Secrets Maroma Beach wedding FAQs

Where do I start?
Ceremony and Reception Locations
Cost of a Destination Wedding
Wedding Details & Decor
Legalities
What about our family and friends that cannot attend?
Miscellaneous Questions

Where do I start?

Do you hold destination weddings at your resort?

Yes, we hold weddings at all of our resorts

Is there a dedicated wedding planner on site? Can they be reached by email?

There is a dedicated wedding coordinator on site at Secrets Maroma Beach Riviera Cancun. The coordinator can be reached at: weddings.semrc@secretsresorts.com

What services does your wedding planner provide? Is there a fee?

There is no fee for the use of our wedding coordinator. A specialist will be with you to assist prior to and on your special day!

How much time would we need to reserve our wedding in advance?

Weddings should be reserved at least three months in advance but one year is preferable if you have exact dates in mind.

How can we confirm our wedding date?

There is a Wedding Request Form listed on the Secrets Maroma Beach weddings page. Just fill out this form and if the date is available, the wedding department will be happy to confirm availability. The wedding will be considered confirmed only when you receive a written communication stating so.

What if we want to reserve on short notice?

You should contact the wedding coordinator directly.

How many days do we need to arrive prior to the ceremony?

Mexico laws require that you be in the country at least 4 business days prior. This requirement applies ONLY for legal wedding. Symbolic ceremonies and vows renewal ceremonies do not to filled out this requirement, in this case you can arrive 2 days before of the wedding day.

What is the latest time that we can arrive at the resort for it to count toward the “business day” requirement?

Arrival day does not count, nor do weekends or holidays. You must arrive 4 full business days prior.

What is the difference between legal (civil), religious and symbolic ceremonies?

Only a civil ceremony is legally recognized. A religious ceremony has no legal bearing and does not replace in any way the binding legal civil marriage. A renewal of vows or religious ceremony is a symbolic ceremony. It is performed by a Non denominational minister (please note that Catholic ceremonies cannot be performed outside the church). The bride and groom will receive a symbolic marriage not legally valid.

Do we need to send any documentation prior to arrival?

At Secrets Maroma Beach, please be sure to bring all important documents listed under Wedding Legalities section below.

Why do weddings have an additional charge, when Secrets Maroma Beach is an all inclusive resort?

Secrets Maroma Beach uses the Unlimited Luxury All Inclusive service, under this service all meals, beverage and entertainment are included by the moment you pay your room; however private functions, like weddings, events, etc, require a different set up, menu, and staff. Therefore, all these services will require additional charges.

Ceremony and Reception Locations

What private indoor and outdoor areas of the resort are available for a wedding?

The Gazebo (located by the pool area and with a spectacular ocean view)
The beach (not under the tent, on the actual sand, simple set up)
Beautiful canopy set it at the edge of the beach * will apply an extra cost

Are indoor spaces air-conditioned?

Yes, our ballroom is air-conditioned.

How many people can each of them accommodate?

From 20 to 200 persons

What about guests not staying at the resort?

Guests who chose to come only for the event will have to purchase a day pass. This will be an additional cost.

Are children allowed in the adult only resorts to attend a wedding?

No, unfortunately, they are not as we are an adult’s only resort.

Can you email me a layout and images of these places?

Yes, please contact the wedding coordinator with the requested location.

Do you have an online photo gallery or can you email me pictures of other destination weddings that have taken place at your property?

We have a few images on our website, but please feel free to contact our wedding coordinator for additional photos.

What do you offer in the way of decorations?

We can decorate the area with flowers, beautiful seating arrangements, tiki torches and lovely canopies for pool and beach weddings. Please speak with your wedding coordinator to discuss any special arrangements.

What time of day do most destination weddings occur? Why?

Most guests choose to marry at sunset. Simply because it is the most romantic time!

Will there be other weddings taking place during the same time as ours?

No way! Your special time is yours and only yours.

If we want our wedding on the beach, what is the set-up?

The beach set-up is an elegant arrangement of a decorated arch for the ceremony as well as decorated chairs for the guests. A canopy or tent can also be provided at an additional charge.

How do I get the free wedding that is advertised?

This complimentary wedding package is available when staying 7 nights in the specified room category or book 5 rooms in any category for a minimum of 3 nights.

Is it performed in English or Spanish?

Most ceremonies are performed in Spanish with an English translator. Some judges speak English, however, we cannot guarantee which official will perform the ceremony. Ministers are fluent in English and are able to perform symbolic ceremonies in either language.

What if I don’t have a witness?

If there are no witnesses available, these will be provided by the resort.

How do I get all of the information to my guests and keep everything organized?

Most destination brides chose to have an official wedding website. Some samples are available at www.eweddings.com and also www.destinationweddings.com.

