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Intimate, Elegant, and Candlelit Playa Balandra Elopement

February 22, 2021 | riley

After getting engaged, Evony and Miguel knew they wanted a unique elopement in a one-of-a-kind destination. Once they figured out those two details, the two fell in love with photographer and Junebug member Donna Irene Weddings’ work and let her take the reins on planning. They ended up with a stunning Playa Balandra elopement featuring sunset vows, portraits amidst the saguaros, and a boat ride photo session that has us dreaming of sunny days at the beach.

There’s no better way to celebrate being newlyweds than to enjoy a luxury picnic–put together by MFC Events–complete with tequila shots and pizza under fairy lights and the night sky. If you’re searching for ways to make your intimate elopement special, keep scrolling because Evony and Miguel nailed it.

The Couple:

Evony and Miguel

The Wedding:

Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Shop similar hair combs: Floral Bridal Hair Comb ($59); Hand-Crafted Floral Bridal Hair Comb  ($39.99); Gold Clay Floral Hair Comb ($86)

Whimsical Boho Vibes At The Playa Balandra Elopement

Our style was heavily inspired by our photographer Donna, who was living in Mexico at the time. She was very familiar with destination weddings and capturing beautiful backdrops. She recommended that we travel to La Paz, Mexico, home to one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in the world–Playa Balandra. Surrounding the beach were cliffs that overlooked the entire body of water, and we decided to climb up and exchange our vows at the top of the cliff. The vibe was earthy, boho, and whimsical. Using neutral colors and simple accents, we were able to highlight the scenery of Playa Balandra.

Wedding Advice From The Bride

Take the time to map out what you really want on your big day, not what you think others would like or want. Understand that although there are so many details that go into planning, a lot of it is unnecessary. Looking back, some small things won’t matter as much as you thought. However, do not cut corners on hiring your photographer, because it will make or break the experience.

Soaking Up Mexican Culture

Tacos, Tequila, hospitable people, and jaw-dropping views—what’s not to love about Mexico? It was a quick sell for me. Especially since our photographers were living in the area and knew it was such an all-inclusive experience. We not only got to enjoy the views on our wedding day, but there were so many fun excursions to do afterward–like swimming with whale sharks!

The Wedding Team:

Photography & Event Planning – Donna Irene Weddings
Ceremony Venue – Playa Balandra
Reception Venue – Costa Baja Resort & Spa
Floral Design – Faby Flores
Catering – MFC Events
Videography – OM Storytelling
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – Ana Soto Beauty
Wedding Dress – David’s Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – ASOS

 

Congratulations again to Evony and Miguel on their Playa Balandra elopement! Junebug member Donna Irene Weddings truly put together magic and captured it beautifully–that’s right, she’s a double threat when it comes to weddings. To see more of her work, visit her profile in our directory of wedding photographers from around the world!

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30 Chic Low Heel Wedding Shoes

February 19, 2021 | riley

We know that one of the most important aspects of wedding fashion is comfort, which means you’re probably looking for low heel wedding shoes for your big day. That’s why we’ve rounded up 30 of our favorite pairs! Don’t worry though, these wedding heels are as chic as they are comfy. These picks include pairs for every wedding season, style, and color palette while showcasing some of our favorite trends like mules, ankle ties, and sparkling embellishments.

Neutral Low Heel Wedding Shoes For Wedding Outfits

If you’re looking for a pair of shoes that won’t draw the attention away from your stunning wedding gown or bridal pantsuit, opt for these neutral-colored shoes. They’ll match any silhouette or color without sacrificing style.

  1. Steve Madden Irenee Ankle Strap Sandal ($69.95); 2. Nina Contesa Open Toe Pump ($78.95); 3. Jewel Badgley Mischka Women’s Robles Evening Pumps ($109) 4. Dirty Laundry DI Kismet Platform Sandals ($59.95); 5. Sam Edelman Dori Kitten Heel Pumps ($130); 6. Jeffrey Campbell Mr-Big Slide Sandal ($134.95)

White Low Heel Wedding Shoes

If you’re searching for something a little bit more bridal and your wedding ensemble is white–not ivory–then these picks will match beautifully. When picking white shoes, you may want to hold off until you have your outfit so you can compare colors. The last thing you want is an off-white gown with stark white shoes.

  1. 42 Gold Liya Slide Sandal ($119.95); 2. Jeffrey Campbell Appetit Wedge Slide Sandal ($139.95); 3. J. Renee Gabino Patent Sling Pumps ($89); 4. Madden Girl Daffi Block-Heel Mule ($59); 5. Badgley Mischka Clara Embellished Sandal ($225); 6. Sam Edelman Toren Leather Slingback Pumps ($129.99)

Black Low Heel Wedding Shoes

Wanting something a little edgier? We love black shoes paired with light colors. This is the perfect combo for anyone dreaming of unconventional bridal fashion. Our favorite? Black heels, a sleek gown, and a wedding cape!

