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This Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Wedding Was the Definition of Romantic

July 25, 2024 | justine

Camille and Tabitha wanted a simple, elegant celebration with neutral tones and soft pinks. With the help of their wedding planner and sister, their vision came to life at their Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive wedding. Having visited the resort with their families before, they fell in love with its beauty, ambiance, delicious food, and exceptional service. They wanted their guests to celebrate their marriage, relax, and enjoy the resort. Saying they made their dream into a beautiful reality would be an understatement!

The couple chose the perfect venue for their celebration, surrounded by tropical landscapes and luxurious ballrooms. Their outdoor ceremony was a fairytale come to life, featuring a stunning mandap adorned with dreamy, delicate blooms and drapery. The reception was equally spectacular, filled with breathtaking floral arrangements.

The brides also set serious wedding fashion goals. They were absolutely stunning in their complementing ornate lehengas, which they later changed into chic wedding dresses. Explore all the beautiful moments and unique details from this romantic celebration through the captivating photos captured by AGBA Weddings.

The Couple:

Camille and Tabitha

The Wedding:

Hilton Cancun, Mexico

Personalized Touches at Their Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Wedding: Crafting Memorable Moments from Ceremony to Reception

We created custom pamphlets for our ceremony, providing a step-by-step guide for each part of the event. We also designed custom fans to keep our guests comfortable during the outdoor ceremony. Our seating chart theme at the reception was “The Perfect Match.” Each guest received a personalized match set in a crystal holder, designating their table number. We also featured two signature cocktails: Dos Dulahins and BalgoBliss.

Celebrating Love and Heritage

Our most memorable part of the day was the post-ceremony cocktail hour. We breathed easier and let loose after our beautiful Hindu ceremony, filled with vibrant traditions and heartfelt moments. The ceremony, decorated with a stunning mandap, gorgeous draping, and intricate rituals, was a testament to our love and cultural heritage. As we moved into the cocktail hour, knowing the first part of our day went smoothly with our weddings, we danced with our family and couldn’t stop smiling.

Seamless Coordination Thanks to Their Local Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner was undoubtedly the best decision we made. The Eventeur went above and beyond to turn our dreams into reality. Given that we were having a destination wedding, we needed to choose a wedding planner and vendors local to Cancun. Their expertise and familiarity with the area ensured everything went seamlessly.

Embracing Love in an Inclusive Environment

We were breaking boundaries. We were most proud of our friends and family’s overwhelming love and support. Celebrating our interracial same-sex relationship in such an inclusive environment was incredibly meaningful. It was a powerful reminder that love transcends boundaries, and seeing our diverse guests come together to honor our union filled us with so much pride and gratitude.

Why They Chose Hilton Cancun for Their Special Day

We chose the Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Resort for our wedding because it held a special place in our hearts. Having visited the resort with our family before, we immediately fell in love with its beauty, ambiance, food, and exceptional service. We wanted our guests to enjoy the celebration of our marriage and have time to relax and enjoy the resort. The positive feedback from our guests confirmed that it was the perfect choice. The Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive Resort provided an unforgettable experience for everyone, making our wedding magical.

What Made Their “Balgo Brides” Welcome Bags Special

To make our guests feel even more welcome, we provided custom “Balgo Brides” welcome bags filled with thoughtful essentials. Each bag included custom sunglasses, organic sunscreen, hand lotion, safety pins (which came in clutch for some Indian outfits), bindis (Indian jewelry), ibuprofen, electrolyte packets, hand sanitizer, stain remover, and a customized itinerary for all of our wedding events.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – AGBA Weddings
Event Planning – The Eventeur
Ceremony + Reception Venue + Catering + Cake – Hilton Cancun
Floral Design – Aralia
Officiant – Pratima K. Shridevi Doobay
DJ – DJ Ishwar
Videography – Tan Weddings
Invitation Design – The Moxie Workshop
Makeup Artist – Zoe Elizabeth
Hair Styling – Kahori Flores
Wedding Dresses  – Kynah (ceremony) and The Bridal Finery (reception)
Bridal Accessories – Dhora India and Kirni Designs
Mehndi Artist – Loto Mehndi
Rings – International Diamond Center + Brilliant Earth
Rentals – Archive Rentals
Content Creator: Angela Parra

 

Congratulations to Camille and Tabitha on their Hilton Cancun All-Inclusive wedding, which was the definition of romantic. A big thank you to AGBA Weddings for capturing all the intimate moments and beautiful details that made their big day so special.

Creating a timeless, multi-cultural celebration like this requires the expertise of a seasoned team to blend all the elements harmoniously. With trusted professionals at your side, the possibilities are endless! To build your dream team, be sure to check out our exclusive list of wedding vendors from around the world.

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Save The Date Wording to Help Inspire You

July 24, 2024 | justine

Image by Dawn Photo

Save-the-dates are optional, but many couples, especially those planning destination weddings, send them out before the formal invitations. These cards give your guests a heads-up about your wedding date and location, helping them start planning travel and accommodations. Sending them a few months after your engagement helps ensure your loved ones can mark their calendars and avoid scheduling conflicts.

Since these cards are often the first glimpse your guests will get of your wedding, you might wonder how to word them. Here’s what you need to know about save-the-date wording and some examples to spark your creativity.

What Are Save the Dates?

Save-the-dates are announcements—either physical cards or digital versions—that tell your guests the date and location of your wedding. Unlike formal invitations, they are brief and to the point.

There are some key differences between save-the-dates and invitations. Invitations are more detailed and formal, while save-the-dates are simple and concise. The timing is also different. Local weddings typically send save-the-dates six to eight months in advance, while destination weddings might send them out a year ahead. Invitations are sent closer to the event, usually six to eight weeks before the wedding.

What to Include in Your Save-the-Date Message

Your save-the-date wording needs to convey essential information to your guests clearly. Here’s what to include and what to leave out:

Essential Information

  • Names: Traditionally, the bride’s name goes first, followed by the groom’s name. For same-sex couples or those with different last names, you can list names alphabetically or however you prefer.
  • Wedding Date: Make sure you have a firm wedding date before sending save-the-dates. You can spell the entire date for a formal feel or abbreviate to fit your design.
  • Location: Include the city and state where the wedding will take place. The exact venue details can wait for the formal invitation. For destination weddings, a hint of what to expect (like “Join us for a weekend of sun and fun in paradise!”) can be a nice touch.
  • Wedding Website URL: If you have a wedding website, include the URL. This is an excellent way for guests to find all the details about your wedding. Consider adding a QR code for easy access on mobile devices.
  • “Invitation to Follow” Wording: Let guests know they will receive a formal invitation with more details later.

Details That Can Be Included With Your Invitations

  • Venue Details: There’s no need to include the venue name or address on your save-the-date. The city and state are enough for now. You can provide full venue details with your formal invitations.
  • Accommodation Information: Hold off on sending hotel and accommodation details with the save-the-date. Include this information in the invitation or on your wedding website.
  • Ceremony and Reception Times: Save the specifics about ceremony and reception start times for the formal invitation.
  • Dress Code: Details about the dress code can wait until you send the invitations, or you can add them to your wedding website.
  • RSVP Requests: It’s too early to ask for RSVPs with the save-the-date. Guests will respond once they receive the formal invitation.

