Getting Married at Hotel Mousai: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Envision a wedding where sophisticated luxury meets unparalleled panoramic views of Banderas Bay? Welcome to Hotel Mousai in Puerto Vallarta—an exclusive, adult-only oasis renowned for its chic, avant-garde design, world-class service, and breathtaking elevated settings. With its iconic rooftop infinity pool, sleek architecture, and dramatic ocean vistas, Hotel Mousai provides an exquisite and glamorous backdrop for your special day. Whether you dream of an intimate ceremony overlooking the Pacific or a grand, modern reception under the stars, this ultra-luxury resort promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its striking design.

Celebrated for its cutting-edge amenities and sophisticated atmosphere, Hotel Mousai seamlessly blends contemporary artistry with the vibrant beauty of Puerto Vallarta. Its exquisite venues—from the stunning rooftop to elegant indoor spaces—are meticulously designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating grandeur of the Pacific. Let the refined splendor and exclusive charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

Planning your perfect wedding in Puerto Vallarta? 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?

 

Hotel Mousai in Puerto Vallarta stands out for its exclusive, adult-only ambiance and avant-garde design, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Banderas Bay from its elevated position. The resort’s sleek, contemporary architecture, iconic rooftop infinity pool, and chic interiors create a sophisticated and glamorous atmosphere perfect for discerning couples seeking a luxurious and stylish destination wedding. Those who appreciate modern aesthetics, gourmet dining, and an exclusive, vibrant setting will find Hotel Mousai provides a truly unique and picturesque backdrop.

Recent guest surveys indicate that **couples increasingly prioritize unique luxury settings and exceptional, personalized service**. With its striking design, unparalleled views, and bespoke attention to detail, Hotel Mousai offers a truly distinctive backdrop for your wedding photos and an indulgent escape for your guests.

 

How Does a Wedding at Hotel Mousai Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Hotel Mousai is designed to be an ultra-luxury and seamless experience. Their dedicated wedding team guides you through every step, ensuring your vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail and a personalized approach. The resort offers a range of sophisticated venues and customizable packages that include everything from breathtaking ceremony setups and gourmet catering to professional coordination and premium vendor management.

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

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Puerto Vallarta 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, especially for sunset ceremonies on the rooftop.

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

 

Hotel Mousai offers meticulously curated wedding packages tailored to discerning tastes and various celebration sizes. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for breathtaking rooftop ceremonies, elegant terraces, or chic indoor spaces with sophisticated seating and contemporary décor elements.
  • Reception Venues: Access to exclusive, high-design spaces like the iconic Rooftop, panoramic terraces, or luxurious private event areas with stunning ocean and city views.
  • Catering: Exquisite gourmet menus featuring innovative international and Mexican cuisine, crafted by award-winning chefs, offered in various formats from plated dinners to elaborate culinary stations.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Premium decorative elements and high-end floral basics, with extensive opportunities for personalization and upgrades to match your elegant theme.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating upscale music options (live bands, professional DJs, unique performers) and other entertainment to create the perfect luxurious atmosphere.

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

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Hotel Mousai, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding costs, such as the premium venue rental, gourmet catering package, and bespoke coordination services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and luxury accommodation, although the resort can often provide exclusive group rates or block bookings in their lavish suites.
  • The couple might choose to host additional elevated events, like a sophisticated welcome cocktail party at the rooftop or a chic rehearsal dinner, covering those costs for their guests.
  • Extra expenses for highly personalized decor, exclusive entertainment, or pre/post-wedding luxury 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 to their exacting standards while guests manage their personal travel arrangements to this elite destination.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Hotel Mousai features exclusive, versatile spaces suitable for intimate to moderately-sized luxury weddings:

  • The Rooftop: Ideal for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions, offering unparalleled 360-degree views. Can accommodate up to 80-100 guests for a seated reception, or more for cocktail style.
  • The Jetty (beach club area): Offers a vibrant, chic setting closer to the ocean, suitable for dynamic receptions or welcome events.
  • Specific Terraces & Private Spaces: Offer options for smaller, more private ceremonies or receptions with stunning vistas.

The resort offers ultra-luxurious, spacious suites, each with a private terrace and plunge pool, providing ample high-end accommodation for guests. Group rates and special blocks can often be arranged, making it convenient for your guests to stay on-site and fully immerse themselves in the wedding festivities and the resort’s amenities.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Hotel Mousai’s expert wedding team meticulously manages the flow of your day, from your elevated “I do” to your sophisticated late-night celebration. A typical, high-end sequence might look like this:

Ceremony with Panoramic Views: Exchange vows on the iconic Rooftop, with the breathtaking Banderas Bay and Sierra Madre mountains as your unparalleled backdrop.

Cocktail Hour at a Chic Terrace: Guests enjoy designer cocktails and gourmet appetizers on a stylish terrace or the lively Jetty, soaking in the sophisticated atmosphere.

