Getting Married at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a wedding where the lush, vibrant jungle meets the sparkling blue of Banderas Bay? Welcome to Garza Blanca Resort & Spa in Riviera Nayarit—a luxurious beachfront oasis that offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, sophisticated design, and world-class service for your special day. With its pristine beaches, dramatic ocean views, and lush tropical surroundings, Garza Blanca provides an unparalleled backdrop for your celebration. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony on the sand or a grand reception overlooking the Pacific, this exquisite resort promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its spectacular sunsets.

Renowned for its elegant amenities and tranquil atmosphere, Garza Blanca seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with authentic Mexican charm. Its exquisite venues—from secluded beach coves to elegant terraces and indoor spaces—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Riviera Nayarit. Let the natural splendor and exclusive charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

Planning your perfect wedding in Riviera Nayarit? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Puerto Vallarta in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise. 

Index

 

Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Garza Blanca Resort & Spa in Riviera Nayarit stands out for its stunning location where the jungle meets the ocean, offering panoramic views of Banderas Bay and the Pacific. The resort’s contemporary design, infinity pools, and secluded beach areas create a sophisticated and serene atmosphere perfect for destination weddings. Couples who appreciate lush natural landscapes combined with modern luxury will find Garza Blanca provides a picturesque and elegant setting.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize unique natural settings and high-quality guest experiences**. With its striking blend of mountain and ocean vistas and exceptional service, Garza Blanca offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and a memorable escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Garza Blanca Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Garza Blanca is designed to be a luxurious and effortless process. Their expert wedding team guides you through every step, ensuring your vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The resort offers a range of elegant venues and customizable packages that include everything from ceremony setup and gourmet catering to professional coordination and vendor management.

This dedicated support means you can relax and savor the moments while the resort handles the logistics, allowing you to focus on celebrating your love in a beautiful, stress-free environment.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Riviera Nayarit enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months for a wedding are typically from November to May. This period offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The drier season also provides consistent, beautiful natural light for photography.

Marrying during these months ensures optimal weather, while the summer/fall season (June-October) can be more humid and prone to afternoon showers, potentially offering cost savings but requiring stronger backup plans.

 

The Basics of Wedding Packages

 

Garza Blanca Resort & Spa offers thoughtfully designed wedding packages tailored to various styles and sizes. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beach, terrace, or garden ceremonies with elegant seating, and romantic décor elements.
  • Reception Venues: Access to sophisticated spaces like oceanfront terraces, elegant ballrooms, or private event areas with stunning views.
  • Catering: Exquisite gourmet menus featuring local and international cuisine, offered in various formats from plated dinners to elaborate buffets.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Standard decorative elements and floral basics, with opportunities for personalization and upgrades to match your theme.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating music (live bands, DJs) and other entertainment to create the perfect atmosphere.

These packages serve as a foundation and can be customized extensively to perfectly align with your dream wedding.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding costs, such as the venue rental, catering package, and coordination services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and accommodation, although the resort can often provide group rates or block bookings.
  • The couple might choose to host additional events, like a welcome reception or rehearsal dinner, covering those costs for their guests.
  • Extra expenses for personalized decor, enhanced entertainment, or pre/post-wedding activities are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards travel/experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways.

This structure allows the couple to tailor the main event while guests manage their personal travel arrangements.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Garza Blanca Resort & Spa features versatile spaces suitable for various wedding sizes:

  • Grand Terraces & Event Rooms: Can accommodate larger groups, often up to 150-200 guests for receptions with dancing space.
  • Beachfront & Garden Areas: Ideal for more intimate ceremonies or cocktail hours, typically suitable for 50-100 guests depending on the specific location.
  • Private Residences & Suites: Offer options for smaller elopements or micro-weddings with breathtaking views.

The resort offers luxurious accommodations ranging from suites to large residences, providing ample space for guests. Group rates and special blocks can often be arranged, making it convenient for your guests to stay on-site and fully enjoy the wedding festivities.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Garza Blanca’s wedding team expertly manages the flow of your day from saying “I do” to your final dance. A typical sequence might look like this:

Ceremony with Ocean Views: Exchange vows on a beautiful terrace or the beach with Banderas Bay as your stunning backdrop.