Save the Date Wording Samples

Formal
If you’re planning a black-tie affair, set the tone with formal wedding save-the-date wording. Keep it polite and concise. 

Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
are getting married!
Save the date: Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, New York
Invitation to follow.

Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
request the pleasure of your company
at their wedding celebration
on Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, New York
Invitation to follow.

Please save the date
for the wedding of
Mary Josie Watson and Peter Harker
Saturday, the fourteenth of February
Two thousand twenty-four
Queens, New York
Invitation to follow.

Casual
For a more laid-back vibe, your save-the-dates can be fun and informal. 

Mary and Peter are tying the knot!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Queens, NY
More details to come.

We’re getting hitched!
Mary & Peter
02.14.2024
Queens, NY
Invitation to follow.

Guess what?
Mary and Peter are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/24
Queens, NY
Details to follow.

Destination
For a destination wedding, make sure your save-the-dates reflect the multi-day celebration and need for advance planning.

Pack your bags!
Mary and Peter are getting married
on February 14, 2024
in the Amalfi Coast, Italy
Join us for a weekend of celebration!
Invitation to follow.

Escape with us!
Mary & Peter
are getting married in Marrakech, Morocco
February 14, 2024
Save the date for a weekend of fun!
Details to follow.

Join us for a destination wedding!
Mary and Peter
are getting married on 02.14.2024
Phuket, Thailand
Invitation and travel info to follow.

Unique
Add a personal touch or theme for unique save-the-dates to make them stand out.

Paws up! Our humans are getting married!
Mary & Peter
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.

Passport ready?
Mary and Peter’s adventure begins
on 02/14/2024
in Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.

A new chapter begins!
Mary & Peter
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.

Quotes
Use quotes from movies, TV shows, or song lyrics to make your save-the-dates “aww”-worthy:

“You complete me.” – Jerry Maguire
Mary and Peter
are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.

“Love is all you need.” – The Beatles
Mary and Peter
are getting married!
Save the date: 02/14/2024
Brooklyn, NY
Invitation to follow.

“I have crossed oceans of time to find you.” – Bram Stoker’s Dracula
Mary & Peter
are tying the knot!
Save the date: 02/14/24
Brooklyn, NY
More details to come.

“You’re my end and my beginning.” – John Legend, “All of Me”
Save the date for the wedding of
Mary & Peter
February 14, 2024
Brooklyn, New York
Invitation to follow.

“Take my hand, take my whole life too.” – Elvis Presley, “Can’t Help Falling in Love”
Save the date for the wedding of
Mary & Peter
February 14, 2024
Brooklyn, New York
Invitation to follow.

Now that the save-the-dates are out of the way, it’s time to dive into the rest of your wedding planning. Check out our wedding planning checklist to get started. We’ve got thoughtful advice and tips to help make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Image by Beatrice Howell

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Modern Yet Natural Huerto de San Vicente Wedding

July 23, 2024 | justine

Gema and Jose are a fun-loving and adventurous couple passionate about design, fashion, music, and food. They wanted their wedding day to reflect their lifestyle and tastes with a modern, daring, yet elegant style that truly represented them. Starting with a venue that allowed them to bring all these elements together, their Huerto de San Vicente wedding featured dreamy florals, a contemporary aesthetic, and fashion-forward attire, perfectly embodying who they are.

The ceremony occurred in the property’s grove, surrounded by towering trees, creating a truly picturesque moment. The aisle followed the natural contour of the location, lined with dried grass and white blooms, and ghost chairs led to the altar. As guests moved to the reception hall, they were greeted by beautifully decorated tables filled with flowers and candles. Adding a final touch of elegance were towering arrangements that seemed to sprout from the ground, all tied together with raffia lamps.

Searching for ideas to combine modern elegance with natural beauty for your wedding? Your search ends here! These stunning photos by Junebug vendor Lara Onac are filled with inspiring details so you can visualize how to make them a part of your special day.

The Couple:

Gema and Jose

The Wedding:

Huerto de San Vicente, Valencia, Spain

Selecting Wedding Attire That Was Appropriate, Comfortable, and Reflective of Their Personalities

I’ve always loved wearing hats, especially headpieces. Eliurpi’s designs have fascinated me for years, so I knew I had to wear one of their creations for this special occasion. Edgar Molina designed an outfit that made the hat the focal point. I wore an elegant and simple dress with a silk cape to balance the look and added a bold touch with black shoes by Amina Muaddi. Later at the party, I opted for a more relaxed feel. I removed the hat, let my hair down, and wore a shiny bolero jacket that looked beautiful as I moved. José Miguel followed daytime wedding etiquette by wearing a morning coat—a three-piece suit with a long tailcoat custom-made by Seligra tailors. Our goal was to enhance our silhouettes while staying true to protocol and feeling comfortable so we could fully enjoy our big day. Working with Edgar Molina and Adrián Seligra on these custom designs was a wonderful experience, and we will happily repeat it.

How Their Wedding Planner Brought Their Dream Huerto de San Vicente Wedding to Life

Our wedding planner skillfully brought all our ideas to life on our special day. They utilized the estate’s spaces to enhance its architecture beautifully. For instance, during the ceremony in the grove, they creatively used the natural curves of the trees to create a stunning, organic aisle, complemented by clear acrylic chairs that added a magical touch. The gardens at cocktail hour were transformed with minimalist white and neutral-toned furniture, looking spectacular. The planner achieved a wow effect inside the hall with three long tables, including a gracefully curved central table. Floral arrangements sprouted elegantly from the ground, blending seamlessly with suspended raffia lamps. The curved table, adorned with ceramic candelabras, anthuriums, and candles, looked stunning. The overall ambiance was incredible, and the outcome was genuinely breathtaking.

Recalling Their Emotional and Unforgettable Huerto de San Vicente Wedding Ceremony

There were so many incredible moments, but if we had to pick one, it would be the ceremony. It was profoundly emotional yet filled with joy, simply beautiful. The first moment of walking out arm in arm with our parents and seeing everyone looking so happy and radiant was unforgettable. Walking to the tune of “A Thousand Years,” each step filled with joy, and singing the song in my head was incredibly special. And seeing him at the end of the aisle, so elegant and handsome, visibly moved with a huge smile and teary eyes, was a moment I’ll never forget. We enjoyed the entire ceremony together, listening to our story amidst knowing glances and smiles and sharing anecdotes until we exchanged our sincere vows.

A Venue That Ticked All the Right Boxes

We chose Huerto de San Vicente because its surroundings reflect our Mediterranean culture perfectly, surrounded by orchards and orange fields. The estate features expansive gardens with versatile spaces, including a charming grove and pine forest where we held our ceremony. Its spacious hall accommodated all 250 guests comfortably. We also loved the estate’s catering, which emphasizes local produce and offers meticulously crafted, exquisite gastronomy that resonated with our tastes.

