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Pink and Green Never Looked Better in this Fresh Charlotte Wedding

October 19, 2025 | justine

Modern, fun, and refreshingly effortless—that’s how Juliana and Graham imagined their day from the very beginning.  They wanted their Charlotte wedding to be filled with bold color, laughter, and a sense of ease that reflected their relationship. Pink and green became the perfect foundation: her favorite hue meets his, a combination that instantly felt joyful and unique. The couple leaned into playful elegance. Mixing refined details with lighthearted touches like dachshund-themed name cards and custom cocktails that had everyone smiling.

Their love story began back in college at Furman University. “We first met at a party in his apartment,” Juliana recalled. “We chatted most of the night but never exchanged names. A few months later, we met again when we were both acting as wingman and wingwoman for friends.” Years of long-distance followed, strengthening their bond through study abroad, grad school, and life in different cities. By the time they finally tied the knot, they knew their connection could weather anything.

What We Love About This Charlotte Wedding

  • A vibrant pink-and-green palette that felt modern yet timeless
  • Two custom bridal looks, including a gown sourced from Ireland at 75% off
  • A dachshund-inspired nod to their pup through name cards and cocktail napkins
  • Four creative dinner stations, most of which were gluten-free for the celiac groom
  • Heartfelt ceremony music featuring Frank Ocean and Calvin Harris on strings

Featured Vendor:

Morgan Long Photography

Finding the Right Team to Bring Their Vision to Life

Planning a Charlotte wedding that felt “modern and fun” started with finding the right people. “I didn’t have a Pinterest board,” Juliana admitted. “I relied heavily on a planner to create the vision.” After chatting with several planners, she instantly clicked with Deanna from The Gathering Co. “She was bubbly, fun, and genuinely excited to work with us.”

Having a planner, she says, was the best decision she made. “Deanna handled communication, design, logistics—everything. She was 100% worth the investment.” Their planner also helped the couple find vendors they could trust. “We gave them full creative freedom. I told Deanna what I liked, and she found options that matched. I wanted vendors who were fun, easy to talk to, and who felt right.”

Making Meaningful Choices for Their Ceremony

Their indoor Charlotte wedding ceremony struck the perfect balance of sentimental and stylish. The music set the tone—Frank Ocean’s “Ivy” for Graham’s entrance and Calvin Harris’ “Feel So Close” for Juliana’s. “Who knew those songs would sound amazing on strings?” 

To honor their late grandparents, they read their names aloud and held a moment of silence before the vows. “It meant a lot to include them,” she said.

And then came the kiss. “I hate PDA,” Juliana confessed. “My friends even placed bets on how long it would last. But I actually grabbed his face, which was a total surprise!”

Doing a first look earlier in the day helped calm nerves. “It took so much stress off. We also spent the last hour before the ceremony together. It was nice to just be alone before the whirlwind.”

Balancing Style and Personality Through Fashion

Fashion became one of Juliana’s favorite parts of wedding planning. “I wanted my wedding gown to feel modern and chic,” she said. Alexia’s Bridal even reached out to her chosen designer and shipped in dresses from their new collection for her to try. “It felt like a mini sample sale just for me!”

Her second gown came from Still White, a resale site where she found the same dress she’d tried locally, but for 75% off. “It didn’t feel super bridal at first, but I fell in love once I saw it styled my way.”

She paired her looks with statement shoes. A pair of light pink Prada heels for the ceremony and chartreuse Larroude heels for the reception. “Whenever I dress up, I love fun shoes, so I needed to do the same for my wedding!”

Her bridesmaids wore black dresses of their choice with any pink heels they’d actually wear again. “I just wanted them to feel like themselves,” she explained. Meanwhile, Graham surprised her with a custom houndstooth-lined suit—a nod to his car’s seats—and pocket squares gifted by the designer.

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Turning Their Vision Into a Party to Remember

If their ceremony was heartfelt, the reception was pure fun. The couple designed their menu around their go-to delivery orders. “My husband calls it a snapshot of our Postmates history,” Juliana joked. Guests enjoyed four food stations—crab cakes, Indian, tacos, and sliders—all gluten-free except one.

The dance floor came alive thanks to DJ Vinny, who the couple chose purely based on energy. “He had so much energy on our Zoom call. After we hung up, my husband said, ‘It’s DJ Vinny or no other DJ.’”

Music was one of the most personal parts of their day. The string quartet performed “Hold On, We’re Going Home” by Drake, “Alejandro” by Lady Gaga, and “Latch” by Disclosure. All songs tied to their relationship. When the sound system briefly disconnected, guests filled the silence by singing along together. “It was so unexpected but so fun!”

And in true 2020s wedding fashion, a few surprises made for good stories. Like an uninvited guest who was graciously seated by coordinators and a limo rescue after their getaway car got into a fender bender.

Final Thoughts From the Couple

“As a bride, it’s easy to believe you need everything you see on Instagram,” Juliana said. “But if something suddenly feels like a ‘must-have,’ ask yourself: do I really need it, and is it worth the energy?”

Her advice to other couples: “Don’t get worked up on the little things. It is what it is, and your guests will have a good time no matter what.”

