Where do I even start!? Tips?

Hi everyone! I'm Sofia, I live in Calgary and after 5 years of dating I got engaged last Saturday . I have tons of time to plan my wedding, about 2 years, but i decided to start looking around and choosing things that I would like. Unlike many, I didn't have half my wedding planned before the engagement and I'm feeling totally lost.

Here's what we do know that we want: 

• We want a destination wedding in Mexico, either Mayan Riviera or Cabo. 
• I want a hotel that will let me have a private reception for a few hours and that we can put music. I will not compromise the dancing 

• We would like to have a cake made outside of the hotel. We're both Latin American and we know for sure they make better cakes than just icing. 

and...that's it! haha. So, I need your help. 

• How do you even start to narrow down hotels? We're thinking of visiting Mexico in the summer and checking out some of our selections in person to make a final decision, but the list needs to be pretty small. 
• Do any hotels offer a buffet option for the reception? The fiance would really like a buffet so we want to look into that option if it exists.
• What do you look for in a photographer? 
• Did you find that a lot of people decided not to go because of the cost? 

I think those are the main questions that are just eating at my soul right now. 

thanks in advance! 

hola fellow-Calgarian, TinkerSofi,and Congrats on your upcoming destination wedding! you'll find loads of great info here to help you with your planning process, as well as offer excellent advice + support  ......so Welcome, you're off to a great start already !

In regard to choosing a photographer, there are numerous qualified professionals in our area, any one of whom would deliver an excellent result. The key is to find the one whose style resonates with you and touches your heart.

Here's some factors to consider, compiled by one of the those professional photographers in our area........tips on choosing a professional wedding photographer

We also have a FAQ page on our website with helpful info too.

To see the "emotion-filled story telling" style of our premier photographer, here are some of his wedding albums on facebook, and a few magical wedding "moments that matter" shown below......his work is stellar, and priceing offers an exceptional value!

Wishing you all the best with your research and wonderful journey ahead! Cheers + ENjoy

team MTM asst, Lynda

HI Sofia!

I was exactly where you are at about 4 weeks. NO IDEA where to start. At first, i wasn't sure if i should go directly to the hotel or find a TA... no sort of direction! In less than 4 weeks, I have more information than I could ever imagine! I am, too, hoping to wed in the Riviera Maya. It's one of my favorite places I have lots of suggestions!! First suggestion-- find a TA who KNOWS destination weddings! Finding my TA aka my lifesaver was by far the BEST thing that could have happened. Before her, I was a MESS! And quite honestly, once you find the help you need, it'll all fall into place. I could send you her contact info if you want!!

LMK!

DESTINATION WEDDING BRIDES UNITE!
 

Thanks! I definitely like the story telling style. After looking at some pictures here and there I noticed that there are different styles and some of them really are not my thing . 

Thanks for the info. 

You're more than welcome, TinkerSofi yes, you're right about each one having their own style.......which is a good thing, as everyone has their own personal likes - as you've already so astutely discovered + observed.....good eye  

Here's a video link showing our premier photographer, Linc, and his passion for his art....explaining some of his style...enjoy

team MTM asst, Lynda

Those pictures are beautiful. I love candid photos that capture people's emotions

Hi Sofia! Congratulations on your engagement!!! You must be so excited We would love to help you start the process of narrowing down hotels & locations. All of your requests are certainly possible and by working with the tour operator direct, you will receive some incredible rates for your guests! We also offer 5 hours of consulting time with one of our Certified Wedding Coordinators to help you plan out things like your private reception, decor etc. Feel free to send us an email [email protected] with your details and we would be happy to send you some property recommendations to start!

Congrats and welcome!!

Here is a link from Del Sol on some of the weddings they photographed and you can see some real weddings and the venues. Maybe you can make a list of the ones you like and do site visits. 

http://www.bestdestinationwedding.com/t/4276/del-sol-photography-slideshows-of-resorts-in-the-riviera-maya-10-million-photos

As for choosing a photographer, I am biased as they photographed my wedding, but I love Del Sol. They are very friendly, professional and extremely talented. They really tell a story and you will be impressed with their work. Happy planning!

Congrats and welcome!!!