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Elegant Weekend Long Boschendal Wedding

November 8, 2024 | justine

If you’ve ever dreamed of a mountain wedding that’s both elegant and ethereal, this Boschendal wedding is everything you could hope for. Set in the stunning Cape Winelands, Hannah and Sam’s big day was all about jaw-dropping views, gorgeous flowers, and creative, personal touches. Having lived in South Africa, Hannah knew Boschendal was the perfect place for their special day, a full-circle moment shared with friends and family.  And to kick off the weekend? The welcome party featured wine tasting aboard a wine tram—talk about setting the vibe for an amazing celebration!

The ceremony itself was like something out of a dream. Picture this: an all-white setup with a stunning mountain backdrop, ghost chairs, and a white aisle that led to the most gorgeous altar, framed by lush floral arrangements. Every detail just made the mountains behind them pop even more. As if the ceremony wasn’t enough, the reception took things to the next level. Guests got to “ring for their drink” at this fun seating chart, and the tables were covered with the bride’s favorite cascading hydrangeas. The high ceilings and draped fabric gave the whole space such a romantic, whimsical feel—it was perfection.

From start to finish, this Boschendal wedding is packed with inspiration. If you’re planning your big day, get ready to fill up your Pinterest boards because you won’t want to miss any of it. Every beautiful moment was captured by Junebug vendor Chrisel Mouton, and trust me—you’ll want to see every last detail.

The Couple:

Hannah and Sam

The Wedding:

Boschendal, Groot, Franschhoek, South Africa

The Inspiration and Vibe Behind Their Boschendal Wedding

We wanted something that felt regal and elegant and perfectly matched the stunning backdrop of Stellenbosch. I had been saving ideas on Pinterest since our engagement, and we made sure to stay true to that vision. Seeing our loved ones gathered in a place so close to our hearts and finally walking down the aisle to become husband and wife was incredible. Having our sons there, dressed in little tuxedos, made it even more special. The whole day—from the ceremony to the reception—was filled with this incredible energy that we’ll never forget.

Tips for Couples Planning Their Big Day

Our advice to other couples would be to enjoy every moment—even though it can be stressful. It’s totally worth it when the day finally arrives. After months of planning, seeing everything come together is such an incredible feeling. Honestly, I’m a little sad it’s all over now because I loved having something to plan.

Seamless Four-Day Itinerary for Their Guests

One of the best parts for us was the four-day itinerary and planning. Starting with the welcome party, we got to greet everyone before the main events, which was such a nice way to ease into the celebration. The wine tram around Stellenbosch was a huge hit—our guests loved getting to explore the area and, of course, taste some incredible wines. As for the wedding day, it flowed perfectly. Our wedding planner made everything seamless so we could just relax and enjoy every moment.

Splurging on The Bride’s Favorite Florals

Our biggest splurge was definitely the hydrangeas—Hannah’s favorite flowers. We had this vision of them running down the center of the tables and spilling onto the floor, so we went all out with them. To make it work within our budget, we had to cut back on some of the downlighting and draping, but simplifying those elements didn’t take away from the look. The hydrangeas were worth every penny.

The Sweet Reason Why They Chose to Tie the Knot at Boschendal

Boschendal held a special place in my heart since I had visited it while living in South Africa, so it felt like the perfect spot for us to tie the knot and celebrate with our friends, family, and little ones. Having everyone stay on-site was a game-changer; we wanted to be together as much as possible over the four-day celebration. From start to finish, the staff at Boschendal was incredible, and Claudia from the events team was always there to help with anything we needed. Since it was a destination wedding with a smaller guest list, we carefully chose our nearest and dearest—those we couldn’t imagine celebrating without. It all made for a truly unforgettable day.

Watercolor Portraits as Unique Wedding Favors

We wanted to do something a little different for our guests, so we decided to give them personalized watercolor portraits, and Danielle Jordaan Studio did an amazing job! Everyone was blown away by the attention to detail, and it’s a keepsake that they can cherish for years to come. So many of our guests were thrilled to frame their portraits as soon as they got home.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Chrisel Mouton
Event Planning – Warren and Stone
Venue + Catering – Boschendal
Floral Design – Anna Botany
Cake – Delana’s Cakes
DJ – DJ Armand
Videography – White Lines
Makeup + Hair Styling  – Faces by Simer
Bridal Attire – Pronovias + Pretty Lavish + Because of Alice
Favors – Danielle Jordaan Studio

 

Congratulations to Hannah and Sam on their elegant weekend-long Boschendal wedding. A big shout-out to Junebug vendor Chrisel Mouton for capturing every beautiful detail. If you’re looking for more wedding inspiration and love Chrisel’s style, definitely check out her profile in our directory of the most trusted wedding photographers from around the world. You won’t want to miss the chance to reach out!

Finding the right venue can truly make or break your wedding experience. It’s not just about the pretty backdrop; it’s about creating a space that reflects your style and brings your vision to life. So when you start your wedding planning journey, take your time to find a place that feels right for you and your loved ones. And don’t forget to check out our venue guide for expert tips to help you along the way. After all, this is where your unforgettable memories will be made!

