Moments That Matter

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Ana y Jose is a great location for a wedding. So cozy and away from the big resort feel! Here is a link to images that I captured there last year. http://momentsthatmatterphotography.com/blog/?p=368 Best of luck with all your plans! Linkn Ana y Jose

Here are my tips for choosing a resort in the Mayan Riviera! I hope this helps! Linkn Cancun and Mayan Riviera Resorts - Which resort is best for YOU? Throughout our experience as wedding photographers in the Mayan Riviera we have had the privilege of visiting many of the beautiful resorts in the area. We have collected tons of useful knowledge to share with destination brides all around the globe. Although we are the photographers, having spent many hours with couples on their wedding day, we could also be considered destination wedding "consultants". We are often asked, "Which is the best resort you have been to?", "What should I look for in a resort to get the most beautiful images". These are great questions and we would like to address them in hopes to provide some valuable, impartial advice for planning your perfect wedding. One of the most important things we'd like to stress about a resort is SIZE. Resorts in the Cancun/Mayan Riviera area range from about 60 rooms to 1000. ~ On one hand, the smaller resorts offer close proximity to all resort amenities. This can have a positive impact on the schedule of your wedding day. Smaller resort means the SPA will probably be within walking distance to your room. No time spent waiting for transportation. Your time is important as you prepare for the big day!! In addition to the preparations, the planned wedding activities (ceremony, cocktails, reception & dance) are also likely within walking distance from each other. This is a big bonus for you and your guests, especially if you have older family attending your wedding. Grandma and Grandpa are sure to appreciate a resort where they can get around on their own. Aside from the wedding day, the smaller resorts are group friendly in the sense that you will find family and friends wherever you go on the resort. Consider that your guests may be coming from all over the world. You will be able to maximize your time together with friends & family that you cannot otherwise see very often. We have also found they are able to accommodate your needs quicker and easier. There are fewer hotel guests and weddings for the staff to deal with, which from our experience, means they are more available when you need them. ~ On the other hand, larger Resorts offer more space and selection. Some brides decide to go with mega resorts to give everyone countless options when it comes to restaurants, beaches, etc. The resort premises has plenty to offer. Regardless of your guests varying preferences, they are sure to find something that works for them. And the obvious, space. If you decide on some alone time with your fiancé/newlywed, there is plenty of space for you two to "get away", enjoy the view, sand in your toes and just relax. With regards to the wedding, since these resorts are usually 3 to 5 interconnected resorts, you will likely have more options when it comes to selecting a wedding site and reception restaurant. Location of the resort compared to major tourist towns can be something to consider. There are many great places to visit along the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Most of your guests will have different preferences about if or how far they'll venture off the resort but the location of your resort can definitely affect their decision. ~ Some resorts are situated directly within Mexican towns or cities. These resorts offer the best of both worlds. Your resort is still a secret hideaway; private, secure, comfortable, nice beaches, pools, & good food but just steps away you will be able to experience the more authentic Mexican life and tourist attractions. For example, here in Playa Del Carmen or Playacar you can walk to the famous 5th Avenue. There you'll find shops, restaurants, dance bars, the ferry to Cozumel, and much more!! Cancun is mainly for party crowds. You will find tons of night clubs, extravagant restaurants and malls. If your group is ready to party and spend lots of money, Cancun is probably the place for you. . Smaller communities like Puerto Morelos and Puerto Aventuras offer some of these attractions but at a much smaller scale. They have a much quieter, more relaxed atmosphere that tends to shut down much earlier than Cancun or Playa Del Carmen. In general, resorts located in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen/Playacar, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras or Tulum are smaller than the ones in "rural" areas. ~ Your other option is something completely secluded from the outside world. The stretch of popular destination resorts, from Cancun to Tulum, is only about 150kms (90 miles). Where ever you choose to stay there is still ample opportunity to see the sights and experience the area. There is always a tour bus, hotel shuttle, taxi or rental car to help you find your way. Aesthetics of the resort can be important for the wedding day photos. ~ The more color, interesting architecture & mature vegetation the better for your images. After the ceremony, we will