Getting Married at Secrets Huatulco: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a stress-free wedding celebration with stunning ocean views, unlimited gourmet dining and drinks, luxury accommodations, and integrated services? Explore Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa, a premier adults-only, all-inclusive luxury resort situated on the Pacific coast in Huatulco, Oaxaca. Located in the protected bays and just a short drive from the international airport, this resort offers a self-contained paradise ideal for destination weddings where convenience meets luxury. Renowned for its breathtaking bay views, golden sand beach, extensive amenities, and comprehensive wedding packages, it’s an exceptional choice for couples seeking a relaxing and seamless destination wedding experience where everything is taken care of.

Secrets Huatulco functions as a full-service luxury all-inclusive resort, providing multiple restaurants, bars, pools, spa facilities, and ocean-view accommodations. For weddings, it boasts dedicated planning teams and integrated services covering catering, drinks, and basic decor, bundling many elements into convenient packages. While packages offer ease, personalization is achievable through upgrades and approved external vendors. Weddings here feel luxurious and effortless, leveraging the convenience of having accommodations, venue, and most services managed by one entity, allowing couples to focus on celebrating in a beautiful coastal setting.

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Index

Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

 

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa is an excellent venue for couples seeking a luxurious, convenient, relaxing, and comprehensive wedding experience within a stunning adults-only, all-inclusive beachfront resort in Huatulco. If you prioritize a stress-free planning process with many services bundled, desire beautiful ocean views and beach access for your celebration, appreciate high-end amenities and unlimited dining/drinks for your guests, and want a self-contained location where guests can relax and enjoy their vacation alongside the wedding events, Secrets Huatulco is a premier choice. It’s ideal for couples who envision an elegant beach or coastal wedding with all the details handled by a professional resort team, suitable for guest lists of various sizes who value convenience and a resort vacation experience.

The resort’s key highlights include its prime beachfront location with spectacular ocean and bay views, luxurious all-inclusive amenities (gourmet dining, unlimited drinks, pools, spa), dedicated wedding planning team, comprehensive wedding packages, and adults-only atmosphere. Perfect for a seamless, beautiful, and indulgent coastal destination wedding experience.

 

How Does a Wedding at Secrets Huatulco Work?

 

Planning a wedding at Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa typically involves:

Contacting the Resort Wedding Department: Reaching out to Secrets Huatulco’s dedicated wedding planning team to inquire about availability and discuss their wedding packages and requirements.

Selecting a Wedding Package: Choosing from the resort’s pre-designed wedding packages, which bundle key elements like ceremony setup, reception venue space, in-house catering (usually a specific menu or options), standard beverage service, basic decor, wedding cake, and the services of a resort wedding coordinator. Packages vary in inclusions and guest count maximums/minimums.

Booking a Room Block: A crucial part of a resort wedding is booking a block of rooms for your guests. Many packages require a certain number of room nights booked within the block for the couple to receive specific package benefits (like complimentary rooms, upgrades, or package inclusions). Guests pay for their own all-inclusive room rates, which cover their stay, meals, and drinks outside the private events.

Working with the Resort Wedding Coordinator: Your primary contact at the resort. They manage all *resort-provided* services outlined in your package: selecting menu options from their in-house catering, coordinating ceremony and reception venue setups on property, managing resort staffing (servers, bartenders, etc.), arranging the included decor elements, scheduling timeline elements within the resort’s capabilities, and coordinating guest room block logistics. Their role is focused on the operational aspects of the wedding within the resort.

Hiring an External Planner (Recommended for Enhanced Personalization): While the resort coordinator handles the basics, an external planner is recommended for couples seeking enhanced design, personalized details, and seamless coordination of external vendors (like photography, videography, or specialized entertainment) that are *not* part of the resort package. They help integrate external elements with resort offerings, manage vendors the resort may require to be outside contractors, and often provide a higher level of personal attention and troubleshooting. Note that resorts often have strict rules and fees for external vendors.

Vendor Selection & Coordination: Beyond the resort package, couples (via their planner) will contract external vendors for specialized services: photography, videography, potentially specialized decor/rentals beyond package options, specific entertainment (bands/DJs not on resort list), etc. These external vendors must adhere to resort rules and may incur resort fees.