Setting the Mood with a Thoughtful Music Choices Throughout Their Huerto de San Vicente Wedding

Choosing the music was crucial for our wedding, especially during the cocktail hour and reception. We hired a Funky-Jazz band called Ay Trick for the cocktail hour, who got everyone dancing and enjoying themselves. After dinner, we brought in the Portuguese Marching band, Alta Cena, who energized us all and made the transition from dinner to the party unforgettable. We ended the night with a fantastic session by DJ Kid Rizzo, keeping the dance floor alive and ending the celebration on a high note.

Honoring a Legacy Through Their Wedding Favors

My aunt, a talented ceramicist, had a tradition of crafting wedding gifts for her loved ones, including traditional Valencian dolls. As the youngest in the family, I knew she would want to create something special for our wedding. Instead of dolls, we decided on a unisex design: a beautiful vase for guests to take home, part of the wedding decor. We collaborated closely on the design, and she lovingly created 250 glazed vases that adorned the reception hall’s tables. Just two weeks before our wedding, her passing was unexpected, but her presence was felt in every vase, each a piece of her final artwork. It made the gift even more meaningful, ensuring she remained in our hearts and memories and allowing each guest to take home a part of her legacy.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Team

Finding professionals who can capture your essence and align with your tastes is crucial. That’s why conducting thorough interviews and initial contacts is essential. It’s important to establish trust and feel a good connection with them. While conveying your ideas is essential, it’s also valuable to be open to their advice. On your special day, it’s about enjoying every moment to the fullest without worrying about the details, which is why entrusting the work to professionals is invaluable.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lara Onac
Event Planning – Eventos Clandestine
Venue – Huerto de San Vicente
Floral Design – De Bohemia Lab
Bouquet – Floristeria Sayas
Catering – Gourmet Catering
Bartenders – Bartender Spot
Officiant – Meraki Plan
Light and Sound –  Gente De Bien
Live Band Cocktail – Ay Trick
Live Band Party – Alta Cena
DJ – DJ Kid Rizzo
Videography – Maiky Iglesias
Invitation Design – JDN Paper
Makeup Artist – Cristina Crespo Makeup
Hair Styling – Bigudies
Wedding Dress – Edgar Molina Atelier
Bridal Accessories – Amina Muaddi + Eliurpi
Jewelry – Moret Joyeros
Groom’s Apparel – Adrian Seligra
Rentals – Mafesa Integral + Tents and Events
Transportation – Cars and Love

 

Congratulations to Gema and Jose on their modern yet natural Huerto de San Vicente wedding. A heartfelt thanks to Junebug vendor Lara Onac for skillfully capturing all the beautiful details and creating unforgettable memories that this couple will cherish for a lifetime. Check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Your wedding day should be enjoyed to the fullest without worrying about the details, which is why trusting professionals is invaluable. Check out our list of top-notch wedding vendors to assemble your dream team.

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This Casa Adela Destination Wedding Was Bursting With Color

July 21, 2024 | justine

Josline and JJ had always dreamed of traveling to San Miguel de Allende, a city renowned for its colonial charm and stunning architecture. Captivated by its beauty, they knew it was the perfect place to celebrate their big day. With the help of Junebug vendor Bougainvillea Weddings, they ensured the florals and decor reflected their fun personalities. Their goal was to create a unique and memorable experience for their friends and family, and they successfully pulled off a breathtaking Casa Adela destination wedding bursting with color and style.

Surrounded by breathtaking 360-degree views of the high desert valley, the garden ceremony was a standout moment of the couple’s special day. The couple exchanged heartfelt vows under a trellis adorned with colorful drapery, garlands, and lush blooms. This was followed by a dreamy poolside reception featuring tablescapes of vibrant floral arrangements, earthy accents, and gold settings, all illuminated by string lights. It was a night of endless partying and dancing, creating unforgettable memories for everyone.

If you and your partner dream of a romantic wedding in a beautiful location, you’ll fall in love with these stunning photos captured by Carolin Volker. This is the ultimate inspiration for your perfect destination wedding.

The Couple:

Josline and JJ

The Wedding:

Casa Adela, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

How They Brought Their Dream Casa Adela Destination Wedding to Life

San Miguel de Allende has been a city high on our bucket list of places to travel together. We also knew we wanted to create a unique and memorable experience for our friends and family when they attended our wedding. We were immediately drawn to the colonial-style charm and architecture of the city, as well as the romantic gardens displaying the most stunning florals and trees. We found all that and more. Once we finalized our venue, it was easy to envision the vibe of our perfect day. We couldn’t wait to get married under the romantic sunset in San Miguel. Our guests had such a fantastic experience and are already planning their return.

Advice for a Memorable and Stress-Free Wedding Day

The best advice I can give any future bride and groom is to remember the reason for your wedding day—to celebrate the love you share and declare your commitment to one another. Friends and family will have a lot of input about the details of your wedding, but try not to sweat the small stuff and stick to what makes you, as a couple, happy. If your budget allows, find a wedding planner whose portfolio reflects your envisioned wedding day. Our incredible planners, Bougainvillea Weddings, turned our dreams into reality. Every aspect of our wedding weekend was planned down to the last detail, and we were lucky enough to have the most talented photographer and videographer capture these special moments in film.

Celebrating Vibrant Personalities Through Vibrant Floral Displays

We are most proud of the beautiful floral arrangements created by Bougainvillea Weddings for our special day. We have never seen such an elegant display of floral decor. I would like to think that my husband and I have fun, colorful personalities, and it was important to us that our florals and decor reflect that. Our planners took our inspiration and created the most beautiful arrangements. In fact, I took my bridal bouquet back to Texas so we could preserve it and display it in our home.

How Casa Adela Became Their Dream Wedding Venue

We were completely enamored by Casa Adela as soon as we saw photographs of the venue and property. Casa Adela offers simplistic and artfully designed spaces that allow the beauty of San Miguel de Allende to shine through. When we rented the property, we were excited to be able to host our families for the whole weekend. Beyond that, the intimate courtyard and stunning views from the terrace were exactly what we were hoping for. We experienced exceptional care and hospitality from the staff, and we cannot wait to return.

Exceptional Wedding Planning with Junebug Vendor Bougainvillea Weddings

We were so pleased with our exceptional experience with our wedding planners at Bougainvillea Weddings. We met with Estela Maldonado, director of Bougainvillea, in a virtual call and knew she and her team could turn our dream into reality. Their ability to offer “turn-key” wedding planning services is precisely what we needed. They create florals and decor, offer catering and bartending services, and coordinate all the logistics of your wedding events (welcome party, rehearsal dinner, wedding day). I don’t know what I would have done without their expertise, and we are forever grateful for the amazing experience Bougainvillea Weddings created for us and our families. 

Recommended Reading: Everything You Should Know About Your Wedding Cake

Recommended Reading: From DJs to Fireworks: The Best Wedding Entertainment Ideas to Consider

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Carolin Volker
Event Planning – Bougainvillea Weddings
Venue – Casa Adela
Videography – Amour Films
Makeup Artist – Adriana Abraham
Wedding Dress – Bridal Boutique Lewisville

Congratulations to Josline and JJ on their Casa Adela destination wedding bursting with color. Thank you to Carolin Volker for capturing every special moment and beautiful detail that made their intimate celebration truly memorable. And a special shoutout to Junebug vendor Bougainvillea Weddings for bringing to life their dream celebration. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of planners from around the world.

