Planning a destination wedding in Mexico? First of all — YAY! You’re about to say sí, quiero in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. From the cobblestone charm of San Miguel to the jungles of Tulum or the cultural beauty of Oaxaca, it’s truly a dream.
But let us tell you something: even paradise needs a plan. And when it comes to hiring wedding vendors for your big day, a few common mistakes can turn your dreamy destination into a logistical nightmare.
So let’s break it down — wedding-planner-style — and help you avoid these very common vendor mistakes (with some expert recs sprinkled in, of course).
Ready to meet vendors you’ll actually love?
Explore our handpicked catalog of wedding professionals in Mexico clicking here and let´s go!
1. Not Considering Your Budget
Destination weddings can be more cost-effective — but not when you forget about things like:
Taxes (16% IVA in most of Mexico)
Vendor travel & accommodation
Additional setup or overtime fees
Gratuities, delivery costs, permits — yes, even permits!
Think: you're booking dreamy florals in Mérida — but did you factor in delivery to your jungle venue in Tulum? That’s where experienced florists like La Madrid Casa Productora shine. They specialize in destination florals across Yucatán and Quintana Roo and know how to make your floral vision happen without surprise costs.
Your move: Make a clear vendor budget before you book. Ask for full quotes with taxes, travel, setup, and backup plans included.
2. Hiring Based on Instagram Only (Don’t be fooled by the filters!)
Instagram is great for inspiration, but it’s not the full story. A vendor might slay their feed but be a total disaster on your wedding day.
Look beyond the squares:
Ask to see full galleries or wedding films
Request real reviews and testimonials
Confirm they’ve worked in your destination
For example, if you’re getting married in Oaxaca, you need someone who understands the light, culture, and vibe there. That’s why brides love Daniel Matus — a local videographer whose films are full of warmth, rhythm, and that unmistakable Oaxacan soul.
Same with photographers: If you’re craving candid moments and editorial flair, The Times We Have are a go-to. And if you're looking for someone to truly capture you — your connection, your energy — Andrés Mondragón is a master at documenting the essence of each couple.
Your move: Ask to see 3+ full wedding galleries or videos from your location type — beachfront, colonial, jungle, etc.
Foto: Light as Gold
3. Not Reading the Fine Print (Contracts = sanity savers)
This one’s boring but SO IMPORTANT.
Brides often forget to:
Double-check what's included (e.g., touch-ups with your HMUA, second shooters for your photographer)
Understand cancellation terms
Confirm exact delivery timelines
Say you're getting married in Baja and booked a glam team — don’t just assume they’ll stay for touch-ups. That’s why brides love working with Blank Beauty. Their contracts are clear, their team is punctual, and their bridal beauty looks are always on point (even through beach humidity!).
Your move: Ask your vendors to walk you through their contracts. If anything sounds vague, clarify it in writing.
4. Booking Too Late (Mexican vendors get scooped up FAST)
Destination hotspots like San Miguel de Allende and Tulum book up over a year in advance. If you fall in love with a planner or photographer and wait too long... chances are they’ll be booked.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate boutique wedding in San Miguel, reach out early to someone like Bougainvillea Weddings. They specialize in curated, detail-rich weddings and only take on a select number of clients each season — which means you get all the attention (but need to book ahead!).
Your move: Book your planner, venue, and photo/video team first. Then build the rest of your vendor team around them.
Foto: Love And Gatherings
5. Letting Others Decide for You (This is YOUR wedding!)
Your mom may want a 200-person hacienda wedding. Your cousin wants you to use their DJ. But what do you want?
This is YOUR love story. Make choices that reflect your relationship — your vibe, your story, your kind of magic.
For example, if music is a must-have part of your celebration, don’t let anyone else choose the playlist. Trust pros like SENSE DJ — expert wedding DJs who don’t just play music… they design full sensory experiences that take your party to the next level. From ceremony ambiance to dance-floor energy, they’ll make your celebration unforgettable.
Your move: Don’t outsource the decisions. Lean on trusted vendors who make you feel heard and supported. The best ones will guide you without pressure.
Bonus Mistakes Specific to Destination Weddings in Mexico:
Not Hiring Local Experts
Local planners and creatives know the ins and outs — weather, permits, vendor reliability. Like Penzi Weddings for San Miguel or Lucy Ferreira for high-end Oaxaca celebrations.
Not Considering Cultural & Language Barriers
Even a simple miscommunication can lead to chaos. Hire vendors used to working with international couples, like Yadira Castañeda — who blends cultural sensitivity with flawless execution.
Not Prioritizing Personality Fit
Your photographer and videographer will be with you ALL day. Make sure they vibe with you — like Valery Velázquez do with couples who want effortless storytelling without posing all day long.
Don’t Gamble with Your Vendors, we Already vetted the best for you
We’ve curated a list of incredible wedding planners, photographers, florists, glam teams, and more across Mexico — people we trust and would hire ourselves.
Ready to make your planning process easier? Explore our handpicked vendor catalog and book with confidence.
This is your wedding. Let’s make it unforgettable (for the right reasons).
With love, see you next time xoxo!
