### From excitement turned sour
Jeremy Alexander and Ryan Sheepwash, a couple from Canada, had always dreamt about exchanging vows in Puerto Vallarta, a city known far and wide as an LGBTQ+ haven. But what started with dreams quickly became a nightmare, as they found themselves battling discrimination while trying out their wedding plans. Their experiences, shared on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, didn't just stop at going viral—they ignited a much-needed conversation about fairness and equality in weddings.
### Exciting beginnings, disappointing twist
The journey began with excitement. Jeremy and Ryan were floating on cloud nine, planning their big day. Puerto Vallarta seemed perfect, and after countless hours researching and imagining, they zeroed in on Sheraton Buganvilias Resort. The friendly staff and decent prices made it their top contender.
But then reality hit hard. It took three long months before they finally got a quote back from Sheraton's wedding planner, and it was a jaw-dropper: $970 per guest! That meant a $36,000 deposit just as a starter. Jeremy couldn't believe it. "Who can shell out that kind amount?" he asked, visibly frustrated. It was a far cry from what they'd initially discussed, and if that wasn't enough, they couldn't even get a date until March 2027, which was far from their ideal timeline.
### Uncovering unfair treatment
Determined not just take things at face value, Jeremy and Ryan asked a straight friend, just out curiosity, what kind deal they'd get if they enquired about a wedding on those same dates. Their friend's offer? A drastically cheaper package: only $8,500 total, or $254 per person per night, and just a $1,700 deposit. Their hearts sank.
It wasn't hard see what was happening—this was blatant discrimination based on who they love. In a heartfelt TikTok, Ryan opened up, "We're just heartbroken. We want a special wedding, just like anyone else." For Jeremy, sharing their story felt necessary, shining a light on a pattern that clearly needed addressing.
### Hotel's response and broader implications
So, what did Sheraton have say? Not much, directly. As a Marriott franchisee, they kept quiet, but Marriott International stepped in, reiterating their commitment inclusivity. They even reached out Jeremy and Ryan directly. They made sure mention their previous support LGBTQ+ events and weddings, but actions speak louder than words, right?
Jeremy was quick point out, "It seems deep-rooted. There's definitely a problem with homophobia at this Sheraton, despite their ties with LGBTQ+ organizations."
### Past and present hurdles
Sadly, Jeremy and Ryan aren't alone in their plight. Back in 2019, Josh Rimer, a TV host and former Mr. Gay Canada, faced similar discrimination when this same hotel refused his same-sex wedding. It turns out this behavior was pretty well-known among locals and those familiar with Puerto Vallarta's marriage venues.
Their investigations led them TikTok again, discovering a video by Daniel Galecio, a wedding planner who confirmed what they feared. The hotel couldn't—or wouldn't—accommodate same-sex weddings. "The place has a long history. Everyone in town knows," said Galecio.
Since marriage equality became law in Mexico in 2022, stories like Jeremy and Ryan's continue underline struggles same-sex couples endure, even in so-called inclusive areas.
### A call accountability
Jeremy and Ryan's ordeal speaks volumes about ongoing fight equality in weddings. Businesses that boast inclusivity need hold themselves accountable and make genuine changes. By bravely sharing their story, Jeremy and Ryan remind us all there's still much work-do toward genuine acceptance, so that no couple, regardless their orientation, faces such hurdles again.
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