Choosing a wedding venue is often a sentimental decision. However, if you and your partner are adventurous, tying the knot somewhere new could be perfect for you, just like what this couple did. Regardless of the location, a reliable local planner and vendors are essential to bringing your vision to life. Start your search by exploring our curated list of the best wedding pros!

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Magical Monochromatic Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding

July 18, 2024 | justine

Sharon and Regan wanted their big day to focus on timeless elegance and heartfelt connection. With this vision in mind, they and their fantastic vendor team focused on thoughtful details to make their Alila Villas Uluwatu wedding dream come true. The unique cliff-top venue with stunning views of the Indian Ocean, the monochromatic, understated luxe aesthetic, and the chic attire all came together perfectly. The couple went all out, and it was a beautiful and unforgettable day.

The pair exchanged heartfelt vows at the cliff-edge cabana. White flowers and candles lined the aisle, while unique arrangements at the altar drew everyone’s eyes to the breathtaking, endless horizon. After their dreamy “I dos,” they moved to the garden, where a stunning outdoor reception awaited. Crystal chandeliers hung above luxurious tables filled with white blooms and taper candles, creating a magical and unforgettable evening.

And it wasn’t just the views and the decor that were amazing that day. The groom looked stylish in a beige suit, and the bride looked like a goddess in her strapless gown. To see all the beautiful details up close, check out these stunning photos captured by Pyara Photo and get your Pinterest boards ready!

The Couple:

Sharon and Regan

The Wedding:

Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Thoughtful Wedding Details: Customized Jewelry and Elegant Wedding Attire

We put much thought into selecting our wedding jewelry, opting for customized pieces that spoke to our styles. For our wedding bands, we chose exquisite gold rings featuring a marquise center stone accented by varying-size diamonds that adorned the entirety of the ring for me. In contrast, Regan’s ring boasted an elegant hairline textured finish with a striking baguette diamond. Each gold band continues an engraved message he wrote for me in my ring, adding a sentimental touch to our exchange of vows. Additionally, I adorned myself with a layered pearl necklace and baroque pearl earrings, completing my bridal ensemble with timeless elegance. Regan wore a bespoke three-piece suit in a beige hue paired with dark brown shoes for the attire. At the same time, I chose a sleek white gown and an A-line ivory dress featuring a lace bustier with an exposed corset style, completing it with Valentino Garavani Atelier heels.

Creating a Timeless Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding Aesthetic

Our wedding reflected our vision for an elegant, minimal, and intimate day. The design seamlessly blended simplicity and sophistication, resulting in a timeless aesthetic that felt effortlessly beautiful. Every detail was bathed in shades of white, while accents of raw elements like washed wood and brass added a touch of rustic charm. Thousands of white roses seemingly blossoming from the lush green grass forming a runway, a centerpiece of boldly clustered candles, hanging chandeliers along the tablescapes, layers of textural glassware, and silk napkins drape integrated with the natural surroundings, every aspect came together to create a sense of refined charm. Overall, it was a celebration that embodied our love for understated elegance and heartfelt connection.

Unforgettable Ceremony Moments

I cherish the moment my parents walked me down the aisle as I locked eyes with Regan. He stands against a breathtaking backdrop of the ocean merging seamlessly with the sky, the gentle breeze, the soothing rhythm of the waves, and the enchanting melody of the violin and cello intertwining fills the air, surrounded by our beloved friends and family. And suddenly, being able to see him only, his face had a huge grin and teary eyes, just like mine. I still can’t tell who is sitting by the aisle as I walk through; it is all a blur except for him. I adore the indescribable rush of emotions following the ceremony. We were both brimming with excitement and couldn’t stop smiling.

Essential Advice for a Stress-Free Wedding Day

One piece of advice would be not to let yourself get too stressed. Celebrate the small wins during the process instead of stressing over them. Additionally, communication was critical throughout the planning process. Prioritize what truly matters to you as a couple; regular check-ins with vendors and clear, open discussions with each other will help you stay organized and on the same page. All that matters is that you and your guests are having a blast, and the key element to ensure this happens is your energy – it’s the source of everyone’s happiness.

Bringing to Life Their Dream Day Through Collaboration and Meaningful Elements

As both a wedding stylist and the bride, there’s a deeply personal joy in crafting my dream aesthetic and witnessing its transformation into reality. We poured our hearts into infusing personalized details throughout the day, from DIY wedding favors and papeteries to our vows. Our wedding was a collaborative effort involving us and our families, friends, and vendors. From planning to execution, seeing everyone come together to make our vision a reality was gratifying. Overall, we’re proud of how our wedding reflected our values, our love for each other, and the incredible community surrounding us. It was a day filled with tears of joy, love, laughter, and genuine moments that we’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Why They Chose to Have an Alila Villas Uluwatu Wedding 

We chose the Alila Villas Uluwatu as our wedding venue because it perfectly aligns with my vision of marrying in Bali, with its breathtaking cliff views, exceptional service, and hospitality. The venue’s stunning white aesthetics and powerful architecture, seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings, captured my heart. Every space in the venue offers a distinct perspective, with open layouts that showcase the surrounding nature and unique natural materials throughout the property, making it the ideal choice for my special day.

Bali-Inspired Wedding Favors

We decided to give out limoncello in small jars as wedding favors. It’s one of my favorite drinks from my trips to Bali, and I wanted to share that experience with our guests. Plus, it’s a lovely way for them to take a piece of the celebration home with them.

Infusing Meaning and Style Through their DIY Projects

I poured my heart into DIY projects that reflected our wedding style. We crafted our favors, tying delicate rope accents onto small bottles of limoncello adorned with custom stickers. Additionally, I designed all the graphics for our papeteries and stationeries—including invitations, menus, place cards, seating charts, and the wedding schedule. We aimed for simplicity and elegance, opting for textured handmade paper and sophisticated typography. Additionally, I handcrafted napkins using silk fabric, imparting a raw yet opulent feel to our table settings.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Pyara Photo
Event Planning – The White Journals
Ceremony + Reception Venue + Catering + Cake – Alila Villas Uluwatu
Floral Design – Rhea Wedding Decoration
DJ – Meta Wirawan
Makeup Artist – Stefany Layata
Wedding Dress – Fellyza Sanjaya
Content Creator – Bride Whisperer
Groom’s Apparel – SAS Designs
Rentals – Bali Sewa Sewa + Bloomz Bali rentals

 

Congratulations to Sharon and Regan on their magical monochromatic Alila Villas Uluwatu wedding. Thank you to  Pyara Photo for capturing all the stunning details and memorable moments this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives.

There’s something truly magical about a classic wedding, just like Sharon and Regan’s special day. If you want to look at your wedding photos in 10 years and still adore every detail, take a look at our guide to a timeless wedding. It has easy tips to help you create a classic wedding that will remain beautiful for years to come.

