As a destination wedding travel agent who specializes in weddings at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, one of the most common questions I get asked is, "How much does a destination wedding cost?"
And the answer is...“It depends.”
I realize that’s not a very helpful answer by itself, so let’s get into some of the factors that will impact the cost of your wedding to give you a better idea of what to expect.
Is a Destination Wedding More Affordable Than a Traditional Wedding?
In most cases, yes! Traditional weddings in the U.S. typically average around at least $30k-$40k+, while it's possible to plan a beautiful destination wedding for $10k-$15k—sometimes even less, depending on the guest count and specific details.
Based on the final invoices for my couples' past weddings, I would say a rough gauge to use to estimate how much your destination wedding might cost is about $250-$350 per guest (not including things like travel expenses, attire, or photography). Keep in mind that all of this depends greatly on how lavish you want your celebration to be.
Factors That Impact Destination Wedding Costs
1) Location
Destinations like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Jamaica, which have a lot of all-inclusive resort options, are going to be more affordable than places like Hawaii or Italy.
Many all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean have wedding packages that include your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception, and they also have their own complimentary wedding coordinators to help you with planning the details.
2) Time Of Year
The season you choose to get married will not only affect resort rates but it can also impact wedding package rates. Pricing is typically higher during the winter months because this is considered peak travel season for most tropical destinations.
Before you decide to have your wedding during low season to save a little money, though, be sure to read my Best Time of Year to Get Married in Mexico blog to learn more about the pros and cons to consider for each season.
Pro Tip: The day of the week you choose for your wedding can also affect pricing; many resorts have higher wedding package pricing for weddings on the weekend.
3) Resort Choice & Wedding Packages
The specific resort you choose for your wedding also plays a big part in the overall cost of your celebration—some have wedding packages that start at a higher price point than others.
Remember too that some all-inclusive resorts offer free wedding packages that while simple can still be quite elegant. These free wedding packages often include things like:
An on-site wedding planner
A bouquet and boutonniere
Pre-recorded music for your ceremony
Chairs for your guests
A wedding cake
Sparking wine for a toast
NOTE: Free wedding packages typically only include your ceremony—not a private reception.
With any wedding package, you always have the option to select upgrades and customize it by adding on in any way you like. You’ll find that some resorts have even created wedding inspiration themes to help you imagine the possibilities and make the planning process even easier.
Check out my blog post called Destination Wedding Packages For All-Inclusive Resorts in Mexico & the Caribbean to learn more about the ins and outs of wedding packages.
4) Private Events
One thing that surprises many couples is that a private wedding reception at an all-inclusive resort isn't free. Resorts charge for labor costs associated with setting up the event (e.g. dinner on the beach) and since it’s a private function, they also need to pay for separate wait/bar staff who are dedicated to specifically serving your guests.
And, the more private events you have—welcome cocktail hour, beach bonfire rehearsal party, dinner reception, etc.—the more it adds up.
Pro Tip: If you have a larger group, many resorts offer "group concessions" (a.k.a. perks) which can be applied towards the cost of the wedding; some resorts also offer complimentary private events (like a private reception), based on the size of your group.
5) Venue Selection
At each resort, there are wedding venues that are available at no additional cost and then some resorts have venues that have an added fee. Venues that typically have an additional fee are: rooftop/sky terraces, overwater chapels, and privatizing a resort restaurant.
6) Flowers & Decor
Flowers and decor are one of the quickest ways to greatly increase the cost of your destination wedding.
From your bridal bouquet to the florals for your ceremony arch and aisle to the centerpieces and tablescapes at your reception—the sky is the limit for your special day. But, like I always say, the great thing about destination weddings is that you don’t actually need to spend a lot on fancy décor since the natural setting is so beautiful by itself.
7) Photography/Videography & Entertainment
Another big factor in cost is how elaborate you want your photography/videography and entertainment to be.
For example, if you want extended hours of coverage and drone footage, the price tag will be much higher. Similarly, it's going to be a larger investment to have a live violinist for your ceremony and cocktail hour, a fire dancer during dinner, cold fireworks for your first dance, and a light up dance floor for your reception.
How to Make Your Destination Wedding More Affordable
If you're looking to save money while still having the wedding of your dreams, consider these ideas for cutting some costs:
Choose an all-inclusive resort that offers excellent group concessions like free events
Book your wedding during shoulder season months, like May or November, to take advantage of lower rates
Have your wedding on a weekday instead of the weekend to avoid increased pricing for popular weekend dates
Plan informal events for guests to mingle before the wedding like meeting up at one of the bars for a cocktail hour or the swim-up bar for a pool party rather than having private events
Pick a venue that doesn't have any added fees
Keep things simple and let the beauty of the destination be your decor
Final Thoughts: Why Work With a Destination Wedding Expert?
Planning a destination wedding can feel very overwhelming, but that's where I come in! As a destination wedding specialist, I help couples:
Find the best all-inclusive resort that fits their style and budget
Secure a wedding room block to hold rooms and lock in rates for guests
Coordinate travel details for guests, making their experience easy and seamless
Want expert help finding the right resort and setting up your room block?
Click here to schedule a complimentary consultation call so we can chat!
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