Reception in an Exclusive Space: Transition to a dedicated reception area, either an elegant outdoor terrace with custom lighting or a chic indoor ballroom, for a multi-course dinner, heartfelt toasts, and vibrant dancing.

Pro tip: Leverage the resort’s multi-level design and stunning views. Consider a sunset ceremony on the Rooftop for dramatic photographs, followed by a transition to a lower-level elegant terrace for dinner, and then return to the Rooftop for an after-party under the stars.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

While specific inclusions vary by a la carte selections and premium packages, the core venue fee or package cost at Hotel Mousai typically includes:

  • Exclusive Access to Chosen Venue Spaces: Private use of your selected ceremony and reception areas for the allocated time, often including the iconic Rooftop.
  • Premium Setup: High-quality chairs, elegant tables, sophisticated linens, and some tasteful basic décor for the ceremony and reception.
  • Professional Staffing: Highly trained waitstaff, skilled bartenders, and essential resort personnel to provide exceptional service for your event.
  • Integrated Audio-Visual: A high-quality sound system for the ceremony and curated background music during cocktail hour/dinner, often including professional lighting capabilities.

Remember that custom designer furniture, elaborate floral installations, advanced lighting and sound systems, or specialty entertainment are usually additional bespoke costs.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

Puerto Vallarta can experience tropical rain, especially during the wet season (June-October). Hotel Mousai has sophisticated indoor and elegantly covered outdoor options readily available as a backup. These spaces are designed to be equally luxurious and functional, ensuring your celebration remains beautiful, comfortable, and uninterrupted regardless of unexpected weather. The resort’s design allows for seamless transitions to alternative high-end settings.

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

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your luxury wedding at Hotel Mousai involves a standard payment structure for high-end venues:

Initial Deposit: A significant non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $5,000–$10,000+ USD, is required to reserve your date and exclusive venues.

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

Final Payment: The remaining balance, including final guest count adjustments and any last-minute additions, 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, often involving forfeiture of deposits or a percentage of the total estimated cost. Review your contract carefully and strongly consider comprehensive wedding insurance to protect your substantial investment against unforeseen circumstances.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Hotel Mousai boasts a professional, high-touch on-site wedding planning team dedicated to making your luxury journey seamless and unforgettable. Their services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A main point of contact and expert to guide you through every decision, from exclusive venue selection to private menu tasting and design consultations.

Premium Vendor Liaison: Assistance with selecting and coordinating trusted, high-end local vendors for photography, bespoke music, custom floral designs, and more, ensuring top quality.

Detailed Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a precise, minute-by-minute schedule for the wedding day and ensuring every element runs perfectly on time.

Rehearsal Coordination: Expertly guiding your wedding party through the ceremony rehearsal, ensuring elegance and precision.

Their expertise in executing sophisticated events in this exclusive tropical setting is invaluable for a stress-free and truly opulent planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Hotel Mousai’s acclaimed culinary team is renowned for its exceptional gourmet offerings and is highly capable of accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. They offer customizable, innovative menus featuring diverse options, from exquisite fresh seafood and elevated traditional Mexican fare to cutting-edge international cuisine. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and allergy-specific meals can all be expertly prepared and served with refined presentation.

Private consultations with the Executive Chef are typically included, allowing you to tailor the menu precisely to your tastes. Interactive elements like bespoke gourmet food stations, sommelier-led wine pairings, or premium tequila/mezcal tastings can add a unique and luxurious local touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Hotel Mousai welcomes various sophisticated entertainment options, from elegant string quartets and romantic mariachis to high-energy DJs and professional live bands. The resort does have regulations regarding noise levels, particularly for outdoor venues, to ensure the comfort of all guests in this luxury setting.

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, such as transitioning to a private, sound-proofed area, to continue the party while respecting resort policies and other guests’ experiences.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive via Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR), which is conveniently located approximately 45-60 minutes from Hotel Mousai, depending on traffic. To facilitate guest transportation:

Luxury Airport Transfers: The resort can help arrange premium private car or luxury shuttle services from PVR, often with exclusive rates for wedding groups.

On-Site Transportation: Golf carts or internal shuttles are readily available for moving around the expansive property, especially between Hotel Mousai and its sister property, Garza Blanca, which share amenities.

Valet Parking: Valet service is available for guests who choose to rent cars, ensuring a seamless arrival and departure experience.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival and recommended premium transportation options well in advance is highly recommended for a smooth luxury experience.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Hotel Mousai

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at Hotel Mousai, a rough estimate for your luxury budget might be:

  • Wedding Package/Venue Fee: $10,000–$25,000+ USD (includes exclusive venue use, premium setup, and some bespoke services).
  • Food and Beverage (per person): $150–$300+ USD per person (this can vary significantly based on gourmet menu selections and premium bar package chosen). For 50 guests, budget $7,500–$15,000+.
  • Entertainment: $2,500–$8,000+ USD (professional live musician, top-tier DJ, or acclaimed band, custom lighting).
  • Photography/Videography: $4,000–$10,000+ USD (depends on hours, multiple photographers, and high-end deliverables).
  • Premium Florals and Enhanced Decor: $2,000–$8,000+ USD (sophisticated to elaborate customization and installations).
  • 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 for a 50-guest wedding at Hotel Mousai could range from $26,000 to $65,000+ USD, highly dependent on specific package choices, custom menu selections, and added luxurious elements. Prioritizing what matters most to you can help manage the budget effectively within this luxury tier.

