A Destination Wedding at Royalton Riviera Cancun, Mexico – by the Royalton Riviera Cancun Wedding Photographer
Tequila shots, tarantula rain, rooftop magic & ten years of love – There are destination weddings, and then there are unforgettable experiences. That’s exactly what unfolded for this incredible couple who chose the stunning Royalton Riviera Cancun to host their big day. As a Royalton Riviera Cancun wedding photographer, I had the absolute joy of capturing every moment of their sun-soaked, joy-filled celebration.
Together for over 10 years, this wedding wasn’t just a milestone. It was the start of a new chapter, surrounded by 50 of their closest friends and family. Many of them felt like chosen family, and every moment of this wedding reflected that deep connection.
And for the bride? This venue held extra meaning—her sister had also been married here years ago, making it a heartfelt return to a place already tied to love and legacy.
Getting Ready at Royalton Riviera Cancun
The Royalton Riviera Cancun is one of the best all-inclusive wedding resorts in Cancun, offering a seamless experience from beginning to end. The resort is massive, featuring over 10 restaurants, multiple pools (more than 10!), and a modern, luxury aesthetic that makes for breathtaking wedding photos.
The morning kicked off with tequila shots and a dance party on the bed—yes, that was my idea, and it was the best energy boost ever! We even snuck in a mini boudoir session (also my idea), giving the bride a moment to feel stunning and empowered before stepping into her heavily beaded wedding dress.
There were so many personal touches during prep: the groom’s mother-in-law helped the bride into her dress, his dad stood beside him as a groomsman, and even the bride’s hairstylist was in attendance as a guest. One of my favorite details? I suggested they swap sides for the ceremony, so the bride could look at her girls, and the groom could see his guys. It made for emotional glances and even better photos.
A Beachfront Ceremony with Ocean Views
Though the day began with a torrential tarantula downpour, by the time the ceremony began, we were blessed with soft overcast skies and that perfect Caribbean blue ocean in the background. As a destination wedding photographer in Mexico, I’m always hoping for this kind of gentle light. It makes every photo pop with color while keeping everyone cool and comfortable.
Their beach ceremony was intimate and emotional. Officiated by the bride’s brother, who also doubled as the MC later that night. They shared a kiss under the sky as they left the aisle, framed by crashing waves and palm trees. It couldn’t have been more perfect.
Cocktails on the Beach & a Rooftop Reception
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour right on the beach, barefoot in the sand, sipping drinks as the sun dipped low. Then we headed up to the rooftop wedding reception, strung with fairy lights and filled with laughter. The couple made a wild flip cup entrance, officially kicking off the party.
The groom and his crew rocked palm tree shirts and suspenders, while the bridesmaids stunned in deep blue dresses, a perfect nod to the ocean around them. And these two? They were constantly laughing and playing. Their chemistry infectious and fun to photograph.
We closed the night with a sparkler first dance, followed by a champagne spray I had planned ahead for. As the party roared on under the stars, I was reminded once again why I adore photographing Cancun destination weddings. The energy, the color, the emotion—it’s unbeatable.
Why Choose Royalton Riviera Cancun for Your Destination Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of a beach wedding in Cancun, the Royalton Riviera Cancun offers a perfect mix of luxury, convenience, and vibrant atmosphere. With:
- Over 10 restaurants to choose from
- Multiple pools throughout the resort
- A modern beachfront design
- Gorgeous rooftop and beach ceremony locations
- And top-tier service for guests and wedding couples alike
…it’s a top choice among all-inclusive wedding resorts in Mexico. As someone who’s photographed many international weddings, this venue stands out for how seamlessly it blends celebration and vacation.
A Note from Your Royalton Riviera Cancun Wedding Photographer
This incredible couple came to me through a referral from the bride’s best friend, someone I went to school with. Proof that the world is a lot smaller (and sweeter) than we think. I even had my husband join me on this trip, and watching these two reminded both of us how lucky we are to do what we love surrounded by love.
Vendors Involved In This Wedding Day
Royalton Riviera Cancun
Briar Rose Photography
Planning a destination wedding in Mexico?
Whether you’re booking your big day at Royalton Riviera Cancun or another dreamy beach location, I’d love to help you capture every authentic, beautiful moment.
Based in Whitehorse, Yukon, Serving all of Canada and beyond.