The process is highly integrated with the resort’s all-inclusive structure and wedding packages, offering significant convenience, with personalization added through upgrades and limited external vendors managed alongside the resort’s own coordination team.

 

Best Months to Get Married

 

Huatulco is a coastal destination with a generally warm climate. The most popular months for weddings at Secrets Huatulco are during the dry season, from November through May, offering the most consistent sunny weather and pleasant temperatures for beach or outdoor celebrations. The rainy season (June-October) is hotter and more humid with a higher chance of afternoon/evening showers. However, resorts like Secrets are well-equipped with beautiful indoor or covered backup spaces (restaurants, ballrooms) to ensure events proceed smoothly regardless of weather.

 

The Basics of Wedding Planning (All-Inclusive Resort Model)

 

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa operates on an All-Inclusive Resort Wedding Package model:

Wedding Packages: Wedding bookings are centered around specific wedding packages (e.g., “Wedding in Paradise,” “Secrets of Love”). These packages have a fixed price and include specific venue spaces on the resort (beach, gazebo, terrace, ballroom), ceremony setup, a limited number of guests, in-house food and beverage (often a pre-set menu or choice from specific options), standard decor (chairs, linens, centerpiece), wedding cake (sometimes included), and the services of the resort’s wedding coordinator. Packages are typically priced per wedding (for the core elements and a small group) with an additional per-person fee for larger guest counts.

All-Inclusive Guest Stay: Guests book rooms at the resort on an all-inclusive basis. Their room rate covers their accommodation, access to resort amenities, and unlimited food and drinks at the resort’s restaurants and bars throughout their stay. This rate is separate from the wedding package cost paid by the couple (or portion paid per guest). Many packages have room block requirements for couple’s benefits.

In-House Services: The resort provides core event services within the package: venue space, food and beverage preparation and service (from resort kitchens/bars), staffing (servers, bartenders, resort event staff), basic banquet furniture, and standard resort linens and tableware.

Building the Event: While the package provides the foundation, couples personalize their event through package upgrades (e.g., enhanced menus, premium bar, better chairs) or by bringing in *some* external vendors for specific elements not covered or desired at a higher level (specialized decor, elaborate florals, specific entertainment, photography/videography). Resort rules and potential fees for external vendors apply.

Additional Costs: Wedding package cost (potentially with per-person fees for larger guest counts), *Guest room rates* (paid by guests), External Wedding Planner fees (recommended), Costs for *all* contracted external vendors (photography, videography, highly specialized decor/rentals, specific entertainment), Package upgrades, Potential additional venue/site fees for exclusive areas or extended hours, Resort service fees and taxes (often added to package cost and upgrades), Permits (often handled by resort, cost passed on), Insurance (if required), Personalized favors, Officiant, legal fees (especially for civil ceremonies, handled separately from resort).

This structure provides a high level of convenience and predictability, bundling many services, while the couple (via their planner and upgrades) adds desired personalization within the resort’s framework. Guest accommodation is a significant factor in overall destination wedding costs, paid separately by attendees.

 

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding (Secrets Huatulco Event)?

 

Cost allocation follows the all-inclusive resort wedding package booking structure:

  • The couple typically pays for:
    • The Secrets Huatulco wedding package cost (covering ceremony setup, reception venue, in-house F&B, staffing, basic decor, cake – for included guests, plus per-person fee for additional guests).
    • External Wedding Planner fees (recommended).
    • Costs for *all* contracted external vendors (photography, videography, specialized decor, specialized rentals, specific lighting/sound, specific entertainment).
    • Any upgrades to the in-house menu, beverage package, or decor/rentals.
    • Their own travel and accommodation (sometimes partially offset by package perks/credits based on room block).
    • Optional hosted events outside the package (welcome party, brunch – can be arranged through resort catering, or off-site).
    • Resort service fees and taxes on package and upgrades.
    • External vendor fees charged by the resort (if any).
    • Personal items, favors, officiant, legal fees (civil ceremony paperwork).
  • Guests typically pay for:
    • Their flights to Huatulco (HUX).
    • Their all-inclusive accommodation rate at Secrets Huatulco or another hotel.
    • Airport transfers to the resort (sometimes included in package/room booking).
    • Any activities or excursions outside the resort package.
    • Any food & beverage consumed at the resort outside of the hosted wedding events (covered by their all-inclusive rate).
    • Wedding gifts.

