Getting Married at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a vibrant wedding where premium all-inclusive luxury meets the stunning beauty of the Pacific Ocean? Welcome to Iberostar Selection Playa Mita—a magnificent beachfront resort that offers an exquisite blend of natural splendor, modern comfort, and dedicated service for your special day. With its golden sandy beaches, lush tropical gardens, and expansive pools, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita provides a breathtaking backdrop for your celebration. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony by the ocean or a grand reception in a sophisticated ballroom, this exceptional resort promises a wedding experience as memorable as its beautiful sunsets.

Renowned for its excellent all-inclusive service and vibrant ambiance, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita seamlessly blends modern comfort with authentic Mexican warmth. Its diverse venues—from the expansive beach and lush garden areas to elegant indoor spaces—are meticulously designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Let the premium comfort and lively charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

Planning your perfect wedding in Punta Mita? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Punta Mita in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise.

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Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita stands out as a premier all-inclusive destination on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Its breathtaking location, featuring expansive golden beaches, stunning ocean views, and a variety of inviting pools, creates a vibrant and comfortable atmosphere perfect for couples seeking a memorable celebration with their loved ones. Those who seek dedicated service, diverse culinary experiences, and a beautiful beachfront setting for their destination wedding will find Iberostar Selection Playa Mita delivers an exceptional value.

Recent travel trends indicate that **couples are increasingly seeking comprehensive, stress-free experiences with a focus on guest enjoyment**. With its excellent all-inclusive offerings and beautiful beachfront setting, Iberostar offers a lively yet intimate celebration, ensuring every moment is cherished and smoothly executed.

 

How Does a Wedding at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita Work?

 

Planning your wedding at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita is an experience in streamlined elegance and delightful celebration. Their experienced wedding team guides you through every step, ensuring your unique vision is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail. The resort offers a range of beautiful indoor and outdoor venues, alongside comprehensive packages that include everything from ceremony setup and diverse catering to dedicated coordination and vendor assistance.

This level of dedicated support means you can truly relax and savor every moment, knowing that the resort’s experts are handling most logistics, allowing you to focus purely on celebrating your love in a beautiful, stress-free environment.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

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

Marrying during these months ensures optimal weather for your event, while the summer/fall season (June-October) can be more humid and prone to afternoon showers, potentially offering some flexibility in dates but requiring robust backup plans.

 

The Basics of Wedding Packages

 

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers thoughtfully designed wedding packages crafted for convenience and celebration. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beautiful beachfront, charming garden, or elegant gazebo ceremonies with comfortable seating, decorative elements, and lovely floral arrangements.
  • Reception Venues: Access to the resort’s beautiful spaces, such as a spacious ballroom, an open-air terrace, or a dedicated beach area, with attractive setups and inviting ambiance.
  • Catering: Diverse culinary menus prepared by talented chefs, featuring fresh local ingredients and international cuisine, offered in various formats from plated dinners to themed buffets and live stations.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Tasteful decorative elements and charming floral designs, with opportunities for customization to align with your desired aesthetic.
  • Entertainment: Assistance with coordinating music (live musicians, DJs, traditional Mexican performers) and other entertainment to create a lively atmosphere.

These packages serve as a foundation and are highly customizable to ensure your wedding is a uniquely tailored celebration of your love.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

 

In destination weddings at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita, typically:

  • The couple covers the primary wedding costs, which often include an all-inclusive wedding package covering venue use, catering, and basic coordination services.
  • Guests are usually responsible for their own travel and all-inclusive accommodation, although the resort can often provide discounted group rates or a dedicated block of rooms. Many couples choose to enhance guest experience by covering some activities or welcome amenities.
  • The couple might choose to host additional events, like a welcome reception or a farewell brunch, covering those costs for their guests, beyond the core package.
  • Extra expenses for customized decor, specific entertainment requests, pre/post-wedding excursions (e.g., to Marietas Islands), or spa treatments are typically the couple’s responsibility.
  • Gift registries or contributions towards honeymoon experiences are common, allowing guests to contribute in meaningful ways.