Cocktail Hour amidst Tropical Beauty: Guests enjoy drinks and appetizers on a garden terrace or poolside, taking in the vibrant surroundings.

Reception in an Elegant Space: Move to a dedicated reception area, whether an outdoor terrace or an indoor ballroom, for dinner, toasts, and dancing.

Pro tip: Leverage the resort’s multi-level layout and diverse landscapes. Consider having distinct vibes for each part of your day, perhaps a serene beach ceremony followed by a lively terrace reception, maximizing the visual and experiential variety Garza Blanca offers.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

While specific inclusions vary by package, the core venue fee or package cost at Garza Blanca typically includes:

  • Access to Chosen Venue Spaces: Exclusive use of your selected ceremony and reception areas for the allocated time.
  • Basic Setup: Standard chairs, tables, linens, and some basic décor for the ceremony and reception.
  • Staffing: Professional waitstaff, bartenders, and essential resort personnel to service your event.
  • Basic Audio-Visual: A simple sound system for the ceremony and background music during cocktail hour/dinner.

Remember that premium furniture, extensive floral installations, specialized lighting, or upgraded sound/visual equipment are usually additional costs.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Riviera Nayarit can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Garza Blanca has established indoor and covered outdoor options readily available as a backup. These spaces are designed to be equally elegant and functional, ensuring your celebration remains beautiful and uninterrupted regardless of unexpected weather.

Pro tip: Discuss the backup options during your site visit or initial consultation. Understand where the indoor alternative is located and ensure it aligns with your vision, even if it’s just a contingency plan.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Garza Blanca involves a standard payment structure:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $1,000–$3,000 USD, is required to reserve your date and venues.

Scheduled Payments: Further payments are typically scheduled at intervals (e.g., 12, 6, and 3 months prior) to cover estimated costs based on your package and guest count.

Final Payment: The remaining balance is usually due approximately 30-45 days before the wedding date.

Cancellation policies are strict and vary depending on the timing of the cancellation relative to your wedding date. Review your contract carefully and consider wedding insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Garza Blanca boasts a professional on-site wedding planning team dedicated to making your journey seamless. Their services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A main point of contact to guide you through every decision, from venue selection to menu tasting.

Vendor Liaison: Assistance with selecting and coordinating trusted local vendors for photography, music, flowers, and more.

Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a detailed schedule for the wedding day and ensuring everything runs on time.

Rehearsal Coordination: Guiding your wedding party through the ceremony rehearsal.

Their expertise in executing luxury events in the tropical setting is invaluable for a stress-free planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Garza Blanca’s renowned culinary team is highly capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. They offer customizable menus featuring diverse options, from fresh seafood and traditional Mexican fare to international favorites. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and allergy-specific meals can all be expertly prepared and served.

Consultations with the chef are usually included, allowing you to tailor the menu precisely. Interactive elements like gourmet food stations or tequila/mezcal tastings can add a unique local touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Garza Blanca welcomes various entertainment options, from romantic mariachis and string quartets to lively DJs and live bands. The resort does have regulations regarding noise levels, particularly for outdoor venues.

Typically, outdoor music may have a curfew, often around 10:00 or 11:00 p.m. If your celebration is planned to extend late into the night, the wedding team can advise on suitable indoor spaces or alternative arrangements to continue the party while respecting resort policies and other guests.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is conveniently located relatively close to Garza Blanca in Riviera Nayarit (approx. 30-40 minute drive depending on traffic and specific tower). To facilitate guest transportation:

Airport Transfers: The resort can help arrange private or shared shuttle services from PVR, often with discounted rates for groups.

On-Site Transportation: Golf carts or internal shuttles are available for moving around the expansive resort property.

Parking: Limited parking is available for guests who choose to rent cars; valet service may also be offered.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival and recommended transportation options well in advance is highly recommended.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa, a rough estimate for your budget might be:

  • Wedding Package/Venue Fee: $5,000–$12,000 USD (includes ceremony setup, basic reception, and some services).
  • Food and Beverage (per person): $80–$150+ USD per person (this can vary significantly based on menu and bar package chosen). For 50 guests, budget $4,000–$7,500+.
  • Entertainment: $1,500–$4,000 USD (live musician, DJ, or band).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$7,000 USD (depends on hours, photographers, and deliverables).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $1,000–$4,000 USD (basic to moderate customization).
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 10-15% service charge on top of services. Budget at least 26% of total costs for this.

