Envisioning a luxurious, family-friendly destination wedding with stunning ocean views and endless activities? Welcome to Dreams Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa, an award-winning AAA Four Diamond resort offering the signature Unlimited-Luxury® experience on a beautiful stretch of beach near Puerto Morelos.
Known for its unique octagonal rooms and suites providing captivating views, lush tropical gardens, sparkling pools (including a dedicated kids’ pool), and exceptional service, Dreams Riviera Cancun caters perfectly to couples seeking a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere for guests of all ages. Wedding venues are plentiful, featuring a highly sought-after beachfront gazebo, beautiful sandy locations for ceremonies, elegant pool terraces, and a spacious ballroom.
Weddings here are seamlessly managed through the Hyatt Inclusive Collection / AMR™ Collection wedding packages, offering various levels of inclusions and customization. Dedicated wedding coordinators assist couples in planning every detail. Costs for a wedding at Dreams Riviera Cancun typically range from $15,000 to $45,000+ USD for around 50 guests, depending on the chosen package (like the popular ‘Dreams Ultimate Wedding Package’), venue selections, guest count, and desired enhancements. It’s an excellent choice for a memorable, upscale family celebration in the Riviera Maya.
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Index
Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?
How Does a Wedding at Dreams Riviera Cancun Work?
Best Months to Get Married
The Basics of Wedding Packages (Unlimited-Luxury®)
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
Music and Entertainment Restrictions
Parking and Guest Logistics
Total Cost Breakdown
Splurge vs. Save
Wedding Packages & Inclusions
Activities for Other Days
Three Practical Tips for Brides
Two Bride Reviews
My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro
Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?
Dreams Riviera Cancun is an excellent choice if you desire a luxurious, family-friendly, all-inclusive destination wedding. It’s perfect for couples who want beautiful beachfront venues (especially the iconic gazebo), extensive amenities for guests of all ages (kids’ club, teens’ club, multiple pools), and the convenience and quality associated with the Dreams Resorts & Spas brand (part of Hyatt Inclusive Collection). If welcoming children and ensuring they have a great time is important, this resort excels.
The resort’s key draws are its family-friendly Unlimited-Luxury® concept, beautiful beach and gazebo venues, unique room designs, excellent kids’ and teens’ clubs, and comprehensive all-inclusive offerings.
How Does a Wedding at Dreams Riviera Cancun Work?
Weddings are streamlined through the established processes of the Hyatt Inclusive Collection / AMR™ Collection. Couples typically select from a range of wedding packages (e.g., ‘Dreams of Love’, ‘Dreams Ultimate Wedding Package’, potentially complimentary options based on room bookings). You’ll work with an assigned on-site wedding coordinator to personalize your chosen package, select specific venues, confirm menus and décor options (often from pre-designed themes or customizable), arrange guest accommodations via room blocks, and coordinate any additional vendor services. The process is designed to be relatively straightforward, leveraging the resort’s experience.
Best Months to Get Married
Located in the Riviera Maya near Puerto Morelos, Dreams Riviera Cancun enjoys the region’s tropical climate. The ideal months for weddings, offering the best chance of sunny skies, pleasant temperatures, and lower humidity, are generally late November through April. This period is perfect for maximizing enjoyment of the resort’s beautiful outdoor spaces, including the beach, pools, and popular wedding gazebo.
The Basics of Wedding Packages (Unlimited-Luxury®)
Dreams Resorts offer structured packages under their Unlimited-Luxury® concept, often tiered by inclusions:
Ceremony: Typically includes venue setup (gazebo, beach), chairs, basic décor elements related to the package theme, symbolic officiant, sound system for ceremony music.
Cocktail Hour/Reception: Varies by package. May include a private cocktail hour with appetizers and standard bar, followed by a semi-private dinner reservation or a fully private reception dinner (often 3 courses) with open bar for a set duration (e.g., 3 hours).
Coordinator: Dedicated on-site wedding coordinator included.
Florals: Usually a bridal bouquet and groom’s boutonniere matching the package theme.
Cake & Toast: Wedding cake and sparkling wine toast included.
Perks: Complimentary room for one night before/after, potential upgrades, spa discounts, late checkout often tied to booking specific packages or achieving certain room block sizes.
Complimentary packages are often available if specific room booking criteria are met.
Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?
At the family-friendly, all-inclusive Dreams Riviera Cancun:
The couple typically pays for the wedding package and any upgrades or customizations beyond its scope (unless qualifying for a complimentary package based on group bookings).
Guests (including children) pay for their travel and their Unlimited-Luxury® stay at the resort. Room blocks facilitate guest bookings.
Optional extras like spa treatments, excursions, or specialty dining experiences outside the package are usually paid for by guests individually.