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations (Resort Venue)

 

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa offers extensive space suitable for medium to large-sized weddings, with significant guest accommodation on-site:

Event Capacity: Comfortably hosts medium to large-sized weddings (e.g., 80 – 250+ guests), utilizing various beautiful locations around the resort such as beach areas, terraces with ocean views, garden gazebos, restaurants, and ballrooms. The resort’s scale and multiple event spaces are well-suited for accommodating substantial guest lists and providing different settings for various wedding components (ceremony, cocktail, reception).

Event Locations: Beautiful and versatile options typically include:

Beach: A popular choice for ceremonies with ocean backdrop.

Terraces & Gazebos: Outdoor or semi-outdoor areas overlooking the ocean or gardens, great for ceremonies, cocktail hours, or receptions.

Restaurants: Specific resort restaurants may be available for private events like rehearsal dinners or smaller receptions.

Ballrooms & Indoor Spaces: Dedicated indoor rooms perfect for larger receptions, dancing, or reliable backup space.

Accommodations: As a large all-inclusive resort, Secrets Huatulco offers a significant number of high-end on-site guest rooms and suites. Couples arrange a room block, and guests book directly with the resort. This makes it extremely convenient for all attendees to stay together at the wedding location, simplifying logistics significantly.

 

Ceremony and Reception Logistics (Resort Layout)

 

Logistics involve coordinating guest flow within the resort’s extensive grounds and multiple event areas, all managed primarily by the resort team:

Venue Navigation: Secrets Huatulco is a sprawling resort property. Planning guest movement between ceremony location (e.g., beach), cocktail hour (e.g., a terrace), and reception (e.g., a ballroom or different terrace) is managed by the resort wedding coordinator, often with assistance from resort staff. Clear signage and staff guidance are standard within the resort. Consider accessibility for guests with mobility issues across the resort property (pathways, ramps, elevators).

Vendor Access: Coordinated by the resort wedding coordinator. Resorts have established procedures for external vendors (like photographers, videographers, specialized decorators). There may be specific access points, setup times, and rules to adhere to, potentially including fees charged by the resort for external vendors.

Setup: Resort staff handle the setup of all resort-provided items (ceremony chairs, arch, reception tables, chairs, included linens, tableware, catering setup). External vendors manage their specific setups (specialized decor, elaborate florals, advanced sound systems, specialty rentals). The resort wedding coordinator facilitates the integration of external vendor setups with the resort’s own setup, within resort guidelines.

Transportation: Convenient for guests staying on-site. All event locations are within the resort property, usually accessible by walking (though distances can be significant) or internal resort transport if offered. Airport transfers (Huatulco International Airport – HUX) to Secrets Huatulco are typically included in guest’s resort booking or easily arranged (approx. 20-30 minutes). Transportation off-resort (e.g., to downtown La Crucecita or excursions) is separate and arranged by guests or via resort services/tour operators.

Proximity to Airport: Convenient access to Huatulco International Airport (HUX) via transfer (approx. 20-30 minutes).

 

What’s Included in Resort Event Booking?

 

Inclusions with a Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa wedding package are typically comprehensive due to the all-inclusive model and integrated services, though varying by package level:

  • Exclusive use of contracted event areas within the resort (e.g., specific Beach section, Gazebo, Terrace, Ballroom) for designated times.
  • In-house catering: the chosen food menu (from package options) and standard beverage package (alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks from resort bars).
  • Full resort event staffing: servers, kitchen staff, bartenders, banquet captain, resort wedding coordinator, guest services, front desk, security.
  • Basic resort banquet table settings: standard plates, silverware, glassware, standard resort linens, standard banquet chairs and tables available for events (upgrade options typically available).
  • Basic ceremony decor (e.g., simple arch, signing table, standard chairs).
  • Wedding cake (often included in packages).
  • Setup and cleanup of all resort-provided items and contracted event spaces.
  • Use of all resort facilities and amenities for staying guests (pools, restaurants, bars, entertainment, non-motorized water sports).
  • Support from the dedicated Resort Wedding Coordinator for all resort-related wedding logistics.
  • Guest accommodation on-site (booked and paid by guests, but essential part of structure).
  • Potentially included perks for the couple (e.g., complimentary nights, room upgrade, spa credits) based on the chosen package and booked room nights.

