When it comes to choosing the right venue, we know that there are hundreds of factors that contribute to the final decision. Sometimes, the venue can truly be the most difficult decision made during planning. Luckily, with the guidance of a Weddings by Funjet Concierge, we take the elements most important to you and put them into consideration. Photography is generally one of the most vital parts to every bride’s big day because it's one of the most important things that you take with you into married life after the day is said and done. With these thoughts in mind, we have selected some of our favorite venues for destination weddings that allow for the most breathtaking photography. Each venue stands out from the others, and provides a unique wedding experience. Travel our favorite destinations with us right here, while learning about some of the most exciting and beautiful wedding locations available to you!
1. Anse Mamin Plantation near Anse Chastanet Resort in St. Lucia
Why we love it: Couples who love history or are simply seeking the most exquisite wedding location will fall absolutely in love with Anse Mamin Plantation in St. Lucia. The remains of the 18th century property is now surrounded by lush tropical greenery. The ultimate “away from it all” feeling awaits couples in the middle of the property. The ruins are perfect for a ceremony whether it be an elopement or larger group, and the reception can follow on Anse Mamin Beach. Not too far from Anse Chastanet Resort, guests can arrive via land or sea! For more information about unique wedding possibilities, check out Anse Chastanet Resort’s featured photographer: Berndt Rac.
2. Gazebo Villa at Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Why we love it: This gazebo has a beautiful backdrop of the turquoise Caribbean sea and white sandy beach. The Gazebo Villa location is fantastic in the fact that all wedding events can take place in the same spot. Next to the Gazebo Villa, a beautiful concrete terrace with palms can host a cocktail party and reception for up to 80 guests. Hyatt Zilara Cancun generally focuses on having just one wedding a day. For more photography inspiration, check out their featured photographers: Pixan Photography and Adventure Photos.
3. Cenote at Sandos Caracol in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Why we love it: The cenote at Sandos Caracol in Playa del Carmen is truly one of a kind. Couples can tie the knot surrounded by the crystal clear water of a natural cenote, and the venue can fit up to 70 guests. The resort offers a Green Wedding package for this location which includes Mayan drum music during the ceremony. Following the ceremony, the couple plants a tree to commemorate their day and is treated to a romantic boat ride. Plus, the cenote is the perfect spot for a trash the dress session the day after the wedding! For more photography inspiration, check out the resort’s photographer: Karina at Photo Pro.
4. The Seaside Chapel at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in Maui, Hawaii
Why we love it: The Seaside Chapel at the Grand Wailea in Hawaii is the right fit for any bride that wants to feel like she is in an enchanted fairytale. Beautifully bright gardens surround the chapel on one side, while the other backdrop contains palms lining the Pacific. Couples are able to host their ceremony, cocktail, and reception all in one place. Ceremonies can be held inside or outside the chapel, with a reception in either the garden area or front lawn overlooking the beach. For more wedding inspiration at The Grand Wailea, make sure to look up their onsite photographer: Ricky Mia Photography.
5. Gazebo Terrace at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Why we love it: The gazebo terrace is a unique oceanfront venue that hosts ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions for up to 90 guests. The three windows that make up the structure frame out the breathtaking pacific ocean and mountainous terrain that captivates the view. If you’re looking to mix things up, you can have the ceremony at the gazebo terrace with a reception to follow on the beach! For more wedding photography inspiration, check out the resort’s featured photographer: Dream Art Photography.
6. Bellefield Great House & Gardens in Montego Bay, Jamaica
Why we love it: Tucked away in the hills of Montego Bay, Jamaica, Bellefield Great House and Gardens is the perfect spot to host a destination wedding, within a destination. One of the island’s oldest sugar plantations, this venue has its own onsite catering and décor which makes wedding planning a breeze. With true Jamaican charm and hospitality, this venue is “off the beaten path” but also just a short 15 minute drive from the airport and local Montego Bay resorts (contact a Weddings by Funjet Concierge for suggestions!). With numerous venue options at the Bellefield Great House, we were inspired most by this “secret garden” feel. Twig & Olive Photography captured this beautiful picture, bring them along your destination wedding journey!