take the bride and groom around the resort for some newlywed images. A couple key elements that we will look for in order to create fantastic shots are color, interesting light, and architecture. The more of this we can find around the resort, the better!! Consider as well that the ocean is a great backdrop! Although the resort aesthetics can offer some colorful and unique images, it will not make or break the quality of the shots. After all, we are professionals and we are trained to find beauty where it may not be obvious at first glance. External vendor policies & fees. ~ Very important... Some resorts in the Mayan Riviera absolutely do not allow external photographers on the resort premises. Each resort has different rules regarding wedding photographers. Most resorts in the Mayan Riviera have implemented a special rate that they charge to allow photographers to enter the resort. This fee can range from $100 to $500 USD. It is commonly referred to as a ‘Day Pass’ or ‘External Service Provider Fee’. Please check with your wedding coordinator to find out what their requirements are for outside photographers. Some resorts in the area do not allow any outside photographers. Resorts with these strict policies have sometimes allowed us if we are booked into their hotel for the night. Please confirm this with your wedding coordinator, as you will be responsible for ensuring the photorapher(s) and assistant(s) have proper permission to be on the premises to shoot your wedding. Important notes: * There are some resorts that absolutely will not allow external vendors to access the resort. * Our package prices do not include the cost for us to enter your resort. This is an added expense that is out of our control. A list of the resorts we've attended and their External Photographer Policies can be found by Clicking Here. Adults only vs. kid friendly. ~ The minimum age for adult only is usually around 16-18. "Adult only" hotels have a much quieter, relaxing atmosphere than the ones where kids are allowed. The quality of rooms, restaurants and service are a "cut above" the rest. They are tailored to adults who want to enjoy the beauty and calmness of their surroundings without distractions. Of course if you have a flower girl or ring bearer joining you the choice is obvious. These resorts usually have two pools: one with games and music for the younger crowd as well as another, more secluded, adults only pool so everyone can enjoy the vacation in their own way. What locations are available for your ceremony and reception? ~ Privacy is usually a big concern among brides, whether they are being married in their home town or travelling to a tropical destination. The Mexico destination couple may envision their wedding on a remote section of beach sharing their vows with only each other, their guests, and Mother Nature. If this sounds like you, you will need to be very careful when choosing a resort. Although some resorts can offer exactly what you are looking for, others just can't offer as much privacy. For example, hotels that are found within Playa Del Carmen are sharing the beach with many other resorts, as well as the locals (like us!). These beaches get very busy and beach weddings tend to attract a lot of uninvited guests. Such resorts may offer a garden gazebo or more private location away from the busy beach. Sand is also a consideration. If you imagine yourself barefoot as you approach your soon to be husband, then sand is the perfect choice. High heals... not so conducive to sand. Sun or shade? Gazebos offer shade for you and your guests. That Mexican sun can get pretty hot but it's probably part of the reason you chose to get married here! Don't worry, even when the ceremony location is in full sun the wedding coordinator will keep your guests in the shade until the ceremony is ready to begin. ~ Is it important for you to have a private area available for your reception and dance? Not all wedding packages offer a private location for your party afterwards. Be sure to inquire about the available options, capacity of each, and whether or not there will be extra fees associated to booking them. What time do you want your ceremony & reception? Will those times be available for you? ~ There can be multiple weddings per day at the resort you choose. If other brides have booked prior to you, they will have first pick of the time and location of their events. Some resorts have organized their packages in a way that the schedule for each wedding will flow nicely and not have too much "wasted" time between the ceremony and reception. The earlier your day begins the more filler you will need to keep your guests entertained. Even a perfect schedule for the day, will have you worn out by the end of it. If possible, make sure your times are solidified at the time of your booking. In the end, whichever resort you choose, the important thing to remember is that you are marrying your best friend and your family has travelled from far and beyond to witness this important milestone between the two of you. Have fun, be yourself, and the rest will fall into place! I am putting together our reviews of each wedding site we have attended and look forward to sharing that information with you here as soon as possible. Please check back shortly to hear what we thought.