Common exclusions (meaning you need to rent/contract these separately, often via upgrades or approved external vendors): ALL customized/elaborate decor (beyond package basics), ALL specialized florals, ALL advanced lighting and sound systems (beyond basic background), ANY music/entertainment *not* provided or approved by the resort (bands, specific DJs) – resort has strict policies and potential fees, photography, videography, external wedding planner (recommended, separate hire, potential resort fee), any rentals *beyond* the standard resort stock (e.g., specialty chair styles, premium colored linens, lounge furniture, custom dance floor), premium/top-shelf liquor or specialty cocktails beyond standard package, extended event hours fees, permits (often handled by resort, cost passed on), insurance (if required), personalized favors, officiant (especially for civil ceremonies, paperwork and judge/officiant is separate from resort package), legal fees, tips/gratuities for resort staff (sometimes included in packages, but check).

Obtain a detailed Secrets Huatulco wedding package contract and group room block agreement specifying exactly what is included, per-person costs, minimum spends/guest counts, room block requirements, timing restrictions (especially noise/event end times), rules and fees for external vendors, and what is covered by the all-inclusive guest rate vs. the wedding package.

 

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies (Covered Areas/Ballrooms)

 

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa offers excellent, elegant indoor or covered spaces as a backup plan for outdoor elements:

Covered Terraces, Restaurants & Ballrooms: The resort’s numerous covered terraces, dedicated indoor event spaces (like ballrooms or private rooms within restaurants), or specific restaurant areas are perfectly equipped to host the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception in case of rain or unfavorable weather, comfortably accommodating large guest counts in a beautiful and functional setting.

Backup options utilize the resort’s existing infrastructure, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience for guests regardless of weather, maintaining a sophisticated and dry environment.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies (Resort Fees)

 

Payment terms align with large resort event bookings:

Deposit: Required to secure your wedding date, chosen package, event spaces, and guest room block at Secrets Huatulco. The size of the deposit is typically a percentage of the estimated total wedding cost or a fixed fee, and is necessary to confirm the booking.

Payment Schedule: Phased payments for the wedding package costs leading up to the event date, based on guest count estimates and contractual milestones. Room block deposits/payments are typically handled individually by guests booking in the block, or follow a schedule if part of a larger room block agreement (resort handles this directly with guests).

Final Payment: Typically due shortly before the event (e.g., 30-60 days out), based on the final guaranteed guest count for the package and confirmed upgrades/inclusions.

Cancellation Policy: Booking a resort wedding is a significant commitment; cancellation policies are usually strict with escalating penalties closer to the date, potentially including a high percentage or the full package cost and minimums. Room block cancellation policies also apply for guests. Comprehensive wedding insurance is *highly recommended* to protect against unforeseen cancellations.

Vendor Payments: For external vendors (like photographer/videographer), each has their own separate payment schedule and contract with the couple/planner. Be aware of any resort fees for bringing in outside vendors.

 

Coordination: Resort Wedding Coordinator vs. External Planner

 

Understanding the support system at an all-inclusive resort:

Secrets Huatulco Resort Wedding Coordinator: Your primary contact at the resort. They manage all *resort-provided* services outlined in your chosen package: coordinating ceremony & reception locations on property, overseeing setup of included decor/rentals, planning and executing the in-house menu & beverage service, managing resort banquet staffing, coordinating guest room blocks, and overseeing basic on-site logistics *within the resort’s operations* for the wedding day. They ensure the resort’s services are delivered. They do *not* typically manage your overall design vision (beyond package options), coordinate external vendors (though they communicate with them regarding resort access/rules), handle detailed off-resort guest logistics, or provide the comprehensive level of personal planning an external planner offers.