Gift registries are common.
Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations
Dreams Riviera Cancun can accommodate weddings of various sizes:
Wedding Gazebo: A very popular, picturesque white gazebo located near the beach, suitable for ceremonies up to approx. 80-100 guests.
Beach Locations: Multiple sandy spots for ceremonies or receptions, adaptable for small to larger groups (potentially 100+).
Pool Terraces: Elegant paved areas around the pools suitable for cocktails or receptions.
Ballroom: A large indoor space capable of hosting larger, more formal receptions (150+ guests).
Accommodations: Features spacious rooms and suites, many with the unique octagonal design offering great views. Options include tropical view, ocean view, and Preferred Club levels offering upgraded amenities and lounge access. Rooms easily accommodate families.
Ceremony and Reception Logistics
The resort’s layout facilitates smooth event flow:
Ceremony: Often held at the iconic beachfront Gazebo or directly on the sand.
Cocktail Hour: Frequently transitions to a nearby pool terrace, a designated beach area, or sometimes a lobby bar space.
Reception: Can take place outdoors on the beach (popular for dinner under the stars), on a pool terrace, or indoors in the main Ballroom for larger groups or air-conditioned comfort.
Resort staff are accustomed to guiding guests between locations efficiently.
What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?
Venue usage is typically included within the cost of the chosen wedding package for standard locations like the gazebo or designated beach/terrace spots during package hours. There usually isn’t a separate “rental fee” unless booking requires extended hours, significant customization outside package parameters, or perhaps exclusive buyout of certain premium areas.
The package price generally covers:
Use of selected venue(s) for the duration specified in the package.
Standard setup: Package-specific décor, chairs, linens, tables.
Included F&B: Cake, toast, appetizers/dinner/bar as outlined in the package.
Staffing: On-site coordinator, banquet staff for included services.
Additional costs arise from décor upgrades, floral arrangements beyond the basics, enhanced menus, premium bar options, external vendors, A/V, and entertainment.
Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies
Dreams Riviera Cancun utilizes its indoor Ballroom as the primary backup location for outdoor ceremonies or receptions affected by inclement weather. Covered restaurant terraces might also be considered for smaller groups or cocktail hours. The wedding coordinator will confirm the designated backup space.
Pro tip: Discuss potential ballroom décor options with your coordinator if an indoor backup is a possibility, to ensure it aligns with your vision.
Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies
Booking a wedding with Dreams (Hyatt Inclusive Collection / AMR™ Collection) generally involves:
Initial Deposit: A non-refundable deposit is required to secure the date and package.
Payment Schedule: Contracts specify subsequent payments, often due 60-90 days prior and/or 30-45 days prior.
Final Payment: Full payment based on final guest counts and services is typically due several weeks before the wedding date.
Cancellation Policy: Outlines non-refundable amounts and cancellation penalties based on the timing relative to the event date. Review contract details carefully.
On-Site Wedding Coordination & Planning Services
Dreams Riviera Cancun provides dedicated on-site wedding coordinators:
Package Experts: Guide couples through the available Hyatt/AMR wedding packages and customization options.
Resort Knowledge: Experts on venue capabilities, menu options, and resort logistics.
Vendor Liaison: Coordinate internally with resort departments and can assist with booking resort-approved external vendors (florists, musicians, etc.).
Day-Of Execution: Oversee setup, manage the event timeline, and act as the main point of contact on the wedding day.
They are experienced in executing weddings within the resort’s established framework.
Dietary and Menu Restrictions
Dreams Resorts, as part of a major hospitality group, are generally well-prepared to handle various dietary needs:
Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, common allergies (nuts, dairy, shellfish), and other requirements can usually be accommodated with sufficient advance notice.
It’s crucial to provide a detailed list of all guest dietary needs to your coordinator when finalizing menus.
Music and Entertainment Restrictions
The resort accommodates typical wedding entertainment:
DJs & Live Music: DJs, solo musicians, mariachi, or bands are frequently hired for weddings.
Noise Curfew: Amplified music outdoors (beach, terraces) usually has a curfew around 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM due to resort policy and local regulations. Indoor ballroom events can continue later.
Resort Entertainment: Be aware the resort has its own scheduled entertainment which might occur near public areas during your event times.
Vendor Policies: External vendors usually require resort approval and may need to provide insurance documentation.
Parking and Guest Logistics
Located between Cancun and Playa del Carmen:
Airport Transfers: Approximately 25-30 minutes drive from Cancun International Airport (CUN). Guests need to arrange shuttle or private transportation.
Parking: On-site parking is generally available for guests.