Sponsors
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This Colorful Factory51 Wedding Was Complete With the Couple’s Furry Friend

July 16, 2024 | justine

For many couples who have dreamed of their big day forever, wedding planning can be a breeze. But for Ellen and Luke, it wasn’t so simple. Their first theme just didn’t feel right. After much soul-searching and countless hours on Pinterest, they finally found their style. They were drawn to fun elements that truly reflected their personalities. With a naturally beautiful venue, a bold color palette, and unique flowers and decor, their vision came to life perfectly at their Factory51 wedding.

The couple’s park ceremony was intentionally intimate, with only 16 guests and their beloved dog, Snickers. In a shady spot under the trees–with earthy arrangements as their backdrop–the couple exchanged heartfelt vows, creating a truly special moment crafted by Junebug vendor Brisbane Celebrants. For the reception, the rustic warehouse venue was transformed into a magical setting. A backdrop curtain of cascading fairy lights contrasted beautifully with the red brick walls, creating an enchanting atmosphere for their celebration.

If you want ideas to add fun and personal touches to your celebration, this is the perfect example! You’ll be amazed by every detail, all wonderfully captured by Paper Bark Stories.

The Couple:

Ellen and Luke

The Wedding:

Factory51, Brisbane, Australia

The Story Behind the Evolution of Their Factory51 Wedding Design

Our original design plan was completely different from how our wedding turned out. Initially, we had settled on sage green, which was lovely, but it didn’t feel like us. Neither of us had envisioned our wedding day. It took a few weeks until I grew frustrated and asked myself, “What do I truly like?” After some soul-searching on Pinterest, I began to find my style. We eventually settled on colors that felt lively—pink and orange were vibrant and fun! Suddenly, the joy of planning returned, and I felt excited and motivated to continue. From then on, whenever we encountered a roadblock, we chose the most enjoyable option. Looking at our photos, you can see how much fun we were having. It may sound like a cliché, but authenticity is timeless. If you stay true to yourself, who cares if something falls out of fashion?

Balancing Personalities and Customizing Every Detail of Their Ceremony with the Help of Their Officiant

Luke is an introvert, and I am an extrovert (as you can probably tell by my dress choice!). Coming from a large family, I knew our wedding needed to balance our personalities. For Luke, the idea of standing in front of 120 people and reading vows was daunting. So, we opted for an intimate ceremony with just 16 guests—our immediate family, grandparents, and two close friends. It was perfect for anyone who prefers to avoid the spotlight. To keep our vows private and intimate, we exchanged personalized letters beforehand and used standard wording during the ceremony. Only we know the contents of those heartfelt letters. Our celebrant, Cara of Brisbane Celebrants, was wonderful to work with and managed the ceremony decor, making everything so convenient. Her decor business allowed us to customize every detail, from drinks tubs to dried florals and confetti. My top advice: choose reliable vendors who truly understand your vision and make your day unforgettable.

How Their Dog Snickers Played an Important Role During the Ceremony

Having our dog, Snickers, at our ceremony was so special. His presence helped us get over our nerves, and he’s so cute! From a young age, girls are always told their wedding day will be the best day of their lives. Your wedding will be incredible, and you’ll remember it forever, but there is so much pressure to put on a single day. Having Snickers with us made it feel less formal. He grounded us and reminded us why we were walking up that altar.

Navigating Wedding Planning Challenges: Insights from a Bride’s Experience

Initially, the planning process was challenging because I was overly concerned with others’ opinions. Once I let go of the need to please everyone, I found much more enjoyment in the planning. We did things our way, disregarded others’ opinions, and had a fantastic day. My advice is: don’t put unnecessary pressure on yourself! Those on a budget, like we were, should consider working with small businesses. Most of the time, they are more cost-effective, reliable, and kind. Many “big brands” ignored my emails, took forever to provide quotes, and seemed disinterested. I still keep in touch with my photographer, cake lady, and celebrant. They’re wonderful people who remember my name, and that’s such a special feeling.

Creating a Budget-Friendly Factory51 Wedding Plan by Prioritizing What Matters Most

We’re young and preparing to buy our first home, so spending a potential house deposit on a single day just wasn’t realistic for us. We sat down together and listed what was most important to us, which helped us create our wedding budget. Our non-negotiables were things we absolutely wanted and wouldn’t compromise on, no matter what. The nice-to-haves were extras that would be nice, but we knew we wouldn’t regret skipping them. It’s crucial to talk to each other and prioritize. Getting caught up in trends from TikTok and the wedding world is easy, so referring back to our list helped us stay focused. Is that trend, a non-negotiable, or just a nice-to-have? That approach kept us from adding unnecessary items to our plans.

Choosing a Naturally Beautiful and Convenient Venue

Our venue was naturally stunning. I knew I didn’t want to rent a space and then have to decorate it extensively. It was also conveniently located, close to home with easy Uber access, and elderly-friendly with no stairs. We wanted to make it simple for everyone to attend without needing pet sitters or accommodation. Plus, who doesn’t love Italian food? The cuisine was delicious, and guests still rave about how fantastic it was.

Enhancing their Factory51 Wedding Experience Through DIY Touches

Luke’s DIY floral pocket square was crafted with cardboard, dried florals, and ribbon, ensuring it stayed perfectly in place throughout the day, unlike traditional boutonnieres. Our wedding newspapers, created using Canva, added a delightful touch to our photos and included a word search for guests’ entertainment. After numerous design tweaks, the DIY invitations turned out beautifully and are still proudly displayed on friends’ fridges. I repurposed dried bouquets into charming arrangements for our table numbers while our seating chart, printed on foam board via Canva, hung elegantly from a Kmart clothing rack adorned with fake flowers. These creative DIY projects saved us money and added a personalized touch that made our wedding day even more memorable.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Paper Bark Stories
Ceremony Venue – Roma Street Parklands
Reception Venue – Factory51
Wedding Ceremony Decor – With Love – Brisbane Wedding Decorators
Cake – Little Sprinkle Co.
Officiant – Brisbane Officiants
DJ – Aaron Magnus
Makeup Artist – Demi Beauty
Hair Styling – Hair By Talen

 

Congratulations to Ellen and Luke on their colorful Factory51 wedding, complete with their furry friend. A big thanks to Paper Bark Stories for capturing the special moments and thoughtful details that made this celebration unforgettable. Of course, we must also thank Junebug member Brisbane Officiants for helping the couple tie the knot. If you’re in Brisbane and need an officiant, be sure to check out their profile in our directory of officiants from around the world!

Make sure your wedding reflects both you and your partner’s personalities and vision. Aim for a one-of-a-kind experience—don’t settle for less! The secret to making it happen is having a great team of vendors. Look at our handpicked list of top experts from around the world to help create your perfect day.

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This Wool Mill Wedding Was the Definition of a Party

July 15, 2024 | justine

From the start, Jaimi and Mizz wanted their fun-loving spirits to shine in every detail of their big day, and they certainly succeeded! With a blank canvas venue, a bold color palette, and unique decor, their Wool Mill wedding was the perfect definition of a party. Complete with personal touches, witty humor, and laughter echoing in every corner. The day that radiated joy and creativity, reflecting their love and shared sense of fun.

