Planning Your Destination Wedding in Sayula Jalisco, Mexico
So you’re considering a destination dream wedding in Sayula Mexico? Well I can help give you some insight into what that wedding might look like. I was lucky enough to have been a bridesmaid for a great friend of mine who had her wedding in Sayula Mexico. I had such a fun time. However, a very important detail, please remind your wedding guests to fly and book airfare and hotels to Sayula, Jalisco Mexico, not Sayulita in the state of Nayarit, a coastal beach town!
Can you imagine the horrors of your guests flying out to the wrong state? Reminds me of vacationers flying to Austria instead of Australia (happens all the time). Anyway, back to Sayula. Sayula is a beautiful cobblestone town with great colonial architecture, historic sites and that’s dripping with charm!
There are many things to explore, which would help keep your guests occupied with many options as they fill in time before and after the wedding.
All About The Colonial Village of Sayula, Mexico
Sayula is a great destination to consider not only for the many picturesque venues available to host your wedding, but because of the things your guests can do in addition to attending your wedding. The city has a lot of artisan crafts, which provide great shopping opportunities. Handmade textiles, leather goods and decorative crafts can make great souvenirs. Their most famous craft of all are the knife shops. They still use centuries-old techniques to craft blades, talk about an interesting item to add to your kitchen! Sayula also has a close proximity to Guadalajara, which can make for a great day trip or weekend getaway if your guests are looking to pack more into their itineraries.
Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcángel
In September, as previously mentioned, is when the Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcángel are taking place. It is the town’s biggest religious festival, with parades, fireworks, music and traditional dances. Again, something to consider as a potential clash against your ceremony should you book your destination wedding in September.
Cajeta de Sayula
Sayula also offers a unique must try in Cajeta de Sayula. It’s caramel goat milk and produced by many local shops in the area, each producing their own unique variation, a town specialty that you must try before leaving.
Safety in Sayula
Another important detail we can all agree as a must is safety. Safety is our most important issue when traveling, it always must come first, and we will always be transparent with our readers regarding this issue. Having said that, I felt extremely safe the entire time I stayed in Sayula. For the most part, Sayula is considered a safe and tranquil municipality with relatively low crime rates. The town does benefit from the presence of the 9th Battalion and the National Guard, keeping residents feeling safe with a healthy amount of security.
While the town does suffer from minor issues like auto part theft, home burglaries, Sayula doesn’t face any threats from organized crime or any other high risk security problems. That isn’t the case for other parts of the state of Jalisco, which have higher security risks, which are concentrated in specific areas and are usually related to conflicts between criminal groups. However, Sayula is not directly impacted by these issues.
Best Time of Year for a Destination Wedding in Sayula
Arguably the most important thing to start off when planning your destination wedding is to focus on the location’s climate. You don’t want your wedding experience ruined because of rain, high winds, extreme heat, etc. In regard to Sayula, which doesn’t experience extreme weather, you’ll still want to consider the following as a potential location to host your wedding; November to May will have pleasant temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
March to May is slightly warmer, but with blooming flowers all around might be a time of the year to consider. June to October are the heavy rain seasons and might not be ideal for any outdoor weddings. You’ll have plenty to work with regarding the weather and shouldn’t be too much of a hindrance.
Another important note, remember that local festivities surrounding the holidays in December might clash with your ceremony, so that would be a month to avoid in spite of the great weather. September is also a month to avoid as that is when the Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcángel are taking place, which can potentially clash with your ceremony.
Why People Love Sayula for Weddings
Having a wedding ceremony in Sayula probably means you’re looking for that magical wedding experience with the backdrop of a cathedral or general colonial feel. That is precisely the experience a destination wedding in Sayula can provide. The wedding I participated in, which was held at the Santuario Virgen de Guadalupe in Sayula, was a gorgeous venue that provided that magical feeling. You felt the history inside this venue, which is centuries old, dating back to the 1700’s!
It’s important to note that weddings at this specific venue are held for those of a catholic religious background. Meaning at least one person in the marriage must be baptized catholic. Other venues to consider are Parroquia de la Inmaculada Concepción, Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and Templo San Lucas. All these offer beautiful venue opportunities for a catholic wedding location.