Resort Navigation: The resort is well-laid out and easy for guests to navigate between rooms, pools, restaurants, and event venues.
Nearby: The charming fishing village of Puerto Morelos is a short taxi ride away for local exploration.
Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at Dreams Riviera Cancun
For an estimated wedding of 50 guests (mix of adults and children):
Wedding Package & Reception: $12,000 – $35,000+ USD (Highly dependent on package level, included F&B, and whether complimentary criteria are met).
Upgrades & Customization: $3,000 – $15,000+ USD (Common for enhanced decor, florals beyond package, upgraded entertainment, premium bar).
Photography/Videography: $4,500 – $9,000+ USD (External vendors common, factor in potential vendor fee).
Taxes & Service Charges: Standard VAT (16%) and service charges (~15%) typically apply to wedding services – confirm details in the contract.
Total estimated cost often ranges from $18,000 – $50,000+ USD for a comprehensive wedding experience at this resort level.
Splurge vs. Save
Save: Qualify for a complimentary or basic package by maximizing room bookings, use the included decor/floral options, opt for a semi-private dinner or standard buffet reception, choose standard bar package.
Splurge: Select the top-tier package (e.g., ‘Ultimate’), host a fully private reception on the beach with custom lighting and dance floor, upgrade to premium menus and top-shelf bar, elaborate floral arrangements for gazebo and reception, live band, book Preferred Club suites for key guests.
Wedding Packages and What’s Included
Dreams Riviera Cancun packages (part of Hyatt/AMR Collection) typically include:
Ceremony: Venue (gazebo/beach), setup, symbolic officiant, basic sound.
Florals: Basic bouquet(s) and boutonniere(s).
Reception Basics: Cake, sparkling wine toast. Higher packages add private cocktail hour and/or private dinner reception with standard open bar for a set time.
Coordinator: On-site coordinator services.
Romantic Touches: Potential for turndown service, breakfast in bed, spa discounts.
Complimentary Options: Often available based on booking a certain number/category of rooms for a minimum stay.
Pro tip: Review the specific details of each package level carefully, paying attention to the duration of private events, bar levels, and included decor elements.
Activities for Other Days
Guests at Dreams Riviera Cancun have plenty to enjoy:
Swimming and relaxing by the multiple pools, including an infinity pool and kids’ pool.
Enjoying the wide beachfront with loungers and waiter service.
Explorer’s Club for Kids: Supervised activities for children ages 3-12.
Core Zone Teens Club: Activities and socializing space for teenagers 13-17.
Water sports: Kayaking, snorkeling (potentially included).
Dining at the various themed restaurants (no reservations usually required).
Enjoying nightly entertainment and themed parties.
Indulging at the Dreams Spa by Pevonia®.
Taking a short trip to explore Puerto Morelos village and its famous leaning lighthouse or snorkeling the nearby reef.
Booking excursions to major attractions like Xcaret, Tulum ruins, or cenotes.
Three Practical Tips for Brides
Maximize Package Value: Understand the room booking requirements to potentially qualify for complimentary package elements – this can offer significant savings.
Embrace the Gazebo: If you love the classic gazebo look, book it early as it’s a popular choice. Plan your décor to complement its structure.
Utilize Family Amenities: If hosting many families, highlight the Explorer’s Club and Core Zone to parents – it’s a major perk allowing adults some free time.
Two Bride Reviews
“Dreams Riviera Cancun was amazing for our wedding! We had lots of family with kids, and everyone had a blast. The kids’ club was a lifesaver! Our ceremony at the gazebo was beautiful, and the beach reception was perfect. The wedding coordinator made everything easy, and the Unlimited-Luxury meant no stress about food or drinks.” – Megan B. (Example Review)
“We chose Dreams RC for its beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. The resort is gorgeous, the staff incredible, and the food delicious. Our wedding day was flawless, from the gazebo ceremony to the fun reception on the pool deck. Our coordinator handled every detail perfectly. Highly recommend!” – Carlos G. (Example Review)
My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Pro
Dreams Riviera Cancun provides a vibrant and picturesque setting for family-oriented destination weddings. The iconic white wedding gazebo against the turquoise water is a major photographic draw, offering classic, romantic ceremony images. The expansive beach allows for beautiful barefoot ceremonies and receptions under the stars. The resort’s architecture, particularly the unique octagonal room buildings and lush landscaping around the pools, offers additional interesting backdrops. Capturing the blend of luxury and family fun is key – think elegant details alongside kids splashing in the pool or teens enjoying their own space. The Unlimited-Luxury® concept often means lively evenings and well-attended events, creating great candid photo opportunities. It’s a solid choice for couples wanting beautiful classic destination wedding photos within a lively, upscale, family-welcoming environment.
