Gay couple want ‘action’ not ‘apology’ after dream Mexican wedding ‘blocked by discrimination’
Ryan Sheepwash and Jeremy Alexander. (Supplied)
An LGBTQ+ couple who claim that their dream of a magical wedding in Mexico was shattered after a resort discriminated against them have said they don’t want an “apology” – they want “action”.
Jeremy Alexander, 32, and Ryan Sheepwash, 41, had envisioned tying the knot at the Marriott Hotel, Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Convention Center in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, ever since visiting the venue on 14 November last year.
That same day, the Canada-based couple, who have been together for almost seven years, received an email outlining available wedding packages. But a month later, they were informed their requested dates were unavailable, with the earliest option being March 2027.
In January, after requesting details for the 2027 dates, they were stunned by the quote: $970 per night for 30 rooms over three nights – totalling $72,750 – and they were asked to submit a 50 per cent deposit, amounting to over $36,000.
Concerned by the high costs, their heterosexual friends offered to request a similar quote. They say they were provided with significantly cheaper options.
Jeremy told PinkNews: “Our thought was that they were intentionally pushing dates back because the room rates were set to increase. It was never on our mind that it could be something to do with the fact we’re a same-sex couple.”
Two of their straight friends were quoted for identical guest numbers as early as February 2026, at just $425 per night, with a deposit of only $1,700 – less than five per cent of what Ryan and Jeremy were told they’d need to pay.
‘This was targeted hate’
“Both parties got their quotes within a week. It took us three months of pulling teeth to get ours,” Ryan said. He added: “We were heartbroken. We had found a venue we’d fallen in love with – one our family members would have loved too.”
Jeremy continued: “This wasn’t a mistake or a miscommunication. This was targeted hate towards gay people. It wasn’t even a same-sex wedding we were planning – we just wanted a ceremony celebrating love. We were really upset.”
Under Mexican law, venues cannot legally deny same-sex weddings. Same-sex marriage was legalised nationwide in March 2010. However, the couple noted this isn’t the first time the resort has been accused of discrimination. In 2019, Joshua Galecio and his then-fiancé also claimed the resort declined to host their wedding.
‘We hope to help make their wedding a reality’
A Marriott spokesperson told PinkNews: “We have reached out to Mr Sheepwash and Mr Alexander to learn more about their experience, and we are also working with the property to understand what was communicated. The Sheraton Buganvilias has long been active in the LGBTQ+ community in Puerto Vallarta — not only hosting LGBTQ+ weddings and groups, but also supporting Pride events.
“Marriott remains steadfast in our commitment to ensuring guests are treated with respect and understanding. We have spoken with the couple to offer several solutions, as we hope to help make their wedding a reality.”
The spokesperson added: “We have reached out to the couple multiple times and we hope they accept our offer to help make their wedding a memorable experience.”
‘Beware and don’t do it’
In response, Jeremy said: “I want action. I want to see change. I don’t need an apology.” He warned other gay couples who might be able to afford the quoted prices to “beware and don’t do it.”
“Make sure that where you’re putting your dollars, the venue aligns with your values,” he added.
Jeremy and Ryan said the resort has since refused to correspond with them directly, though Marriott has offered them a complimentary ceremony at a different property.
“We feel so disbarred by the situation,” Ryan explained, but Jeremy said they remain determined to have their ceremony and are now searching for a new perfect venue.
Despite the hardship, the couple – who shared their ordeal on social media – say they’ve felt incredibly supported. “There’s so much love out there,” Ryan said.