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Morgan Long
Event Planning – The Gathering Co.
Venue – The Casey by Beau Monde
Floral Design – Malaya Floral
Cake – Wheatberry Bakeshop
DJ – Split Second Sound
Live Music – Deans’ Duets
Makeup Artist – Jennifer Abercrombie
Wedding Dress – Alexia’s Bridal + Still White
Groom’s Apparel – Stiched by Mitch
Rings – Diamonds Direct
Rentals – Curated Events

 

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Your Ultimate Puerto Vallarta Wedding Guide

October 17, 2025 | lexi

Puerto Vallarta beach wedding reception sweetheart table

If your idea of a dream wedding involves ocean breezes, mountain views, and margaritas at sunset, Puerto Vallarta deserves a top spot on your list. Between its stunning scenery, world-class resorts, and warm local hospitality, this gem on Mexico’s Pacific coast makes it easy to turn your wedding into an unforgettable getaway for everyone on your guest list.

Why Puerto Vallarta for Your Destination Wedding

There’s a reason Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s most beloved wedding destinations. The international airport makes travel seamless for guests, and once you’re there, it’s a breeze to get around. The city is compact, safe, and filled with authentic local charm.

You’ll find a rare mix of beach and mountains, making it easy to plan a weekend that feels both adventurous and relaxing. Between luxury beachfront resorts, boutique villas, and charming local eateries, there’s no shortage of incredible accommodations and dining. Puerto Vallarta is also proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, offering a warm, inclusive atmosphere that welcomes all couples.

And let’s not forget the weather—sunny days and ocean breezes make it easy to celebrate outdoors nearly year-round.

Puerto Vallarta wedding ceremony

Puerto Vallarta Wedding Venues

At Junebug Weddings, we’re big believers that your wedding should feel like an experience, not just a day. Our team has been lucky enough to stay at Velas Vallarta, Casa Velas, and Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, and we can confidently say: the service, wedding spaces, and cuisine at these properties are unmatched.

Velas Vallarta

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that doubles as a vacation, Velas Vallarta is the perfect place to start. This all-inclusive oceanfront resort sits on 10 lush acres, where every suite overlooks the Pacific and every sunset feels like it was designed just for you.

Whether you’re saying “I do” on the jetty surrounded by waves, on the beach framed by mountains, or on the lawn under swaying palms, the views here are unreal. Guests can stay right on-site, so the celebration doesn’t have to end after just one night. From beach bonfire welcome parties to poolside cocktails while the little ones enjoy the Kids’ Club, there’s something for everyone.

The two gourmet restaurants feature nightly themed dinners and local specialties (trust us, the piña coladas are a 10/10). And for couples who value sustainability, Velas Vallarta’s EarthCheck certification and sea turtle conservation program are a testament to their environmental commitment.

Wedding Highlights at Velas Vallarta:

  • Two elegant indoor venues and six outdoor settings
  • Certified wedding planners to bring your vision to life
  • Award-winning spa and all-inclusive gourmet dining
  • Family-friendly resort with endless activities
  • Sea Turtle Conservation & Release program (June–December)

It’s ideal for couples who want their celebration to unfold like a vacation—relaxed, refined, and beautifully seamless from start to finish.

Velas Vallarta all-inclusive resort

Casa Velas

For couples looking for a more intimate, adults-only setting, Casa Velas offers a boutique, hacienda-style atmosphere just minutes from the beach. Think tranquil gardens, art-filled suites, and a private beach club where you can host everything from your ceremony to a sunset cocktail party. It’s elegant with a side of authenticity.

Casa Velas all-inclusive resort

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit

If luxury and indulgence top your wish list, Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit delivers. This AAA Five Diamond resort is known for its spacious ocean-view suites, award-winning restaurants, and world-class spa. It’s the ultimate choice for couples who want to treat their guests (and themselves) to a truly elevated wedding experience.

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit all-inclusive resort

The Best Times to Get Married in Puerto Vallarta

The most popular wedding months are November through May, when the weather is warm, dry, and sunny. June through October marks the rainy season, but it’s also when everything is lush and vibrant with fewer crowds and great travel deals.

Puerto Vallarta wedding ceremony on the lawn at Velas Vallarta

Marriage Requirements in Mexico

Non-resident couples can legally marry in Mexico, but the process involves a few extra steps. You’ll need valid passports, tourist permits (FMM), and birth certificates, along with blood tests done locally. Many couples choose to handle the legal paperwork at home and celebrate with a symbolic ceremony in Mexico—something the Velas Weddings team can easily arrange for you.

Wedding reception on the jetty at Velas Vallarta in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Activities for Your Wedding Weekend

Puerto Vallarta is made for celebration, and your wedding weekend can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be.