Total estimated costs could range from $18,000 to $40,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, highly dependent on specific package choices, menu selections, and added luxuries. Prioritizing what matters most to you can help manage the budget effectively.

*Please note: These are estimates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Garza Blanca’s wedding team.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider a weekday wedding, choosing an all-inclusive package that bundles meals/drinks, or simplifying floral and décor elements. Opting for in-house catering and bar packages is usually more cost-effective than external vendors. To splurge, consider adding a fireworks display over the ocean, a private pre-wedding catamaran cruise, a custom lighting package, or an elaborate multi-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Upgrading to a premium bar can also elevate the guest experience.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Garza Blanca offers a range of wedding packages, often with names reflecting the tropical setting. While details vary, common inclusions are:

  • Ceremony Site Fee: Use of a designated area (beach, terrace, garden).
  • Basic Ceremony Setup: White chairs, simple altar/arch.
  • Minister/Officiant: Arrangement of services (symbolic or legal, with legal requiring separate paperwork/fees).
  • Cocktail Hour: Standard open bar and tray-passed appetizers (number/selection varies by package).
  • Reception Dinner: Choice of plated, buffet, or station-style dinner from a set menu selection.
  • Drinks Package: Tiered open bar options (domestic vs. international brands, duration).
  • Wedding Cake: A basic tiered wedding cake in standard flavors and designs.
  • Wedding Coordinator: Services of an on-site planner to assist with resort arrangements.

Pro tip: Some packages offer minimum guest counts and include benefits like romantic dinners for the couple, spa credits, or complimentary anniversary stays, adding significant value.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay in Riviera Nayarit:

  • Organize a group visit to nearby charming towns like Sayulita or San Pancho.
  • Book a private boat tour to explore Banderas Bay, snorkel, or look for whales (in season).
  • Arrange a welcome fiesta or casual beach bonfire event at the resort.
  • Guests can enjoy resort amenities like the pools, spa, and gourmet restaurants.
  • Arrange adventurous excursions like jungle canopy tours, ATV rides, or hiking in the Sierra Madre foothills.
  • Explore local art galleries and shops in Puerto Vallarta or Bucerías.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Embrace the Humidity: Riviera Nayarit can be humid. Discuss humidity-friendly hairstyles and makeup with your stylist during your trial.

2) Plan for Sunset: The sunsets over Banderas Bay are spectacular. Time your ceremony or couple’s portraits to coincide with golden hour for breathtaking photos.

3) Hydrate Constantly: The heat and humidity, combined with celebratory drinks, mean staying hydrated is key for everyone’s comfort and well-being.

Two Bride Reviews

“Garza Blanca Riviera Nayarit was everything we dreamed of and more for our wedding. The views of the jungle and ocean were incredible, and the service was truly five-star. Our coordinator handled everything seamlessly, and our guests were blown away by the beauty of the resort and the delicious food. A perfect destination wedding spot!” – Sarah K.

“Choosing Garza Blanca for our special day was the best decision we made. The ambiance is so luxurious yet relaxed, and the natural setting on Banderas Bay is unbeatable. From the welcome drinks to the reception party, the staff made us feel incredibly special and ensured every detail was perfect. It was a magical experience for us and all our guests.” – Jessica P.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico, Garza Blanca Resort & Spa in Riviera Nayarit holds a unique appeal. The way the lush jungle meets the dramatic coastline provides stunning visual contrasts that are a dream to photograph. The resort’s modern, elegant architecture, combined with the natural beauty of Banderas Bay, offers incredible versatility for photo locations – from romantic beach portraits to sophisticated shots on terraces overlooking the water, or vibrant photos within the tropical grounds. If you’re looking for a luxurious destination wedding venue that combines breathtaking natural scenery with refined style and impeccable service, Garza Blanca in Riviera Nayarit is an outstanding choice that photographs beautifully.

Want to get in touch?

Click here!