They aimed to create distinct atmospheres within a single venue. For the ceremony, a soft, romantic feel prevailed with whites and pastel tones, drawing attention to a lilac backdrop adorned with flowers and floor candles. Despite the romantic theme, white streamers above and mirrored balls along the aisle added a touch of disco flair. The reception, in contrast, embraced boldness with vibrant pops of orange. These colors extended to the tables, where alternating orange and lilac personalized menus and napkins complemented tall, tapered candles and vivid floral arrangements, all set against crisp white tablecloths. The highlight was the striking orange, lilac, and silver streamer installation, serving as a captivating focal point.

If you’re up for getting inspired to make your celebration extra fun and personal, you’re in luck! Check out all the amazing details expertly captured by Junebug vendor The Lavender Haze.

The Couple:

Jaimi and Mizz

The Wedding:

Wool Mill, Melbourne, Victoria, Austrailia

Crafting Two Distinct Wedding Scenes in One Venue

We wanted to create two separate atmospheres within one location—soft romance for our ceremony and a bold, bright party reception. The ceremony was to be romantic, with love as the focus, using whites and pastel tones of our color scheme. The attention was drawn to the front with a lilac backdrop, surrounded by flowers and candles on the floor. While romance was the aim, we still wanted this to tie in with the reception and give guests a taste of what would come. We included white Bangin Hangins, disco balls on alternating aisles, and silver confetti cannons, which signified the end of formalities and led us right into the party. The ceremony highlighted our formal commitment to each other through our love story and personalized vows while still keeping our loved ones laughing and capturing our fun, easy-going personalities.

How They Created a Ceremony That Perfectly Captured Who They Are as a Couple

Aside from throwing one hell of an epic party and dancing all night with all our favorite people in one room, the other highlight must be our ceremony. Looking back, we agree that this perfectly captured who we are as a couple. We introduced our bridal party, explaining why they were important to us and including light-hearted jokes at their expense. We wrote our vows individually; however, by a strange twist of fate, we both expressed our dreams of having children who grow up to be either AFL or Matilda players and that no matter what, the ultimate goal was to grow old and happy together. We agreed to include four promises to each other, two serious and two funny. They had the room laughing and crying precisely as we had hoped—romance with a side of fun.

A Bold Wool Mill Wedding Reception Full of Meaning and Nods to Their Relationship

We always knew we wanted to use the color orange, as this represented our football team where we first met. We found inspirational looks online and loved how lilac perfectly complemented this. The reception space’s key feature and focal point was our bold Bangin Hangins in orange, lilac, and silver. These colors flowed to our tables using alternating orange and lilac personalized menus and napkins, tall, tapered candles, and bright floral arrangements, which all popped on our white tablecloths. The romance was still brought into this space using a sky of fairy lights. Our signage and stationary included puns and jokes to keep it light-hearted and personal, adding to the party atmosphere. The Baker Boys band started early and played all night to ensure guests left with sore feet to go with their even sorer heads (courtesy of our one non-negotiable open bar and cocktails).

Simplifying their Wool Mill Wedding Planning Process by Choosing a Venue with a Wedding Planner

We chose a venue that included a wedding planner, which was invaluable for those who lacked artistic flare and time. We knew we didn’t have the time to commit to hours of research and lacked creativity and vision. We recommend using Pinterest boards to capture the overall vibe and then creating mood boards to tie it together. We also highly recommend asking an artistic friend who loves weddings to bounce ideas off and review all the nitty-gritty, aka floor plans, stationary, etc. We are proud that we pulled off a wedding that was authentically us. We loved the attention to detail, the use of puns, the personalization of menus, and how everyone had a great time. Hearing that people loved our wedding as much as we did means the world to us.

Prioritizing Food and Drinks to Keep Spirits High from Start to Finish at Their Wool Mill Wedding

We ultimately wanted everyone to have a fantastic time, with two of our biggest “must haves” being plenty of food and various drinks. We added extra canapes and late-night snacks to ensure no one left hungry. We also opted for shared plates, as we had experienced at other weddings. This was the best way to ensure people had enough large portions to suit them. We also felt that spirits and cocktails were essential for our loved ones. We opted to extend the hours for our drinks package so that drinks flowed from when our guests arrived to when they left. Luckily, we both ended up being late (stupid Melbourne traffic), but our guests were sufficiently hydrated when we arrived. For the dancefloor, our ‘must have’ was The Baker Boys. We requested fan-favorite songs, and they delivered the ultimate party playlist that even included a roaming saxophone soloist.

Choosing a Blank Canvas Venue to Bring Their Vision to Life

We chose The Wool Mill as it was the perfect blank canvas for us to create something bold and fun. We loved the idea of having our ceremony and reception at one location, but we still wanted to have two distinct spaces. The Wool Mill was perfect for this, with the ceremony and cocktail hour held upstairs before the big reveal at the party, where guests headed downstairs. We also loved that the venue included the wedding planning team from The Goodsmiths, who were able to coordinate all aspects of the day, including catering, styling, and even throwing confetti to ensure we had the perfect photos. We absolutely could not have pulled it off without them.

Personalized Wedding Favors that Double as Decor

We didn’t do wedding favors as such. However, we gave each guest a pair of purple love heart sunglasses, which we used as part of our table decorations. We encouraged our guests to wear these throughout the night, and they have become a feature in many of our photos. We also used GuestPix, which allows guests to upload their pictures to our gallery. We paused momentarily during the night and asked our guests to take selfies in their sunnies and upload them. The coffee table book we have made with those photos is truly amazing.

Choreographing Their Wedding Dance Through TikTok and a Meaningful Song Choice

We looked at having dance lessons due to Jaimi’s two left feet. Upon review of the prices, we hit TikTok and choreographed our own dance. While unsure if it was good, our guests were shocked at our moves, and we laughed silly while practicing in the kitchen. We also absolutely love the photos. We chose our song “I Can’t Help” by our favorite artist, G Flip. The original song was also Jaimi’s parents’ first dance song. We kept this a secret, and they loved it.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lavender Haze
Event Planning + Invitation Design – The Goodsmiths
Venue – Wool Mill
Floral Design – Anatomy of Flowers
Catering – Refresh Hospitality
Cake – Torte By Mirjana
Officiant – Precious Celebrations
Live Music – The Baker Boys Band
Videography – Dusc Studio
Makeup Artist – Makeup by Lorie
Hair Styling – Renee Presti
Wedding Dresses – Kyha
Accessories – Amelie George + Finnerings
Wedding Party Apparel – Aje. + Pilgrim Clothing + Kookaï + Bec+Bridge
Rings – Charles Rose

 

Congratulations to Jaimi and Mizz on their Wool Mill wedding, which was the definition of a party! A big thank you to Junebug vendor the Lavender Haze for capturing all the unforgettable details and inspiring couples about to tie the knot. Head over to their profile to see more unique celebrations in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Planning your wedding is your chance to highlight your one-of-a-kind personalities. Whether you’re drawn to a non-traditional venue or looking to modernize classic wedding customs, embrace the opportunity to create a celebration that reflects the uniqueness of your love story. The secret to bringing it all together flawlessly? Surround yourself with visionary pros. Discover your dream team with our curated selection of the world’s top wedding vendors.