Not only does Sayula offer beautiful venues, but the municipality also offers endless cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, colorful facades, and a traditional Mexican plaza. You can also take some time to check out Casa de la Cultura, which is a cultural center that showcases arts, history and local customs, traditions. San Miguel Arcángel Parish is another stunning church with a lot of historical significance that is worth the time to go see.
Wedding Vendors Available in Sayula and Nearby Areas
Creating the perfect wedding day can’t happen without the help of available wedding services based in Sayula. From flower shops, mariachi bands and photographers and more. All the necessary supporting businesses are ready to help step in where needed. If by chance you can’t find any local support, you can try the city of Guadalajara for additional vendor support. You can also use your hotel for support in seeking out local vendors for more specific requests such as particular food or musical tastes. Important note: regarding food catering, please reach out to your venues and hotels for additional vendor partners as your online options are extremely limited. You will have to reach out in person while in Sayula.
Flower Shops in Sayula
For flower shops, we recommend going in person to the multiple flower shop options available in Sayula for a better booking experience. Although there are plenty to choose from, finding options online was limited and you’ll have better luck finding a great flower shop through other means such as; hotels, venues, wedding planners etc, to help connect with multiple flower vendors. You’ll have to book an in person meeting to verify quote and payment method as they may not take credit card options.
Food Catering in Sayula
After our research, Rancho Alegre Salon de Eventos Sayula was the best online option available for catering. Find more information about Rancho Alegre here: Carretera Gdl-Usmajac, Supermanzana KM 401, 49330 Sayula, Jal., Mexico. Give them a call at +523310760648.
Mariachi in Sayula
Mariachi’s are a great touch to add some musical flare to your wedding. They liven up any event and it’s a Mexican wedding tradition that immediately gets a crowd smiling and helps liven up the mood. We’ve added some options below if you’re interested in adding them to your wedding reception.
- Mariachi Juvenil Nuevo Imperial – Juan Rulfo, 49317 Sayula, Jalisco, Mexico. They can be reached at: +52 341 163 7524.
- Mariachi Rey de Reyes de Sayula Jalisco – They can be reached at: +52 1 342 102 3787 or through email at [email protected].
Photographer
- Fotografo de Bodas & Quinceanera’s – Leonardo – He can be reached at: +52 341 879 3828.
- Del Rio Fotografia y Video – They can be reached at + 52 342 102 0530.
Hotels in Sayula
Hotel infrastructure will obviously be extremely important for your wedding ceremony. Luckily Sayula has plenty of options to accommodate yourself, and all your guests. Not only are there plenty of options, but affordability is inherently built into the price due to the peso/dollar exchange rate. Prices range from $40 dollars a night, to $90 dollars a night for a number of boutique hotel options. We’ve listed some of them below, all located within the Sayula municipality.
Gran Casa Sayula Hotel Galeria & Spa
Gran Casa Sayula Hotel Galería & Spa is a luxurious boutique hotel housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion in Sayula, Jalisco. It offers elegantly appointed rooms with a mix of colonial charm and modern amenities, providing a refined and comfortable stay. The hotel features a full-service spa, an art gallery showcasing local talent, and a gourmet restaurant serving exquisite regional cuisine. Guests can unwind in the serene courtyard, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy personalized service in a tranquil setting. With its rich history, sophisticated ambiance, and warm hospitality, Gran Casa Sayula is the perfect retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and cultural immersion.
La Casa De Los Patios Hotel & Spa
La Casa de los Patios Hotel & Spa is a charming boutique hotel in Sayula, Jalisco, offering a perfect blend of colonial elegance and modern comfort. Set in a beautifully restored historic building, the hotel features cozy, well-appointed rooms that reflect traditional Mexican style. Guests can relax in the tranquil courtyards, enjoy a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool, or indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the on-site spa. The hotel’s restaurant serves authentic regional cuisine, providing a true taste of Jalisco’s flavors. With its warm hospitality, serene ambiance, and rich cultural heritage, La Casa de los Patios is an ideal retreat for relaxation and exploration.
Hotel la Provincia
Hotel Real La Provincia is a mid-range hotel located in the heart of Sayula, Jalisco, at Calle Ramón Corona 65 Centro. This hotel that’s over 80 years old offers 13 comfortable rooms, providing guests with essential amenities and free high-speed internet access. Its central location allows easy access to local attractions, including the Museo de Arte Sacro de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, situated approximately 1.4 kilometers away. Guests have praised the hotel for its charming ambiance, likening it to staying in a space adorned with vibrant flowers. Nearby dining options include La Casa de los Patios, La Frambuesa, and Bistró Azul 535, offering a variety of Mexican and international cuisines.