This structure allows the couple to curate an event while guests manage their personal all-inclusive travel arrangements.

 

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

 

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers a beautiful array of versatile spaces suitable for a range of wedding sizes, from intimate ceremonies to larger celebrations:

  • Grand Ballroom / Convention Center: Can accommodate larger groups, typically up to 200-400+ guests for elegant receptions with ample space for dining and dancing.
  • Main Beach & Garden Areas: Ideal for beautiful ceremonies or lively receptions, often suitable for 50-200 guests depending on setup, offering stunning ocean or lush garden views.
  • Oceanfront Terraces & Gazebos: Perfect for more intimate ceremonies or cocktail hours, typically suitable for 30-80 guests, with beautiful Pacific backdrops.

The resort offers comfortable and spacious all-inclusive accommodations ranging from ocean-view rooms and suites, providing ample space for guests. Dedicated group rates and special blocks can be arranged, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable stay for your wedding party and guests on-site.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita’s dedicated wedding team meticulously manages the seamless flow of your day, from exchanging vows to your final dance. A typical delightful sequence might look like this:

Ceremony with Beautiful Pacific Views: Exchange vows on the expansive sandy beach, a charming garden gazebo, or an oceanfront terrace with the Pacific as your stunning backdrop.

Cocktail Hour amidst Lush Gardens or by the Pools: Guests enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious appetizers on a picturesque garden terrace or by one of the inviting pools, taking in the resort’s lively and beautiful surroundings.

Reception in an Elegant Space: Transition to a dedicated reception area, whether the spacious Grand Ballroom, an open-air beachfront setting, or a charming terrace, for a delightful dinner, heartfelt toasts, and vibrant dancing.

Pro tip: Leverage the resort’s beautiful and varied settings. Consider having distinct vibes for each part of your day, perhaps a serene garden ceremony followed by a lively beach reception, maximizing the visual and experiential variety Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers for truly memorable moments.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

While specific inclusions are tailored to each all-inclusive wedding package, the core package cost at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita typically includes:

  • Access to Chosen Venue Spaces: Use of your selected ceremony and reception areas for the allocated time.
  • Standard Setup & Furniture: Chairs, tables, linens, and basic décor for the ceremony and reception.
  • Dedicated Staffing: A professional Iberostar waitstaff, bartenders, and essential resort personnel to provide excellent service for your event.
  • Basic Audio-Visual: A standard sound system for the ceremony and background music during cocktail hour/dinner.

Remember that highly customized decor, elaborate floral installations, specialized lighting designs, specific entertainment, or enhanced sound/visual equipment are usually additional investments that elevate the celebration.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

While Punta Mita generally enjoys excellent weather, tropical rain can occur, particularly during the wet season (June-October). Iberostar Selection Playa Mita has thoughtfully designed indoor and covered outdoor options readily available as a seamless backup. These spaces, such as the Grand Ballroom or inviting covered terraces, are designed to be beautiful and functional, ensuring your celebration remains comfortable and uninterrupted regardless of unexpected weather changes.

Pro tip: During your site visit or initial consultation, thoroughly discuss and view the backup options. Ensure the indoor alternative aligns with your vision for ambiance, even if it’s just a contingency plan, giving you complete peace of mind.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita involves a standard payment structure for all-inclusive resorts:

Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit, often ranging from $1,000–$3,000+ USD, is required to secure your desired date and venues, reflecting the commitment for event planning.

Scheduled Payments: Further payments are typically scheduled at strategic intervals (e.g., 12, 9, 6, and 3 months prior) to cover estimated costs based on your chosen package and guest count.

Final Payment: The remaining balance is usually due approximately 45-60 days before the wedding date.

Cancellation policies are typically standard for resort events. Review your contract meticulously and strongly consider comprehensive wedding insurance to protect your investment against unforeseen circumstances.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita boasts a dedicated on-site wedding planning team, committed to making your journey truly enjoyable and stress-free. Their comprehensive services typically include:

Dedicated Wedding Planner: A personal point of contact to expertly guide you through every decision, from venue selection and menu tastings to décor details.

