When Chas and Drew began planning their wedding, they knew they wanted one thing: a picture-perfect backdrop for their intimate ceremony. Sharing their love for the ocean, they chose to tie the knot at Hyatt Ziva Cancun surrounded by nothing but the open waters, and twenty-five of their closest friends and families. Chas and Drew’s big day was filled with many special moments and memories they will forever cherish.
We caught up with the newlyweds after their nuptials, and here is what they had to say about some of their favorite moments.
What was your favorite thing about your big day? My favorite part would have to be the ceremony. The gentlemen leading the service had a great speech set up, and it was constantly hitting home for us. We also wrote our own vows and did not feel rushed at all during the process. Our closest friends and families were there too.
Describe your big day in three sentences. It was everything more than what we had even imagined. From the ceremony to the end of the reception, every need was met and dealt with. There were really no issues or surprises that arose, as everything was well-thought-out.
What was your favorite thing about the hotel? We enjoyed the bar lounge most nights! During the day, we loved to play volleyball in the water or sit at the poolside bar enjoying some beverages. We also took advantage of the beachside service!
What else did you love about Hyatt Ziva Cancun? Honestly, the staff went above and beyond from the moment we arrived. Everyone greeted us with such warmth and made us feel so special—not just on the wedding day, but every day of our stay. We also loved how seamless everything felt; our wedding coordinator handled every detail so we could focus on enjoying our time with guests. The food was another highlight! From gourmet dining to casual bites by the beach, everything was absolutely delicious. We especially loved the taco stand near the pool and the rooftop French restaurant for a romantic evening dinner. And our room? Incredible! Waking up to panoramic ocean views every morning felt like a dream.
All Mexican chefs live their lives only by seasoning the moment.
Whether it’s a quick and easy snack like guac and chips or hearty tacos, Mexican cuisine will always take your taste buds on a unique cultural journey. Step into the kitchen, take some time to de-stress and every one of your senses by diving into an authentic recipe to celebrate Mexican Independence Day.
For all at-home chefs who are eager to get creative and try new recipes, join the fiesta today as we bring a little hint of Mexican spice right into your kitchen with this Chile en Nogada Recipe. This recipe combines beef stuffed peppers smothered in Nogada, a rich and creamy sauce, topped with pomegranate seeds and parsley that bring both sweet and spicy elements to every bite.
Ingredients:
Filling
4 poblano peppers
350g of minced beef
350g of minced pork loin
½ onion finely chopped
3 garlic cloves (minced)
50g of lard
50ml of vegetable oil
4 roasted tomatoes, peeled and ground
2 pears, chopped
2 peaches, chopped
70gof toasted almonds
50g of toasted pine nuts
100g of raisins
50g of candied citron
5 cloves, ground
1 tbsp dried oregano
½tbsp thyme
½ tbsp ground cinnamon
1tbspof muscovado sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Nogada
300 g of peeled walnut
150g of goat cheese
40ml sherry wine
1 tbsp of muscovado sugar
Salt
To garnish:
Chopped parsley
Pomegranate seeds
Directions:
Filling:
In a pot, start by heating up the oil. Add the onion and garlic and let simmer.
Combine the beef and pork, and add to the pot Season with salt and pepper, then add the ground tomatoes and let come to a boil. Once boiling, incorporate the raisins and shortly after the candied citron.
Sprinkle in the spice; thyme, cloves, oregano and cinnamon.
After boiling for a while, add the chopped pears along with the almond and pine nuts
Add salt & pepper to taste at the end.
Poblano Peppers:
Roast pepper and leave to sweat in a plastic bag with a little salt
Remove skin and devein it.
Fill Poblano peppers with filling once complete.
Nogada:
Blend all ingredients together for a creamy consistency.
To serve plate the poblano pepper, stuff with filling and smother in nogada sauce.
Finish with pomegranate seeds and parsley, and enjoy!
Seeking a one-of-a-kind experience in paradise for their special day, Joji and Marcus knew that this celebration of their love needed to take place in the heart of Mexico with a picture perfect backdrop. The couple decided on a destination wedding, and wanted to make sure it could be as special as possible to create memories they can continue to cherish in the years to come.
