Getting Married at One&Only Palmilla: ULTIMATE GUIDE

by Advice & Tips, Wedding Venue Guides

Dreaming of a wedding where the rugged beauty of the desert meets the endless blue of the Sea of Cortez? Welcome to One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos—a luxurious beachfront resort that redefines elegance in a breathtaking natural setting. With its sophisticated Mayan-inspired design, pristine beaches, and world-class amenities, One&Only Palmilla offers an unparalleled backdrop for your special day. Whether you envision a chic, intimate ceremony or a lavish celebration with family and friends, this iconic resort promises a wedding experience as unforgettable as its stunning sunsets.

Renowned for its impeccable service and luxurious ambience, One&Only Palmilla seamlessly blends tradition with modern sophistication. Its exquisite venues—from elegant ballrooms to intimate outdoor spaces—are designed to reflect your unique love story, all while showcasing the captivating beauty of Los Cabos. Let the natural splendor and exclusive charm of this resort set the stage for your dream wedding.

Are you dreaming of the perfect wedding day in Cabo? Explore some of the best wedding photos in Cabo in this stunning destination, showcasing breathtaking moments captured in paradise. 

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Is This Venue Right for Your Wedding?

One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos stands out for its stunning beachfront location and opulent amenities. The resort’s scenic vistas, dramatic sunsets, and lush tropical gardens create a magical setting that is perfect for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations. Couples who cherish natural beauty and luxurious comfort will find that this resort offers an ideal blend of romance and sophistication.

Recent guest surveys reveal that nearly 75% of couples choose a venue based on its natural beauty and exclusive atmosphere. With its combination of award-winning service and breathtaking surroundings, One&Only Palmilla provides a picture-perfect backdrop for your wedding photos and a truly memorable experience for all your guests.

How Does a Wedding at One&Only Palmilla Work?

Your wedding at One&Only Palmilla is designed to be a seamless, personalized experience. From your first consultation to the final farewell, the dedicated wedding team works with you to tailor every detail—ensuring that your vision comes to life. The resort offers a range of customizable packages that include access to luxurious venues, expert vendor coordination, and comprehensive planning services.

This all-inclusive approach means you can focus on celebrating your love while the resort takes care of logistics, décor, catering, and entertainment, making your special day truly stress-free.

Best Months to Get Married

Los Cabos boasts a sunny, warm climate almost year-round, but the best months for a wedding are typically from November to April when the weather is most comfortable and rainfall is minimal. These months not only promise ideal conditions for outdoor ceremonies and receptions but also offer stunning natural lighting for your wedding photos.

Choosing to marry during these peak months can enhance your experience, while off-peak periods might offer cost savings and increased flexibility with bookings.

The Basics of Wedding Packages

One&Only Palmilla offers a variety of wedding packages designed to suit different tastes and budgets. Each package typically includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Elegant seating, a beautifully crafted arch, and customizable décor that reflects your personal style.
  • Reception Venues: Options ranging from sophisticated ballrooms to intimate beachside settings, all with stunning ocean views.
  • Catering: Gourmet menus that blend international cuisine with local flavors, available in both plated and buffet styles.
  • Decor and Floral Arrangements: Standard setups that can be enhanced with bespoke floral designs and personalized décor elements.
  • Entertainment: Coordination for live bands, DJs, and interactive experiences to keep your guests engaged and entertained.

These packages are fully customizable, allowing you to add or modify services to perfectly match your wedding vision.

Who Pays for a Destination Wedding?

In destination weddings at One&Only Palmilla, typically:

  • The couple covers the wedding package, which includes the ceremony, reception, décor, and many services.
  • Guests are responsible for their own travel and accommodation, though group rates may be negotiated to ease the expense.
  • The couple may choose to sponsor group activities, such as welcome dinners or excursions, to enhance the guest experience.
  • Additional costs (like transportation or special entertainment) are usually optional and based on preferences.
  • Gift registries are popular, allowing guests to contribute to specific needs or experiences.

This collaborative approach often helps manage the overall budget while creating a sense of shared celebration.

Venue Capacity and Guest Accommodations

One&Only Palmilla offers versatile event spaces that cater to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations:

  • Grand Ballrooms: Accommodate up to 250 guests, perfect for large receptions with elegant dining and dancing.
  • Intimate Terraces: Ideal for 40 to 100 guests, offering cozy outdoor settings with panoramic ocean views.
  • Expansive Gardens: Suitable for 60 to 200 guests, these natural spaces provide a picturesque backdrop for ceremonies and cocktail hours.

