An Insider's Look at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya holds a special spot in the portfolio of certified resorts here at Shaadi Destinations. They have spent ample time preparing for specific needs and requirements of Indian weddings and guests and have partnered with local South Asian certified vendors who have decades of experience with everything from decor to mehndi to baraats.
Marlen Tellez started in the wedding industry about 6 years ago. She was part of the accounting team at the hotel working specifically on the wedding’s accounts. The wedding department was emerging at that time and the first wedding manager asked Marlen to be part of the team as her assistant. She, of course, said “I do.” From that moment Marlen started in the wedding world and never imagined that she would like it so much! Come take an Insider’s Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya with Marlen Tellez!
Courtesy of Federico Salmeron Photography
Why did you become a wedding planner?
I became passionate about this and became more involved as I helped other coordinators at their weddings, while taking courses and certifications to better prepare myself. One day the opportunity came and continues to be a very rewarding experience.
When was your first Indian wedding and what was it like?
My first Indian wedding was on August 09th, 2017. At first, I must say that I was afraid, however. when I started working with the bride and groom all the tension went down. This wedding was exceptional, even though we had to move events due to bad weather, everyone enjoyed it.
I clicked really well with the couple, and we all became friends. They shared all the photos of the wedding with me later. I am currently in contact with them. I think it has been one of the best weddings I have ever experienced as a coordinator.
Courtesy of Bella Lumi
Have you been certified as a South Asian wedding planner?
Yes, I have!
What is your favorite part about being a South Asian wedding planner?
My favorite part is the wedding operation, the moment when everything happens, and we have to execute what was planned
Courtesy of Sweet Caribbean Photography
Do you have any favorite memories from Indian weddings you’ve planned?
Yes, I have many, every baraat full of music and joy, when I saw the brides arrive at the ceremony. The joy during mehndi and sangeet parties, in short, all those joyous and meaningful moments.
What is your favorite picture from a client’s wedding that you have been a part of?
My favorite picture is when I see both the bride and groom together and their both really happy, at the end of the wedding events. Once they have danced, laughed and enjoyed every single moment.
How long have you been at Hard Rock Riviera Maya?
I have been in Hard Rock 8 years
What is your favorite venue on property?
This is a difficult question, we have many pretty locations, but I would say the ipanema solarium.
Courtesy of Mike Cantarell Films
What is the best spot for a photoshoot at Hard Rock Riviera Maya?
We have many as well, but I think Starlight beach is the best one.
Could you tell us a little bit more about your Indian wedding program or packages?
Our ISHQ program has everything couples need to truly rock their wedding. From amazing spots to excellent food, drinks, free event hours, specialty South Asian vendors who inspire on personal selections and can create a custom wedding collection. And not to forget our experienced team of Wedding Consultants and on-site Wedding Specialists.
Courtesy of Sweet Caribbean Photography
Why should a couple choose your resort over all the rest?
Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is the largest property of the AIC hotel group in the area, due to its size we can accommodate very large groups. We have many beautiful locations, a huge spa, and extra activities like the water park and woodward that guests can also enjoy. The heaven night club is the favorite one of our couples and guests to continue the party at night, if you’re not ready for the night to end.
We have everything and we reinvent ourselves every day to create those unique experiences. We also understand that culture and traditions are an important part of every South Asian wedding and that is why we are committed to work hard to make each one of them a great and a unique memory that will last forever.
What is your favorite restaurant on site and what's your favorite thing to order?
My favorite restaurant is Zen and my favorite thing to order is the teppanyaki tables.
What is your favorite Indian food item?
My favorites are chicken tikka masala, veg samosas, garlic naan, mango lassi (so delicious), veg pakoras.
Courtesy of Bella Lumi
What makes the Indian food at events at Hard Rock Riviera Maya the best in Riviera Maya?
We have an experienced chef from India.
What makes a Shaadi Destinations bride and groom different from others?
Shaadi Destinations help the bride and groom to carry out a destination wedding with the least stress possible.
They are an experienced team that attends from the reservation of rooms to planning and coordination of the wedding. Their passion and joy for what they do day by day for each couple is evident from afar.
We love working with them and feeling like one team working for that same goal, a dream wedding trip.
What are your top 3 tips for couples looking to plan an Indian destination wedding?
Choose a destination and a hotel that offers you a vibrant atmosphere as you have visualized it.
Courtesy of Mike Cantarell Films
2. Look for a hotel that not only has what you need for the wedding but also has activities for the guests. Remember, they take advantage of this trip also as vacation time.
3. Make a site inspection trip and trust the experts.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with future brides and grooms?
Don't be afraid to pursue a destination wedding, even if it involves more work, in the end the reward and experiences are indescribable. Enjoy every moment either in planning or during the wedding itself.
Enjoying is the key because these are unrepeatable moments that will last a lifetime.
Courtesy of Sweet Caribbean Photography
Shaadi Destinations is the premier, award winning, modern-day destination wedding travel agency for South Asian couples seeking a streamlined process, incredible experiences, and a party friends and family will never forget! We save our couples thousands of dollars while throwing them the wedding festivities dreams are made of.
We live and breathe destination weddings - with just one consultation, you will be light years ahead in your destination wedding planning process. In less than one week, Shaadi Destinations will find you the most perfect resort that meets your needs, your budget, and your desires. With our vendor relationships and pre-negotiated exclusive perks at resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, we are confident we can find exactly what you are looking for. You'll find we have the best rates, best incentives, and best booking experience.