*Please note: These are high-end estimates. Always obtain a customized quote directly from Hotel Mousai’s wedding team.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs, consider an intimate weekday wedding, opting for a comprehensive luxury package that bundles many premium services, or simplifying certain décor elements while maintaining elegance. Utilizing the resort’s in-house gourmet catering and premium bar packages is typically more efficient than external high-end vendors. To truly splurge, consider adding a bespoke fireworks display launched from the bay, a private pre-wedding yacht cruise with a chef on board, a custom-designed lighting and projection package for the reception, or an elaborate multi-course tasting menu with sommelier-selected wine pairings. Upgrading to a top-shelf, ultra-premium bar and exclusive entertainment can also elevate the guest experience to new heights.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Hotel Mousai offers a range of exclusive wedding packages, often with names reflecting luxury and elegance. While details vary, common premium inclusions are:

  • Ceremony Site Fee: Use of a designated, iconic area (Rooftop, private terrace).
  • Premium Ceremony Setup: High-design chairs, sophisticated altar/arch, and elegant accent décor.
  • Minister/Officiant: Arrangement of services (symbolic or legal, with legal requiring separate paperwork/fees).
  • Cocktail Hour: Upscale open bar with premium brands and an exquisite selection of tray-passed gourmet appetizers (number/selection varies by package).
  • Reception Dinner: Choice of multi-course plated dinner, lavish buffet, or interactive gourmet stations from a curated menu selection.
  • Drinks Package: Tiered open bar options (premium vs. ultra-premium international brands, extended duration).
  • Designer Wedding Cake: A custom-designed tiered wedding cake in gourmet flavors and contemporary designs.
  • Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: Services of an on-site luxury planner to assist with all resort arrangements and vendor coordination.

Pro tip: Many packages for Hotel Mousai include exceptional benefits like complimentary honeymoon nights, spa credits at the world-class Imagine Spa, or exclusive anniversary stays, adding significant luxury value.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay in Puerto Vallarta and the Mousai experience:

  • Organize a private yacht charter to explore secluded beaches or the Marietas Islands, with snorkeling and gourmet catering.
  • Book a private gourmet cooking class at the resort or a local chef’s kitchen.
  • Arrange a sophisticated welcome cocktail party on the Rooftop or a chic beach bonfire event at The Jetty.
  • Guests can indulge in the resort’s world-class amenities like the iconic rooftop pool, Imagine Spa treatments, and diverse gourmet restaurants.
  • Arrange bespoke adventurous excursions like zip-lining through the jungle canopy, ATV rides, or exclusive guided tours to charming local towns.
  • Explore the vibrant art galleries, high-end boutiques, and sophisticated dining scene in downtown Puerto Vallarta.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Embrace the Glamour: Hotel Mousai is a high-design venue. Lean into its modern, sophisticated aesthetic for your gown, decor, and overall styling to truly shine.

2) Leverage the Rooftop: The Rooftop is the resort’s crown jewel. Plan your ceremony or at least your sunset photos there for truly iconic and breathtaking imagery.

3) Indulge in the Spa: Schedule a pre-wedding spa treatment at Imagine Spa. It’s world-class and perfect for relaxing and pampering before your big day.

Two Bride Reviews

“Hotel Mousai was an absolute dream for our luxury wedding. The Rooftop ceremony was truly out of this world, with views that left everyone speechless. The staff’s attention to detail was unparalleled, from the bespoke menu to the flawless coordination. Our guests couldn’t stop raving about the chic atmosphere and the incredible service. It was a perfectly glamorous and unforgettable experience!” – Amelia R.

“Choosing Hotel Mousai for our special day was the best decision we made. The sleek design, the sophisticated vibe, and those jaw-dropping ocean views created the most incredible backdrop for our celebration. Every aspect, from the exquisite food to the seamless flow of the day, was handled with such professionalism and warmth. It felt like our own private paradise. Highly recommend for any couple seeking a truly elevated wedding!” – Chloe T.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings across Mexico, Hotel Mousai in Puerto Vallarta stands as a truly distinct and compelling venue. Its avant-garde design, sharp architectural lines, and iconic infinity pools create a dynamic and visually stunning environment that is a dream to capture. The way the sleek modernity contrasts with the dramatic ocean and mountain backdrop offers endless creative possibilities for photography—from sophisticated, high-fashion portraits on the Rooftop to intimate, artistic shots within its chic interiors. If you’re seeking an ultra-luxury destination wedding venue that combines breathtaking contemporary style with unparalleled views and impeccable service, Hotel Mousai in Puerto Vallarta is an outstanding choice that photographs with a distinctive, glamorous edge.

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