  1. Jewel Badgley Mischka Feliz Evening Women’s Sandal ($109); 2. Nina Ganice Block-Heel Evening Sandals ($79); 3. Michael Kors Brie Ankle-Strap Pumps ($125); 4. Chinese Laundry Monroe Women’s Dress Sandals ($59.99); 5. Badgley Mischka Ginny d’Orsay Pointed Toe Pump ($235); 6. J. Renee Soncino Strappy Dress Sandals ($99)

Colorful Low Heel Wedding Shoes

Maybe you want to add a pop of color or tie in your color palette into your style. That’s where these colorful low heel wedding shoes come in. From blues to pinks to yellows, you can find low heels in every color of the rainbow.

colorful low heel wedding shoes

  1. Jewel Badgley Mischka Fabiola Dress Slides ($89); 2. Schutz Betine Strappy Sandal ($127.95); 3. J. Renee Belamie Slingback Pumps ($88.95); 4. Kenneth Cole New York Riley 70 Slingback Pump ($158.95); 5. Coach Serena Block Heel Platform Sandal ($150); 6. Inez Mia Navy Suede ($238)

Metallic Low Heel Wedding Shoes

Last, but not least, the metallic heels. Your wedding day is the perfect excuse to wear all things sparkly, and this goes for your shoes too. Whether you’re looking for bold jewels or understated sequins, you can play it up or down as much as you want.

  1. Jewel Badgley Mischka Bradley Ankle Strap Sandal ($99); 2. Journee Collection Luela Pumps ($65); 3. Blue by Betsey Johnson Mari Block Heel Dress Sandals ($109); 4. Alex Marie Parlyn Glitter Rhinestone Strappy Sandals ($69.99); 5. 42 Gold Liya Slide Sandal ($120); 6. Alex Marie Mairitwo Metallic Leather Ankle Strap Wedge Sandals ($69.99)

Hunting for the perfect accessory to finish off your wedding look? Check out these 23 bridal crowns fit for a queen—because you are one!

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Dramatic & Classy Piton Mountain Wedding

February 19, 2021 | kailey

As adventure lovers that couldn’t decide between a mountain wedding or a beach wedding, Glendean and Omawali’s Saint Lucia celebration proved couples can have both. With views of the towering Piton Mountain tops and surrounding beaches, La Haut Resort was a naturally dreamy destination ceremony space. From start to finish the couple entrusted wedding planner, Michele Ince, to bring their Piton Mountain wedding vision to life.  

Their big day was infused with emotional and touching details that involved important loved ones. The bride was dressed in a modern lace Kitty Chen gown, complete with a snatched classy hairstyle, an eye-catching bridal comb, and a long aisle-worthy veil. Photographer Jelani Lebourne beautifully captured every unforgettable detail that made Glendean and Omawali’s beautiful day one for the books. 

The Couple:

Glendean and Omawali

The Wedding:

Soufriere, Saint Lucia

A Memorable Piton Mountain Wedding First Look 

Our first look was the most memorable part of the day. After 14 months of planning, there was no better feeling than seeing him standing there both speechless and ecstatic. It was an emotional moment and we were fighting back tears. During our first look, we exchanged letters and the words on those letters will forever be as special as our vows.

Shop similar hairpieces: Tiarabyyara headpiece ($68); David’s Bridal Crystal Leaves and Branches Bridal Hair Vine ($52.49); David’s Bridal Ivory Floral Bead Pearl and Crystal Comb ($79.95); DarethColburnDesigns Pearl Hair Comb ($47.20)

Using Pinterest As A Planning Tool 

Pinterest and vision boards are must use tools during the wedding planning process. We didn’t have a vision for our wedding before getting engaged. Pinterest helped create and clarify our vision to build the most special day that was uniquely ours

Destination Weddings Rule

Consider having a destination wedding—your friends and family in attendance will thank you for a memorable vacation. The key to a successful destination wedding is finding and building a relationship with a wedding planner.

Honoring Their Marriage With A Unity Ceremony

We personalized our ceremony by asking my sister, who we both adore, to be our co-officiant. It was an honor to have her serve in that role, as she is such a force of positivity and love in our lives.  Immediately after our vows and signing our marriage certificate, we wanted our first act as husband and wife to be an act of service. We took turns washing each other’s feet as an act of humility and dedication. This was to model the attitude we will strive to bring into our marriage each and every day. 

The Wedding Team:
Photography – Jelani Lebourne
Event Planning – Michele Ince
Ceremony Venue – La Haut Resort
Reception Venue – Stonefield Villa Resort
Invitation Design – Minted
Makeup Artist – Hannah Wagstaff

 

From the classy decor to the towering mountain top and beach views, photographer, Jelani Lebourne, captured every detail that made Glendean and Omawali Pinton Mountain wedding uniquely theirs. For couples inspired to have a destination wedding—whether you’re looking to find cool US cities or exchange “I do’s” internationally—check out these six destination wedding etiquette tips you need to know.

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