ll have a legal ceremony in Mexico, which requires a blood test and arriving early, or opt for a symbolic ceremony after getting legally married in the US. Each option has different preparations and requirements.

Choosing guest age restrictions and ceremony type

Deciding on guest age restrictions or choosing between a legal and a symbolic ceremony might seem minor but can significantly impact the vibe of your wedding. These choices affect everything from the tone of your ceremony to the activities you plan. Make these decisions early to tailor the celebration perfectly to your vision.

Celebrate Every Moment

Finally, the most important step—enjoy the journey! From tasting cakes to dress fittings, every moment is a step closer to the aisle. Your wedding in Mexico should be as much about the journey as it is about the big day.

Ready to get started? Contact us today and let’s turn your dream wedding into reality. Because in Mexico, every moment is worth celebrating—and we make sure they are as stress-free and magical as possible!

Steps to Planning Your Destination Wedding in Mexico

Planning a destination wedding in Mexico can be a magical experience, but it comes with unique considerations. To help you navigate the process, we’ve compiled a list of essential questions to ask when planning your dream wedding in this beautiful country.

Destination Wedding Mexico – Akumal Beach

🌴Step 1 – Choosing the Destination

What is the best time of year to get married in Mexico?
- Consider the weather, tourist season, and local events/holidays. Typically, the dry season from November to April is ideal. Generally it recommended to avoid Spring Break and other holidays as rates for flights and rooms are more expensive. Plus you will find everything more crowded.
Are there any legal requirements for getting married in Mexico?
- Will you have a symbolic wedding in destination and get married legally at home? Or if you want to get married legally in Mexico, research necessary documents, and legalities. Mexico requires blood tests and specific documentation.
What is the travel accessibility and convenience for our guests?
- Look into flight availability, and transportation options. Popular locations like Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta are well-served by international flights. Depending on where the majority of guests are traveling from may make you lean towards one destination in Mexico.

🌴Step 2 – Venue Selection

What types of wedding venues are available in Mexico?
- Options include All-Inclusive beach resorts, historic haciendas, lush gardens, and private venues.
What is included in the venue package?
- Check if the package covers catering, decor, coordination, and accommodation. Many resorts have outside vendor fees. You will want to know this before committing to a venue.
Request a quote
- Before booking request a quote to include the estimated number of guests you think you will have with the events and hours you would like. This will be crucial in helping you determine the number of guests you invite and the things you include for your wedding.

🌴Step 3 – Budget and Costs

When possible it is recommended to plan your wedding at least 12 months in advance. This allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts and the best availability.

What are the estimated total costs for a wedding in Mexico?
- Include venue fees, travel expenses, accommodation, and other potential costs. Destination weddings in Mexico can often be more cost-effective than local weddings.
Are there any hidden fees or additional charges we should be aware of?
- Ask about outside vendor fees, welcome bag delivery fees, service charges, taxes, and gratuities, which can add up.
Can we negotiate package deals or discounts for group bookings?
- Work with a travel agent to negotiate group rates for accommodation and activities. Many resorts offer discounts for booking multiple rooms. All-inclusive resorts often offer room block concessions for having guests book within a wedding group room block.

🌴Step 4 – Wedding Planning and Coordination

Do we need to hire a wedding planner or coordinator?
- A destination wedding planner can help navigate the process, and they know the best vendors.
Do we work with the resort vendors or hire our own?
- Often working with the resort vendor requires working through the resort coordinator. Resorts tack on fees for rentals and services. Some times it is better to pay the outside vendor fee and work with your own vendors. This is better done when working with a destination wedding planner as they can assist with the management.
What backup plans are in place for unexpected weather or emergencies?
- Ensure there’s a contingency plan for rain or other disruptions, especially for outdoor weddings.

🌴Step 5 – Guest Experience

What accommodation options are available for our guests?
- When choosing the host resort, it is best to choose a property that offers a range of room options to suit different budgets. Some guests will want to make a vacation of the trip and others will just want the least expensive.
What activities and attractions are nearby for our guests to enjoy?
- Highlight local excursions, sightseeing, and cultural experiences, such as exploring Mayan ruins or snorkeling in cenotes.
How can we make our guests feel welcome and comfortable?
- Consider welcome bags, transportation arrangements, and a detailed itinerary. Providing information about local customs and language tips can also be helpful.

🌴Step 6 – Legal and Cultural Considerations

Are there any cultural customs or traditions we should be aware of?
- Respect local customs and traditions in your wedding plans.
What are the legal steps required to make our marriage official in Mexico?
- Confirm the process for legalizing your marriage and obtaining a marriage certificate. This often involves legal documentation and possibly an appointment at the civil registry.

🌴Step 7 – Post-Wedding Plans

What options are available for a honeymoon in or near our wedding destination in Mexico?
- Explore romantic getaways and activities to extend your celebration, such as relaxing in Tulum or visiting the beaches of Playa del Carmen.