Cost of a Destination Wedding at Secrets Maroma Beach

What is the cost of a destination wedding at your resort, or is it included in the price of our stay?

We offer three packages. The package details can be found on the wedding page of the resort’s website. Rates and inclusions depend on which package you prefer.

Do you offer a set destination wedding package, or do we choose the elements individually?

We have three set packages, however; you may add anything extra that you wish. Be sure to review our Wedding Guide for more details, or speak with the wedding coordinator to discuss additional requests.

Can you email a price list to me? Do you expect those prices to change by the date of my wedding?

Prices for our wedding packages are included on our website. For those little extra touches, a separate price list can be obtained from the wedding coordinator. Until a contract is signed, these prices are subject to change as services are provided by outside vendors.

If I want to bring friends and family members, do you offer a discount on the price of rooms?

Group rates are available when booking 10 rooms or more. We suggest our wedding couples re-quote the room rates with a Travel Agent or Tour Operator.

How many guests are permitted at your standard destination wedding? What do you charge if we exceed that number?

Packages are valid for either 10 or 20 guests. Additional guests would incur an additional charge.

Do you require a down payment? How much? When is the balance due?

YES. Wedding in Paradise Package requires $100 USD deposit; Secrets of Love and Secrets Ultimate Packages require $500 USD deposit. The first deposit is made after initial communication to hold and confirm the wedding dates. The balance is due upon your arrival at the resort and final details are confirmed with the wedding coordinator.

What is your cancellation policy?

No cancellation penalties will be assessed if cancelled at least 6 months before the wedding. However, the deposit will not be refunded if wedding is cancelled without the 6 month notice.

Wedding Details & Decor

Who performs the ceremony at your resort?

You will have the option for either a local judge or minister to come to the resort and perform your ceremony. Should you decide to have both a legal ceremony (judge) and symbolic ceremony (minister), an additional fee for the minister’s services will be charged (our wedding packages include the judge’s services OR the minister)

What if we want a ceremony that honors a particular religion; can someone of that faith be provided?

No, but feel free to bring your own official of that religion.

On the other hand, what if we want a ceremony that does not bring in religion?

Non religious ceremonies are definitely an option.

How long is the ceremony?

The ceremony itself only lasts about 20 minutes, however the cocktail and reception shortly follow.

What do brides and grooms typically wear at your resort for destination weddings?

Brides usually wear a beautiful white gown, while grooms usually prefer khakis and a white dress shirt. Most couples also prefer bare feet on the beach, of course.

Will someone be available to iron my wedding dress?

Wedding dress preparation is included in our wedding packages.

What do you do if I schedule an outside ceremony and reception -- and it rains? Do you have a picture of the back up plan?

Our back up plan is the Ballroom area, please contact the wedding coordinator directly to request a picture of that area.

What time are the sunset and the approximate temperature an hour before?

Depending on the season, sunset can be anywhere from 5:30 – 7 pm.

What types of flowers are available locally? Is there a florist onsite?

Almost all kinds of flowers can be provided, some at an additional cost. We work with local florists to make sure the most options are available.

Is live music available?

Yes. The wedding coordinator can send you details and you can also see further details in the Wedding Guide.

Can we supply our own music on CD?

Yes, though sound system equipment has an additional charge

Can you email me suggested menus for the reception?

Yes, our wedding coordinator can give you many different menu options to choose from. Please also refer to select menu options in the Wedding Guide.

What can you supply in the way of a wedding cake?

We have numerous wedding cake options available. Pictures of different cakes can be emailed to you or once you arrive at the resort you can meet with the wedding coordinator to choose your cake. You can also see sample cake option in the Wedding Guide.

Do you provide photography/videography services? What is the cost and what do we get for that amount?

Yes, we have numerous video and photography options. The cost will depend on the service you choose.

Legalities

Is there someone who can handle the legal details for us and will guide us through the process?

Yes, the wedding coordinator deals directly with the local officials to coordinate the legalized wedding process.

What are the requirements to get a marriage license in your destination?

Valid passport
Tourist Cards (blue sheets that you receive at the airport)
Apostille certified birth certificates for Bride & Groom (see below)
If applicable, final Record of Divorce
If applicable, Death Certificate
Health certificate and blood test provided by a Mexican Official*
Bride & Groom must arrive 4 days prior to the ceremony! (Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays do not count). *Additional costs apply.

Are witnesses required?

Yes, four witnesses must arrive 4 days prior to the ceremony with passports and tourist cards (blue sheet received at the airport), witnesses can be provided by the hotel if needed.

What is an Apostille document, why do I need it and where do I get it?