External Wedding Planner: Provides personalized, comprehensive planning for the *entire destination wedding experience*, integrating seamlessly with the resort’s services. This includes overall event design vision, detailed budget management across *all* contracts (resort package + external vendors), sourcing and coordinating *all* external vendors (photographer, videographer, specialized decor/rentals, specific entertainment), creating detailed timelines that coordinate resort services and external elements, managing guest logistics (welcome bags, activity suggestions, communication), handling external vendor contracts, and serves as the primary point person for everyone on the wedding day, troubleshooting issues and ensuring seamless execution from start to finish. *Highly recommended, often essential*, especially for couples with specific design visions or those wanting a high level of personalized support beyond the standard resort offerings and coordinating external vendors.

 

Dietary and Menu Restrictions (In-House Resort Catering)

 

Handled by Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa’s in-house culinary team as part of the all-inclusive package:

Catering: Provided exclusively by Secrets Huatulco’s in-house kitchens and bars as a central element of the wedding package and the all-inclusive guest experience. Wedding packages typically offer a choice of pre-set menus or limited customization options. The resort’s numerous restaurants offer diverse cuisine for guests outside the private event. The all-inclusive nature covers a standard range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, with premium or specific requests often available as upgrades.

Dietary Needs: Handled directly by the resort kitchen. As a large, modern resort, they are well-equipped and experienced in accommodating a wide range of dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies, etc.) for large numbers of guests with advance notice. Communicate all specific needs and guest counts clearly to the resort wedding coordinator during the menu planning process.

 

Music and Entertainment Restrictions (Resort Policies)

 

Entertainment policies at an all-inclusive resort balance providing a lively event with ongoing resort activities and respecting other guests:

Style: Accommodating to various forms of entertainment. DJs and live music (bands) are common for receptions. The resort may have preferred vendors or require external vendors to be approved and potentially pay a fee. Different areas of the resort (beach, terrace, ballroom) may have different capabilities or restrictions for entertainment setup and sound.

Curfews/Noise: Resorts have operational hours and noise restrictions, particularly in outdoor areas or near guest rooms late at night. Amplified music, especially for dancing, will likely have a specific end time (e.g., 11 PM or 12 AM in outdoor areas, possibly later indoors) to avoid disturbing other resort guests. Discuss specific policies and desired music types/times with the resort wedding coordinator early on.

Vendor Policies: External entertainment vendors must comply with Secrets Huatulco’s rules regarding setup, sound levels in different areas, timing, power requirements, and use of space. There is typically a fee charged by the resort for bringing in outside vendors. Your planner must coordinate this closely with the resort wedding coordinator.

 

Parking and Guest Logistics (Resort Location)

 

Logistics for an all-inclusive resort venue in Huatulco are centered around guest arrival/departure from the airport and managing movement within the self-contained property:

Airport Transfers: Guests fly into Huatulco International Airport (HUX). Transfers to Secrets Huatulco are usually straightforward and can often be arranged directly through the resort booking or included in tour operator packages (approx. 20-30 minutes).

Accommodation: Guests stay on-site at Secrets Huatulco by booking rooms (typically via a room block) at the all-inclusive rate. This is the primary guest lodging arrangement and simplifies logistics significantly.

Transport to Secrets Huatulco: Primarily airport transfers. Once guests are at the resort, all wedding events and resort amenities are typically accessible by walking within the property. Some larger resorts may offer internal shuttle services.

Internal Transport: Navigating within Secrets Huatulco involves moving between beach areas, pools, restaurants, bars, and event spaces. Distances can be significant, but pathways are usually well-maintained. Check accessibility for guests with mobility issues.

Parking: Resorts typically have dedicated parking for guests and vendors, often with valet service. Parking is not usually a major guest concern as airport transfers are common and guests stay on-site.

Vendor Access: Coordinated load-in/out plan required for external vendors with the resort wedding coordinator, adhering to resort rules and designated access points/times.

