Are you considering planning a destination wedding in Mexico? First of all, amazing choice! Whether you’re picturing barefoot vows on the beach or an artsy garden celebration in a charming colonial town, Mexico is so much more than just all-inclusive resorts and spring break crowds. It’s vibrant, versatile, and full of places that feel wildly romantic and completely unique. As a destination wedding photographer who’s captured celebrations here (and loved every second of it), I’ve learned a few things that can help make your planning process smoother and more fun!

A tall palm tree with green fronds stands against a clear blue sky.

A wedding ceremony setup on a sandy beach features a white pergola decorated with flowers, surrounded by chairs and palm trees, overlooking the ocean under a clear blue sky.

Bride and groom walk hand in hand along a sandy beach, with the ocean in the background. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers for a destination wedding in Mexico

First Things First: Why Plan a Destination Wedding in Mexico?

Mexico is the ultimate destination wedding spot for couples who want something equal parts gorgeous and meaningful. It’s relatively easy to get to from the U.S., full of incredible food and culture, and offers everything from dreamy beach towns to lush jungles and historic cities. But what I love most? You can create a celebration that’s truly you. Whether you’re all about sunset ocean views or charming cobblestone streets, there’s a location in Mexico that fits your vibe!

Flat lay of bridal accessories including white embroidered shoes, a perfume bottle, a wedding ring, a pink ring box with a ring, a tissue, and a card with palm trees labeled "Her Vows.

A white, strapless wedding dress is hanging on a wall next to stone steps and tropical plants in an outdoor setting.

Four women in formal dresses, including a bride in white and three bridesmaids in pink, stand on a sandy beach with palm trees in the background, each holding a bouquet of flowers.

A bride in a white wedding dress stands on a sandy beach under palm trees, with greenery and sunlight in the background.

A man in a light-colored suit with a pink shirt and boutonniere stands on a sandy beach with palm trees in the background.

Best Months to have a Destination Wedding in Mexico?

If you're dreaming of a sunny day and a chill breeze during dinner, aim for November through April. These months are warm, dry, and generally gorgeous. May through October can be a bit more unpredictable, with higher temps and the possibility of tropical storms (especially on the Caribbean side). That said, off-season weddings can be beautiful too. Just have a backup plan for weather!

An outdoor wedding setup on a sandy beach with white chairs, floral arrangements, and a pergola overlooking the ocean for a destination wedding in mexico

Where to Get Married in Mexico (Based on Your Vibe)

Cabo San Lucas: For the Desert-Luxe Lovers

Cabo is the spot if you’re into modern, high-end vibes with a side of chill. It’s giving “golden hour on a cliff” energy, desert views, ocean breezes, and allll the infinity pools.

Venue to Know:
Acre Baja – Total jungle oasis. Treehouse rooms, lush palms, farm-to-table everything… It’s like Tulum and Cabo had a stylish baby.

Tulum: For the Boho Souls Who Love Good Design

Tulum just gets it. Cool, artsy, and full of texture, think barefoot on the beach, candlelit dinners under the palms, and tacos that hit every time.

Venue to Know:
Casa Malca – Beachfront, art-filled, and so photogenic it hurts. It’s perfect for couples who want laid-back luxury with a creative edge.

Sayulita: For the Colorful, Intimate Celebrations

This sweet little surf town on the Pacific coast is full of charm and color. Think mariachi bands, bright textiles, and rooftop cocktails at sunset. It’s artsy, relaxed, and perfect for smaller weddings with heart!

Venue to Know:
Don Pedro’s Palapa – Built on a mountaintop, this spot has ocean views for days and that breezy, toes-in-the-sand kind of energy (but elevated, of course).

Puerto Vallarta: For Coastal Elegance with a Dash of Old Mexico

A little classic, a little festive, and so easy to fall in love with. Puerto Vallarta has those Spanish-style streets, glowing sunsets, and just the right mix of history and glam.

Venue to Know:
Villa Mandarinas – A private cliffside estate that feels like your own secret paradise. Big views, bold design, and major wow factor.

San Miguel de Allende: For the Artsy, Architecture-Loving Romantics

No beaches here, but you won’t even miss them. This colonial gem is so full of character. Cobblestone streets, colorful walls, and rooftop views that feel straight out of a movie.

