As a Native New Yorker who had a destination wedding in Cancun, I was overcome with nostalgia as I browsed through Maribeth and Jarrett’s stunning wedding album. Their wedding theme was New York City chic meets glam beach– and they absolutely nailed it. From Maribeth’s stunning custom-made gown to the incredibly sweet first look, to all the personalized details found throughout the reception, this wedding is one for the books.
My absolute favorite detail was their table and seating cards. Each table was named after a different country which guests could find on a custom-made world map. Guests were then instructed to “take a shot and take their seat”–because there’s clearly no better way to kick off a Mexican Fiesta! A huge shout out goes out to PlayaWeddings for capturing and sharing this absolutely stunning wedding with us. I’m so excited to share it. Enjoy!
Real Destination Wedding Q&A:
Why did you choose to have a Cancun destination wedding at the Secrets Silversands?
We loved the property, the rooms were updated, the food was top notch and the resort was adult only.
How many guests attended your Cancun destination wedding?
47
What were your sources of inspiration when choosing your colors, flowers, cake?
Glam and Beach. We used a lot of different ideas but stuck with our colors (white, Tiffany blue and gray)
What was your favorite wedding detail and why?
I loved our flowers and everything from Etsy. The small touches throughout and personalized gifts and items that were used for decor as well. This includes our cocktail napkins, welcome sign, maracas, shot glasses, fans for the women etc.
Was there any tradition that you skipped at your destination wedding?
We skipped throwing the bouquet.
What was the most memorable moment of your wedding day?
The first look was a lot to take in and the vows. As for the reception, we never left the dance floor!! We did a tequila bottle with a GoPro which was a huge hit to all of our guests!
What was your favorite part of having a destination wedding?
Being able to visit with all of our guests for an entire week or a few days and not feeling rushed to visit and greet everyone at our reception. The entire week was filled with so much fun! We took out a catamaran for everyone one day, we did an off-site wedding rehearsal dinner and brought everyone down to Playa del Carmen for some authentic Mexican (all guests), we also had a beach welcome party one evening and arranged a spa day and golf as well for those who wanted to partake. It was nonstop but allowed for us to give back to our guests who traveled from afar.
What was the biggest challenge you faced when planning your Cancun destination wedding?
It was difficult going back and forth on pricing, layout, and expectations at times. We were fortunate enough to have seen the place two times before our wedding to get an idea but there were small challenges and obstacles that took more time to flush out over others.
What’s your advice to other couples planning a destination wedding?
Do your research and really try to see the resort and meet with the staff beforehand. Our photographers, florist and DJ we hired outside as the resort was charging a significant amount more for what we felt were less quality. Be sure to ask who every vendor is and don’t be scared to challenge the resort or wedding planner. It’s your day and wallet!
Vendors:
Photographer: PlayaWeddings: Photo, Video, Super 8 Film
Venue: Secrets Silversands Riviera Cancun
Floral Designer: Cherry Blossom
DJ: Disco Movil Cancun
Dress Designer: Hayley Paige
Groom Attire: Tommy Hilfiger
Shoes: Kate Spade NY
Bridesmaid Dresses: The Dessy Group
A Sedona Destination Wedding with the Most Stunning Views
