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Guide to All Inclusive Wedding Packages

Guide to Choosing an All Inclusive Destination Wedding Package

Research shows that couples who have a destination wedding are generally more satisfied with the experience than those who marry close to home. They feel less stress during the planning process, have fewer regrets about the money spent, and are more likely to enjoy their wedding when the big day arrives. Why is this, exactly? In the majority of cases, these destination wedding couples are opting for a packaged wedding experience, where the costs are all bundled together and the "heavy-lifting" is handled by a specialized wedding planner.

What Makes a Wedding Venue All-Inclusive?

One of the first questions most couples have when planning a destination wedding is, "What is a destination wedding package?" While these vary from one resort or package to the next, most share some similar traits and inclusions.

An all inclusive wedding venue is one where many of your wedding needs are included in one single cost. Typically, an all inclusive wedding package will include two parts. The first is your all inclusive resort stay. This is a cost that you'll pay per person, per night. For that cost, you'll get your accommodation, most food and drinks, and many activities, such as entertainment, non-motorized water sports, and pools.

The other side of your all inclusive package is your wedding package. This is often a separate cost that you'll pay, based on your package choice and the number of guests you're inviting. In some cases, resorts may offer a complimentary wedding package if your resort booking or your guests' resort bookings meet certain requirements.

What is included in a destination wedding package? An all inclusive wedding package typically includes a venue, decorations, an officiant, and planner services, as well as often a small cake and a champagne toast. 

Not only does booking all inclusive wedding packages save you money, but it also makes planning a destination wedding much easier. There's no need to worry about finding and booking separate vendors for everything you need. Instead, everything is included in one simple package. You can easily see exactly what your wedding and resort stay will cost, allowing you to budget for every part of your wedding.

The Top Benefits of All-Inclusive Destination Weddings

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    Cost Savings

    All of the details, from the DJ to your florals, are bundled into one, low price.

  • Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Destination Wedding Package

    Convenience

    When everything is built into one package (including a dedicated planner!), there is simply less stress for wedding couples.

  • Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Destination Wedding Package

    Customization

    Packages can be customized based on a couple's style, budget, and guest list.

Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Destination Wedding Package Riu Hotels and Resorts

Is an All-Inclusive Wedding Package Right for You?

Every couple has unique needs and wishes when it comes to their wedding day. While all-inclusive packages are growing in popularity, they may not be right for everyone. Before choosing an all-inclusive destination wedding package, take time to think about what's most important to you. Consider your budget, your dream locale, and all the must-haves on your wedding checklist. Ask yourself:

  • What type of setting or region do I want to get married in?
  • How much am I comfortable spending?
  • Which details are most important to me for the big day?

Not all locations around the world offer all-inclusive wedding packages. For example, you will find less all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii, than you will in international destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean. If you are set on a certain destination, be sure to consult with a Destination Wedding Specialist who is knowledgeable in this area, and who can confirm if and which packages are available to you. If you know you want to get married in a certain setting—for example, somewhere warm and tropical—your Specialist can help you find where the most affordable all-inclusive beach wedding packages are.

Common All Inclusive Package Inclusions

As a couple, you know which details matter most on your big day. Creating a checklist of your must-haves ahead of time helps you and your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist choose the right wedding packages for your celebration. Here's what you can typically expect across resort wedding packages:

Venue & Ceremony
Your wedding packages include a dedicated ceremony space at the resort, such as a beachfront gazebo, tropical garden, or elegant terrace. Setup typically covers a decorated arch or structure, guest seating, and an on-site wedding coordinator who manages the logistics from planning through the last dance.

Catering & Drinks
Most mid-tier and premium packages include a semi-private or private reception with catered dining and bar service. Basic packages often cover a champagne or sparkling wine toast and a wedding cake. Upgraded wedding packages add multi-course menus, cocktail hours, and extended open bar options.

Planning & Styling
Floral arrangements, including a bouquet and boutonniere, are standard in most packages. Higher tiers add upgraded florals, centerpieces, and custom decorations. Your on-site coordinator works with you to personalize the look and feel of your celebration.

Entertainment
Ceremony music through a sound system is a common inclusion. Premium wedding packages may add a DJ, live band, or cultural performers for the reception.