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This Ethereal Iceland Elopement Included a Hike Through a Cave

November 5, 2024 | justine

Gabriella and Michelle’s ethereal Iceland elopement was the perfect blend of adventure and romance. With the help of Junebug vendor and planner Pink Iceland, they created an unforgettable experience, not just for themselves but for their family and friends too. Surrounded by Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, their guests traveled far and wide to be part of this meaningful celebration. It was a chance to create lasting memories together in a way that went far beyond the ordinary.

The couple started their special day with a hike through the Katla ice cave in their wedding dresses, making their ethereal Iceland elopement even more magical. With a triangle arch decorated with disco balls and guests seated on wooden benches, the pair exchanged heartfelt vows in this breathtaking setting. The stunning brides fully embraced Iceland’s incredible landscape, allowing it to be a focal point of their wedding decor and photography as a whole.

Captured beautifully by Junebug vendor Lia Photo Stories, these photos will whisk you away to a magical, far-away place—everything you could dream of for an elopement. If you’re looking for destination wedding inspiration, start pinning now because this celebration will surely spark ideas for your own unforgettable “I do’s.”

The Couple:

Gabriella and Michelle

The Wedding:

Hjörleifshöfði, Iceland

Starting Their Ethereal Iceland Elopement with an Epic Ice Cave Adventure

The most memorable part of our wedding day was hiking through the Katla ice cave in our wedding dresses. It was an incredible experience to be walking on ice in such an epic setting, and the contrast of our dresses with the surroundings made it even more special. The adventure and unique location made the day unforgettable and the perfect way to start our marriage.

Achieving Understated Elegance with Black Accents and Natural Beauty

For our wedding day, incorporating black accents was vital to us, adding a touch of sophistication to our overall aesthetic. Gabriella wore a beautiful black veil, and the end result was a beautiful blend of understated elegance and personal style, allowing us to shine on our special day. We also wanted our looks to reflect our natural selves, so we opted for minimal makeup and braided hairstyles. We believe simplicity can be elegant and want to feel comfortable and authentic. Our stylist captured our vision perfectly. We shared inspirational pictures with her, focusing on soft, natural looks that complemented the stunning surroundings of Yoda Cave. The end result was a beautiful blend of understated elegance and personal style, allowing us to shine on our special day.

 

Embracing Iceland’s Natural Beauty for a Raw and Ethereal Ethereal Iceland Elopement Ceremony

Our wedding took place in a cave in Iceland, so the location’s natural beauty heavily influenced the vibe, style, and design. We wanted a raw, organic, and intimate feel, blending the dramatic surroundings with minimal decor. The cave’s textures and lighting created an ethereal atmosphere, and we added subtle touches—like candlelight and greenery—to enhance the space without overshadowing its natural charm. It felt like a magical, hidden world, perfectly reflecting the adventurous spirit of our relationship.

The Special Touch That Made Their Ceremony Unforgettable

One of the best surprises on our wedding day was when Michele arranged for a live musician to perform during the ceremony. Such an unexpected and personal touch made the moment even more special. 

Trusting Your Wedding Planner is Vital

Our best wedding planning advice is to trust your wedding planners, especially if you’re working with someone as incredible as Pink Iceland. They truly made our vision come to life and took so much of the stress out of the process. Communicate what you want, then trust the experts to handle the details. Pink Iceland did a fantastic job with our unique wedding, and we couldn’t have asked for a better planner.

Transforming Their Wedding into an Unforgettable Adventure

We’re incredibly proud that we could give our families and friends a true adventure. Our wedding wasn’t just a ceremony—it was a journey. From the stunning landscapes of Iceland to the unique experience of a cave wedding, it was unlike anything most of our guests had ever done before. Many traveled from far away, and we wanted to make sure the trip was unforgettable for them, too. It was incredible to share such an extraordinary location and create lasting memories together in a way that went far beyond a typical wedding day.

Prioritizing Family and Connection

The most important aspects of planning our wedding were ensuring our family could all stay together, choosing the perfect location, and creating an adventure of a lifetime. We wanted the experience to feel connected and intimate, so having everyone together in one place was a priority. Skálakot Manor provided all of this; it was a beautiful and cozy place for everyone to stay and perfectly complemented the Icelandic landscape with its charm and elegance. The location was key—we wanted somewhere breathtaking and unique, and Iceland was perfect for that. Ultimately, we wanted our wedding to be more than just a day; we wanted it to be a memorable journey we could share with our loved ones.

