weddingsinplaya Archives - Weddings in Playa

The Cost of it All

February 27, 2023

Wedding budgets and how to save some serious $$$$

Dollars are money spent for budgeting wedding — We have been organizing weddings since 2001 and know some tricks!

Weddings in Mexico! white beach, palm trees and tequilas!! Cheap price right? ehemmm…

All in all organizing these events was extremely cheap 20 years ago when we started the business yet certainly this has changed since all venues have doubled their fees and post- Covid prices have increased. Additionally, flights and hotel rooms have caught up.

plants as wedding decor — Plants instead of flowers

Weddings come in all shapes and sizes and with varying price tags. All things considere, hosting a beautiful wedding doesn’t have to mean to go into debt nor breaking the bank (unless you know how to…). We’ve used our collective experience to put together a list of the best wedding budget tips and hacks. Preparation and research can help save you a lot of your hard-earned money as you plan the big day.

Throw the wedding of your dreams with these wedding budget tips and money-savings secrets

You can have the wedding you’ve always wanted without wiping out your savings.

In this paragraph, moreover, i will suggest how to plan your wedding clearly during a less traditional time of year or time of day to make your rupee/dollar/peso/euro as well as that yin stretch… In addition some hotels give great accomodation deals if you book a large group! (we love https://www.hyatt.com/es-ES/hotel/mexico/grand-hyatt-playa-del-carmen-resort/cunpc)

1. Book in the off-season

Above all, if you’re interested in a destination wedding, choosing a wedding date during slower seasons can save you a lot of money on venue rental, overnight accommodations, flights and more, however that is not always the case. Check online deal and your TA or OTA.

2. Avoid holidays

Another key point is to avoid holidays and other special events that raise local prices. All in all in conclusion it should be noted that to have it at one location, so wedding ceremony, cocktail and reception will be less expensive!

dogs at wedding can be fun — Watch our for uninvited guests! Be clear with your friends if you allow +1…

Booking the venue ( Btw: we love https://bluevenadoweddings.com/)

3. Keep the guest list small

Altogether a small, intimate wedding will save the bride and the groom money on venue rental as well as food and beverage service,but in case of a very large wedding (i am planning one for 300 right now!), ask your guests for no gifts but cash contributions: however couples have everything since they already live together and that will help you both to give the party you dream of!

4. Look for venues that allow outside vendor setup

Also bringing in external vendors is often cheaper than using the in-house version and make sure to ask about additional fees for using outside vendors, set up/tear down fees, gratuity, and any other fees that may unexpectedly arise. Ask to see an example contract and compare various venue policies. We love DJ DIego https://www.instagram.com/evolutionmixaudiovisual/?hl=en

5. Create the ideal menu

Dance carefree because your budget is looking good!

Skip a full-plated dinner service that requires serving staff and includes multiple courses. Family style or buffet are great and everyone can get what they want! In conclusion altogether forget the cake and go for the delightful Mexican pastries like the ones we buy at http://www.chezceline.com.mx/ or at https://ahcacao.com/… We are clients and as a result have been buying for our couples their fab brownies ( for https://ahcacao.com/) and the creme brulee and mini tarts (@http://www.chezceline.com.mx/) since they opened!!

Ah cacao brownies, to die for…

6. Extend your cocktail hour to transition into the reception

As cocktail hour is wrapping up, unveil a slider bar, charcuterie station and break out the entertainment to seamlessly transition into the reception without including dinner service.

Signature drinks make your cocktail more you!

Thrifty decorations yet super cool!!

Spend your money where it matters most. Don’t allow decorations to take over your wedding budget; save money with these great tips. In addition, Pinterest is a super great helper!!!

7. Stick with one theme

Choose one style—one color scheme—and stick to it. Extra flowers, tissue paper, or linen can easily be repurposed to save elsewhere. Please no more gold and violet! seen and re-seen…

8. Paper flowers

Instead of shelling out major money for fresh flowers (be planet savvy since flowers have a high cost) , consider mini plants (like the ones at http://www.jardinfloreria.com) or origami flowers or other crafty DIY alternatives. Furthermore, they are they a bargain, they last a lot longer than “the real thing.” Plus they make a great gift at the end of the night! Arches also can be DIY…

Our clients were creative and got a unique decor for their kissable moment!

