The case for a destination wedding — a type of wedding that often whittles down the guest list and, even better, removes zeros from the budget — has been made many times before. Then again, as agents familiar with booking wedding travel already know, other grievances may arise. One major factor that can transform an event from sweet to sour: When investing more time and money into attending a faraway wedding, guests’ expectations tend to become more self-seeking.
But if the wedding invite sends guests to the all-inclusive Iberostar Playa Mita, situated on the sandy cliffs between Punta de Mita and Sayulita in Riviera Nayarit, it’s safe to say that no one will — or can — complain that the open bar has closed.
Clients and their fellow celebrators can choose from 452 guestrooms at the stunning five-star, AAA Four Diamond resort. And as a Premium Gold category resort — the top tier of Iberostar Hotel & Resorts’ three categories of all-inclusive offerings — Iberostar Playa Mita does not skimp on amenities for discerning guests.
Three swimming pools, including an infinity pool with a swim-up bar; an oceanfront, 18-hole Greg Norman-designed golf course; abundant kid-friendly activities, including a “Mini-Discotheque” and a waterpark; four specialty restaurants and an international buffet; and plenty of activities and entertainment options will keep everyone busy and satisfied.
The resort, along with Iberostar’s other properties in Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic, offers a la carte planning, as well as three wedding packages: Star Wedding, starting at $999 for up to 10 people; Silver Star Wedding, starting at $1,899 for up to 10 people; and Gold Star Wedding, starting at $2,799 for up to 20 people. The cost for additional guests depends on if they are staying at the same property, at another Iberostar property or off-property.
Inclusion of details such as floral centerpieces, live music and cocktails served with cold appetizers vary according to package. However, all options include the services of a minister, judge or priest and witnesses, venue setup, a post-ceremony champagne toast, a wedding cake, florals for the couple and a dinner in one of the property’s specialty restaurants.
Brides- and grooms-to-be will also appreciate the comprehensive services of an on-site coordinator, which include help in picking the venue — any of the specialty restaurants, one of five meeting rooms or the pristine white gazebo, where I witnessed a couple blissfully say “I do” as the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
“Each couple has the full attention of the best wedding experts,” said Claudia Simon, director of marketing for Iberostar Hotels & Resorts. “Even once on-site, every detail will be reconfirmed and finalized to deliver their perfect wedding day.”
While Iberostar Playa Mita is a great choice for small- and medium-size wedding groups, clients with a lengthier guest list should consider other Mexico properties, such as Iberostar Cancun or one of the resorts within the Iberostar Playa Paraiso complex in Playa del Carmen.
Iberostar is also in the process of designing packages that represent a property’s unique destination.
“At Iberostar Playa Mita, we are developing one that will incorporate elements of the local Huichol culture in a symbolic wedding ceremony,” Simon said. “This will give Iberostar guests the opportunity to have an authentic Mexican experience, beyond the food and location.”
The Details
Iberostar Hotels & Resortswww.iberostar.com