  • Welcome Bonfire on the Beach: Kick off the festivities with a laid-back night under the stars, complete with s’mores and a live mariachi band.
  • Catamaran Cruise: Set sail on Banderas Bay for an unforgettable day trip with your guests. Between December and March, you might even witness the magic of humpback whales breaching in the distance.
  • Spa Day: Treat yourselves to a spa day with your wedding party or slip away for a romantic couple’s massage. At Velas Vallarta, you can even enjoy your massage right on the jetty, surrounded by ocean breezes and the soothing sound of waves all around you.
  • Golf Outing: Spend a morning on the greens at one of Puerto Vallarta’s world-class golf courses. With three championship-level 18-hole courses located within walking distance of Velas Vallarta (including the renowned Marina Vallarta and Vista Vallarta Golf Clubs) it’s the perfect way to relax and connect before the big day.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourselves in the local culture with cooking classes, tequila tastings, or art walks through the charming cobblestone streets of Old Town.

The Velas Weddings team can coordinate all of this for you, so all you have to do is show up and enjoy.

Massage by the ocean at Velas Vallarta

Incorporating Mexican Wedding Traditions

Infuse your celebration with local culture by adding traditional touches like La Víbora de la Mar, el lazo, or live mariachi music. Velas Vallarta even features an all-female mariachi band—a highlight of our visit and an unforgettable way to celebrate Mexican heritage and joy.

Mariachi band at Velas Vallarta for a Puerto Vallarta wedding

Book a Trip to Visit Venues in Person

Can’t decide which venue is right for you? Make a trip of it! Velas’ certified wedding specialists assist you with every step—from venue tours and menu tastings to drone filming and live video streaming for families back home. Their goal: to make planning your destination wedding as seamless as the celebration itself.

Pool at Velas Vallarta, all-inclusive resort in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Start Planning Your Puerto Vallarta Wedding

If Puerto Vallarta is calling your name, now’s the time to start planning. Get in touch with the Velas Weddings team to explore venues, menus, and everything in between. Your dream destination wedding—and maybe your best vacation yet—is waiting. Start planning with Velas Weddings.

Puerto Vallarta wedding portrait at Velas Vallarta

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Elegant Garden Wedding Where Intimacy Meets Sophistication

October 17, 2025 | justine

Fabiola and Adrián wanted their wedding to feel like them—elegant, warm, and effortless. Their elegant garden wedding took place in a serene outdoor space surrounded by trees, soft blooms, and golden light. Every detail reflected their love for simplicity, from the neutral color palette and lush greenery to a black-tie dress code that made the day feel timeless yet relaxed.

They first met during a tennis match, and what began as a casual encounter quickly turned into something lasting. “We met at a tennis match, love blossomed instantly, and I knew he was the love of my life,” Fabiola shared. That same sense of ease and connection shaped their day. A celebration that felt natural, romantic, and deeply personal.

What We Love About This Elegant Garden Wedding

  • The bride’s sleek off-shoulder gown paired with modern minimalism
  • Guests dressed in black, creating a timeless visual harmony
  • A tango show honoring Adrián’s family heritage
  • Personal touches like live violinists and a cocktail cart for guests

Featured Vendor:

Jessica Schultz Photo

Designing an Elegant Garden Wedding Rooted in Simplicity

Fabiola’s goal was to keep things simple and intentional. The garden itself set the tone, with white flowers, soft drapery, and gold details adding a quiet touch of luxury. “I wanted something intimate, peaceful, and surrounded by nature,” she said. Against the soft green backdrop, the guests’ all-black attire created a striking contrast that made every photo look effortlessly refined.

A Meaningful Ceremony With Family at the Heart

The ceremony was both emotional and intimate. Fabiola walked down the aisle hand in hand with her son, a moment she described as unforgettable. Surrounded by trees and music, the couple exchanged vows in a setting that felt personal and full of calm. “It was a truly memorable moment,” she shared.

Elevated Fashion That Matched the Mood

Fabiola embodied modern elegance in a minimalist off-shoulder gown that flowed beautifully against the garden setting. Her look was polished yet understated, with natural makeup and sleek hair that highlighted her features without overpowering the simplicity of the dress. Adrián complemented her style perfectly in a classic black suit.

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Celebrating With Music, Dance, and Heartfelt Surprises

After the ceremony, guests were treated to live performances that set the tone for the evening. A tango show paid tribute to Adrián’s family roots, followed by violinists during dinner and surprise serenades by mariachis. “The surprises were the serenades with mariachis and the tango dancers,” Fabiola said. The mix of music, laughter, and movement gave the celebration an energy that felt both refined and full of life.

Creating a Guest Experience That Felt Effortless and Memorable

From start to finish, Fabiola and Adrián focused on making their guests feel cared for. “My priority was to make it memorable,” she said. With thoughtful details, live music, and an inviting atmosphere, every part of the day reflected their gratitude and warmth. “Everything was done with so much love and care for our guests,” Fabiola added.

Advice From the Couple: Keep It Simple and Enjoy Every Moment

Looking back, Fabiola’s advice for other couples is to stay present and focus on what truly matters. “Create a space and a moment that everyone will remember. And enjoy it to the fullest.”

Their elegant garden wedding proved that sophistication doesn’t have to be complicated. With a thoughtful vision, the right team, and a focus on love, simplicity can be the most beautiful form of luxury.

 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Jessica Schultz
Event Planning – Jose Burgos
Ceremony Venue – Casa Turru

 

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