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This Nave Lewis Wedding Was an Art Installation Come to Life

July 13, 2024 | justine

Valeria and Erik wanted their wedding to defy tradition. They desired a celebration that was anything but ordinary, and with the help of their vendors, they pulled it off. With a passion for art and architecture, they wanted their big day to reflect that passion. They always imagined their wedding space to look like an art gallery: simple, clean, and elegant. With a historic steel mill turned wedding venue adorned with sculptural arrangements and pared-back decor, their Nave Lewis wedding was an art installation that came to life exactly as they envisioned.

The modernist church provided a stunning backdrop for their ceremony. They adorned the aisle and altar with lush greenery and lavender florals, creating a serene atmosphere. The reception was equally breathtaking, with tables adorned with abundant blooms, greenery, and candles. The highlight of the evening was the backdrop wall adorned with suspended flowers and a glass tube ceiling installation that played with the light, creating a magical dance of illumination throughout the celebration.

If your dream aesthetic leans towards understated sophistication and elevated style, find inspiration in these stunning photos captured by Junebug vendor EFEGE.

The Couple:

Valeria and Erik

The Wedding:

Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Fatima, Nuevo León, Mexico

Celebrating Their Love Through Art and Architecture

Our wedding was inspired by our desire to break away from tradition, blending our love for art, architecture, and intricate details. I envisioned the venue as an art gallery—minimalistic yet elegant—and our choice of a historic steel mill warehouse in our hometown perfectly complemented Erik’s work in the steel industry. We aimed to maintain an industrial vibe by keeping the floor and ceiling visible. For the tables, we couldn’t settle on one design, so we opted for three: an arrangement with anemone flowers, candles, and apples adorned with pearls; an art installation featuring 100 custom ceramic bases and anthurium flowers with pearls for dynamic movement; and a standout light box table engraved with the lyrics of “Arrullo de Estrellas” by Zoe, a cherished song that holds special meaning for us. The venue was adorned with artistic displays of these lyrics, and above us hung a breathtaking installation of 32,000 glass tubes with flowers, casting a mesmerizing glow that completed our vision for an unforgettable celebration.

Heartwarming Moments at Their Nave Lewis Wedding

The most memorable part of the day was sharing every moment with our loved ones. We are both very family-oriented, so the party was an ode to that. After our first dance, we shared a dance with both of our families, but the highlight was sharing it with our nieces and nephews. It was just something that I wanted to experience with them, especially since they are our goddaughters and my favorite people ever.

Achieving Stress-Free Wedding Planning by Staying Organized and Trusting Wedding Planner

My advice would be to get organized and make checklists. Lists were my best friends, as I am very organized and didn’t want to procrastinate and go crazy three weeks before. Also, trust your wedding planner. They are your guide, and with great communication, all you ever dreamed of will be exactly the same. I can’t imagine my wedding without the entire team.

Personal Touches That Elevated the Wedding Experience

I am proud of every detail that tells a story and reflects our personal styles and love for one another. We made thank you cards for every guest to be delivered to their table during dinner. We carefully curated the music with two playlists for the cocktail and dinner to showcase our love for oldies music. Also, not being afraid of breaking the stereotype and doing things differently without caring what people think was very comforting.

Making Every Guest Feel Special with Personalized Tokens

During dinner, we gave thank you cards to everyone. During the party, we gave out neon cowboy hats and glasses, which lit up in different colors. The food never stopped coming, both during the party and after hours. For our guests who were celebrating their birthdays, we put a candle and little wooden balloons on their plates; for our engaged guests, we did the same, but with a wooden ring. For our expecting couples, we put a wooden stork delivering a baby.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – EFEGE
Event Planning – Gonzalez Helfon
Ceremony Venue – Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Fatima
Reception Venue – Nave Lewis
Catering – Kohlmann
DJ – DJ Gino Rodriguez
Makeup Artist – RODRIGO ESTRELLO
Hair Styling – BETO SOLIS
Wedding Dress – Danielle Frankel Bride
Groom’s Apparel – Gallo Azul
Bathroom Products – The Amenities

 

Congratulations to Valeria and Erik on their Nave Lewis wedding, which was an art installation that came to life. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Junebug vendor EFEGE for beautifully capturing every detail that made their special day unique and unforgettable. For more stunning celebrations, explore their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

A minimalist wedding like this proves that simplicity can be stunning. Its sleek, clean appearance minimizes distractions, allowing the focus to remain on what truly matters—the beautiful union of two people. For more helpful advice on curating a celebration that reflects your style and values, explore our planning and budget guides.

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This Unique Mexico City Elopement Was the Perfect Blend of Mayan and Western Cultures

July 12, 2024 | justine

Courtney and Nick had always dreamed of eloping, and Mexico held a special place in their hearts. It was where their journey together began, back when they were navigating a long-distance relationship. A work trip brought Courtney to Mexico City, which sparked their spontaneous decision to elope there secretly. They wanted their Mexico City elopement day to be uniquely theirs, blending their personal story with the city’s rich traditions and culture. It was not just a celebration of their love, but also a tribute to the place that had shaped the early chapters of their story. 

Their rooftop ceremony was deeply personal, blending Mexican and Western wedding traditions that resonated most with them. They sipped cacao, kindled a new flame, and performed a handfasting ceremony, all while exchanging heartfelt vows and sharing a poignant poem. Their altar was adorned with meaningful items, including a carved dog figurine representing their cherished pet in Australia. After capturing portraits amid the city’s bustling streets, they concluded their perfect day by indulging in tacos at their favorite taqueria.

Junebug member Gaby Bolivar beautifully captured the unforgettable moments of Courtney and Nick’s special day. Each photo captures not just the excitement but also the intimate, personal details that made their wedding day truly unique. You can’t help but feel the joy and sense the love radiating from every frame, showcasing the essence of their one-of-a-kind celebration.

The Couple:

Courtney and Nick

The Wedding:

Mexico

A Spontaneous Decision that Led to Their Mexico City Elopement

Nick and I always wanted to elope and loved the idea of Mexico. It was the first place we ever traveled together when we were doing long distance early in our relationship. We didn’t plan on getting married last year, but a work trip of mine that put me in Mexico City for 3.5 weeks kicked off our spontaneous and secret Mexico elopement. I’m a Film Director, so I had a pretty clear vision of what I wanted—color, architecture, and nothing too serious. I enlisted the help of my crew and friends on the ground in Mexico City to pull everything together, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.