Additionally, the resort offers block-booking discounts on accommodations, ensuring that guests can conveniently stay close to the venue in luxurious rooms and suites.

Ceremony and Reception Logistics

At One&Only Palmilla, the wedding team ensures a seamless transition from ceremony to reception. Here’s a typical flow:

Ceremony on the Beach: Exchange vows with the soothing sound of the waves and a breathtaking sunset as your backdrop.

Cocktail Hour on the Terrace: Enjoy an intimate gathering on the terrace with delicious refreshments and stunning ocean views.

Reception in the Grand Ballroom: Celebrate in style with a formal dinner, heartfelt speeches, and lively dancing under elegant chandeliers.

Pro tip: Enhance the guest experience by incorporating unique touches like live music, interactive art installations, or guided tours of the resort’s art collections during the cocktail hour.

What’s Included in the Venue Rental Fee?

The wedding package at One&Only Palmilla typically includes:

  • Standard Décor: Basic seating, linens, and table settings that set the stage for your celebration.
  • Sound System: High-quality audio equipment for clear sound during the ceremony and reception.
  • Waitstaff and Bartenders: Professional service to ensure that all guests are well taken care of.
  • Basic Lighting: Ambient lighting to enhance the resort’s natural beauty and create a warm atmosphere.

Additional upgrades—such as premium décor, specialized lighting effects, or exclusive use of certain areas—may incur extra charges.

Backup Plan for Outdoor Ceremonies

While Los Cabos is known for its sunny weather, unexpected changes can occur. One&Only Palmilla offers indoor alternatives, including elegant ballrooms and covered terraces, to ensure your wedding day goes off without a hitch regardless of the weather.

Pro tip: Always have a clear backup plan and communicate it to your guests. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony during the rainy season, consider scheduling it earlier in the day to minimize risks.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policies

Booking your wedding at One&Only Palmilla involves a structured payment plan:

Initial Deposit: Typically between $800–$1,500 to secure your date and venue.

Incremental Payments: Scheduled at key milestones (e.g., 6, 3, and 1 month before the wedding) to cover various services.

Final Payment: Due approximately 30 days before your ceremony to finalize all arrangements.

Cancellation policies vary; the closer you are to your wedding date, the higher the potential forfeiture. It’s crucial to review your contract carefully and discuss any flexibility options with your coordinator.

On-Site Wedding Coordination and Planning Services

The dedicated wedding team at One&Only Palmilla provides comprehensive support throughout your planning process:

Vendor Recommendations: Access a curated list of trusted local vendors for florals, photography, catering, and entertainment.

Timeline and Rehearsal Management: Ensure a smooth flow from start to finish with expertly managed timelines and rehearsals.

Décor and Theme Assistance: Receive guidance on color schemes, themes, and décor elements that reflect your style and enhance the venue’s natural beauty.

The team is experienced in handling luxury events and will work closely with you to address every detail, ensuring a stress-free planning experience.

Dietary and Menu Restrictions

One&Only Palmilla’s culinary team is skilled at accommodating various dietary needs, ensuring that every guest is well-fed and satisfied. From traditional Mexican dishes to international cuisine, customizable menus are available to suit all tastes and dietary requirements. Detailed consultations with the culinary team ensure that vegan, gluten-free, kosher, or halal options are thoughtfully incorporated into your menu.

Interactive dining experiences—such as live cooking stations or build-your-own taco bars—can further enhance your reception, offering guests a fun and engaging culinary experience.

Music and Entertainment Restrictions

One&Only Palmilla welcomes a variety of entertainment options, including live bands, DJs, and cultural performances. However, the resort may have specific guidelines regarding sound levels, especially in outdoor areas. Typically, an outdoor music curfew is in place around 10 or 11 p.m., so if you envision an all-night celebration, consider moving part of your event indoors.

Coordinators can help you navigate these guidelines and suggest alternative arrangements—such as indoor entertainment or soundproofing options—to ensure your festivities remain lively without compromising on comfort.

Parking and Guest Logistics

Most guests will arrive at Los Cabos International Airport, and One&Only Palmilla is approximately a 1-hour drive away. To ensure smooth arrivals and departures, the resort offers:

Shuttle Services: Available for groups at discounted rates, with schedules coordinated to match your guests’ flight times.

On-Site Parking: Limited parking spaces are provided; advance notice is recommended for guests driving to the resort.

Valet Services: Offered during peak periods to ensure convenience and efficient handling of guest vehicles.