The look

We all want to look our best on our wedding day too; that’s a given (that is why our make up artists are the best: we use https://www.sarahgarnier.com/ and https://www.dorannahairstylist.com/ . Furthermore, you can still go glam without gutting your expense budget.

9. Accentuate a simple dress with standout accessories

Simple, classic dresses can easily be taken up a notch with an eye-catching accessory. Lastly, choose jewelry, hair accessories, or shoes that stand out when paired with an affordable gown.

10. Choose a simple hairstyle and add a headband or barrette (or find a good friend…)

Stylists are typically needed for excessive updos. Choose a simple, elegant hairstyle accentuated by a headband or barrette to save on styling costs. If you have good friends, you can ask them for a make up or a touch up…

Financial planning

Financial responsibility is essential to wedding planning with less stress. It’s also a core component of a healthy marriage foundation. Start your marriage off right by setting financial goals, tracking expenses, and working with your partner to stay within a designated budget.

11. Discuss your budget with your partner and agree early on

Set goals and limits that you both agree on. Ensuring that you’re on the same page from the beginning will help avoid unnecessary drama down the line. Set a credit limit, and don’t go over it… Be financially responsible with your wedding planning. If you are comfortable paying off $500 of credit card debt this year, for example, set that limit and stick to it. If you can’t afford it, don’t charge anything at all. Only purchase what you can afford right now.

12. Decide what details are negotiable

Pinpoint “must have” and “can definitely live without” wedding details so that you can allocate money to what you want most. Take advantage of credit rewards and benefits. f you already have a credit card or two, research your reward benefits. See which retailers your creditor partners with to find unadvertised discounts and cash-back opportunities.

13. Look for unexpected expenseTry to anticipate any unforeseen expenses. Will you need to rent restroom trailers for an outdoor wedding? Is there ample parking? Most venues in Riviera Maya are far away from the city. consider that… what is the cost of transportation for the guests? and what if they want to leave earlier? Ask us for everything you need to know, we are always available at Watsapp +529838337771. You can never have too many options. Buy and create the items you really want and set for a budget friendly and amazing wedding day!! ENJOY in the creation…

Thanks for the photos to : https://delsolphotography.com/, https://www.lilibretonphoto.com/ https://www.facebook.com/officialABPhotography, /https://deansandersonweddings.com/ https://naalweddingphotography.com/

Weddings In Playa Laura Joe — Thanks to all the great vendors that make my job easy

Bay wedding in Paamul

August 8, 2021

We often cry at weddings, but this time it was lighthearted, relaxed and vibrant. People often ask me why I chose to become a wedding planner. The answer is pretty simple! When my husband and I were searching for our perfect planner, we had real difficulty finding someone who ticked all of our boxes, we wanted someone we could relate to who was trustworthy, vibrant, personable, full of passion and who was able to plan and deliver a wedding that truly reflected us.

Eventually, we found her and she made the whole process such a simple and enjoyable one.
Now, I am the lucky one who is able to create for my couples what our planner did for us and I truly love the whole process! From our first coffee catch up, to hearing all of the funny little stories that you’ve made throughout your own journey together, to the new journey you’re about to embark on in becoming a married couple.

What i really love at weddings, is the beautiful stories that surround the air. How you met, how you came together, what emerges from your family and friends: the atmosphere you create and feed for the family and friends that join you. It is magic!

Jamie, the bride, wrote to us: Maria, thank you so much. Yes, the wedding was wonderful. Due in large part to Paula – she gave a beautiful ceremony that a lot of the guests commented on later that night – it was heartfelt and touching, and it just felt like it was being said by someone who truly cared.

The restaurant could not have been more perfect. We were so worried that the seaweed would ruin our day that we actually drove out there that morning to check on it, but it could not have been in better shape. They really do a great job of caring for the beach there. Really impressive. And I say the same for the staff at Paamul. The staff went above and beyond. The food was incredible. I already wrote a review for them on Google.

So she wrote and we are extremely happy that another couple has lived a great day! What makes our job real is the people behind the ceremony. Real, vibrant, fun people who want to celebrate life, love and family. We love it!

Grazie to Alessandro Banchelli from PhotostudioAB, Kalu from Paamul and Paula Riquelme, super minister!!

Maria

Five tips to glam up your Beach wedding

April 10, 2021

Beach Wedding anyone? All of you!