From Mezcal to Tacos: Celebrating Their Special Day with Favorite Traditions

Each stage of the ceremony was incredibly personal and customized to us, thanks to the help of our celebrant, Fernanda. It was a hybrid Mexican / Western wedding, so we started with the rituals of the four elements, which had lots of options. We chose ones that reflected us best, like drinking traditional cacao, lighting a new fire, and our favorite part, which was the handfasting, where we chose colored ribbons to reflect values for our relationship, which we tied around a rope together before being joined to each other. Then, we each chose a poem to read and wrote our own personal vows. We collected items during our time in Mexico City to be placed on the altar during the ceremony. We bought a special bottle of Mezcal, handmade cups, and a small carved dog figurine called an alebrijes that symbolizes our dog back home in Australia. It was all very special to say the least. Going to get tacos afterward is also the best post-wedding activity and probably our favorite part of the day.

A Thoughtfully Budgeted Mexico City Elopement

No matter your budget if you plan something that best reflects your relationship, it will be super special. We didn’t have a budget per se but we knew we wanted to keep it as cheap as possible whilst also making sure it looked chic. We made a list at the start for the must-haves: location, celebrant, photographer, outfits, rings, a bouquet, 35mm, and super8 film, and then a nice dinner reservation for afterward. As we didn’t have a top budget to stay under we were just incredibly mindful of what we did spend our money on. Comparatively, an elopement is always going to be cheaper than a full-blown wedding and so no element felt totally wild.

How They Discovered Their Dream Wedding Venue

Wedding venue costs in Mexico City surprised me the most so we had to get creative to find our perfect backdrop. I texted a friend asking if she knew anyone with a beautiful rooftop or courtyard in Mexico City, preferably with some color. She texted a friend, who texted a friend and then I got sent someone’s number who could help me. Rodrigo owned a building in Roma Norte that had lived many lives: a nightclub, restaurant, art gallery, and filming location. It had a beautiful enclosed rooftop with lovely natural light and was also within walking distance of one of our favorite taquerias.

Epic Wedding Reveal in Sydney

Our Mexico wedding was so special, but one of the best parts was getting my friend and insanely talented Cinematographer Dan Bolt to film it all on my Super8 camera. When we got back to Sydney, we rented a small cinema and surprised our friends and family with the film. Somehow, we kept our marriage a secret for almost six months, and that made the reveal so big and so crazy—one of the best nights ever, finally celebrating with everyone we love.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Gaby Bolivar
Floral Design – Lucie Casa Floral
Wedding Dress – STAUD
Bridal Accessories – Maria Black
Groom’s Apparel – Boyfriend Shirt
Rings – Occasional Lover

 

Congratulations to Courtney and Nick on their unique Mexico City elopement, which was the perfect blend of Mayan and Western cultures. Junebug vendor Gaby Bolivar did an outstanding job capturing their special day. To view more intimate celebrations like theirs, explore Gaby’s profile in our directory of top-notch wedding photographers from around the world.

By prioritizing what truly mattered to them instead of conforming to traditional norms, Courtney and Nick crafted a heartfelt and distinctive wedding day. If you’re inspired to plan your own intimate celebration for just the two of you, explore our elopement planning checklist and budget guide.

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Eclectic Yet Whimsical Brice House Wedding

July 10, 2024 | justine

Megan and Kaity found the perfect venue, providing them with the ideal starting point for their wedding planning. Inspired by the venue’s classic southern and gothic charm, they infused it with their own whimsical touches. Using jewel tones for their colors, a mix of vintage and modern pieces from thrift stores, and a touch of DIY magic, they brought to life a beautifully eclectic Brice House wedding.

The sprawling estate provided the perfect setting for their big day. For their outdoor ceremony on the front steps, a wooden arbor adorned with florals framed the French Provincial-style main house in the background. At the tented reception, the tablescape was filled with color-blocked blooms and accents, creating a stunning scene. 

While the decor and fashion played a significant role, the couple is most proud of their trusted team. They were intentional in working with diverse vendors and successfully achieved it! To see all the beautiful details up close, browse through these stunning photos taken by photographer Karen Norian. They’ll inspire you with unique wedding ideas for your own special day.

The Couple:

Megan and Kaity

The Wedding:

Brice House, Georgia, United States

Starting the Day with an Intimate Vow Exchange and a Sweet Surprise

We decided to do a private vow exchange on the morning of the wedding. We snuck away in our PJs with nothing but our coffee cups, photographers, and each other. We spent a few minutes exchanging vows and sharing our excitement with each other, and then I surprised Megan with a proposal redo featuring her late grandmother’s wedding set. Megan was so surprised, and it was such a special and sentimental moment to share together before the day officially kicked off.

Blending Personal Touches and Venue Aesthetics

Finding our venue gave us the best starting point for the rest of our planning. The Brice House is a historic home with many classically southern and southern-gothic vibes, so we built on that while adding our own whimsy. We used Pinterest for inspiration and worked with our planner to help us define how we wanted our wedding to feel: romantic, whimsical, and fun. We heard advice early on that we should only purchase decor items we would like to display in our home and then rent or borrow everything else, and we stuck with that plan. An Anthropologie store inspires our home decor, so we looked for items and inspiration that married our personal styles with our intended vibes without overshadowing the venue’s existing beauty.

How They Created Their Eclectic Brice House Wedding

We picked rich jewel tones for our color palette and thrifted a mix of vintage and modern pieces to create this beautifully eclectic setting. Anything we couldn’t find, we made ourselves or borrowed from friends. Ultimately, we are really happy with how everything came out and how our wedding felt so authentically us.

Balancing Details and Budget by Making Strategic Choices

Not every detail needs to be the key focus, or you’ll quickly become overwhelmed and go over budget. We picked three areas that were the most important to us—florals, food, and photography—and tried to keep everything else simple. We spent time on invites, music, decor, etc., but we didn’t let those details stress us out.

Building a Diverse Vendor Team for Their Brice House Wedding

We are really happy with how everything turned out, but ultimately, we are the most proud of the vendor team we put together. Our goal was to hire all diverse vendors—women, veterans, people of color, LGBTQ+, etc. And although it was tough to find the right team since we are a queer couple in a small town in South Georgia, we did it! And we had the best vendors ever.

Candle Table Alternative to Traditional Favors

Instead of traditional favors, we decided to have a candy table with small sachets so guests could pick and take what they wanted. We’ve been to so many weddings where the koozies or custom cups are left behind, and we didn’t want to waste anything or have an extra stockpile in our garage. Our candy table was a huge hit and saved a ton of money.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Karen Norian
Second Photographer – Zach Barron
Event Planning – Moonbeam Weddings
Venue – Brice House
Floral Design – Grace and Thorn
Catering – Berry’s Catering
Cake – Confection Perfection Cakes
DJ – J&M Sound Productions
Invitation Design – Truly Engaging
Makeup + Hair Styling – Morgan Wilson
Wedding Attire – The Sentimentalist
Wedding Party Attire Alterations – White Orchid Bridal
Rings – Gem Breakfast

 

Congratulations to Megan and Kaity on their eclectic yet whimsical Brice House wedding. Many thanks to Karen Norian for capturing every beautiful detail and unforgettable moment. 

An outdoor gathering like this provides endless possibilities for floral arrangements and decorations, perfect for both the ceremony and reception. Whether you opt for a backyard setting or a garden venue, explore our guide on hosting an outdoor wedding to help plan the celebration of your dreams.

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