Congratulations fellow Cow-Towner! Go Flames! hehe I should stick to wedding stuff here huh? Best of luck with all your plans down in Punta Cana. The beaches there are wonderful. Take care Linkn

Great review Dafhne... I love DJ Dormixx and what he bring to the receptions out here. A must for any bride that wants to have a "party"! Your tales of "unnecessary hassles" is just a way of life here in Mexico. It makes life very difficult for everybody and one of the drawback of having a wedding here. But the white sands and blue ocean more than make up for it! Thanks for sharing! Linkn

They are both fantastic resorts. Big differences that I see are 1) Dreams Cancun is located in the heart of Cancun. This may or may not be where you want to be for the rest of your time in the Mayan Riviera? 2) Dreams Riviera Maya has very strict vendor policies and last time we had a lot of trouble shooting a wedding there. Best of luck with all your plans! Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! I have shot weddings at The Royal PDC many times and never had problems with other weddings that may have been going on at the same time. I don't ever recall a problem. Most of the weddings I have shot there have also had a DJ. The beach location works very well for that resort and a lit dance floor looks so amazing on the beach just on the sand off resort property. Best of luck with all your planning! Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! I just shot a wedding at Ceiba Del Mar and its such a wonderful little resort for a wedding! Lots of picturesque spots and a fantastic pier!! Have fun with all your planning. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Punta Cana! Best of luck!!! Linkn

Congratulations and have fun with all your planning for the big day in Jamaica! Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Have fun with all your planning. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! The Grand Sunset Princess is a great resort for a wedding with so many picturesque places... you will love it! Have fun with all your planning. Linkn