We had the chance to catch up with the newlyweds post-nuptials and here is what they had to say about their special day:
What led you to choose a destination wedding?
We are both from opposite sides of the country and met at school in New York. With family being spread out all over the world and five years of long-distance, we wanted a special place that we could call our own. We wanted to find a spot that was not only one-of-a-kind, but that was also somewhere we would be excited to go back to year after year. We got married during a high-point of the pandemic, so we also looked to select a place that we could bring our family back to in the future!
How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
Our top factors were experience, uniqueness and quality. We wanted a location that felt like no other while still delivering service and an experience that we could rely on. When we came across Unico, we fell in love with the character of the property. With so many offerings, we knew that there would be everything we could ever need.
Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort?
Working with the wedding coordinator was by far one of the best parts of the process. Every question I had was met with a detailed and kind answer. The coordinator that we had truly felt like a best friend that I could rely on and trust.
Why did you choose an elopement vs a traditional wedding with guests?
The distance and the size of our families coupled with the fact that we had a long-distance relationship led us to want an elopement. We were about 2 hours apart for the entire 5 years of our relationship prior to getting married and finally getting that undivided time together was truly what our marriage was celebrating. We also loved the cost efficiency of the option so we could use the money to start our life together (such as getting a new house and adopting two new puppies a few months later).
What was the best part of having a destination wedding?
For us, it is the fact that we now have this little pocket of paradise that will always mean so much in our hearts. It’s not a place we had been before or that is associated with a ton of other memories. Unico will always be symbolic of this first chapter of our lives together. It’s a place we can always plan a getaway to that will be only ours!
Imagine a romantic escape where every moment feels like a dream. Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya is an enchanting adults-only resort, nestled in the heart of Mexico’s stunning Riviera Maya. This picturesque hideaway offers a serene and intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a luxurious retreat. With winding walkways, secluded pools, and a world-class spa, Secrets Akumal is designed to create unforgettable memories.
At Secrets Akumal, the focus is on providing an all-inclusive experience that caters to every desire. Enjoy limitless gourmet dining at six à la carte restaurants and one international buffet, complemented by top-shelf spirits. The resort’s thoughtful design ensures a seamless experience, with each building featuring its own concierge and no need for reservations at any of the establishments. Personalized touches include en-suite Jacuzzis, continuously refilled mini-bars, and discreet room service.
For those seeking adventure, Secrets Akumal offers a variety of activities. Snorkel with sea turtles, take part in cooking classes, practice yoga, or explore the surroundings on bike tours. The resort also hosts nightly entertainment, ensuring that every evening is filled with joy and excitement. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Secrets Akumal provides the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure, making it the ultimate getaway for couples.
Luxury Accommodations and Romantic Suites
Elegant Suite Designs with Ocean Views
At Secrets Akumal, each suite is thoughtfully designed to offer a serene and elegant retreat with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The décor beautifully blends artisanal Mexican elements, such as Huipil and Reboz textiles from Oaxaca, with modern luxury, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces allow couples to soak in the stunning ocean vistas, making every moment feel truly special.
Private Balconies and In-Room Amenities for Couples
Every suite features a private balcony or terrace, perfect for enjoying quiet mornings or romantic evenings together. Couples can indulge in in-room whirlpools, swim-up pools in select ground-floor suites, and a daily refreshed mini-bar stocked with favorite beverages. Thoughtful touches like 24-hour room service, discreet room service boxes, and luxurious bath amenities ensure a seamless and intimate experience tailored just for two.
Exclusive Adults-Only Privacy and Ambiance
Secrets Akumal is an adults-only sanctuary designed to foster romance and tranquility. The resort’s layout, with winding pathways through lush native jungle flora, creates a peaceful and private environment. With no property bracelets and personalized concierge services, couples can enjoy a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere where every detail is crafted to enhance privacy and intimacy, making it the ultimate getaway for love and connection.