Planning a destination wedding in Mexico involves many details, but asking the right questions can help you create a memorable and stress-free celebration. Keep this guide handy as you embark on your wedding planning journey, and enjoy every moment of making your dream wedding a reality!

If you are overwhelmed by the options, we can help! Click the button below to schedule a complimentary initial consultation.

Key difference between Full-Service Destination Wedding Planner and a Travel Agent

Images in post by Gaber Studio – Planning and design by: Tracy French Weddings

Embarking on planning a destination wedding can feel like an exciting adventure, but it can quickly become overwhelming without the right help. Engaged couples seeking a destination wedding may find confusion as often travel agents refer to themselves as destination wedding planners. However, don’t offer the comprehensive planning services of an actual wedding planner that you would find in the states. A full-service wedding planner handles all the details on your behalf and rarely turns you over to vendors for communication. Given that a wedding is often the most expensive day of a couple’s life and holds immense sentimental value, it’s crucial to understand the role of the professional you are hiring.

Let’s dive into what makes a full-service destination wedding planner the game-changer you need for your special day.

Images by Gaber Studio – Planning and design by: Tracy French Weddings

Expertise and Experience

Full-Service Destination Wedding Planner	Travel Agent
Experience: For example: We have over 24 years of wedding planning experience with numerous awards and features in magazines, radio and TV shows.	Experience: Primarily experienced in booking destinations and coordinating travel, with limited wedding planning experience.
Comprehensive Planning: A destination wedding planner has scheduled planning meetings with the wedding couple throughout the planning process. Provides hands on wedding planning and wedding design services. Communicates with all vendors on behalf of the couple.	Limited Planning: Helps choose a resort. May be able to refer a few vendors. Leaves wedding planning and communication with resort and vendors to the couple.
Vendor Coordination: Coordinates with all vendors, ensuring seamless communication and execution. A destination wedding planner has relationships in the destination that they rely on to make wedding magic happen.	Minimal Coordination: Couples must communicate with vendors and resort coordinators, which can be stressful and overwhelming. Resorts and vendors have 100’s of weddings each year. Often they will not work with a couple until 90 days before the wedding.

Personal Attention and Customization

Full-Service Destination Wedding Planner	Travel Agent
Personalized Service: As a full service wedding planner, my services are tailored to the couple’s preferences and vision for a unique wedding.	Generic Service: Assist with selection of host resort and turns couple over to resort coordinator.
On-Site Coordination: As a full service destination wedding planner, we travel to the destination ahead of the couple to meet vendors and ensure everything is ready for the couple and guests arrival.	Limited On-Site Presence: Does not travel to the destination, leaving the couple to manage details with resort staff.
Day-of Coordination: A full service wedding planner is managing all wedding details and vendor interactions on the wedding day, allowing the couple to enjoy the experience of getting married.	Resort Coordination: Day of coordination is left to the resort coordinator. Resort coordinators work with 100’s of weddings each year. There is little personalization and ofter couples need to enlist the help of family and bridal party for assistance if wedding should have many details.

Image by Gaber Studio – Planning and design by: Tracy French Weddings

Additional Services

Full-Service Destination Wedding Planner	Travel Agent
Comprehensive Package: In addition to the planning of the wedding as a full service destination wedding planner we facilitate the wedding group room block, build a wedding website, and book guests into the group room block.	Basic Package: Primarily focuses on booking travel and accommodations with limited involvement in wedding-specific details. They may provide a wedding website for guest booking.
Guest Coordination: We are the guests point of contact and keep guests informed about travel arrangements and to-dos, ensuring a smooth experience.	Guest Management: Minimal guest coordination, with most responsibilities falling on the couple.
Budget Management: A full service destination wedding planner will provide guidance on your overall wedding budget.	Budget Oversight: Does not offer detailed wedding budget management. Only works within the parameters of the guest room block.
Design, Production and Etiquette guru: As a full service wedding planner we design the wedding, bringing the couples’ inspiration to life by working closely with local production companies, sourcing entertainment, vendors and rentals. Additionally, we are your go to for etiquette do’s and don’ts.	Limited Design and Guidance: Does not get involved in the design aspect. The couple will source and manage on wedding day. The couple creates their own save the dates, invitations, print work etc. No guidance on wedding etiquette.

Investment and Value

Full-Service Destination Wedding Planner	Travel Agent
Service Fees: Destination Wedding Planning services generally fees start at $3500, with costs increasing based on guest count, overall budget, and the number of events.	Service Fees: May charge lower fees or FREE services for “wedding planning”, but with limited scope.
Value for Money: Comprehensive service, peace of mind, and flawless execution provide exceptional value.	Hidden Costs: Limited planning can lead to stress as the couple communicate with the resort coordinator, vendors and manages wedding details themselves.