Congratulations on your engagement and welcome to the forums! The only advice I have for you about the Bahia Principe is that they have had for years, a no vendor policy. Now I have heard that they have changed that but you should look into it if you are considering bringing in a photographer or DJ. Best of luck with all your planning. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Have fun with all your planning here on the BDW website. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Have fun with all your planning for the big day the Bahia Principe Tulum. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums. Here are my tips on choosing a resort! Cancun and Mayan Riviera Resorts - Which resort is best for YOU? Throughout our experience as wedding photographers in the Mayan Riviera we have had the privilege of visiting many of the beautiful resorts in the area. We have collected tons of useful knowledge to share with destination brides all around the globe. Although we are the photographers, having spent many hours with couples on their wedding day, we could also be considered destination wedding "consultants". We are often asked, "Which is the best resort you have been to?", "What should I look for in a resort to get the most beautiful images". These are great questions and we would like to address them in hopes to provide some valuable, impartial advice for planning your perfect wedding. One of the most important things we'd like to stress about a resort is SIZE. Resorts in the Cancun/Mayan Riviera area range from about 60 rooms to 1000. ~ On one hand, the smaller resorts offer close proximity to all resort amenities. This can have a positive impact on the schedule of your wedding day. Smaller resort means the SPA will probably be within walking distance to your room. No time spent waiting for transportation. Your time is important as you prepare for the big day!! In addition to the preparations, the planned wedding activities (ceremony, cocktails, reception & dance) are also likely within walking distance from each other. This is a big bonus for you and your guests, especially if you have older family attending your wedding. Grandma and Grandpa are sure to appreciate a resort where they can get around on their own. Aside from the wedding day, the smaller resorts are group friendly in the sense that you will find family and friends wherever you go on the resort. Consider that your guests may be coming from all over the world. You will be able to maximize your time together with friends & family that you cannot otherwise see very often. We have also found they are able to accommodate your needs quicker and easier. There are fewer hotel guests and weddings for the staff to deal with, which from our experience, means they are more available when you need them. ~ On the other hand, larger Resorts offer more space and selection. Some brides decide to go with mega resorts to give everyone countless options when it comes to restaurants, beaches, etc. The resort premises has plenty to offer. Regardless of your guests varying preferences, they are sure to find something that works for them. And the obvious, space. If you decide on some alone time with your fiancé/newlywed, there is plenty of space for you two to "get away", enjoy the view, sand in your toes and just relax. With regards to the wedding, since these resorts are usually 3 to 5 interconnected resorts, you will likely have more options when it comes to selecting a wedding site and reception restaurant. Location of the resort compared to major tourist towns can be something to consider. There are many great places to visit along the coast of the Caribbean Sea. Most of your guests will have different preferences about if or how far they'll venture off the resort but the location of your resort can definitely affect their decision. ~ Some resorts are situated directly within Mexican towns or cities. These resorts offer the best of both worlds. Your resort is still a secret hideaway; private, secure, comfortable, nice beaches, pools, & good food but just steps away you will be able to experience the more authentic Mexican life and tourist attractions. For example, here in Playa Del Carmen or Playacar you can walk to the famous 5th Avenue. There you'll find shops, restaurants, dance bars, the ferry to Cozumel, and much more!! Cancun is mainly for party crowds. You will find tons of night clubs, extravagant restaurants and malls. If your group is ready to party and spend lots of money, Cancun is probably the place for you. . Smaller communities like Puerto Morelos and Puerto Aventuras offer some of these attractions but at a much smaller scale. They have a much quieter, more relaxed atmosphere that tends to shut down much earlier than Cancun or Playa Del Carmen. In general, resorts located in Cancun, Playa Del Carmen/Playacar, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras or Tulum are smaller than the ones in "rural" areas. ~ Your other option is something completely secluded from the outside world. The stretch of popular destination resorts, from Cancun to Tulum, is only about 150kms (90 miles). Where ever you choose to stay there is still ample opportunity to see the sights and experience the area. There is always a tour bus, hotel shuttle, taxi or rental car to help you find your way. Aesthetics of the resort can be important for the wedding day photos. ~ The more color, interesting architecture & mature vegetation the better for your images. After the ceremony, we will take the bride and groom around the resort for some newlywed images. A couple key elements that we will look for in order to create fantastic shots are color, interesting light, and architecture. The more of this we can find around the resort, the better!! Consider as well that the ocean is a great backdrop! Although the resort aesthetics can offer some colorful and unique images, it will not make or break the quality of the shots. After all, we are professionals and we are trained to find beauty where it may not be obvious at first glance. External vendor policies & fees. ~ Very important... Some resorts in the Mayan Riviera absolutely do not allow external photographers on the resort premises. Each resort has different rules regarding wedding photographers. Most resorts in the Mayan Riviera have implemented a special rate that they charge to allow photographers to enter the resort. This fee can range from $100 to $500 USD. It is commonly referred to as a ‘Day Pass’ or ‘External Service Provider Fee’. Please check with your wedding coordinator to find out what their requirements are for outside photographers. Some resorts in the area do not allow any outside photographers. Resorts with these strict policies have sometimes allowed us if we are booked into their hotel for the night. Please confirm this with your wedding coordinator, as you will be responsible for ensuring the photorapher(s) and assistant(s) have proper permission to be on the premises to shoot your wedding. Important notes: * There are some resorts that absolutely will not allow external vendors to access the resort. * Our package prices do not include the cost for us to enter your resort. This is an added expense that is out of our control. A list of the resorts we've attended and their External Photographer Policies can be found by Clicking Here. Adults only vs. kid friendly. ~ The minimum age for adult only is usually around 16-18. "Adult only" hotels have a much quieter, relaxing atmosphere than the ones where kids are allowed. The quality of rooms, restaurants and service are a "cut above" the rest. They are tailored to adults who want to enjoy the beauty and calmness of their surroundings without distractions. Of course if you have a flower girl or ring bearer joining you the choice is obvious. These resorts usually have two pools: one with games and music for the younger crowd as well as another, more secluded, adults only pool so everyone can enjoy the vacation in their own way. What locations are available for your ceremony and reception? ~ Privacy is usually a big concern among brides, whether they are being married in their home town or travelling to a tropical destination. The Mexico destination couple may envision their wedding on a remote section of beach sharing their vows with only each other, their guests, and Mother Nature. If this sounds like you, you will need to be very careful when choosing a resort. Although some resorts can offer exactly what you are looking for, others just can't offer as much privacy. For example, hotels that are found within Playa Del Carmen are sharing the beach with many other resorts, as well as the locals (like us!). These beaches get very busy and beach weddings tend to attract a lot of uninvited guests. Such resorts may offer a garden gazebo or more private location away from the busy beach. Sand is also a consideration. If you imagine yourself barefoot as you approach your soon to be husband, then sand is the perfect choice. High heals... not so conducive to sand. Sun or shade? Gazebos offer shade for you and your guests. That Mexican sun can get pretty hot but it's probably part of the reason you chose to get married here! Don't worry, even when the ceremony location is in full sun the wedding coordinator will keep your guests in the shade until the ceremony is ready to begin. ~ Is it important for you to have a private area available for your reception and dance? Not all wedding packages offer a private location for your party afterwards. Be sure to inquire about the available options, capacity of each, and whether or not there will be extra fees associated to booking them. What time do you want your ceremony & reception? Will those times be available for you? ~ There can be multiple weddings per day at the resort you choose. If other brides have booked prior to you, they will have first pick of the time and location of their events. Some resorts have organized their packages in a way that the schedule for each wedding will flow nicely and not have too much "wasted" time between the ceremony and reception. The earlier your day begins the more filler you will need to keep your guests entertained. Even a perfect schedule for the day, will have you worn out by the end of it. If possible, make sure your times are solidified at the time of your booking. In the end, whichever resort you choose, the important thing to remember is that you are marrying your best friend and your family has travelled from far and beyond to witness this important milestone between the two of you. Have fun, be yourself, and the rest will fall into place!