Why They Chose Yoda Cave as Backdrop of Their Special Day

We chose Yoda Cave in Iceland as our wedding venue because of our shared love for caves and the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds them. The cave’s unique formations and serene atmosphere create an enchanting backdrop that perfectly reflects our personalities and relationships. We wanted our special day to accurately represent who we are, and Yoda Cave offered us an unforgettable experience surrounded by nature’s splendor.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lia Photo Stories
Event Planning – Pink Iceland
Ceremony Venue – Yoda Cave
Reception Venue – Skálakot Manor
Officiant – Kelly Fraidenburg
Live Music – Elin Eyporsdottir
Videography – Christina Raytsiz
Invitation Design – Paperedia
Makeup + Hair Styling – Margret Magnus
Wedding Dresses – Elda’s Bridal

 

Congratulations to Gabriella and Michelle on their ethereal Iceland elopement, including a hike through the cave. Many thanks to Junebug vendors Pink Iceland and Lia Photo Stories for bringing their dream big day to life. For more unique celebrations like this one, check out their profiles in our directory of the best wedding vendors from around the globe.

If you’re planning an elopement, check out our guide to help you prepare for your special day. It covers all the essentials you’ll need to stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important details, making your elopement a smooth and memorable experience. With everything in place, you can focus on enjoying your big moment together!

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The Ultimate Destination Wedding Venue for Craft Beer Lovers

November 3, 2024 | marissa

destination wedding for beer lovers

If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times (and frankly, we’ll continue to shout it for those in the back)–your wedding should be about you. Forget unexplained traditions and repeated practices that don’t match your style. Your special day should center around the things you love and the moments that matter most. That’s exactly what came to mind as we explored the new Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya resort: how absolutely perfect it is for couples who love a beach, a brew, and a good time.  

This all-inclusive gem is the first of the Margaritaville resorts to go adults-only, and that exclusive ambiance is woven throughoutfrom the four unique bars to live music events and, best of all, the Landshark Brewery—one of the few all-inclusive resort breweries out there. Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya brings together everything you’d want in a beach getaway and wraps it up with top-notch service, great food, and romantic views.

Margaritaville Riviera Maya for beer lovers

We’ll just say, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya has all the ingredients for a laid-back yet sophisticated celebration, just right for couples who want the best of both worlds.

Beer-Loving Couples, We’ve Found Your Venue

The Landshark Brewery sets this property apart from typical beach wedding venues. It’s far from just a novelty–it’s a wedding-ready, oceanfront oasis where bespoke ceremonies, receptions, and cocktail hours are not only possible but encouraged. One of our favorite details? You can collaborate with the onsite brewmaster to find your own signature wedding brew. Served up in personalized growlers, it’s a fun and memorable twist on the usual wedding guest favor.

It’s hard to top the view from the Landshark’s Sky Terrace–our  favorite spot for toasting and sipping the night away. Your entire crew can enjoy a variety rotating seasonal brews, IPAs, malty ales, and the ever-popular Landshark Lager, all set against the serene ocean backdrop.

Sky Terrace at Margaritaville

A beautiful ceremony on Margaritaville Riviera Maya’s Sky Terrace.

wedding reception at Margaritaville

Transform the ceremony space into an intimate reception dinner during cocktail hour.

The Wedding Experience: Exclusivity Meets Fun

Sure, Margaritaville knows how to have a good time, but what makes it an ideal beach wedding venue is its dedication to exclusivity and top-tier service. The team only books one wedding per day to ensure that each couple receives undivided attention and resources. And for those who like a trial run, there’s the “Wedding Dress Rehearsal,” where couples can preview all the details before the main event—a rare treat in the world of destination weddings.

Flexibility is also a major bonus in the Margaritaville wedding experience. Planning your wedding becomes easier than ever thanks to a range of packages tailored to suit your taste and, just as importantly, your budget. Our ideal setup? A ceremony on the Sky Terrace—the largest in the region—with panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea. Afterward, we’d head to the cozy brewery room for a modern cocktail hour while the terrace is transformed into an intimate reception dinner space just for you and your guests.

destination wedding in Mexico for beer lovers

A Resort of Amenities and Entertainment 

Beyond the brewery, Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya offers plenty of options to keep your guests entertained. Flex your competitive side on the pickleball courts, unwind with a frozen margarita by the pool, or explore the high-end dining options. There’s even a scheduled roster of events that keeps things fresh for guests staying multiple days.

The resort is also a great spot for bachelor and bachelorette parties. More couples are now opting for extended wedding weekends, where the destination not only hosts the ceremony but also doubles as the venue for pre-wedding festivities, making it a convenient, all-in-one celebration spot. We’ll tease you with this: Taco Boat! And of course, no Margaritaville would be complete without the spirit of music. The entertainment options range from live Mariachi bands and DJs to instrumental ensembles, there’s no reason for any night to end without a party.

swim up bars at Margaritaville pool

Add a floating Taco Boat and get ready for an unforgettable afternoon in the pool.

While Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is an adults-only resort, the team has options for those who plan to invite kids to their wedding, including Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Cancun that’s just a short drive away. It’s the same great beachy atmosphere, with accommodations for the whole family.

A wedding at Margaritaville Island Reserve Riviera Maya is the ideal choice for couples who want a wedding experience that’s fun-filled, unique, and memorable for their nearest and dearest. In Margaritaville, love’s just another reason to celebrate life on island time.

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