Vendor Liaison: Assistance with selecting and coordinating a curated list of local vendors for photography, music, florals, styling, and more, ensuring reliable professionals.

Timeline Creation & Management: Developing a detailed, synchronized schedule for the entire wedding weekend and ensuring most aspects run smoothly.

Rehearsal Coordination: Guiding your wedding party through the ceremony rehearsal to ensure everyone feels confident and prepared.

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

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita’s culinary team is well-versed in accommodating a wide range of dietary needs and preferences. They offer customizable menus featuring fresh local ingredients and international cuisine. Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals can all be prepared upon request.

Menu tastings are often available, allowing you to tailor the menu to your tastes and guest requirements. Interactive elements like tequila/mezcal tastings or live cooking stations can add a fun and local touch to your reception.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita welcomes a diverse range of entertainment options, from romantic string quartets and traditional mariachis to lively DJs and live bands. The resort does maintain regulations regarding noise levels, particularly for outdoor venues, to ensure the comfort and serenity of all guests.

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 ballrooms or alternative arrangements to continue the party in a designated area, ensuring a seamless transition 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’ drive from Iberostar Selection Playa Mita. To facilitate seamless guest transportation and a comfortable arrival experience:

Airport Transfers: The resort can arrange private transfers from PVR, often with dedicated vehicles for groups. Many couples include this for key guests.

On-Site Transportation: Golf carts and internal shuttles are readily available for moving guests around the expansive resort property, including access to multiple pools, restaurants, and the golf course.

Parking: Ample valet parking is available for guests who choose to rent cars or arrive independently, ensuring convenience upon arrival.

Providing guests with clear instructions on airport arrival and recommended transportation options well in advance is highly recommended to set the tone for their stay.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita, a rough estimate for your budget might be as follows, keeping in mind the all-inclusive nature often bundles F&B:

  • All-Inclusive Wedding Package Cost (minimum guest count/flat fee): $5,000–$15,000+ USD (often includes ceremony setup, basic decor, reception space, and all-inclusive food & beverage for a set number of guests, price varies heavily by package tier and inclusions).
  • Additional Guest Cost (if applicable beyond package): ~$100–$150+ USD per person (for guests exceeding the package minimum, covering their all-inclusive access during the event). For 50 guests, if your package includes a base number, budget accordingly for additional attendees.
  • Entertainment: $1,500–$5,000+ USD (DJ, live musicians, traditional Mexican performers).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$8,000+ USD (depends on hours, multiple photographers, and deliverables fitting a premium resort wedding).
  • Florals and Enhanced Decor: $1,000–$5,000+ USD (basic arrangements to more elaborate custom designs).
  • Taxes and Service Fees: Typically adds 16% VAT plus a 10-15% service charge on top of services not explicitly part of the all-inclusive rate or package additions. Budget at least 26% of additional costs for this.

Total estimated costs could range from $15,000 to $50,000+ USD for a 50-guest wedding, highly dependent on specific package choices, guest count, and added customizations. The all-inclusive model can provide significant value by bundling many services. Prioritizing what matters most to you and consulting closely with the Iberostar wedding team will help manage your budget effectively.

*Please note: These are estimates for a premium all-inclusive experience. Always obtain a customized, detailed quote directly from Iberostar Selection Playa Mita’s wedding team.*

Splurge vs. Save

To save costs at an Iberostar wedding, consider an intimate weekday wedding, a smaller guest list, or opting for an off-peak season (early June or late October). Utilizing the inclusions of your all-inclusive package, simplifying décor elements, or choosing a buffet over plated courses can offer savings. To truly splurge, consider enhancing your decor with custom lighting, a larger entertainment setup, adding a vibrant pre-wedding party, or a multi-day itinerary with fun events for your guests like a group excursion to the Marietas Islands.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers comprehensive wedding packages, often structured in tiers to suit different needs and budgets. While details vary, common inclusions for an all-inclusive wedding are:

  • Ceremony Site Fee: Use of a designated area (beach, gazebo, or garden).
  • Standard Ceremony Setup: Chairs, arch, and basic floral arrangements.
  • Minister/Officiant: Arrangement of services (symbolic or legal, with legal requiring separate paperwork/fees).
  • Cocktail Hour: Standard open bar with national and international brands and tray-passed appetizers.
  • Reception Dinner: Choice of plated dinner or buffet from a pre-selected menu.
  • Drinks Package: All-inclusive open bar featuring national and select international brands during the reception.
  • Wedding Cake: A multi-tiered wedding cake crafted by the resort’s pastry chefs, typically with standard designs and flavors.
  • Dedicated Wedding Coordinator: The services of an experienced on-site planner and their team to assist with all resort arrangements.

Pro tip: Iberostar packages often include valuable benefits such as complimentary room nights, spa discounts, or special amenities for the couple’s suite, enhancing the overall experience.

Activities for Other Days

Keep your guests entertained throughout their stay in Punta Mita, leveraging the Iberostar’s amenities and the destination’s appeal:

  • Organize a group golf tournament on the on-site championship golf course.
  • Book a private boat charter to explore the stunning Marietas Islands (home of the hidden beach) or for whale watching (in season).
  • Arrange a welcome reception at one of the resort’s beautiful restaurants or a farewell brunch.
  • Guests can indulge in the world-class spa, enjoy the expansive pools, or relax by the stunning beach.
  • Arrange private surfing lessons on the local breaks or paddleboarding excursions.
  • Explore the charming fishing village of Sayulita for a taste of local culture and unique artisan shops.
  • Organize a private cooking class focusing on regional Mexican cuisine or a tequila/mezcal tasting.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Embrace the Climate & Comfort: Punta Mita offers a warm, tropical climate. Discuss humidity-friendly hairstyles and lightweight makeup with your stylist during your trial. Prioritize comfortable yet elegant footwear for outdoor venues.

2) Leverage the Wedding Team: The Iberostar’s dedicated wedding team is there to assist you. Utilize them for details, from restaurant reservations for guests to day-of coordination – they are there to make your stay truly enjoyable.

3) Explore the Property: Take time to explore the diverse landscapes of the resort for unique photo opportunities. From the vibrant pools to the lush gardens and expansive beaches, each spot offers a different beautiful backdrop for your wedding portraits.

Two Bride Reviews

“Our wedding at Iberostar Selection Playa Mita was an absolute delight, exceeding our expectations. The level of dedicated service from the wedding team was excellent, and every detail, from the beautiful floral arrangements to the delicious menu, was well-executed. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed the resort’s vibrant atmosphere and the comfort of the all-inclusive experience. It was truly a memorable celebration!” – Sofia K.

“Choosing Iberostar Selection Playa Mita for our special day was a fantastic decision. The stunning beachfront setting, combined with their attentive service, created a wonderful atmosphere. The team was incredibly helpful throughout the planning process, making everything smooth and enjoyable. Our ceremony on the beach and reception overlooking the Pacific were beautiful, and our guests haven’t stopped raving about the fun they had. It was the perfect all-inclusive destination wedding.” – Liam C.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

Having photographed weddings at beautiful resorts across Mexico, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita offers a truly captivating setting. The resort provides a fantastic canvas for photography, from the expansive golden beaches and lush tropical gardens to the lively pools and oceanfront backdrops. The thoughtful design, combined with the vibrant natural light of the Pacific Coast, allows for versatile and joyful photographic opportunities. Every angle, every sunset, every candid moment is infused with an air of relaxed elegance and natural beauty. If you desire a premium all-inclusive destination wedding where every detail is handled with care and every image captures the essence of a lively, romantic celebration in paradise, Iberostar Selection Playa Mita is an excellent choice for an unforgettable visual story.

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