 

Total Cost Breakdown (Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa Wedding)

 

For an estimated wedding of 80 guests at Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa (note: cost is a combination of wedding package + guest stays):

Wedding Package (Venue spaces, F&B, Staffing, Basic Decor, Cake, Resort Coord.): $5,000 – $20,000+ USD (Cost varies significantly by package and guest count included in package base vs. additional per-person fee). Per-person fee for additional guests: $100 – $200+ USD per person ($6,000 – $14,000+ for 80 guests minus package base).

*Guest Accommodation* (All-Inclusive Stay): $200 – $400+ USD per person, per night ($32,000 – $64,000+ for 80 guests for a 2-night minimum stay) – *This is paid by guests, but is the major cost component of the destination wedding for attendees*. Rate varies by room type, season, length of stay.

External Wedding Planner: $5,000 – $15,000+ (Recommended for personalization/external vendor management).

Rentals (Upgrades beyond package): $2,000 – $10,000+ (Specialty chairs, lounge, etc.).

Decor & Florals (Upgrades beyond package): $5,000 – $20,000+.

Lighting & Sound (Upgrades/External): $2,000 – $8,000+ (Often needed for beach/outdoor evening reception ambiance).

Music & Entertainment (External/Upgrades): $3,000 – $10,000+.

Photography/Videography (External): $4,000 – $12,000+.

External Vendor Fees (Charged by Resort): $500 – $3,000+ (Variable per vendor category).

Contingency, Service Charges (often added), Taxes, Permits (partially in package): $4,000 – $10,000+.

Total estimated *event cost paid by couple* (excluding guest rooms) typically ranges from $30,000 – $110,000+ USD for 80 guests, heavily influenced by package choice, number of guests over package base, upgrades, and external vendor selections. The *total cost for guests* (including rooms) adds significantly to the overall destination wedding expense, making clear communication about guest costs crucial.

 

Splurge vs. Save

Save: Choose a wedding package with a lower per-person fee or fewer included guests, utilizing as many of the base package inclusions as possible. Minimize upgrades to decor, florals, and rentals, using the resort’s standard offerings. Opt for a DJ or resort-approved entertainment within standard package hours. Choose a weekday or off-season date if available. Encourage guests to book standard room categories.

Splurge: Select a premium wedding package with more inclusions and flexibility. Upgrade significantly to high-end decor, elaborate florals, specialty rentals (like premium chairs or a custom dance floor), and enhanced lighting/sound production, especially for evening ambiance. Choose premium beverage packages. Hire a high-demand external band or DJ (factoring in resort fees) and extend event hours if permitted (incurring fees). Commission top-tier photography and videography. Host additional events like a welcome party or farewell brunch through the resort. Offer room category upgrades or stay extensions as part of the room block.

Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa Event Inclusions (Summary)

 

Key components based on the All-Inclusive Resort Wedding model:

Secrets Huatulco Wedding Package includes: Use of contracted event areas on the resort for set times, in-house catering (food & beverage from package menu/options), resort event staffing, basic resort banquet settings/furniture (upgrades avail.), basic ceremony decor, wedding cake (often), setup/cleanup of included items, Resort Wedding Coordinator support, access to all resort amenities for staying guests, on-site guest accommodation options (via room block), potentially couple perks/credits.

Major Exclusions (requiring upgrades or separate external contracts): ALL custom/elaborate decor (beyond package basics), ALL specialized florals (beyond package allowance), ALL advanced lighting/sound, ANY music/entertainment *not* provided or approved by the resort (requires approval + potential resort fee), photography, videography, external wedding planner (recommended, separate hire, potential resort fee), specialized rentals (beyond standard resort stock), premium/top-shelf liquor (beyond standard package), extended event hours fees, permits/legal fees for civil ceremony (separate process), insurance, personalized details, officiant (for legal ceremony – separate).

Verify details based on your specific Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa wedding package contract and room block agreement.