7. Gazebo at The Royal Playa del Carmen in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Why we love it: This gazebo is located in a quiet and romantic part of the resort that boasts the charming gardens on one side, and the bright colors of the sea on the other. Made of natural wood, this venue combines rustic charm with the perfect beach backdrop. Seating can hold up to 50 people inside, and as many as 150 when using the terrace around the gazebo. For more photography inspiration at The Royal Playa del Carmen, contact their featured photographer: Martina at Photo Pro.
8. The Chapel Grand Palladium Colonial Resort & Spa in Riviera Maya, Mexico
Why we love it: The chapel at Grand Palladium Colonial in Riviera Maya is a stunning venue fit to host up to 80 guests for weddings. Couples love this venue for its classic and traditional style, while still allowing for extra décor, flower petals down the aisle, or draping fabric alongside the pews. As an open air concept, you have the ability to enjoy the beauty of the church, as well as the nearby ocean breeze and garden views all at once. For more photography inspiration of Grand Palladium Colonial wedding venues, check out their featured photographer: Karina at Photo Pro.
9. Jellyfish Restaurant in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Why we love it: Take your destination adventure to the next level by hosting your ceremony and reception offsite! Jellyfish Restaurant is one of the top hot spots to host your wedding because of its perfectly situated beachfront location for a ceremony, and a one of a kind, open air restaurant for you to host a dinner and reception. When it comes to a dance reception, the options are endless: LED dance floor on the beach, fireworks, or even a fire dancer show! Bring your choice of photographer to this venue - we suggest Shoe Box Photography.
10. The Pier Gazebo at Grand Fiesta Americana in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Why we love it: The pier gazebo at Grand Fiesta Americana in Puerto Vallarta is the perfect venue location for an intimate group that wants to feel like they are away from it all. Irresistible views of the mountains and famous Pacific sunset provide a breathtaking backdrop for any ceremony or reception dinner. Adding lanterns and candles provides a very luminous and romantic vibe, while white drapery can create a more beachy tone. The opportunities are endless when it comes to this unique gazebo. For more photography inspiration, check out the resort’s featured photographer: Dream Art Photography.
11. Sky Wedding Deck at Royalton Riviera Cancun in Riviera Maya, Mexico
Why we love it: The Sky Wedding Deck is the perfect venue for couples seeking convenience, privacy and beauty. Located at the fabulous Royalton Riviera Cancun resort, the Sky Wedding is capable of hosting a ceremony, cocktail, and reception! This venue provides ultimate privacy accompanied by marvelous views of the aqua Caribbean Sea and blue skies. The Sky Wedding is able to host up to 90 guests for events and also has a private bar and restrooms located right onsite. For more inspiration, check out the resort’s featured photographer: Photo Pro.
11. Cliff House at Kapalua Montage Resort in Maui, Hawaii
Why we love it: The Cliff House at Kapalua Montage Resort is a perfect way to “wow” your guests. Fitting as many as 40 people, the Cliff House sits atop a natural Hawaiian cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean and surrounding island. Spend your evening celebrating your wedding with your loved ones while gazing out into the unforgettable sunset. Privacy is guaranteed at this venue as it provides its own kitchen, bathrooms, and multiple levels with panoramic views of Namalu Bay. For more inspiration, check out the resort’s onsite photographer: Pacific Dream Photography.
12. North Gazebo at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Why we love it: This colonial inspired gazebo at Moon Palace Jamaica Grande provides several appealing features. Set on the northern most point of the resort, this gazebo has a picture perfect background of the Caribbean Sea and Jamaica’s mountainous Ocho Rios. Couples love this venue because it can seat up to 100 guests, and also has a terrace perfect for hosting a cocktail hour or small dinner reception immediately following the ceremony. Find more sunset ceremony pictures at: Dream Art Photography.
13. Overwater Serenity Wedding Chapel at Sandals Grande St. Lucian in St. Lucia, West Indies
Why we love it: A first-ever of its kind on any island in the Caribbean, this new and unique venue offers a spectacular panoramic view of Rodney Bay and is the perfect choice for couples wishing for an intimate and memorable celebration with only the closest of their family and friends. The layout allows guests to see the view of the water below and the open-air design invites in the natural surroundings, sure to enhance your wedding ceremony! Couples have the choice of having either a religious or non-religious ceremony for up to 20 guests.
Ashley is a Weddings by Funjet Concierge who loves to combine her passion for planning weddings with her love of travel to give couples the experience of a lifetime. Visit Weddingsbyfunjet.com to learn how she can help you plan your dream wedding today!
