Where to Start When Planning a Destination Wedding in Mexico
You’re newly engaged (congrats by the way!), and you’ve decided you want to skip the banquet hall and say “I do” somewhere beautiful, like a turquoise beach in Mexico. But now you’re staring at Google, Pinterest, and 27 open tabs thinking… Where the heck do we start? If this sounds familiar, take a deep breath. You don’t need to have it all figured out today. You just need to take the right first steps.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly where to begin when planning a destination wedding in Mexico, so you can skip the stress, avoid the overwhelm, and start this process feeling confident. And if you’re a visual learner? I’ve also filmed a full video on this exact topic!
Step 1: Don’t Pick the Venue First
I know… every resort photo online is whispering “Choose me.” But before you fall in love with a sky terrace or a beachfront gazebo, you need to know three things:
Your estimated guest count (Are we talking 25 guests… or 100?)
Your wedding vibe (Casual beach party? Elegant garden? Rooftop chic?)
Your time of year (Mexico has seasons - and hurricane season is a real thing)
Why does this matter? These details will help you narrow down your options fast and ensure your venue and resort can actually deliver what you envision.
Step 2: Choose Your Location Zone in Mexico
Mexico is not one-size-fits-all.
Cancun & Riviera Maya: Turquoise water, plenty of direct flights, and endless resort options.
Cabo San Lucas: Dramatic desert-meets-ocean views and epic sunsets (but not all beaches are swimmable).
Puerto Vallarta: Charming cobblestone streets, lush mountains, and golden-sand beaches.
Costa Mujeres: Peaceful, modern, and still close to Cancun’s airport, but with a calmer, luxury laid back feel.
Your location sets the tone for your whole wedding week. Think about guest travel time, scenery, and whether you want adults-only elegance or family-friendly fun.
Step 3: Define Your Priorities and Budget
Budgeting for a destination wedding isn’t just about a number, it’s about values.
Ask yourself:
What’s most important to us?
Where do we want to splurge?
Where are we okay keeping it simple?
Your answers will guide you toward resorts that fit your style and your comfort zone, whether that’s an intimate garden ceremony with custom florals or a lively beach bash with live music and a private reception.
Step 4: Work With a Destination Wedding Travel Advisor Early
Pinterest and resort websites are great for inspiration, but they won’t tell you if a venue gets blasted by direct sun at 4pm or if a beach looks totally different in real life. That’s where I come in. I help my couples:
Find the best resort fit for their guest list, vibe, and priorities
Navigate contracts and group booking perks
Support guests with travel plans
Spot hidden costs and secure bonus upgrades
Having someone in your corner from the start can save you time, money, and so much second-guessing.
Step 5: Avoid Analysis Paralysis
Too many options = no decision.
I see it all the time, couples get stuck comparing 20 resorts and scrolling for weeks without booking anything. [This would also be me… like it’s SOO HARD to choose just one…]
That’s why my process is simple:
We talk through your vision.
I send you 2–3 curated resort options.
You choose, and we start making it happen.
Ready to Start Planning?
If you’re in the “just engaged” stage, my free Destination Wedding Workbook will help you organize your thoughts, define your vision, and take those first confident steps toward your dream wedding in Mexico.
And if you’d like personalized help narrowing down your location, resort, and wedding package—schedule a consultation with me and let’s get this party started.
Want to see me break all of this down on camera? Watch my full YouTube episode:
📺 Where to Even Start with Planning a Destination Wedding in Mexico
