TALKING DESTINATION WEDDING ATTIRE
Destination weddings in Mexico are over-the-top fun! Regardless of city, state, or venue, it’s a getaway for brides, grooms and guests alike. While the stars of the show spend months researching and purchasing the perfect gown and suit, guests are often left wondering what they should pack to ensure they are on point throughout the celebrations. Here’s our list of what to consider when traveling to your loved one's destination wedding in Mexico.
CONSIDER THE DESTINATION
If you are arriving at the Riviera Maya (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and surrounding areas) take into account the heat and humidity. The rainy season is Summer, and those storms are quite something. You may want to consider packing light clothes (shorts, T-shirts, etc) for non-event days, and enclosed shoes for when it gets wet out.
Los Cabos is also hot hot hot! The heat is drier than in East Coast locations, so you won’t suffer so much from humidity. That being said, the sun is damaging, so make sure to apply your sunscreen, bring a wide-brimmed hat, and cover up with long sleeves when not in the pool.
If you are lucky enough to be visiting one of our larger metropolitan cities like Guadalajara, temperatures are much more mild. While it may be a 100-degree day in nearby Mazatlan, temperatures can drop drastically in the big city. Pack light sweaters and pants along with your summer wear to make sure you are covered.
CONSIDER THE DRESS CODE
Many brides and grooms will let you know ahead of time what dress code they expect on their wedding day. This usually comes listed on your personalized invitation or on the happy couple’s wedding website. If the event is more formal and takes place in a ballroom or luxury hotel, you may be asked to go black-tie or after-5 cocktail attire. This means traveling with suits and gowns in dry cleaner style packaging to avoid creasing as much as possible. Bonus tips: Ask your airline to hang garment bags in the captain's closet, and have your concierge organize a steamer to be delivered to your room just in case.
If it’s a beach wedding, things are often more casual. No dress code mentioned? Avoid shorts and sandals and opt for linen pants, light shirts, and closed-in shoes. Ladies will be comfortable in breathable fabrics and maxi dresses, but remember, only the bride should be dressed in white!
CONSIDER ADDITIONAL EVENT ATTIRE
Most destination weddings in Mexico are multi-day affairs. Many brides and grooms host welcome mixers, rehearsal dinners, boat cruises, and farewell brunches pre and post-wedding day. Most of these events require a more casual approach to planning your outfit, so research each location and the weather before packing that suitcase. If you are on an evening sunset cruise, high heels might not be the best option!
CONSIDER LAST-MINUTE REPAIR OPTIONS
Things happen! If your toiletry bag has spilled over your wedding attire or you have a last-minute button that needs replacing, there are options! Always package a travel-sized sewing kit for repairs you can handle yourself, and ask your host or concierge for nearby tailors and dry cleaners for larger requests. Most local providers will have pick-up and drop-off services so you don’t have to run around town on busy days.
A FEW OTHER TIPS AND TRICKS…
Unpack as soon as you arrive at the hotel!
Hang any creased attire on coathangers in the bathroom. The steam from the shower will help ease fabric and have you looking perfectly groomed the day of.
If the dress code hasn’t been established, reach out to the bride and groom. Knowing what the pack ahead of time will help you be wedding-ready on the big day. Ask early, as the couple will have a lot to do in the weeks leading up to the wedding!
Look into shopping malls and plazas close to your resort. It’s always good to have a plan B in case you forget to pack something needed!
Don’t forget bathing suits! While not wedding attire, you will almost always have downtime in Mexico. Enjoy the pool, beach, and sun, just remember to bring a coverup to avoid sun damage 🙂
THE CONCLUSION
Packing for any international trip can be a little anxiety-inducing, and packing for a destination wedding in Mexico takes further consideration. Plan outfits ahead of time, get that suitcase ready a few days before departure, and make sure you are in touch with your concierge for any last-minute necessities. In Mexico, we are here to help, and hotel staff are fast, fast, fast when it comes to problem-solving.
On a final note, remember to enjoy your time in paradise, and we can’t wait to see you again!
One Love
Gary
Copywriting by @bloggingwithlove.mexico