Venue to Know:
Rosewood San Miguel de Allende – Elegant courtyards, historic charm, and all the luxury you want with the heart you’re craving.

A bouquet of pink roses, anthurium, and green leaves is attached to a white chair, outdoors on a sandy beach.

A bride in a white dress walks outdoors with a woman in a light gown and a man in a pink suit and hat, surrounded by palm trees and wedding decorations.

A beach wedding ceremony setup with guests seated, palm trees, and an arch decorated with flowers, overlooking the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

A bride and groom stand facing each other holding hands during an outdoor wedding ceremony, with palm trees and guests in the background.

A wedding ceremony is taking place on a beach under a white pergola, surrounded by palm trees, floral arrangements, and seated guests.

Make It a Whole Weekend to Remember

One of the best parts about planning a destination wedding in Mexico? You’re not just planning your wedding day, you’re planning an experience for you and all of your guests. It’s the kind of celebration where you actually get to soak in time with your favorite people (instead of waving at them from across a crowded room).

Think beyond the ceremony and sprinkle in some fun throughout the weekend. Here are a few ideas couples love to include:

A welcome night with tacos, margs, and barefoot dancing at a beach bar
A chill catamaran cruise the day before (sun, music, and champagne—yes, please)
A pool party with floaties, cute cocktails, and a custom playlist
A local cooking class or mezcal tasting for your food-loving fam
A relaxed sendoff brunch with fresh fruit, strong coffee, and slow, happy goodbyes

Trust me, these little touches go such a long way. They turn your wedding into a weekend your guests will be talking about for years (and not just because of the dance floor moves). It’s about creating space for connection, laughter, and all those in-between moments that make it so special.

Bride and groom stand together on a rocky beach, holding a bouquet and facing each other, with the ocean in the background for a destination wedding in Mexico

A bride and groom embrace and smile at each other on a beach, with waves and seaweed in the background and the bride's veil flowing in the wind.

Close-up of two hands with wedding rings resting on a white lace wedding dress.

Things You Might Not Think About (But Totally Should)

When you’re planning a destination wedding, it’s easy to get swept up in the vibe, the views, the venue, and the epic food. But there are a few behind-the-scenes details that can really make or break your experience. Here’s what I always tell my couples

Symbolic vs Legal Ceremony

Most couples planning a destination wedding in Mexico opt for a symbolic ceremony and for good reason. Legal weddings here can be a little more paperwork-heavy (and yes, there’s often a blood test involved ). A symbolic ceremony lets you skip the red tape, get legally married at home, and focus on the celebration part while in Mexico!

Travel-friendly Decor

If you’re dreaming of specific signage, paper goods, or sentimental decor, talk to your planner about sourcing locally or working with vendors who specialize in destination weddings. Shipping across borders = delays and surprise fees.

Lighting matters

Sunset hits way differently depending on where in Mexico you are. Cabo golden hour? BEAUTIFUL!. But jungly Tulum vibes? It gets darker quicker. Let’s plan your timeline around the light so we get those glowy portraits.

Day-after Sessions are Magic

Seriously. It’s low-key, the pressure is off, and the photos always feel so intimate and carefree.

A woman in a white dress and a man in a white shirt and beige pants walk barefoot on a sandy beach near the ocean.

Your Destination Wedding Planning Timeline

Let’s be real, planning a wedding in Mexico can feel overwhelming at first. But don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether you’re tying the knot in Tulum, toasting in San Miguel, or soaking up sunset views in Sayulita, here’s a simple timeline to help you stay on track:

12–14 Months Out

✔ Choose your dream destination (Mexico, obviously)
✔ Hire a destination wedding planner
✔ Lock in your photographer + videographer (hi, it’s me!)
✔ Start building your guest list

10–12 Months Out

✔ Book your venue + confirm the date
✔ Secure hotel blocks or resort buyouts
✔ Research legal vs symbolic ceremony options
✔ Send “Save the Dates” (especially if people are traveling far!)

