Choosing a well-known resort is one of the easiest ways to take stress out of a destination wedding. You can read reviews from other couples, see real photos and know the team has done hundreds of weddings before. Secrets & Dreams Bahía Mita, on the Riviera Nayarit coast north of Puerto Vallarta, is one of the most popular choices for exactly that reason.
I have photographed many weddings at this resort. Here are my practical tips for planning a Secrets Bahía Mita wedding, from choosing your ceremony location to hair, makeup and outside vendors. For photo spots and timing, see my full Secrets Bahía Mita wedding photographer guide.
Ceremony Locations at Secrets & Dreams Bahía Mita
The wedding coordinators here are kind and very organized, and the resort offers more than six ceremony locations, from jungle views to the ocean. These are the ones I have photographed most:
Sand Terrace
A terrace just above the beach. You get the feeling of a beach wedding with more privacy, so no surprise guests walking behind you during the vows.
Presidential Suites
The resort has four presidential suites with large balconies over the ocean, perfect for an intimate ceremony or a small reception. I prefer the ones on the Dreams side, which have open views and beautiful sunsets.
Moon Deck
On the upper floors, between the resort’s two towers. The ocean view is partial, but looking down at the water from up there is still stunning.
Jardín Bahía Mita
A garden at the back of the resort with a jungle backdrop. It is a great choice for summer weddings, when a ceremony in direct sun can be very hot.
Some locations are included in the wedding package and others have an extra fee. There is no single best option; it depends on the feel you want. If you can, visit the resort before deciding.
Planning Your Reception
You can have your reception on the beach, on a terrace or in a private suite. The resort can add string lights, candles and other decor, but most extras have an additional cost. Bringing light, personal decorations like centerpieces is an easy way to save.
There is an in-house DJ included in the package, and you can also bring your own. Ask other couples for recommendations before deciding.
Hair and Makeup
The spa has a private bridal suite that works well for getting ready with your closest people. The resort offers in-house makeup artists, but results vary, and the rules for outside vendors are strict. Some couples get ready nearby with their own artist instead.
For photos, your room or the bridal suite give you more privacy and better light than the spa common areas.
Working With Outside Vendors
The resort covers almost everything in-house, but outside vendors can make your wedding feel more personal. Check the resort’s vendor fees and rules early, especially for photographers, planners and makeup. If you are comparing photographers, these questions to ask your wedding photographer are a good starting point.
Is Secrets & Dreams Bahía Mita Right for You?
If you want a beautiful beachfront resort with experienced coordinators and plenty of ceremony options, it is a great choice. Plan your timeline around the sunset, visit the locations if you can and keep personal touches simple. My Puerto Vallarta wedding timeline guide can help with the schedule.
If you are getting married at Secrets & Dreams Bahía Mita, I would love to hear about your plans.