Providing detailed itineraries and transportation guides helps ensure that your guests can navigate their way to and from the resort with ease.

Total Cost Breakdown for a Wedding at One&Only Palmilla

For an average wedding of about 50 guests at One&Only Palmilla, expect to budget approximately:

  • Wedding Package: $6,000–$15,000 USD (includes ceremony, basic décor, and reception dinner).
  • Entertainment: $2,000–$5,000 USD (varies based on live music, DJ services, and special performances).
  • Photography/Videography: $3,000–$6,000 USD (additional costs for drone footage or extended coverage may apply).
  • Florals and Décor Extras: $1,200–$4,500 USD (depends on customization and additional decorative elements).
  • Taxes and Fees: Approximately 16% VAT plus a 10–15% service charge.

Total estimated costs range from $16,200 to $30,500 USD, depending on your choices. Fine-tuning your budget by prioritizing key elements can help ensure your wedding is both spectacular and financially manageable.

Splurge vs. Save

If you’re looking to reduce costs, consider hosting a weekday wedding or opting for standard décor instead of premium upgrades. Weekday weddings often offer better rates and extra perks. Conversely, if you wish to splurge, enhancements such as a wine-pairing dinner, a bespoke floral installation, or a fireworks display at sunset can create an unforgettable experience. Balancing your priorities and negotiating bundled packages with vendors can also help maximize value without compromising quality.

DIY elements like personalized favors or custom table settings can further enhance your wedding’s uniqueness while keeping expenses in check.

Wedding Packages and What’s Included

One&Only Palmilla offers tiered wedding packages designed to provide flexibility and cater to different preferences. Typically, each package includes:

  • Ceremony Setup: Options for beachside, garden, or ballroom ceremonies, complete with elegant seating, arches, and customizable décor.
  • Reception Dinner Options: A variety of catering styles—from gourmet plated dinners to lavish buffets—tailored to your tastes.
  • Open Bar: Signature cocktails, a curated selection of wines, and premium spirits to keep your guests refreshed throughout the celebration.
  • Basic Floral Arrangements: Standard bouquets, boutonnieres, and centerpieces, with the option to upgrade to custom installations.
  • Wedding Cake: Customizable cake designs and flavors, with options for multi-tiered cakes or alternative dessert stations.

Pro tip: Some packages include perks like complimentary room upgrades for the couple or spa discounts, offering additional value and enhancing your overall experience.

Activities for Other Days

Enhance your wedding weekend by offering your guests a taste of Los Cabos:

  • Guided tours of the iconic Los Cabos coastline and local cultural landmarks.
  • Culinary experiences such as traditional Mexican cooking classes or wine tastings.
  • Private boat trips to explore the Sea of Cortez and its marine life.
  • Day excursions to nearby attractions like Cabo Pulmo or San José del Cabo.
  • Evening cultural performances, including live mariachi bands or folkloric dance shows.

Three Practical Tips for Brides

1) Schedule a Hair & Makeup Trial: Los Cabos’ tropical climate can be challenging for your hairstyle. A trial run ensures your look stays flawless all day.

2) Stay Hydrated: Ensure water stations and light refreshments are available, especially for outdoor events.

3) Bring Comfortable Shoes: Have a pair of flats or sandals ready for dancing and moving around the resort, so you remain comfortable throughout the day.

Two Bride Reviews

“One&Only Palmilla provided the most breathtaking backdrop for our wedding. The pristine beach, elegant service, and spectacular sunsets made our special day truly magical. Every detail was handled with precision, and our guests couldn’t stop raving about the stunning views and flawless execution.” – Maria G.

“Our wedding at One&Only Palmilla was nothing short of a dream come true. The resort’s luxurious ambiance and unbeatable oceanfront location set the perfect stage for our celebration. The attentive staff and impeccable coordination made our day stress-free and unforgettable.” – Laura M.

My Final Thoughts as a Wedding Photographer

As a wedding photographer who has captured numerous celebrations in Los Cabos, I highly recommend One&Only Palmilla for couples seeking a sophisticated beachfront wedding. The resort’s stunning oceanfront views, luxurious venues, and unique blend of modern amenities with traditional charm create endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. Whether you’re capturing a romantic sunset ceremony on the beach or an elegant reception in a grand ballroom, One&Only Palmilla offers the perfect setting to preserve your special day in timeless images. If you desire a destination wedding that combines luxury, natural beauty, and impeccable service, One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos should undoubtedly be on your shortlist.

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