AE PLANNING + DESIGN
Alison Hotchkiss, founder of AE Planning+Design, specializes in planning high-end custom events and destination weddings. Alison plans weddings around the world, including Mexico, Italy, Scotland, Costa Rica and more. In 2009, she wrote a book with photographer Thayer Allyson Gowdy called, “Destination Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding from Afar.”

“Alison Hotchkiss of AE Planning + Design is the kind of girl that is such a pleasure to work with. She is smart, professional, fun and down-to-earth – as is every member of her team. I love how they are so on top of things and take care of every little detail for you. Wherever you’re getting married, AE Planning + Design can help. Now based in both California and on the East Coast, they have the world covered! You can also consult Alison’s “Destination Wedding Planner: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding from Afar” for all the expert advice you need – you’ll be impressed with the ideas and helpful hints in this book.” - CECI JOHNSON

Find out how you can win $4500 in prizes, including $2500 off services from AE Event Planning + Design.

The Ins and Outs of Planning a Wedding in Mexico by Alison Hotchkiss:

1. Hotels: When blocking hotel rooms, be aware that some guests might be on a budget. If the main hotel is pricey, don’t make people feel like they have to stay there.

2. Business as usual: Keep in mind that business is done differently in Mexico and communication styles vary. People can be slow to respond, so just go with the flow. A lot of business down there is based on a handshake rather than a contract, so don’t be alarmed if you don’t receive contracts from every vendor.

3. Safety first: Pack an emergency kit with every over-the-counter drug you might need. It’s not glamorous, but you’ll be really happy to have Benadryl, topical antihistamine, Claritin, Advil, Tums, etc. when you need it.

4. Proof: Always ask to see photos of past weddings at the venue. If there are chair covers in the photos, chances are you’re going to have those same chair covers at your wedding, which is totally great if you like that look. Still, sometimes there are gorgeous wood chairs underneath the fabric that look even more ornate and interesting, so ask to see them uncovered, too.

5. Practical makes perfect: Be practical when it comes to picking your wedding gown. If you’re getting married on the beach, you probably won’t be very comfortable in a gown made of heavy taffeta or tulle. Instead, opt for something in a lighter fabric that will allow you to actually breathe since it will likely be warm out. Make sure it’s a fabric that travels well since you might have to stow it in a tight space.

6. Be informed: Know that a destination wedding is a lot of work for you, but also a lot of work for your guests. Be prepared for lots of questions from them about airfares, hotels, etc. The best way to handle this is to set up a really informative website that answers all the questions your guests might have. Google the location where you are getting married and the word “wedding” and you may find websites that already have all that info.

7. Inspiration: Be inspired by your surroundings and incorporate the Mexican culture into your wedding. That doesn’t mean you have to throw a fiesta-themed wedding, but maybe you use some Mexican laces and textiles on the tables or some iconography that incorporates Mexican culture. Embrace the fact that you’re getting married in such a beautiful, interesting country with such a rich heritage.

8. Work with a planner: Hire a great planner who has experience and relationships in the area you’ve chosen for your wedding!

9. Timing: Make sure you DON’T plan your wedding during rainy season. The best time to plan a wedding in Mexico is between late November and mid-June. November and June are hot, hot months with a potential for rain. They call them “cusp” months so they are often less expensive, but the chances are low that a hurricane or crazy heat wave will happen so they’re often worth it. My favorite months are February (although it can get cold at night), March, April and May (although it can be really hot).

10. Shipping: Make sure you ship items to your destination 1 to 2 months in advance in case they get held up in customs. Also make sure you use the hotel broker who can ensure the items will get through customs.

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