Let’s be real—when it comes to planning a wedding, budgeting can feel like a never-ending game of “What’s worth it?” and “Wait, it costs how much?!”
If you’re considering a destination wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean, you’re probably wondering how much it actually costs.
The truth? It depends on a few key factors:
- What’s important to you (venue, decor, entertainment, etc.)
- How many guests you’re inviting
- How elaborate you’d like it to be
The Single Biggest Factor Of Costs To Your Destination Wedding: Guest Count & Events
The number of guests you invite will have the biggest impact on your budget. Most resort wedding packages include a set number of guests (typically 30-40), and then you’ll pay per guest for each additional person. More guests = more food, drinks, and seating, which adds up fast.
Thinking about adding extra events like a welcome party, rehearsal dinner, or farewell brunch? Many resorts offer packages to bundle these in, but keep in mind these costs:
- Welcome Cocktail Party: $10-$50 per person (depending on the menu)
- Group Excursion (like a catamaran or city tour): $75-$150 per person
- Cultural Activities (like cooking classes or tequila tastings): $50-$150 per person
- Private After-Parties: $50-$200 per person (depending on the venue)
The Real Costs Of A Destination Wedding
Let’s break it down. Here’s what to consider when budgeting for your big day in paradise:
Resort Wedding Packages
Most all-inclusive resorts offer wedding packages ranging from $5,000 to $20,000+. These typically include ceremony setup, florals, cocktail hours, and reception options. Some resorts even have complimentary wedding packages if you meet a minimum number of booked rooms!
Travel & Accommodations
For you and your guests, plan for a minimum of $1,800+ per person for a 3-night stay, plus airfare. Pre-pandemic, this was closer to $1,500, but inflation has changed things. Yes, there are cheaper resorts, but you get what you pay for. This isn’t the time for a Spring Break 2019 repeat. You want a quality resort with good guest feedback and a strong wedding team to ensure a seamless experience.
Vendors & Custom Touches
Want to bring in your own photographer, videographer, or beauty team? Expect to pay an outside vendor fee.
- Photography and/or Videography: Packages range $3,000-$10,000+, with an outside vendor fee of $500-$1,000+ per service.
- Hair & Makeup Artists: Costs vary based on the number of people/services, and outside vendor fees can be $500+.
- Some resorts waive these fees if your vendor stays on the property for a minimum of three nights.
Most resort vendors are truly excellent. They’ve been hand-selected because they know the property inside and out. They understand the best lighting for every time of day, the most scenic backdrops, and how to seamlessly set up and break down within the resort’s guidelines. That said, if you have a specific photographer, makeup artist, or other must-have vendor in mind, we’ll help you find a resort with flexible policies. Some resorts allow outside vendors for an additional fee, while others may waive that fee if the vendor stays on the property. We’ll navigate these details to make sure you get the dream team you want without any unexpected surprises.
Why A Destination Wedding Offers The Best Bang For Your Buck
The same wedding in the U.S. would cost 3-5x more without the beachfront views, ocean breezes, and unlimited margaritas depending on the location.
A destination wedding gives you a high-end experience for a fraction of the price, plus:
- All-inclusive = fewer surprise costs (food, drinks, entertainment are covered).
- Guests can pick from low, mid, and high-cost rooms to fit their budget, but everyone stays in the same place, enjoying the same experience, and celebrating together.
- Built-in décor (the ocean and palm trees don’t need much extra).
- A full wedding experience (not just one day, but a multi-day celebration).
So, How Much Should You Budget For Your Destination Wedding?
A good rule of thumb: Estimate $250-$350 per guest to recreate a traditional wedding day—ceremony, cocktail hour, private reception with dinner and dancing. That number excludes photography and videography since those costs vary widely.
But Remember, Destination Weddings Are Planned Differently
Unlike traditional weddings, we start with an estimated budget and refine it once RSVPs are in (usually 6 months prior). Start with the $250-$350 per guest estimate, then adjust once you know your final headcount and priorities.
Ready To Start Planning? Let’s Make It Easy.
Here’s the thing: planning a destination wedding isn’t just about picking a pretty resort. It’s about getting all your guests there, handling travel logistics, and making sure everything runs smoothly without you having to play travel agent.
That’s where I come in. I help couples:
- Find the perfect destination that fits their vibe and budget.
- Get all their guests booked (so they don’t have to answer “How do I book?” 100 times).
- Make sure the wedding experience is seamless in paradise.
If that sounds like exactly what you need, let’s chat! Your dream wedding in Mexico or the Caribbean is closer than you think.
