One of the biggest misconceptions about destination weddings is that everything is included. While many all-inclusive resorts offer beautiful wedding packages that provide exceptional value, there are often optional enhancements that couples choose to personalize their special day.

The good news is that these costs are optional, not mandatory. Many couples enjoy a beautiful wedding using only the inclusions provided in their resort package, while others decide to invest in additional décor, entertainment, photography, or private events to create a more customized experience.

Understanding these potential costs early will help you create a realistic budget and avoid surprises later in the planning process.

What's Usually Included?

Many entry-level wedding packages include:

• Ceremony location

• Services of the resort wedding coordinator

• Officiant

• Bridal bouquet

• Groom's boutonnière

• Wedding cake

• Sparkling wine toast

• Basic ceremony setup

• Standard ceremony décor

For many couples, these inclusions provide everything needed for a simple yet elegant wedding.

However, once you begin personalizing your wedding, additional costs can add up quickly.

Common Wedding Enhancements

The following enhancements are typically not included in basic wedding packages. Prices vary by resort and destination, but these approximate ranges can help you plan your budget.

EnhancementApproximate Price (USD)

Bridesmaid bouquets$75–$175 each

Groomsmen boutonnieres$20–$40 each

Floral centrepieces$100–$300 each

Floral arch or ceremony backdrop$500–$2,500+

Rose petal aisle$100–$300

Chair covers or upgraded ceremony chairs$8–$20 per chair

Reception chair upgrades$10–$30 per chair

Specialty linens$20–$75 per table

Additional ceremony décor$300–$2,000+

Photography & Videography

Capturing your wedding memories is often one of the most important investments.

Typical pricing may include:

• Additional photography hours: $200–$500 USD per hour

• Full-day photography packages: $1,500–$4,000+ USD

• Professional videography: $1,200–$3,500+ USD

• Drone photography (where permitted): $300–$800 USD

Many resorts include only a small number of photographs in their complimentary packages, so couples often upgrade to larger collections.

Reception & Entertainment

While some wedding packages include a private reception, others may only provide a shared restaurant dinner.

Optional upgrades may include:

• Private reception dinner

• Cocktail hour

• DJ services

• Live musicians

• Dance floor

• Professional lighting

• Fireworks (available at select resorts)

Approximate costs:

• Private dinner reception: $25–$120 USD per guest

• DJ: $800–$2,000 USD

• Live musician: $300–$1,500 USD

• Dance floor: $300–$1,000 USD

Hair, Makeup & Spa Services

Many brides choose to have their beauty services completed at the resort.

Approximate pricing:

• Bridal hair: $100–$250 USD

• Bridal makeup: $100–$250 USD

• Bridesmaids' hair or makeup: $75–$175 USD each

Legal & Administrative Costs

If you're planning a legal ceremony rather than a symbolic one, additional government fees, document translations, blood tests (in some destinations), and legalization requirements may apply.

Many Canadian couples choose a symbolic ceremony abroad after legally marrying at home, simplifying the process and reducing costs.

A Note About Currency

It's important to remember that most wedding enhancements, resort wedding packages, décor, photography, entertainment, and optional services are priced in U.S. Dollars (USD), regardless of whether your wedding takes place in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, or another tropical destination.

Travel packages for Canadian residents are generally quoted in Canadian Dollars (CAD) through Canadian tour operators, while the wedding portion is typically paid directly to the resort in USD.

Plan for the Wedding You Want

One of the greatest advantages of a destination wedding is flexibility. There is no expectation that you purchase every available enhancement. Some couples prefer an intimate beachfront ceremony using the complimentary wedding package, while others create a luxurious, fully customized celebration with upgraded décor, entertainment, and private events.

The key is deciding what matters most to you.

Would you rather invest in spectacular flowers, professional photography, a private reception, or an upgraded suite? Every couple has different priorities, and your budget should reflect your vision—not someone else's.

At Destination Weddings with Globetrot, we help Canadian couples understand what's included, identify optional costs, compare wedding packages, and create a realistic budget before making any commitments. Our goal is simple: to help you avoid unexpected expenses while creating a destination wedding that's both beautiful and unforgettable.