Mathew & Sabrina Wedding at Xcaret, Riviera Maya
There’s something truly magical about a destination wedding in Mexico’s Riviera Maya—where turquoise waters meet ancient Mayan wonders, and every moment feels like a dream woven from sun-kissed beaches and lush tropical vibes. As a wedding photographer specializing in luxury all-inclusive resort weddings, I had the absolute joy of capturing Mathew and Sabrina’s unforgettable day, blending romance, culture, and natural beauty at some of the region’s most iconic spots: the opulent Iberostar Grand Paraiso for getting ready, first look, and bridal photos; the sacred Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Xcaret Park for their heartfelt ceremony; and the vibrant La Isla venue in Xcaret for a reception that danced under the stars.
The day began at the adults-only Iberostar Grand Paraiso, a five-star luxury all-inclusive resort nestled along Playa Paraiso’s pristine white-sand beaches. With its elegant suites boasting ocean views, marble bathrooms, and private balconies, it was the perfect backdrop for Mathew and Sabrina’s getting ready sessions. Sabrina, radiant in her flowing gown, shared laughs and tears with her bridesmaids amid the resort’s tropical gardens and infinity pools—ideal for those intimate bridal portraits that capture the excitement of the morning. Mathew, dapper in his tailored suit, prepped in a suite overlooking the Caribbean Sea, where the soft morning light filtered through palm fronds for timeless groom shots.
The first look? Pure emotion. We staged it in front of the Grand’s Roman staircase, surrounded by marble art, as Mathew turned to see Sabrina for the first time—tears welling up in that classic Riviera Maya wedding magic. From there, we dove into bridal party photos, Roman-inspired architecture and serene lagoons. Iberostar Grand Paraiso isn’t just a venue; it’s a haven for destination weddings in Mexico, offering personalized packages with beach ceremonies, gourmet dining, and spa pampering to make every couple feel like royalty.
As the sun dimmed, we transitioned to Xcaret Park, an eco-archaeological paradise blending Mayan traditions, underground rivers, and biodiverse landscapes for a ceremony like no other. The Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a fairytale underground sanctuary carved into the earth with an altar framed by a sacred Ceiba tree and flowing cenote waters, set the stage for their vows. This consecrated Catholic chapel, adorned with images of the Virgin from across Mexico, provided a spiritual, intimate space for up to 150 guests—infused with Riviera Maya wedding charm and cultural depth. Mathew and Sabrina exchanged rings amid the chapel’s ethereal glow, with conch shell blowers and soft violin melodies echoing the park’s ancient roots, creating photos that felt timeless and profound.
The celebration culminated at La Isla in Xcaret, a lively large cenote/cave reception venue, perfect for up to 370 guests. With its vibrant atmosphere, string lights twinkling above floral arches, and a menu highlighting fresh Mexican flavors, the space transformed into a paradise for toasts, dances, and heartfelt moments. Sabrina and Mathew’s first dance under the giant chandelier of 1000 lights surrounded by their loved ones and joyful laughter, was a highlight—capturing the essence of a Xcaret Park reception that’s equal parts elegant and exhilarating.
Mathew and Sabrina’s wedding wasn’t just an event; it was a love story etched into the heart of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, from the luxury of Iberostar Grand Paraiso to the mystical allure of Xcaret’s Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe and La Isla. If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Mexico with beachfront bridal photos, eco-park ceremonies, and all-inclusive resort bliss, let’s chat—your fairy-tale awaits! 💍🌴✨