Gourmet Dining Experiences and Unlimited Drinks
At Secrets Akumal, couples can indulge in a culinary journey that combines international flair with local flavors, all within the serene backdrop of the Riviera Maya. The resort offers a variety of dining options, ensuring that every meal is a memorable experience.
Diverse Culinary Options: International and Local Flavors
With multiple restaurants to choose from, guests can explore a range of cuisines, from fresh seafood to gourmet international dishes. Each dining venue is carefully designed to provide a unique ambiance, whether it’s a casual lunch by the sea or an elegant dinner under the stars.
24/7 Gourmet Room Service for Intimate Dining
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Secrets Akumal offers 24/7 gourmet room service. Enjoy a romantic dinner in the comfort of your own suite, complete with personalized service and exquisite cuisine.
Signature Cocktails and Premium Beverage Selection
Complement your dining experience with a selection of signature cocktails and premium beverages. From refreshing tropical drinks to sophisticated cocktails, every sip is a delight. The resort’s bars offer a sophisticated setting to relax and enjoy quality time with your loved one.
Romantic Activities and Natural Attractions
Snorkeling with Green Sea Turtles in Crystal Clear Waters
Imagine gliding through the crystal-clear waters of Akumal Bay, surrounded by the majestic beauty of green sea turtles. This unforgettable experience allows you to connect with nature and share a moment of wonder with your loved one. The Mesoamerican Reef, the world’s second-largest coral reef, provides a stunning backdrop for this adventure.
Kayaking and Beach Walks at Sunset
Experience the serene beauty of Akumal’s coastline with a romantic kayak ride or a leisurely beach walk at sunset. The vibrant colors of the sky, the gentle lapping of the waves, and the tranquility of the surroundings create a perfect setting for a romantic evening.
Secluded Pools and Private Beach Access
Indulge in the luxury of secluded pools and private beach access, where you can relax and enjoy quality time with your partner. The resort’s expansive infinity pool, social pool, and relaxing pool offer a variety of settings to suit your mood, while the private beach provides an intimate space to soak up the sun and enjoy the Caribbean Sea views.
Wellness and Spa Experiences for Couples
World-Class Spa Treatments and Couples’ Massages
Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience at Secrets Akumal’s world-class spa, where rejuvenating treatments await. Enjoy soothing hydrotherapy, relaxing massages, and pampering salons designed to revitalize both body and mind. Couples can delight in romantic side-by-side massages, creating unforgettable moments together. From Swedish massages to hot stone treatments, every experience is tailored to enhance your romantic getaway.
Relaxation Areas and Wellness Programs
Escape to serene relaxation areas, where tranquility and peace envelop you. The spa offers a range of wellness programs, including yoga and meditation sessions, designed to harmonize your body and soul. With a focus on holistic wellness, Secrets Akumal provides the perfect setting to unwind and reconnect with nature and each other.
Concierge Services for Personalized Romantic Experiences
Let the dedicated concierge team at Secrets Akumal craft personalized romantic experiences tailored just for you. From arranging intimate dinners to planning special activities, every detail is carefully considered to make your stay truly unforgettable. Whether it’s a sunset dinner or a private couples’ massage, the concierge services ensure that your romantic getaway is nothing short of perfection.
Conclusion
Secrets Akumal truly stands out as the ultimate getaway for couples seeking a romantic and serene escape. From its adults-only ambiance and beautifully designed suites to the lush natural surroundings and thoughtful personalized service, every detail is crafted to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re indulging in world-class spa treatments, exploring vibrant marine life while snorkeling with sea turtles, or simply relaxing by one of the resort’s stunning pools, Secrets Akumal offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility.
This resort not only provides exceptional amenities and gourmet dining but also fosters a warm, intimate atmosphere that invites couples to reconnect and create lasting memories together. With its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices, Secrets Akumal ensures that your romantic retreat is as responsible as it is rejuvenating. For couples looking to celebrate love in a breathtaking setting, Secrets Akumal is truly a dream destination that promises both relaxation and enchantment.
