Has someone asked you to be a bridesmaid? One of the select flew to get fluffy and fancy on that special day? My oh my! Where to begin? Is it a destination wedding? Will there be a bachelorette party? When invited to a destination wedding and being one of the select few to be a bridesmaid, it might be her big day but why not indulge as well? Here are a few suggestions to make sure you have everything in order to offer support to the stressed out bride. The experience should be smooth and FUNtabulous! Anything goes in Mexico!
What to pack?
With strict airline baggage restrictions one must think very hard about what fits into her suitcase utilizing every square inch. Sticking with a base color (ie black, taupe, khaki) to use throughout your trip works well. Puerto Vallarta enjoys 365 days of fabulous tropical weather so stick to light clothing. No jackets needed. Here is our must have apparel list for a typical 7 day visit.
Three swimsuits (One piece and bikini and something vintage because you will feel like dressing ¨Old Hollywood¨ at Hacienda San Angel´s pools) There are some fabulous swimwear stores in Puerto Vallarta so if you dread trying on bathing suits mid winter leave this difficult task to the experts in Puerto Vallarta
- 3 cover-ups. If your current home doesn’t have the best of resort wear, there are great fashion finds in Mexico and a trip to downtown or your hotel boutique can solve a last minute fashion emergency
- Cocktail dress. The strappier the better.
- One lounge outfit that can also be used as pajamas (to save space)
- Flip flops, sandals, high heels and running shoes. If your sandal selection is poor, don ́t bring any with you as Mexico offers some of the best shoe purchases in the world.
- One pair of slacks to suit your style
- One light and flowy summer dress
- Two pairs of shorts
- Two t shirts
- Two blouses
- Don ́t forget the bridesmaid dress!
- One elegant long sleeved sweater or pashmina (be prepared for air-conditioning or breezy ocean air)
Nails and Beauty
So many bridesmaids spend endless hours at pricey salons in the U.S and Canada getting their nails gelled, bikini wax, root coverage or sun kissed highlights. Don´t! Mexico has some of the most affordable beauty procedures and one stop shop spas on every corner. In suite beauty party? Our concierge staff at Hacienda San Angel can also order in room service to satisfy any desire. Get beautiful, but make sure not to upstage the bride.
Your hair
Destination weddings happen year round in Puerto Vallarta with more affordable lodging in the summer months. The humidity increase in the summer season and your hair will have a mind of its own. Updos are highly suggested but if staying straight is a must, please consider that frizz happens and is almost out of control when you are in the hot sun for endless hours before and after ¨I do¨ Vanity is part of the Mexican culture, so make sure to get our concierge to hire a team of beauty specialists to take care of your hair in the comfort of your suite or on your private patio with a bottle of Moet on hand. Hair stylists in Mexico are up to date and use products you are familiar with.
Emergency Kit
There is nothing more nerve wracking than traveling to a foreign country, being hotel bound and rooming with persons you have yet to meet……… Other bridesmaids who all have one thing in common………THE BRIDE! How to handle this? Tequila? Actually the latter can help drastically, and if you need cocktails all you need to do is pick up the nd the hacienda will bring you anything you need to break the ice.
Having a few treats or life saviour to offer like magazines, bug spray, good suntan lotion, snacks or even remake some keepsakes in the form of a loot bag to offer to your colleague bridesmaid can come in handy. After all, you will all be comparing notes as to who knows her best right?
One of the greatest reasons why so many tie the knot in Mexican paradise is the service and kindness of its people and the staff at Hacienda San Angel who are all well rehearsed for special events making you their #1 priority. Make new friends, practice your Spanish and don´t hesitate to reach out and ask for help. Making people happy is what Mexicans are wonderful at and the real reason why so many destination weddings happen in the Bay of Banderas.
If you have some tips to contribute please contact us at: [email protected] and to follow our daily happenings click herehttps://www.facebook.com/haciendasanangel/.