Outside Vendor Fees for Destination Weddings in Cancun: What You Need to Know

Outside Vendor Fees for Destination Weddings in Cancun: What You Need to Know

You might have heard that Cancun is a fantastic place to tie the knot: spectacular beaches, sumptuous resorts, and experiences you’ll never forget. But have you heard about the outside vendor fees for destination weddings in Cancun? Many couples are surprised to learn about this, as they can add unexpected costs to their budget. 

Thanks to these fees, bringing external vendors to your Cancun wedding can massively impact your overall expenses. That’s why it’s key to understand what they are, why they exist, and how to deal with them. 

In this blog, we’ll talk about the outside vendor fees for Cancun destination weddings, so you can carry on with your ceremony in this tropical paradise — without spending all your savings.

What Are Outside Vendor Fees?

Outside vendor fees are charges that resorts impose on couples who hire external vendors instead of using their preferred ones. These fees can apply to various services, including:

• Photographers & Videographers

• Florists & Decorators

• Hair & Makeup Artists

• DJs/Bands

• Wedding Planners/Coordinators

The reason behind these resort policies on outside vendors in Cancun weddings is simple: they aim to encourage couples to use their in-house vendors, often under exclusive contracts. While resorts claim these policies ensure quality and consistency, they can limit your choices, inflate costs, and prevent you from having the ceremony you want.

Why Do These Fees Exist?

Resorts in Cancun charge outside vendor fees for several reasons:

1. Revenue Protection

Resorts generate revenue by partnering with vendors who pay to be part of the resort’s preferred vendor list. When couples bring in outside vendors, the resort loses potential earnings.

2. Quality Control

Resorts want to keep a certain standard and aesthetic for weddings held on their property. By restricting external vendors, they make sure all services meet their expectations.

3. Liability and Security

External vendors may not have the required permits or insurance to work within the resort. These strict vendor policies are a way for resorts to avoid liability issues.

Of course, you can understand these reasons from a business perspective — but they are frustrating if you already have vendors you want to use for their big day.

How Do Outside Vendor Fees Work in Cancun?

Each resort in Cancun has its own policy regarding outside vendors. Some charge a flat fee per vendor, while others require vendors to purchase a day pass to access the property. The cost can range from a few hundred dollars to over $1,500, depending on the resort and vendor type.

On the other hand, some Cancun wedding venues allow external vendors if they book a room at the resort for a certain number of nights. However, this option may not always be feasible, especially if you only need that vendor for a few hours.

• Resorts with strict policies: Many all-inclusive resorts have strict vendor policies and impose high fees to discourage couples from using external vendors.

• Resorts with more flexibility: Some boutique hotels and smaller resorts may be more accommodating, allowing outside vendors for a lower fee or even waiving fees altogether under specific conditions.

Average Costs of Hiring Non-Resort Vendors for Cancun Weddings

If you're thinking of hiring external vendors, here’s an estimate of what you might expect to pay in outside vendor fees:

• Photographers & Videographers: $500 - $1,500

• Florists & Decorators: $300 - $1,200

• Hair & Makeup Artists: $100 - $500 (sometimes waived if services are provided in your hotel room)

• DJs/Bands: $500 - $1,500

• Wedding Planners/Coordinators: $300 - $1,000

Keep in mind that, besides these fees, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of hiring the vendors, plus travel fees and accommodations if required.

How to Navigate Outside Vendor Fees

While these fees can be overwhelming, there are a few ways to work around them or reduce their impact on your budget.

1. Ask the Right Questions

Before choosing a resort, ask about their vendor policies. Some key questions to ask include:

• Are there outside vendor fees for each vendor type?

• Do you offer vendor day passes as an alternative?

• Is there a preferred vendor list, and can I still bring my own vendors?

• Are there any waivers or options to reduce fees?

• Are there vendors exempt from fees (e.g., hair/makeup artists working in guest rooms)?

Getting clear answers before booking will help you avoid unpleasant surprises later.

2. Negotiate the Fees

It may seem difficult, but negotiating outside vendor fees with Cancun resorts is not an impossible task. If you’ve already chosen a resort you love but still want to bring your vendors, don’t be afraid to negotiate. Some may be willing to lower or waive the fees, especially if you’re booking a large wedding with many guests.

3. Use Non-Intrusive Vendors

Certain resorts allow outside vendors if they don’t disrupt the venue's operations. For example, hair and makeup artists who work in your hotel room may be exempt from fees. Always confirm with the resort before booking.

4. Consider Private Venues

Avoiding outside vendor fees in Cancun destination weddings is possible if you book a private venue instead of a resort. Private venues allow you to bring in any vendor you choose, giving you more freedom and saving money in the long run.

Private Wedding Venues in Riviera Maya

If you’d rather go with a private venue and avoid these resort vendor restrictions for your wedding in Cancun, here are some of the top options: 

• Blu Venado – This venue offers three different locations between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, making it a versatile choice.
  

• Secret Jewel, Playa Del Secreto – A hidden gem perfect for intimate beach weddings in a private setting.
  

• Saasil Kantenah Wedding Beach – A stunning beachside venue with a serene and romantic atmosphere.
  

• Villa La Joya – A luxurious beachfront villa that provides an exclusive and elegant vibe for your wedding.

Private venues come with their own costs, but you will have a beautiful yet affordable wedding without the burden of outside vendor fees. This means you won’t have to rule out bringing your favorite make-up artist or using your own photographer for your Cancun destination wedding.

Final Thoughts

A destination wedding in Cancun is as exciting and memorable as it sounds. To keep it that way, it’s vital to understand the vendor policies to keep unexpected expenses at bay. Although these outside vendor fees are more than a hassle, you can navigate them by researching, negotiating the fees, or considering alternative venues to find the balance between your budget and vision.

If you're unsure where to start or need an expert to walk you through your wedding planning, I’m here to help! As an experienced Cancun destination wedding photographer, I know all the secrets behind dream weddings in this sunny land. Let’s have a chat and start planning the wedding you’ve always wanted.