Coming out of the winter we all dream about a warm beach and a margarita, better if in company of our newlywed husband and our families and friends. That is why we have created this post, to help you navigate in the realm of the easygoing yet OH so details filled beach wedding. There are a few things you need to find out before walking down the aisle…

Our experience of 20 years will help you to plan and solve any questions ahead of time. We are proud to share with future couples always incredible tips about our wedding planning skills. Yet mark my words: this wedding is yours alone… you decide what stays and what goes, only you!
1) Make sure your set up is wind proof
Mexican beaches are windy locations, this means you want to think twice about candles, balloons or windy ribbons. Use sturdy decor, we secure everything so your flowers or photos don’t fly. Avoid breakable items. Anything important we will double secure it!
Flowers: we have no preference, you want to make sure they stand up well against high temperatures so they don’t wilt. White flowers are the most delicate. Skip the veil or keep it short, or have a young child holding it…or let it fly, like our bride here in the photo.

2) Shade is vital
Just as important as Plan B for rainy weather, you need to cover your guests from the elements. Schedule your wedding at Sunset, so more shade is factored in, especially for the sake of the children and older people. Monitor the weather : It’s what we do at WeddingsinPlaya and advise you for the best.

3) Consider an updo and ditch the heels
Yes we all dream to stand tall and proud, yet heels in the sand are not the easiest. If you really cannot do without we will get you a solid surface where you can stand. Help your guests choosing the right attire, they will be thankful!

4) Food storage, keep it cool 😎
Weather here in Mexico is hot so food storage is a serious consideration. Consider food that is supposed to be refrigerated and don’t keep your cocktail food offer to more than 30 minutes. Prefer plated dinner to buffet. Avoid cakes with butter cream and creamy food. General rule: don’t pick anything that melts or spoils fast. Again, we are here to help and advise you.

5) Party wisely (…or at least try!!)
We had to save people from falling down, crack their skull or have the great idea to swim out to sea when drunk….open bar is too much grace and tough to handle for some. If you know that uncle Jack loves Jack let us know and we will keep a special eye on him. That’s the unheard calling of wedding planners; saving guests from danger, we are kinda Clark Kent but in a dress…

Whatever the number of guests or the type of location focus on accentuating nature. No need to add in too many elements like stones, shells or many flowers. Add in colors to contrast the light color of sand, like tropical colors… Mexican colors are the best! Shop locally, like we advise. Our vendors are all Playa based and we are proud to cooperate with them since 2001!
The perfect beach wedding requires planning and that’s what you can expect once you book with us. We will walk with you through the entire process and help you so you never feel overwhelmed. Here is what you can expect when you connect with WeddingsinPlaya.
We deliver.

Primož & Kaja, Love before lockdown

September 4, 2020

Slovenia is a lovely little country, nested between Hungary and Italy. I am proud to come from those lands, my birthplace is Gorizia, a city divided into 2 from 1945, one part is Slovenian, Nova Gorica and one part is Italian, Gorizia. Even if small, Slovenia has incredible gems: lakes, high mountains, incredible beauty and amazing people. Two of them are the protagonists of this story, a wonderful love story that will wow and move you. They are Kaja & Primož.

Primož met Kaja a few years ago, they were fresh from college and trying to make sense of what comes ahead. He fell head over heels, she was giving priority to her career and study. But love and a steady heart can win over anything, Kaja soon understood how funny, amazing and sensitive he was and they started love story, business & life together. A few years later, after their baby was born, they felt ready for a wedding, but being such clever and whimsical individuals they wanted to have a real party in a real party town: Playa del Carmen , Mexico, in February. The ideal cure after a long cold tedious winter in Slovenia: MEXICO!!!!!

The newlyweds with their closest dear ones, on the beaches of Mexico

They wrote a few months before the Covid Chaos and i had the honor to see them a few time, in Italy and in Slovenia, Ljubljana, the modern and vibrant capital of Slovenia. They wanted a wedding tailored to their style: relaxed yet lively and high-spirited, as they are, young entrepreneurs with a full life, a satisfactory business and a young child. They are very much in consonance and one was finishing the sentence of the other, always with lightness and laughter. A joy to me!