Activities for Other Days (On-Site Resort Amenities & Local Exploration)

 

Guests attending a wedding at Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa benefit immensely from the extensive on-site luxury amenities included in their all-inclusive stay, alongside opportunities for local exploration:

On-Site (Resort Amenities): Guests staying at the resort have access to its vast array of all-inclusive facilities. This includes multiple swimming pools (often including infinity pools), a beautiful beach, numerous gourmet restaurants (no reservations required, including buffet and à la carte options), various bars (swim-up, lobby, music lounges), spa and fitness facilities, and daily resort activities and entertainment (beach volleyball, water sports, classes, live music, shows). This provides a comprehensive vacation experience for guests throughout their stay, allowing for relaxation and informal gatherings.

Off-Site (Local Exploration): Huatulco offers nine bays and numerous beaches to explore, plus the charming town of La Crucecita. Guests can arrange excursions like boat tours to visit different bays (many resorts are in Conejos Bay), snorkeling or diving trips, visits to La Crucecita for shopping and local restaurants (a short taxi ride away), or exploring nearby coffee plantations or waterfalls. Tour operators are readily available at the resort or in town, providing convenient access for guests wanting to explore beyond the resort on non-wedding days.

Off-Site (Nearby Attractions): The Huatulco area is known for its natural beauty and ecological focus (it’s part of a national park). Guests can visit Parque Nacional Huatulco for hiking or secluded beaches.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

 

Understand Your Package Inclusions vs. Desired Personalization: Secrets Huatulco packages bundle many services, offering convenience. Get a detailed list of *exactly* what is included in your chosen package (specific decor items, number of hours, menu options). Identify areas where you want elevated personalization (special florals, specific rentals, advanced lighting). Budget for these upgrades or external vendors (factoring in potential resort fees) and work closely with your planner to integrate them seamlessly with the resort’s offerings.

Embrace the Beach/Coastal Setting: Leverage the natural beauty of the beach and ocean views for key moments like the ceremony and portraits. Plan your timeline, especially the ceremony time, around sunset for beautiful lighting on the beach. Be mindful of wind and sand on the beach when planning decor, hair, and attire.

Communicate Guest Costs and Logistics Clearly: Ensure your guests understand the all-inclusive room rate cost and what it includes, separate from any wedding events the couple may host (like a welcome party or brunch beyond the reception package). Provide clear information on booking within the room block, airport transfers, and suggestions for exploring Huatulco, empowering them to plan their trip alongside the wedding celebration.

 

Two Bride Reviews  

 

“Our wedding at Secrets Huatulco was incredibly convenient and absolutely beautiful. Having the all-inclusive aspect made it so easy for our guests – they loved the unlimited food and drinks and relaxing by the pool or beach. The resort’s wedding team handled all the basic setup beautifully as per our package, and with our external planner, we added special touches like elevated florals and lighting that transformed the reception space. Getting married with the ocean as our backdrop was a dream, and the transition between events on the property felt seamless.” – Jessica L.

“We chose Secrets Huatulco for the ease of planning a destination wedding and the luxury experience. The wedding packages were comprehensive, and the resort staff were very helpful with the logistics covered by the package. Our external planner was essential for managing our specific design vision and coordinating vendors like our photographer. Our guests raved about the resort amenities and the beautiful setting. It was a perfect mix of a relaxing vacation for our guests and a stunning, stress-free wedding for us.” – Emily C.

 

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro 

 

Photographing a wedding at Secrets Huatulco offers a fantastic opportunity to capture a vibrant, relaxing, and visually appealing celebration in a tropical setting. My focus would be on leveraging the natural light (especially sunset on the beach), the ocean views, the resort’s elegant architecture and pools, and the energy of guests enjoying the all-inclusive experience. Capturing the ceremony on the beach, the transition to cocktail hour with ocean breezes, and the reception ambiance on a terrace or ballroom are key moments. Challenges include managing harsh mid-day sun on the beach, coordinating photography across a large resort property with multiple simultaneous activities, and ensuring efficiency during transitions between distinct event locations. Secrets Huatulco is ideal for couples who prioritize a stress-free, luxurious, all-inclusive destination wedding with beautiful coastal backdrops and extensive amenities for their guests, offering photos that feel joyful, relaxed, and vibrant.

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