Mexico Elopement Vendors Guide: Your Complete Guide to Building the Perfect Wedding Team

After photographing intimate weddings and elopements in Mexico since 2019, I’ve learned that finding the right vendors can make or break your special day. The biggest challenge I see couples face isn’t the language barrier—it’s knowing where to look and what questions to ask.

Having worked across Baja California Sur, Puerto Vallarta, and Zihuatanejo, I’ve built relationships with dozens of vendors who understand the unique needs of intimate elopements. Here’s everything you need to know about finding and working with vendors who will make your Mexico elopement unforgettable.

The biggest vendor-related mistake I see couples make is struggling to explain their exact needs because not all vendors speak fluent English. But when you find the right local vendors, magic happens. They don’t just provide services—they become part of your story.

Just recently, an officiant in Todos Santos recommended a stunning location for photos that I didn’t even know about, and I’ve been shooting here for years! Local vendors know hidden gems, understand the logistics of remote locations, and bring authentic Mexican touches that make your celebration truly special.

Most couples either bring a friend to officiate or, if it’s just the two of them, sometimes skip an officiant altogether. But when couples do want a ceremony, I have a proven process for finding the perfect person.

My first stop is always wedding planners—they know my clients are usually just the two of them or small groups under 20 guests, so they’re happy to share contacts. If that doesn’t work, I turn to Facebook groups, specifically searching for “expats” (like “La Paz Expats”). I know I’ll find English speakers who might be interested in officiating, and I always suggest couples have a video call to ensure it’s the right fit.

You can expect to pay $200-$500 USD for an officiant, depending on the season. High season (December-April) commands higher prices, so book early if you’re planning a winter elopement.

Before booking, couples should ask:

• Do you have experience with intimate elopements?
• Can you create a personalized ceremony speech based on our story?
• Are you comfortable with adventurous locations (hiking, boat access, etc.)?
• Do you get seasick (if your ceremony involves water)?
• What’s your backup plan for weather issues?

Book your officiant as soon as you pick your location, especially during high season. I recommend 3 months in advance or more to avoid disappointment.

The essential vendor list for an intimate elopement is beautifully simple:

• Photographer/Videographer (obviously!)
• Makeup artist (unless you’re doing it yourself)
• Floral designer (for your bouquet and any small decor)
• Officiant (if you want a ceremony)

If you’re bringing 10-15 guests and want to set up a private dinner or celebration, you’ll also need:

• Wedding planner (to coordinate everything)
• Private chef (for intimate dining experiences)
• Musician (violinist, saxophonist, or guitarist)
• Transportation company (if you’re all going together to downtown or need airport pickup—hiring separate taxis can be uncomfortable and disorganized)

I work with makeup artists that wedding planners have recommended and others I’ve found on Instagram. Most speak enough English to communicate with brides, which is crucial for getting the look you want. The key is making sure the bride sees their work beforehand to ensure it matches their style.

Sometimes brides bring a friend to help with makeup, which works beautifully too—it adds a personal touch to your getting-ready photos.

Here’s what you can realistically expect to pay for 4-6 hours of coverage/service:

• Photography: $1,000 – $2,200 (1 photographer)
• Videography: $1,500 – $2,500 (2 videographers)
• Officiant: $200 – $500 (season-dependent)
• Bouquet: $40 – $65 (standard flowers; custom requests cost more)
• Simple Arch: $260 – $500
• Mini Cake: $25 – $40
• Musician: $200 – $500 per hour (season-dependent)
• Makeup Artist: $150 – $500

Many couples expect Mexico to be significantly cheaper, but remember—you’re flying to famous tourist destinations. Mexico is one of the world’s most popular wedding destinations, so vendors stay busy, especially during high season, which drives prices up to levels similar to the US and Canada.

For a simple 2-person elopement: $5,000 USD total For 10-15 guests with basic celebration: Up to $20,000 USD

December through April sees significant price increases. If you’re considering a winter elopement, plan and book vendors well in advance to secure better rates and availability.

Transportation needs vary dramatically by region:

Baja California Sur (Cabo, Todos Santos, La Paz): Rent a car from the airport. Driving here is similar to the US/Canada—people respect stop signs and roads are easy to navigate with Google Maps.

Major Cities (Mexico City, Guadalajara): Use Uber or Didi apps. Don’t stress about traffic—let someone else drive.

Remote Areas (Huatulco, Zihuatanejo): These areas don’t have rideshare apps. Get taxis recommended by your resort, or I can suggest a trusted taxi driver. For your elopement day, hire a transportation company based on your guest count.

You can find affordable, reasonable prices for bouquets made with locally available flowers. But if you want something really special that requires imported flowers, prices increase dramatically. Be clear about your budget and ask for alternatives using local blooms.

I always find musicians through wedding planners since they’re my friends and happy to share contacts. They need to know you personally, or they’ll want to quote you for full planning services, which isn’t necessary for intimate celebrations.

Puerto Vallarta: Easiest to find all types of vendors Zihuatanejo: Second-best vendor options Cabo: Many vendor options available La Paz: My favorite for landscapes and secluded spots, but limited florist and decor options

For La Paz specifically, I work with about 2 florists/decor specialists regularly. When couples reach out for these areas, I message them immediately to check availability—that’s how limited the options are!

I help coordinate with vendors on your elopement day and can assist with Spanish-English communication when needed. My goal is making your Mexico elopement feel easy and stress-free, even without a planner.

• Musician (beautiful, but not essential for intimate moments)
• Floral decor (beyond your bouquet)
• Makeup artist (if you or a friend can do it)

If a couple thinks they need a vendor, they should listen to their instinct. I’ve had couples hire wedding planners even for just-the-two-of-them elopements. They preferred having someone else contact the florist, musician, and arrange their private dinner.

Sometimes couples are too busy with work, and a planner makes everything easier and stress-free. There’s no shame in getting help—it’s your special day!

Finding the right vendors for your Mexico elopement doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right local guidance and realistic expectations, you can build a team that understands your vision and helps bring your intimate celebration to life.

As your Mexico elopement photographer, I don’t just capture your day—I help you plan it. From building your timeline and choosing the perfect ceremony location to recommending trusted vendors and helping with communication, I’m here to make your Mexico elopement feel effortless.