They wanted a secluded place and chose the untouched beauty of the beaches north of Playa del Carmen, near Villa Secret Jewel in Playa del Secreto. A safe harbour with very few tourists…

The sky is not the limit…there is no limit

The condos were lovely and the owner super kind, allowing them to have a little celebration with a lot of heart & fun, as they are! Their flare and cleverness, joined with such kindness bruoght over 20 friends to Mexico to celebrate their lives, their love and the happy union…

The wedding was celebrated a few days before the Covid explosion reached Europe, and life as we knew was changed drastically. Yet the ceremony, performed by Paula Riquelme was heartfelt and family and friends will cherish a memory so amazing in the years to come…

The group was happy to be in a tropical setting, coming from a long European winter, they enjoyed not only a wedding but a whole week of fun and sun, as very often happens. After the ceremony a lovely dinner was held by the caterers of the villa with lots of Mexican ‘comida’ – a different taste and color greatly appreciated by the Slovenian bunch, used to different tastes!

Kaja in the wind, with a lovely look of her husband, Primoz

So, why are so many coming to Mexico to marry? I believe it is the possibility of have a great holiday and a very relaxed, beautiful wedding. Winter in some countries is harsh. Come to Playa, marry your love and celebrate with a lot of tacos, tequila and all your loved ones!

We will be here for you, 20 years ago and tomorrow.

To celebrate life, accomplishments and love with all of you!

Why do you want to hire pros Destination Wedding Planners

June 10, 2020May 22, 2020

Destination weddings have become trendy and posh. We started working in 2001, almost 20 years ago and the number of couples choosing Mexico as their final I DO destination has been increasingly growing. The market is full of planners, all ready to swear by their effectiveness.

Why do you want to hire pros that have been proficiently and longer on the market?

Find out 5 reasons why.

We have mastered the experience of planning

Over 19 years, we have organized more than 500 weddings. Small, large, beach, cenote, interracial, inter religious, gender fluid, complex family dynamics… Stress can be felt. Yet we are open minded, understanding and resilient. We know the who and where. We possess a combination of skills and experience that will make your life easier and will make you look smart.

2. We have built strong relationships with reliable local vendors

Your wedding is a very serious matter to us: we are extremely particular about the vendors we work with: over the years they have proven to us that they are not only excellent at what they do, they are also reliable and genuinely care about our couples. We treat them very well and look out for each other. This results in an awesome wedding.

3. We will be respectful of your budget

Over the years, we have learned many tricks for saving our couples money and we love to share them. Plus we will help you with understanding how to choose a location, what is really important and how to get the best deals in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya.

4. We will be there for you and your guests

Our planner attends to every wedding , so you can celebrate and enjoy your fab day. You can let us know of any allergies, any whims or any needs: we will help creating the best space for you both and your guests.

5. We know what we are doing and how to control different situations

Getting married is an important emotional milestone in your life.

We are here to make it a stress-free experience, so you can enjoy every minute.

Perfection is not about following written steps or a schedule. A wedding is a living entity shaped by each person and their wishes. If you need more or less time for your photo session or your speeches, or simply take a little time alone with your new spouse, we will make it happen.

Flexibility is key in the smallest of details and sometimes even big ones if you decide to make some mayor changes…… (except the partner!!!)

You can rest assured we will treat your wedding as our own.

Thanks to all of our fab photographer for their contributions: Del Sol, Quetzal photography, AB photostudio, Lili Breton photography and Marina Pochepkina.

Ten years later… what happens after they say I do?

February 14, 2020

What happens after the princess marries her prince?

A few success stories after we say good bye…. Happy Val DAY!

Today is February 14th, Saint Valentine.

I am in love with love, not for nothing i do this job.

It is so amazing to get to meet our clients before they get married and start their life together, but what happens after it?

I often remind to my brides that if they put the same effort in the marriage as in the wedding… it will go always incredibly well! Something must stick, because on 600 couples only 5 divorced, so we must bring some luck… or they are quite amazing themselves…

The fact that we say good bye at the beginning of the adventure is not a motive to let years go by without any news. We keep in touch with our ex clients, send them love and also see some of them in Playa, like Erica in this photo!!

We often hear from them, some come to Playa and remarry after 5 or 10 years… we meet the children and i cannot wait to see what else they are going to experience.

Not all have kids, some party like rockstars, like Maryann and Cesar, below, that got married with me in Tulum over 10 years ago….

We love all of their choices, because life is made of real people and real adventure. Here 3 of my fav, Jaimie and Denee, married at Grand Coral 11 years ago.

All of our clients are dear to our hearts, yet time goes by and some of them we never see.

Yet we have fond memories of all of them and wish them a life that is amazing, long and full of love .