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Have fun with all your planning. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! I love shooting Hindu weddings are they are so different and colorful! As long as you go with the shorter, ummm... 1 hr or so ceremony!!! Have fun with your planning and best of luck. Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Punta Cana, DR has wonderful beaches and Im sure you will love it there! Best of luck and keeps smiling! Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Sandos Playayar is such a wonderful little resort and I love shooting there! Plus its only about a 2 minute drive from my place in Playacar! haha Have fun with all your plans and let me know if you need any local tips. Best of luck Linkn

Congratulations and welcome to the forums! Dreams Puerto Adventuras is a great little resort and you will love it! Best of luck with all your planning down here in the Mayan Riviera. Linkn

Hola Kellygirl, I have shot many weddings and many of them civil. It all really depends on what you want and you will have some choices. The order is usually: Bride's entrance, Registrar welcomes everyone, reading, marriage ceremony, exchange of rings, another reading, signing of the register, and then exit. You may want to do a sand ceremony? A Tradition of your own? Breaking glass? Have someone speak? You really can do anything within reason and work out all those details with your wedding coordinator. The ceremony usually only lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. With seating... arrival... etc... it can go as long as 25 to 30 minutes. Best of luck with all your plans! Lincoln

Hola Dawnliana... Im sorry to hear your seeing a lot of hidden costs. I recently shot a wedding there for Stacey & Josh ( NOW Jade Images: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150238144924487.334265.18683524486&type=1 ) and they were more than happy with everything. They ended up bringing in their own Vodka from Russia as a special request and 2 foot long sparklers. Im not sure if you can supply some of the extras yourself without paying. Wish you best of luck with all your plans. Lincoln

Hola our MaromaBridetobe! I have been to many weddings... well... hundreds! haha My advice to you would depend on how you answer this question. Is music important to you and to your idea of how your reception is going to happen. Are you picturing a big party with lots of dancing that you love to do? If so... the DJ is the way to go. If you are just a small party and music and dancing are not your top priority and you are imagining a quieter reception visiting family and enjoy your evening with lots of talking a visiting guests.... more relaxed and low key. Then a iPod will do it! If you are looking for a DJ and the big party. I would highly recommend DJ´s Doremixx (http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/products/dj-s-doremixx). I have shot many a wedding with Ivan who runs the company and he is 100% in touch with his guests and will keep your dance floor shakin. He has never failed to deliver in my experience and is fantastic at his job. For me... music is very important so I am very in touch with how the dance floor goes in the reception portion of a wedding. Plus it makes for great pictures for me! I have seen many a resort DJ flop and have no idea what they are doing. I have seen a few good ones. Doremixx is the best. I am sure they cost a bit of money... but this is your wedding and your day. Its is up to what you can afford. Best of luck with all your plans! Lincoln ps - I don't get paid to endorse Ivan and his company. I just think they are one of the best! Here is are some pics of Ivan at work at multiple weddings. I think it depicts on how the dance floor ends up full of energy, dancing and turns into a dream reception.

Hola MrsBruff2B and welcome to the forums! Being a Canadian and living in Mexico (Playa del Carmen just 50km south of Cancun) I can tell you this. The kind of racism you will feel here is called being a tourist! I feel I will never be accepted as a local Mexican mainly because I am not. Being an ex-pat and being here you are just looked at as having money. And, for the average Mexican... we do! Just having a house, car and being able to travel in this world makes you richer than many people here in Mexico. That is not to say that the Mexican people do not have money as I live in a community that has many Mexican people who are considered rich in any culture or country. The Mayan Riviera area is a melting pot of cultures and I would be blown away if you felt the kind of racism you are talking about. While racism exists everywhere in this world... you must find a way to deal with it in your own way. I have never felt "different" until I moved into a new country. I am targeted as a tourist here and it is its own flavor or racism. I choose to live here though and make the best of it dealing with it in my own way. As for bringing in your own photographer. I will give you this advice. They are really clamping down at customs here at Mexico with photographers who travel with more than 1 camera, extra lighting, etc. I have been in and out of the country a few times this year and each time I am pulled aside to explain my equipment and show my working papers here in Mexico. This is part of the way of life when flying into Cancun now. Unless your photographer is Mexican and can come and go with equipment... I would be very skeptical that your photographer will be at your wedding. It has happened many times so just think about that. Best of luck with all your planning! Moon palace is a fantastic resort with lots of picturesque spots... you will love it there! Lincoln Moon Palace Pier Moon Palace Reception Moon Palace Family Shot