As lovers of nature and beautiful beaches, Kelly and Nick knew that their special day had to be framed by Mexico’s breathtaking tropical scenery. UNICO 20º87º Hotel Riviera Maya proved to be exactly what they were looking for. Despite some unprecedented bumps in the road, Kelly and Nick were able to have the destination wedding of their dreams surrounded by all of their closest friends and family, who also got to enjoy a full week of rest and relaxation in paradise.
What led you to choose a destination wedding?
We loved the intimate setting that the beach provides for weddings, limited decorations are needed when you have such a beautiful backdrop. We are both lovers of nature and the outdoors and couldn’t think of a better place. We also have family that lives all over the U.S. so travel was going to be a part of our guest’s plans regardless of where our wedding was held.
How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
When looking at resorts we knew we wanted our ceremony on the beach so we searched for a beautiful beach, which is not hard to find in Mexico! Then we knew we wanted an adult-only resort with a unique feel. We looked at several chain style resorts but wanted something one of a kind with wonderful food and expansive pools, this led us to UNICO 20˚87˚!
Tell us about your wedding dress – How did you find it? Who went shopping with you? How do you feel wearing your dress?
Searching for a wedding dress was harder than I expected. I am a very indecisive person and ended up going to 9 different bridal stores before finding my dress at Bridal Aisle Boutique in Osseo, Minnesota! My sister and maid of honor were with me! Once I put the dress on, I knew!
Describe the meeting you had with the onsite wedding team when you arrived at the resort.
We met with Diana the day after we arrived at the resort. She was organized and walked us through everything we needed to know. We still had some decisions to make about music and she was patient with us through the process. She went through all of our details to ensure her notes were accurate then she took us on a tour and showed us exactly where everything would take place.
What was the best part of having a destination wedding?
We loved that it gave our family and closest friends a chance to get to know one another while we spent our week in paradise. It was an overall perfect opportunity for the people we love and care about the most to talk, laugh, and relax together.
As you may know, Hard Rock Resorts specializes in unique, handcrafted cocktails and since today is International Cocktail Day our team has mixed up something special for your tastebuds.
New and exclusive to the menu, this month we have three new refreshing cocktails: Godzilla Mura, Gin Aurora and our Legendary Cocktail. We have included the recipes for you all to channel your inner mixologist and quench your thirst the Hard Rock way.
Godzilla Mura
Ingredients:
1 ½ ounce sake.
1 ounce white tequila.
1 ounce lemon juice.
1 ounce cinnamon syrup.
volcanic black salt.
Steps to perfection:
Pour the sake, tequila, juice and syrup in the shaker.
Add ice and shake.
Serve in an old fashioned glass frosted with volcanic salt and fresh ice.
Celebrating Pride Month Year-Round at Unico Hotel Riviera Maya
At UNICO 20°87°, Love Always Wins
As we near the end of Pride Month, we would love to share Steven and Adam’s dreamy boho wedding. Accompanied by their closest friends and family, the couple said “I do” on the shores of the Mexican Caribbean.
Check out what the newlyweds had to say about their magical moment:
What led you to choose a destination wedding?
We really wanted a location that was special and located along a beautiful beach. A destination wedding also allowed us to spend more time with friends and family. We got to catch up, enjoy dinners and cocktails, and get to know significant others versus a hectic one-day blur of an event and reception. It also created a place that we can always go back to visit on special anniversaries and occasions.
How did you select the resort? What were the deciding factors?
Honestly, we fell in love with the property from the website and wedding book. The grounds were perfectly manicured, rooms were spacious and well decorated, and the wedding options were endless! We had a hard time finding venues and rental companies that could perfectly bring our personal styles to life – until we found UNICO. Plus, the convenience of one venue coordinating food, decor, music, entertainment, welcome bags – practically everything! It allowed us to focus on the fun over-the-top items while UNICO’s incredible wedding team handled the rest.
Describe what it was like working with the wedding coordinator at the resort?
