Puerto Vallarta Wedding Venue

A Destination Wedding at Dreams Vallarta Bay in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

My clients from Chicago told me they wanted a destination wedding at Dreams Vallarta Bay. I knew it would be unforgettable. With 120 guests flying in to join them on Mexico’s Pacific coast, this was more than just a wedding. It was a week-long adventure filled with love, culture, and epic views.

Before they packed their bags, we did an engagement session in downtown Chicago. From city skylines to quiet streets, their images reflected the energy of their life at home. But their love story had a deeper connection to Mexico. The couple actually got engaged in Puerto Vallarta, which made it the most meaningful choice for their wedding. Returning here with their family and friends to celebrate felt like coming full circle.

The Weather Twist: Hurricane Flossie

Two days before the wedding, Hurricane Flossie was sitting just 200 miles off the shore. The storm never reached Puerto Vallarta, but its presence was felt. The days leading up to the ceremony were humid and heavy with clouds, keeping everyone on edge. Still, the couple stayed calm, trusting the day would unfold just as it was meant to.

And it did. Against all odds, the skies held back. On their wedding day, not a single drop of rain fell. Instead, the atmosphere created a soft, diffused light that made every image glow. The dramatic clouds over the bay only added to the epic backdrop. This proves that sometimes the most incredible wedding days are the ones where nature keeps you guessing right until the very end.

The Ceremony at Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe

Their ceremony wasn’t just beautiful—it was historic. The couple chose the iconic Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, a landmark in downtown Puerto Vallarta. Known for its crowned Renaissance-style tower, the church is a symbol of the city. It serves as a focal point for culture, faith, and celebration. Every December, it hosts the beloved Festival of Our Lady of Guadalupe, drawing thousands of visitors. To stand inside those walls on a wedding day felt like stepping into a living piece of history.

As they exchanged vows under the vaulted ceilings, light poured in through arched windows. The moment was timeless, blending tradition with the anticipation of a new life together. Photographing this ceremony was a gift. The grandeur of the architecture was breathtaking. The intimacy of their vows created an atmosphere that can only be described as epic.

Dreams Vallarta Bay: Where the Celebration Came Alive

After the church ceremony, everyone gathered at Dreams Vallarta Bay Resort & Spa. It is a luxury beachfront property and is ideal for weddings. With ocean views, swaying palms, and vibrant sunsets, this resort feels designed for celebration. Hosting 120 guests was seamless. There was plenty of room to relax by the pool during the day. Guests could dance under the stars at night.

The reception was held overlooking the water. Guests sipped margaritas and mojitos as the sun dipped into the Pacific. String lights and live music set the stage for a night of nonstop laughter, dancing, and heartfelt toasts.

Why Couples Choose Puerto Vallarta

For this couple, the decision was clear. They got engaged in Puerto Vallarta, so it already held a special place in their hearts. Choosing the same city for their wedding meant every moment was layered with meaning. What began as a proposal on the beach became a lifelong memory shared with everyone they loved.

Puerto Vallarta is also a perfect destination wedding spot for practical reasons. Direct flights from major cities like Chicago make it easy for friends and family to attend. Once here, guests enjoy the charm of cobblestone streets, vibrant local markets, and world-class beaches. The mix of history and luxury makes Puerto Vallarta a standout location for couples who want something cinematic yet approachable.

Photography That Brings It All Together

As a destination wedding photographer, I look for more than just the posed shots. I chase the moments where the wind catches a veil. I capture when guests forget the camera is there. I love when laughter is unfiltered. Puerto Vallarta offers endless backdrops. You can enjoy the sunset over Banderas Bay. Explore the colorful streets of Old Town. Admire the timeless beauty of Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe.

Blending images from their Chicago engagement session with their Puerto Vallarta proposal story and their wedding at Dreams Vallarta Bay created a full narrative. Their love story started in the Midwest. It found its “yes” on the beach. The story celebrated its epic chapter on Mexico’s Pacific coast.

Planning Your Own Destination Wedding at Dreams Vallarta Bay

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that combines elegance and adventure, consider Dreams Vallarta Bay. It offers unforgettable scenery and is a venue worth considering. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration or have a large guest list like this Chicago couple, the resort offers flexibility and luxury. It also provides plenty of options for photography.

Pairing a historic church ceremony with a beachfront reception gave this couple the best of both worlds: tradition and tropical celebration. That balance is what makes Puerto Vallarta such a perfect canvas for destination weddings.

Final Thoughts

This wedding was more than just a day—it was an experience. From the storm that never arrived to the echoes of vows inside Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, to the laughter spilling out onto the dance floor at Dreams Vallarta Bay, every moment felt like it belonged in a storybook.

As I look back on their images, I’m reminded why I love photographing destination weddings: they bring people together in ways that feel real, epic, and unforgettable. For this Chicago couple, Puerto Vallarta wasn’t just a destination. It was the place where they got engaged, the place where they said “I do,” and the perfect beginning to a lifetime of adventures together.

All drone images were shot by Aleshia B Video.

If you are planning a proposal or a wedding, I’d love to help tell your story. To reach out, click here.

NeriPhoto is a  is a photography studio based in Holland, Michigan serving clients worldwide.