Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/739845
FALL/ WINTER 2016 DREAMSCAPES 61 them, making sure they are onside with a destination wedding. "It's wise to book from eight to 12 months in advance so people can save for this important event," she says. However, she cautions that "while we try to make anything possible for our guests, we have no control over the weather. We do have backup locations in case of rain or storms." The resorts are also subject to envi- ronmental and other laws that may affect weddings. For example, because turtles are a protected species, beach weddings are lim- ited to certain spots during turtle-nesting season. Drone photography, while increas- ingly popular, also comes with restrictions. González Fernandez and Velázquez Meléndez see many blended families attending weddings, and note that both resorts have separate sections that cater to children and adults. The adults-only areas and the upgraded Royal Service, which comes with personal butlers, extra privacy and exclusive services, are popular with couples. Guests with children can roam freely around the "Family Concierge" sec- tion, where everyone is pampered and spoiled with treats and toys. GETTING TO "YES" One policy at Paradisus Resorts is to make each wedding day feel like it is the only one in the world. To this end, Paradisus Playa del Carmen limits weddings to two a day; Cancun to one. Venues are sheltered from the public and guarded to keep uninvited spectators at bay. Brides can also rent the spacious "bridal suite" to avoid crowding and cluttering up their rooms while getting ready. It gives wedding parties a serene space to put up their feet; have their hair, makeup and nails done; fit their dresses; and spend quality bonding time. Attentive romance staff serve sparkling wine and canapés, help calm any jitters, run last-minute errands and strive to make all the details click seamlessly. While some weddings follow the latest trends, traditional food (chicken, beef, fish), dresses (white gowns) and decor (roses) still win. "But there are opportunities to add cul- tural elements," says González Fernandez. "For example, instead of a traditional cere- mony, we can do a Mayan ceremony or incorporate themes." Mexican-themed wed- dings can include a Mexican buffet and decor elements such as sarapes, maracas and piñatas. Throughout their stay, guests can also participate in scheduled activities such as tequila-tasting, cooking classes and tango lessons. NEXT STEPS To ease into their new lives after an exciting wedding day, newlyweds can opt for addi- tional amenities such as a couples' spa treatment, a private dinner for two under the stars, rose-petal turn-down service and late checkout. Some may also qualify for a free honeymoon package, titled Glow. Outside the resorts, romantic scenarios abound. I love walking hand in hand with my sweetie in Playa del Carmen's pedes- trian-friendly streets, which offer an outdoor Mexican market, quirky shops and street vendors. A range of restaurants tempt palates with local produce, meat and seafood. To stay cool and commune with