An Alternative to All-Inclusive Destination Weddings: Why This Couple Chose Belize Over Mexico
Part 1: Looking for Something Different
When the All-Inclusive Wedding Doesn’t Feel Like You
When most people think “destination wedding,” they picture the familiar: an all-inclusive resort in Mexico or popular Caribbean destinations, drinks flowing, buffets ready, and a pre-set wedding package checked off like a to-do list.
And for some, that works beautifully.
But if you’re reading this, chances are you’re looking for something more personal. More curated. More connected.
You’re not alone.
Blog Series: The Journey to Alaia Belize
This is Part One of a five-part series exploring the full destination wedding experience of a real couple who chose Belize as their alternative to an all-inclusive destination wedding. We’ll take you from their first vision and resort scouting trip, through the planning (including designing the wedding day and travel experience), to the final celebration.
Couples Are Craving Something Different, Something More Intentional
There’s a growing shift among modern couples: they’re seeking an alternative to the all-inclusive destination wedding. They want an experience that reflects them, not a mass-produced template.
Instead of “plug and play” packages, they want moments that feel thoughtful and immersive. A celebration with real connection, real energy, real beauty, and a deeper sense of meaning, not just another day on a resort calendar.
This couple was no different.
Their Vision: Tulum Before Tulum Was Tulum
They came to us with a vision that was clear and refreshingly specific.
They weren’t looking for high-rise resorts or resort-branded wristbands. They weren’t interested in banquet halls or overproduced beach setups. They wanted a wedding that felt unpolished in the best way, like Tulum before it became a buzzword.
They were travelers, not tourists. The kind of couple who seeks out culture and character when they explore the world and who wanted their wedding to reflect that same sense of discovery.
In my search for a visual of Tulum as this bride saw it a couple of decades ago, I found this great read. Head over there to get a visual of Tulum before it became what it is today.
Why the All-Inclusive Route Didn’t Fit
If you’ve been researching destination weddings and every option is starting to blur together, you’re not imagining it.
Many traditional packages are designed for convenience, not creativity. If you’re someone who values flexibility, uniqueness, or guest experience, that can leave you feeling boxed in.
And that’s where a more intentional approach and a more thoughtful destination come into play.
The Right Fit: Belize, with Intention
For this couple, the answer was Belize.
Belize offered everything they were looking for in an alternative to the typical destination wedding:
- The laid-back charm of San Pedro
- The authenticity of Ambergris Caye
- The cultural vibrancy and connection that made guests feel immersed in the experience
It wasn’t just beautiful, it was soulful. Most importantly, it gave them the space to build something intentional.
There’s More Than One Way to Plan a Destination Wedding
You don’t have to choose between “resort wedding” and “figure it out on your own.” There’s a middle ground that allows you to create something unique while still having expert guidance every step of the way.
This couple found that balance, and the result was a celebration that reflected who they are and gave their guests something they’ll never forget.
Follow Their Journey (and See What’s Possible)
This post is the first in a blog series that follows their full destination wedding journey from scouting Belize and choosing the right resort to travel logistics, planning decisions, and the wedding weekend itself.
If you’ve been searching for an alternative to the all-inclusive destination wedding, and you’re wondering if that “just right” fit even exists, it does. We help couples find it every day.
And we’d love to help you, too.
Ready to design a destination wedding experience that reflects you?
Schedule your free 30-minute planning session here »
Coming Next: Scouting Belize – What Sealed the Deal
In Part 2, we’ll take you behind the scenes of the scouting trip that brought this couple’s wedding vision to life. From exploring options to discovering their just-right fit, you’ll see how they chose Alaia Belize and what made it feel like the one.