Romantic Extras
Many wedding packages include special touches for the couple: late checkout, a complimentary room upgrade, couples' massages, a candlelit dinner on the beach, or even a complimentary honeymoon stay.

With a traditional wedding, all of these elements would be separate expenses. All inclusive wedding packages bundle them into one price, saving time and money.

Talk To A Destination Wedding Specialist Now
Types of Wedding Packages Available

Types of Wedding Packages Available

All inclusive resorts offer several types of wedding packages designed to fit different celebration styles, group sizes, and budgets. Here's how they break down:

All-Inclusive Packages
These are the most comprehensive wedding packages available. Higher-tiered all inclusive options bundle the ceremony, reception, DJ or entertainment, decorations, and sometimes guest accommodations into one price. They're ideal for couples who want everything handled in one place without coordinating multiple vendors.

Luxury Packages
For couples who want an elevated experience, luxury wedding packages are offered at high-end venues and premium resorts. These typically include private venues, custom floral design, gourmet multi-course dining, premium bar service, professional photography and videography, and dedicated event planners who handle every detail.

How Much Does an All-Inclusive Wedding Cost?

How Much Does an All-Inclusive Wedding Cost?

The exact cost of your all inclusive wedding will vary depending on a number of factors, including the region you get married in, the resort you choose, the wedding package, your venue choice, and the number of guests you're inviting.

Let's take a look at what the average cost of all inclusive wedding packages in regions that are popular with destination weddings:
  • Caribbean: $1,000 to $5,000 for a smaller wedding
  • Mexico: $5,000 to $12.000

Different countries and regions in both areas may vary in price. For instance, a resort wedding package in Jamaica averages under $3,000 for a smaller wedding, while a wedding in Turks and Caicos may be closer to $6,000. A wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico, could be as low as $2,000, while a wedding at one of Tulum's luxury resorts could be much higher.

How Do I Find an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue?

How Do I Find an All-Inclusive Wedding Venue?

With so many options to choose from across the Caribbean and Mexico, it can be challenging to narrow down your options and choose an all inclusive wedding venue. But finding the perfect resort doesn't need to be overwhelming. There are several ways that you can start your search.

One is to do your own research. The team here destinationweddings.com makes it easy to find the perfect resort. We can help you search by region and look at resorts at a wide variety of price points. Easily view information about the resort, available wedding packages, and special details about what makes each resort special. This is a great first step to take. You and your soon-to-be spouse can use the site to figure out what type of resort you might prefer, or which region might have resorts that fit best in your budget.

Another important step is to take a look at online reviews from real people who have stayed there. This is great for finding out which resorts shine and which could potentially be disappointing. Don't let a one-off bad review or great review sway you. Keep in mind that everyone's expectations and experiences are a little different. Something that one guest hated about a resort might be the thing that you love!
All-Inclusive Wedding Venue Checklist

All-Inclusive Wedding Venue Checklist

When you're comparing resorts and wedding venues, there are a few important things that you should look for. Some important details you'll need to check include:

  • How many guests can a venue accommodate
  • How far in advance do you need to book, and what is the cancellation policy like
  • What types of accommodations are available to your guests, and at what price point
  • Are discounts offered for room blocks or on wedding packages for qualifying stays
  • What is the overall style of the wedding venue
  • Can decor options be customized
  • What time of day can you have your wedding ceremony
  • If your venue is outdoors, is there a backup option in case it rains
  • Is the venue accessible (This is very important if you have a guest who may use a wheelchair or other assistive device)
  • Is the venue private, or will other resort guests have access to it
  • What are the options for a reception or dinner following your ceremony
  • Can you add a cocktail hour or other wedding events

How to Choose the Right All-Inclusive Wedding Package

Finding the perfect all-inclusive wedding resort is important and exciting, but is not always the easiest choice. There are thousands of options to choose from overseas. Not only this, but each resort offers several different packages that couples can select, depending on their wants and needs. While there are Certified Destination Wedding Specialists who can help narrow your options down, you'll need to do a bit of homework first.

 Follow these steps to guide you in choosing the right all-inclusive wedding resort:

Determine your non-negotiables (including your budget)

Make a list of your wishes and what is absolutely necessary to have on your special day. At the same time, determine your absolute-max budget for the wedding package, and what you'd be most comfortable spending.