Apostille is a French word which means a certification. It is commonly used in English to refer to the legalization of a document for international use under the terms of the 1961 Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents. Documents which have been notarized by a notary public, and certain other documents, and then certified with a conformant apostille are accepted for legal use in all the nations that have signed the Hague Convention. (courtesy of Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostille)

I was divorced less then one year ago. Can I have my civil ceremony at the resort?

Unfortunately no. If you have been divorced you will need to wait at least one year before remarrying, and you must bring a copy of your divorce decree.

Can I translate my divorce decree and apostille document prior to my arrival to the resort?

No, this must be done in Mexico upon arrival and should be handled by the wedding coordinator. An extra fee applies.

Do we need proof of any medical tests?

Yes, a blood test must be taken (see below).

Do I need a blood test and if so, what diseases does it check for?

Yes, to be considered valid the test must be taken in Mexico and should not be taken more than 14 days prior to the ceremony. The blood will be tested for HIV, RPR (sexually transmitted diseases) and blood type. The results will be ready in 24 hours together with a certificate of the blood test. Upon arrival, your wedding coordinator sets the appointment for the next morning at approximately 8.00 am, you must have an empty stomach, and the doctor will take the blood test either in your room or in the coordinator’s office.

What is the price of the blood test?

The payment is roughly $300 USD per couple. The payment must be made directly with the doctor in either cash or traveler’s checks or can be charged to your room account.

Can I have a doctor perform the test in my country and take the results to the resort?

No, the test must be taken in Mexico in order to be valid, no exceptions.

Will I be able to participate in the wedding ceremony if the test comes back positive?

No, according to Mexican law, if your test comes back positive you can not be married in Mexico.

If we have to travel off site to get the license, does your resort provide transportation?

The wedding coordinator provides the license to you immediately after the ceremony, no transportation required.

If my name is different from the passport and birth certificate will this present problem?

Yes, in order for the documents to be finalized and legal in Mexico, there must be proof for different names in order to get married (ie divorce, birth certificates, etc).

Will the judge perform the ceremony if all of our documents are not in order? Are there any exceptions?

No, there are no exceptions. All documents must be presented, and they must be in order for the ceremony to take place. If not, there is no ceremony.

What about our family and friends that cannot attend?

Can you make a webcam available during the ceremony?

Plans are currently underway to have webcams available for our wedding ceremonies. Please contact the wedding coordinator for details.

How long will it take to get our pictures back, and can they be quickly posted on an online album?

If you choose a photographer provided by our wedding coordinator, expect to receive your photos and photo album within 72 hours after the ceremony. Depending on the package chosen, your images will appear on DVD or in a lovely album that also includes the negatives.

What type of Internet access is available at your property?

Wireless internet in rooms and some public areas

Miscellaneous Questions

Do you have a dedicated honeymoon suite?

Yes, there is a stunning Preferred Club Honeymoon Suite (1249 sq ft/ 116 sq mts) with an ocean view. Suites consist of four-poster king bed, his-and-her armoire, desk, sofa, full bathroom with Jacuzzi for two, separate shower, water closet and double vanities. Superior amenities including bathrobes & slippers, 32" flat screen satellite television, air –conditioning with in-room climate control, ceiling fan, CD/DVD player, direct dial telephone, high speed internet data port, alarm clock with iPod docking station, electronic in-room safe (laptop size), iron & ironing board, hair dryer, coffee/tea maker. Living room including sofa bed, dining room including dining table for four, microwave oven, mini-bar refreshed with beer, juices, soft drinks, and bottled water, and Secrets box for private room service delivery.

Is there a private terrace or outdoor area where we can hold a rehearsal dinner?

Yes, Secrets Maroma Beach offers outdoor areas near pool area, gardens & private terraces

Is there a charge for guests to participate in sports at the resort?

No, non motorized sports are included.

Can you arrange a special tour or activity for our guests?

These may be arranged through the preferred tour company set up in the resort lobby. They are more then happy to arrange the best group outing to fit your needs.

Do I need any immunizations before traveling?

In order to travel to Mexico you do not need any immunizations.

What is the time zone?

Cancun and the Riviera Maya, Mexico are in the Central Time Zone

Can I drink the water?

Yes, all of our resorts have their own water purification system allowing the water you drink to be clean and pure. Please be careful when venturing out off the resort.

Can I bring dollars?

Yes, American dollars are recognized and accepted in Mexico

Is it easy to enter into Mexico?

You must have a valid passport to enter. Please visit http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html for details.

Do you mind me asking all these questions?

Not at all! Our wedding coordinator is happy to assist you in planning your perfect day, so please feel free to ask away.

Contact the wedding coordinator directly at weddings.semrc@secretsresorts.com

And be sure to browse the Secrets Maroma Beach Wedding Guide for further details.