Since our wedding, we have been recommending both UNICO and our Wedding Coordinator, Maribel, to everyone considering a destination wedding. She was such a pleasure to work with – attentive, organized, and calming. We didn’t once worry about something falling through the cracks. She also provided a few surprises of her own the night of the ceremony and reception. We felt that Maribel and her team truly cared about every detail and every guest.
What were some of your biggest fears or things you worried about as your wedding date drew near? How did you get through this?
Regardless of the destination and endless support from AIC and UNICO, the “what about…” worries absolutely kicked in leading up to our wedding date. Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator was always available to answer questions and alleviate any concerns. We could not have gotten through the planning process without Maribel!
Which collection did you use?
Soul Green Collection.
Which was your favorite hotel amenity?
We loved the personal touch of a dedicated concierge. Karla was very thoughtful, attentive, and a pleasure to get to know. She helped us schedule and coordinate everything! We also loved our experience at the Esencia Spa!
What was your favorite thing about your big day?
There were so many special moments during the big day. One that I will never forget was walking down the aisle to a live acoustic duet. UNICO had helped me coordinate a surprise for Adam with ChocoVanilla, the incredible singer and guitar player duo. They went above and beyond to learn a new song that was special to us. In addition to the many fun and special surprises Maribel, our Wedding Coordinator, layered into the special day, ending the night with a choreographed firework show was a once in a lifetime experience. It was such an incredible moment of celebration for us.
Describe your day in three sentences.
Perfectly styled beach destination wedding with incredible moments throughout – live music, fireworks, friends, family, dancing. We will forever cherish the memories that our friends, family, and UNICO helped us create.
What was the best part of having a destination wedding?
A destination wedding allowed friends and family to spend time getting to know each other before and after the event. It created such a special atmosphere of shared love and celebration. Plus, partnering with an all-inclusive, hands-on resort like UNICO allowed us grooms to spend our time enjoying moments with each other, friends, and family.
From start to finish, she went above and beyond to make our wedding travel smooth and unforgettable.
She was incredibly friendly and attentive to our wedding party, even adding personal touches like wishing our best man’s wife a happy birthday, which was such a thoughtful gesture.
Communication with Stephanie was always clear and concise, making the entire process easy to navigate. She expertly managed travel bookings for our family members across multiple countries, which was no small feat! Stephanie also upgraded the bride and groom’s travel to make our experience even more special, including a delightful surprise of champagne on our deluxe transporation to the resort, which we truly appreciated! What really stood out was her dedication to going the extra mile. She helped us book rooms outside of the initial wedding block and assisted guests with booking excursions, ensuring everyone had a fantastic time.
Her timeliness and responsiveness made everything stress-free, and when there were communication challenges with the resort planning staff, Stephanie was actively involved to ensure things stayed on track. Additionally, she offered great advice on changing resorts to better meet our needs and worked tirelessly to ensure the changes were made.
We’re so grateful for her support and expertise throughout the entire journey, and we couldn’t have asked for a better travel agent for our wedding!
I loved working with Heather, she was so responsive, gave me so many options, but not too many I had paralysis by analysis.
I think she sent me 5 to start with and I refined what I was looking for in a destination and she would give me three more options in that vein, I tweak something again and she’d give me a few more toppings. She was also able to share if she had personally been to the locations, knew people who had been there through her work, or had personal friends go there. Some she was even traveling to in the coming weeks. I felt very safe with Heather because didn’t get a sales vibe, she seemed like an authentic human just trying to help me out and I super appreciated that.
She handled all the bookings for our guests. It ended up being a smaller party, just the nature of an adults only resort and a destination, so I think we invited around 100-80 and we had like 40 book or something around that. Heather created a website so we can send people to that link ( we made a QR code for our invitations and also had it to text folks). She priced out different room options, made sure transportation to and from hotel was covered for everyone, and handled all the engagement with the hotel…so we didn’t lose any money if we didn’t have a certain amount of rooms booked in time.
She handled literally everything to include we had a friend that was a new mom and was going to stay at a near by property and she handled all of that coordination from day passes, access to our resort, pricing with the other place…all the communication with the friend…she was great!