Consult an expert to guide you in the right direction

Bring this information to a Destination Wedding Expert who can guide you in choosing the best location and resort for your needs. This specialist will help you uncover which destinations are all-inclusive and within your budget, and what each resort's wedding packages include.

Browse through your options and look at photos

With your Destination Wedding Specialist, you will look through destinations that have all-inclusive wedding resorts, as well as the types of packages and venues you can choose from there. You can also start searching photos online.

Pay a visit to the venue (if you wish)

Some couples will choose to visit the location and venue ahead of time, to ensure it is the perfect place for them to stay "I do" and to iron out the final details before the big day arrives.

Meet with the onsite wedding coordinator

Destination wedding packages typically come with an on-site wedding coordinator to help bring together the details of your big day - the colors, the décor and setup, the guest list, and more. You can choose to be very involved throughout the wedding planning process, or you can leave it to your resort wedding planner to handle it all.

Talk customizations

If you do wish to customize certain details of your wedding, be sure to let your resort coordinator know ahead of time. They will let you know how much in your package is able to be personalized.

Go with your gut!

Ultimately, choosing the right all-inclusive wedding venue and package is all about following your heart. Remember that this is your day and when you see the right destination, and with all the details checking out, you will know that it's the one.

Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner, From Experts

Working with a destination wedding planner can make planning a destination wedding much easier. Often, these planners have experience with the regions that you're considering, and can offer tips on the best time of year to have your wedding, how to include elements of the local culture, or what the resort you're considering is like.

If you haven't booked a wedding package yet, another great option is working with one of our own Certified Destination Wedding Specialists. Our team is made up of experts on many of the top destinations for weddings in the Caribbean and Mexico. They not only know some of the best locations and resorts for destination weddings, but also understand the unique challenges of planning a destination wedding. 

While both options experts on guiding you through planning your resort wedding, there are still some important questions you'll want to ask them. These questions will help you better understand your options and what the packages you're considering will include. Asking these questions in advance will help you make a more informed decision about which package is right for you.

Some questions to ask your wedding planner include:
Questions to Ask a Wedding Planner
  1. What do all inclusive wedding packages include at this resort?
  2. What isn't included in your wedding packages?
  3. What venues are available with this package?
  4. If the venue is outdoors, will an indoor alternative be provided if it rains?
  5. Are there any extras or add-ons that I can add to my wedding package?
  6. Can I customize any of the decor choices included in my wedding package?
  7. If food is included, what is it like? Are there options to change the food based on dietary needs or preferences?
  8. What time of day can I have my wedding ceremony? Can I choose the time to meet my preferences?
  9. Is there a dedicated area where I/the wedding party can get ready for the ceremony?
  10. Can I customize my wedding ceremony with the officiant? Can I choose a religious or symbolic ceremony? Am I able to have a legal ceremony? What are the requirements for doing so?
  11. Does the resort offer options to have my wedding dress/suit pressed or steamed upon arrival?
  12. Can I have a champagne toast with my guests? Is this included in the package?
  13. Are flowers included in the package? If not, can I add a wedding bouquet or other flowers? Do you have a vendor that you recommend?
  14. Is a wedding cake included in the package? Are there any options to customize the cake?
  15. If the wedding package includes a reception, is there a time limit on this?
  16. Will music be provided during the wedding ceremony? Can I choose the music style or song?
  17. Are there any hidden fees associated with this package?
  18. Is photography included in the wedding package? If not, can this be added? Can I bring in an outside wedding photographer?
  19. Are discounts available on the wedding package based on a specific resort booking?
  20. Can I reserve a block of rooms for my guests? Is there a discount for room bookings based on a minimum number of bookings?

The Final Step: Just Show Up!

Once you choose the venue (and the package that checks all your boxes), it's really smooth-sailing from there. That is one of the biggest advantages of an all-inclusive destination wedding: Your stress can subside once you make these initial decisions. Your Destination Wedding Specialist, and your Wedding Resort Coordinator, will handle all the rest.

Choosing an all-inclusive destination wedding package helps save money, hassle, and time so that you can focus on the important details: such as your wedding dress, your guests, and relaxing with your special-someone before the big day arrives. When working with Destination Wedding Specialists (like us!), not only is all the heavy lifting done for you, you can also ensure you're getting the best price possible—for both you and your guests.

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