Image Gaber Studio – Planning and design by: Tracy French Weddings

Conclusion

Not all destination weddings need or require the services of a full service destination wedding planner. If you are envisioning a wedding that is uniquely designed, rich with details requiring multiple vendors to facilitate the wedding weekend, then going the route of hiring a full service destination wedding planner is the direction you will want to go. Choosing between a full-service destination wedding planner and a travel agent who offers wedding services can make a huge difference in your wedding experience. Hiring a seasoned destination wedding planner means getting a dedicated partner who will handle every detail, making your special day everything you’ve dreamed of and more.

For couples looking for a stress-free, fun, and unforgettable wedding planning, investing in a full-service destination wedding planner is the ultimate way to make your vision come to life.

Let me take care of the details so you can focus on celebrating your love in the stunning setting of Mexico.

A Guide to Tipping Destination Wedding Vendors

Hey there, fabulous couples! 🌟

Planning a destination wedding is like creating a magical adventure, and just like any epic quest, you’ve got an amazing team helping you along the way. Showing your appreciation with a little extra love (aka tips) is a wonderful way to thank the superstars who make your big day unforgettable. Let’s dive into the fun world of tipping wedding vendors and spread the love!

all photos in post are by Gab er Studio

Location: Valentin Imperial Riviera Maya

General Tipping Guidelines

Budget for Tips: Planning ahead means more time to relax and celebrate! Include tips in your wedding budget to keep things stress-free.
Cash is King: Nothing says “thank you” like a crisp bill in an envelope. Label them to make tipping a breeze.
Timing: Hand out those tips at the end of the event, or let your wedding planner (that’s me!) or a trusty friend take care of it.

Vendor-Specific Tipping Suggestions

Catering Staff
- Tip: Often included in the contract; if not, 15-20% of the total bill
- Amount: $20-$50 per server
- When to Tip: End of the reception
Bartenders
- Tip: 10-15% of the total bar bill
- Amount: $10-$20 per bartender
- When to Tip: End of the reception
Hair and Makeup Artists
- Tip: 15-25% of the service fee
- Amount: $50-$100 per artist
- When to Tip: At the end of the service
Photographer/Videographer
- Tip: Optional
- Amount: $50-$200 per professional
- When to Tip: End of the reception or after receiving the final photos/videos
Musicians/DJ
- Tip: 10-15% of the fee
- Amount: $25-$100 per musician, $50-$200 for a DJ
- When to Tip: End of the reception
Officiant
- Tip: Often a donation to their church/organization
- Amount: $50-$100
- When to Tip: Before the ceremony
Wedding Planner/Coordinator
- Tip: Optional but appreciated
- Amount: 10-20% of their fee, or a nice gift
- When to Tip: At the end of the reception or after the honeymoon
Delivery and Setup Staff
- Tip: Optional, but appreciated for hard work
- Amount: $5-$10 per person
- When to Tip: Upon delivery or setup completion
Transportation
- Tip: Often included in the contract; if not, 15-20%
- Amount: $20-$50 per driver
- When to Tip: End of the service

Special Considerations for Destination Weddings

Local Customs: Every country has its quirks—check out the local tipping customs to fit right in.
Currency: Tip in the local currency unless the vendor says otherwise.
Service Charges: Keep an eye on those contracts! Sometimes service charges are already included, especially at all-inclusive resorts.

Final Thoughts

Tipping is like giving a high-five for a job well done. It’s not always mandatory, but it’s a fabulous way to show your gratitude to the people who make your wedding day sparkle. Hand over those tips with a big smile and a heartfelt thank you!

Carlie and David’s Dream Wedding at Dreams Tulum Resort

Carlie and David’s destination wedding at Dreams Tulum Resort in Mexico was one of my favorites.

Planning Challenges and Solutions

Carlie initially struggled to communicate with Dreams Tulum Resort directly. Fortunately, she discovered my services through a Google search for “Best Destination Travel Agent for Mexico Weddings.” Our collaboration began, and I immediately understood her vision for a vibrant and colorful celebration that reflected the essence of Mexico.

Over eight months, she and I meticulously planned every detail. Carlie had so many small personal touches that she included that made her day special for both her and her guests. I sourced the floral and decor from vendors in the destination that I have relationships with to bring Carlie and David’s dream to life.

The Wedding Celebration

The weekend festivities commenced with a lively welcome party, setting the stage for the main event. Against the backdrop of Dreams Tulum‘s beautiful rooftop terrace, Carlie and David exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by loved ones.

Dreams Tulum: A Popular Destination

Dreams Tulum Resort recently gained widespread attention after hosting a popular television show, The Bachelor. It is a versatile wedding destination for couples seeking a family-friendly all-inclusive property near Tulum, Mexico.

Capturing Memories

Rose Rashid’s photography and Verite Wedding Films beautifully captured the magic of Carlie and David’s special day.

Your Dream Destination Wedding Awaits

If you’re envisioning a destination wedding in Tulum, Mexico, let’s collaborate to create an unforgettable celebration at Dreams Tulum Resort.

Contact me today to start planning your dream wedding amidst the beauty of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.