An adventurous destination wedding was the only option for Deniz and Andrés, who initially bonded over their multicultural backgrounds and mutual desire to see the world. Boho chic surf-island bed and breakfast, The Firefly Bocas Del Toro was the only option for their intimate and authentic celebration. The couple’s emotional ceremony directly overlooked the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean from a secluded beach. Photographer Megan Yanz had an incredible time catching the photogenic details of this real wedding: we love everything from the tropical boat taxis and rustic waterfront restaurant to the freshly cut exotic flowers by Feisty Flowers and the bride’s crochet modern-bohemian Spell and the Gypsy gown.
The Couple:
Deniz and Andrés
The Wedding:
The Firefly, Bocas Del Toro, Panama
We knew we wanted to have a beach wedding and that we wanted to share not only our wedding day but a vacation with those closest to us. Andres‘ father is from Panama so we knew Bocas Del Toro, Panama would be the perfect place to have it.
The morning of the wedding all the ladies walked around the island to forage flowers for mine and my daughter’s bouquet. We ended up finding the perfect flowers in a homeowner’s garden and he was kind enough to cut some down for us. My friend is a florist back home and was able to whip together the bouquets.
Once the reception ended we had to get on two small boat taxis to take us back to the other islands. The moment everyone was aboard and we started moving a torrential downpour began. Everyone was soaking wet and loving every second of it. This was the only time it rained our entire trip so we consider it a divine blessing.
If you are looking at doing a small Caribbean destination wedding, there are so many more options than an all inclusive resort. It takes some research, but it is possible to plan the wedding yourself. You can also save a lot of money renting a house instead. We were lucky enough to find a beautiful beachfront home to stay in where they agreed to let us hold our ceremony on the beach. We then went out to dinner afterwards.
Since we were restricted with weight limits for our flight into Bocas I didn’t bring much as far as decorations for our ceremony on the beach. That said, it was important to me to find a reception venue that fit our style and The Firefly was just that. The vibe of the restaurant is tropical bohemian.
The speeches from our friends and family were the most memorable part of the day for us. We really felt a constant stream of love and support as one speech ended and the next began.
Our favorite photo is the picture where we are all sitting at the long table during a speech. Not only does it encompass our love for each other but the intimacy and bond that we have with our close loved ones.
Processional: Til There Was You by The Beatles
First Dance: Never Find by Jah Cure
The Wedding Team:
Photography – Megan Yanz
Ceremony Venue – Vista Azul Lodge
Reception Venue – The Firefly
Floral Design – Feisty Flowers
Catering – The Firefly
Wedding Dress – Spell and the Gypsy
Groom’s Apparel – Maliposhaclothes
Rings – Jewelry Works, DINARjewelry
Congratulations to Deniz and Andrés on their beautiful and authentic day and special thanks to Megan Yanz Photography for sharing this gorgeous destination wedding with Junebug! For more rustic destination wedding inspiration, check out this glam rustic Columbian destination wedding!
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