6–9 Months Out

✔ Finalize vendors: florist, beauty, music, rentals, etc.
✔ Design your invite suite + wedding website
✔ Start planning welcome events, excursions, and brunches
✔ Shop for the dress/suit/outfits of your dreams

4–6 Months Out

✔ Book travel for you and your vendors
✔ Finalize guest accommodations + RSVP tracking
✔ Schedule your hair + makeup trial if local to your team

2–3 Months Out

✔ Apply for permits (if your location needs them!)
✔ Finalize your timeline with your planner + photo team
✔ Order signage, favors, and any custom details
✔ Confirm all travel logistics

1 Month Out

✔ Final dress/suit fittings
✔ Pack your wedding wardrobe (don’t forget swimsuits + SPF!)
✔ Re-confirm with all vendors + review your shot list

Wedding Week

✔ Arrive early and soak it all in
✔ Welcome your guests with something fun (boat day, tacos, you name it)
✔ Have your rehearsal + dinner
✔ Sleep, hydrate, and enjoy every second—because it goes FAST

A round table with a white tablecloth is set outdoors with floral centerpieces, woven placemats, and red napkins; palm trees are visible in the background.

A beachside wedding altar with floral decorations and chairs is set up under palm trees, with the ocean in the background.

Several glasses filled with a pink, iced beverage garnished with strawberry slices and sprigs of rosemary are arranged in rows on a white surface.

A tiered black display stand holds several trays of assorted bite-sized appetizers garnished with herbs, set outdoors.

So... How Much Does a Destination Wedding in Mexico Cost?

One of the best things about planning a destination wedding in Mexico is that you can create something absolutely stunning. Whether you’re dreaming of something intimate and coastal or bold and luxe, there’s a range, and it all comes down to what you’re envisioning.

Here’s a general breakdown for a destination wedding in Mexico

Venue & Rentals

Expect to spend anywhere from $5,000 to $20,000+, depending on the location, exclusivity, and what’s included. Places like San Miguel de Allende or Cabo have high-end villas and haciendas that give you serious wow-factor (with privacy and charm that resorts can’t match).

Photography & Videography

Your memories matter most, so budget $8,,000–$15,000+ for a team you really trust (like me). I’ll help guide your timeline, location choices, and make sure every dreamy detail is captured naturally and beautifully.

Design, Florals, & Styling

Custom florals and modern rentals can run $3,000 to $10,000+, depending on scale and vendor team. Think tropical installs in Tulum or soft romantic florals in Sayulita… yes, please.

Planner

Hiring a destination wedding planner is a game-changer. Expect $4,000 to $10,000+ for someone who truly knows the area, speaks the language, and can coordinate every dreamy detail while you sip margaritas beachside.

Food & Beverage

Private catering (not resort packages!) is usually $80–$250+ per person, depending on what’s included. Add a cocktail hour, late-night tacos, or a signature drink bar to really treat your guests.

Extras (Welcome Parties, Excursions, Brunches)

This is where the fun happens. From catamaran cruises to welcome dinners in a candlelit courtyard, these extras can cost $2,000–$10,000+ depending on your group size and vibe, but they totally make the experience unforgettable.

Total Estimate for a Destination Wedding in Mexico:

$30,000–$80,000+ depending on your guest count, location, and how elevated you want things to feel. It can be less for intimate elopements or more if you’re going all-out luxury.

No matter your budget, Mexico has options that feel curated, thoughtful, and full of soul. And honestly? That’s what makes it magic.

A bride and groom dance together outdoors on a wooden floor near palm trees, with the ocean and beach in the background.

Let’s Plan Your Destination Wedding in Mexico Together! Book me as Your Destination Wedding Photographer!

Mexico is hands-down one of my favorite places to photograph weddings. Not just because it’s stunning (which it is), but because the vibe is always intentional and a little bit magical. If you're dreaming of something beautiful, unfussy, and full of heart, I'm so here for it! Want help finding the right spot, planning your day, or figuring out how to make it all flow? I’d love to walk alongside you and help make it all feel easy (and incredibly dreamy). See more of my work on Pinterest and contact me here!

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Vendors

Venue: Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa

Dress: Bespoke Bride

Suit: Stitch & Tie

Videographer: Dallas Campbell Films

Everything You Need To Know About Planning a Destination Wedding in Mexico