Heather followed up while we were there to check in to see how things were going but it wasn’t overbearing in the slightest. She some how balanced being caring and available if we needed anything but didn’t hit me up every day so I actually got to enjoy the time at the resort and with our guests.
Overall, I would recommend Heather. She got me in contact with the people I needed to at the resort, she handled all the bookings with the guests and we didn’t have a single issue, she was knowledgeable about the various options when it came to resorts, and she was just an awesome person…super easy to talk to, very communicative and responsive. She made the whole thing so easy for us and I loved it!
Cara Buzard
Destination Wedding Bride at Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa in Dominican Republic
Planning a destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, or beyond is an exciting adventure-but it can also feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
From selecting the perfect location to managing travel logistics for your guests, every detail matters to ensure your celebration is seamless and unforgettable.
Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to booking your dream destination wedding resort.
1. Define Your Vision and Budget
Start by discussing your dream wedding vision with your partner. Consider the atmosphere, setting, and experiences you want for yourselves and your guests.
Set a realistic budget that includes accommodations, airfare, the wedding package, and any extras such as excursions or spa treatments.
Make an initial guest list to estimate the size of your event, which will influence your resort and package choices.
2. Choose the Ideal Location
Research destinations that fit your vision-whether you want a lively beach in Cancun, a tranquil retreat in Jamaica, or a lush rainforest setting in Costa Rica.
Consider the time of year, local climate, travel requirements, and accessibility for your guests.
If possible, plan a scouting trip to tour potential resorts and venues in person.
3. Partner with a Destination Wedding Specialist
Work with a travel agency or planner who specializes in destination weddings. They have insider knowledge of the best resorts, packages, and local vendors, and can help you navigate the planning process from start to finish.
Specialists often have access to exclusive deals, group rates, and perks not available to the general public.
Your agency will help you narrow down resort options based on your preferences, group size, and budget.
4. Select the Perfect Resort and Wedding Package
Compare resorts based on their wedding packages, inclusions, and venue options. Look for packages that offer the ceremony, reception, décor, catering, and special amenities that match your vision.
Decide if you want an adults-only or family-friendly resort, and consider the size and style (boutique vs. mega-resort).
Review the terms and conditions, including minimum stay requirements, guest room blocks, and any extra fees.
5. Secure Your Date and Room Block
Once you’ve chosen your resort, work with your specialist to confirm your wedding date and time with the property.
Sign a contract and pay a deposit to secure your date and lock in group rates for your guests.
Set up a room block so your guests can book accommodations easily and at a guaranteed rate.
6. Send Save-the-Dates and Wedding Invitations
After confirming your date and resort, send out save-the-dates with all the essential information for your guests, including booking instructions, travel details, and resort policies.
Create a wedding website to centralize information, answer FAQs, and share updates.
7. Plan the Details and Book Vendors
Work with your resort’s wedding coordinator and your travel specialist to plan the ceremony, reception, and any additional events (welcome parties, excursions, farewell brunches).
Book key vendors such as photographers, florists, musicians, and officiants. Some may be included in your wedding package, while others can be added for a fee.
Review local marriage requirements and ensure you have all necessary legal documents (passports, birth certificates, visas, etc.).
8. Prepare for Travel and Finalize Details
Confirm all bookings and reservations for yourself and your guests about two months before the wedding.
Schedule final dress and suit fittings, and make a packing list for your attire and essentials.
Arrange for any special touches, such as welcome bags, favors, or group excursions.
9. Arrive and Enjoy Your Big Day
Upon arrival, meet with your resort’s wedding coordinator to review the venues, timeline, and final details.
Attend any pre-wedding events, relax, and enjoy time with your guests.
Trust your team of professionals to handle the logistics, so you can focus on celebrating your love in paradise.
Final Tips
Booking your dream destination wedding resort is a collaborative process-lean on the expertise of your travel agency and resort partners.
Start planning early to secure your preferred date and maximize guest attendance.
Remember, the goal is to create lasting memories in a stunning setting, surrounded by those you love most.
With the right guidance and careful planning, your destination wedding will be everything you’ve dreamed of-and more.