Mesón del Ánima
Mesón del Ánima is a charming hotel located in Sayula, Jalisco, just three blocks from the main square at Avenida General Manuel Ávila Camacho 171. The hotel offers 21 comfortable rooms that blend traditional Mexican décor with modern amenities, providing guests with a cozy and authentic experience. Guests can enjoy the serene ambiance of the hotel’s courtyards, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, and appreciate the pet-friendly policy that welcomes animal companions. The hotel’s proximity to local attractions, such as the Museo de Arte Sacro de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, makes it an ideal base for exploring the cultural heritage of Sayula. With its warm hospitality and convenient location, Mesón del Ánima offers a delightful stay for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Jalisco.
Local Things to Do in Sayula
We’ve reviewed plenty of things to do regarding the shops and architecture to visit, but there are also plenty of things to see when it comes to Sayula’s natural beauty. There is Laguna de Sayula, a large seasonal saltwater lagoon that is just outside of town, home to migratory birds and beautiful landscapes that are worth a visit. If you’re up for something even more adventurous, there is the Nevado de Colima, an impressive volcano and national park for hiking and sight seeing adventures. This stunning place can have no photos do it justice and you will have to see it in person to appreciate its beauty. It’s a must see but will require planning with making sure you came prepared with the right shoes, clothing and water supplies for hiking.
Cost of Weddings in Sayula
The cost to host a destination wedding will obviously vary depending on many factors, but one thing is for sure, if you’re located in the United States, a wedding in Mexico can be done for a fraction of the cost of that you would pay in the United States. A lot to factor in but generally, a wedding in Sayula would range between $5,000 to $15,000 USD. Compare that to the average cost of a wedding in the U.S., which can range between $35,000 to $50,000 USD. With careful planning, you can accomplish a beautiful wedding ceremony at a great price that won’t destroy your finances.
Venue Selection
Selecting a wedding venue in Sayula, Jalisco, is one of the most important decisions in planning your special day, as it sets the tone for the entire celebration. The town offers a variety of charming options, from elegant boutique hotels like Gran Casa Sayula Hotel Galería & Spa, which provides a sophisticated atmosphere with historic charm, to Rancho Alegre Eventos, a spacious outdoor venue perfect for large celebrations. When choosing a venue, consider the number of guests, the type of ceremony you envision, and the services included, such as catering, decorations, and accommodations for guests. Many venues in Sayula offer all-inclusive packages, making it easier to coordinate vendors and logistics, while others provide flexibility for you to customize every detail. To ensure a seamless experience, it’s best to visit potential venues in person, discuss your vision with the event coordinators, and secure your date well in advance, especially during peak wedding seasons.
Travel Costs to Sayula
When planning a wedding in Sayula, Jalisco, travel costs will vary depending on the location of your guests and their mode of transportation. Sayula is about an hour and a half from Guadalajara, making it easily accessible for guests flying into Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla International Airport (GDL). Domestic flights from major Mexican cities typically range from $1,500 to $4,000 MXN round trip, while international flights from the U.S. or Canada can cost between $300 to $800 USD, depending on the season. From the airport, guests can take a rental car, private shuttle, or bus to Sayula, with transportation costs averaging $200 to $1,500 MXN per person. Once in town, accommodations range from budget-friendly hotels at $800 MXN per night to luxury boutique stays costing $2,500 MXN or more per night. To help guests manage expenses, consider booking room blocks at local hotels or arranging group transportation to and from the wedding venue.
Legal Requirements travelling to Sayula
Americans are not required to obtain a travel visa to enter Mexico, but they are required to carry a valid passport. Please ensure you won’t be carrying an expired passport when traveling to Mexico.
In Conclusion
Planning your destination wedding in Sayula, Jalisco, Mexico, is a magical journey that combines rich culture, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality. From its historic charm and luxurious haciendas to its delicious cuisine and vibrant traditions, Sayula offers a unique and intimate setting for your special day. By carefully considering your venue, accommodations, and local vendors, you can create a seamless and unforgettable experience for you and your guests. With its romantic ambiance and authentic Mexican charm, Sayula is the perfect place to say “I do” and begin your forever together.
