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This Romantic Paris Wedding Took Place on a Yacht With Views of The Eiffel Tower

August 5, 2023 | justine

For Jen and Lucas, France held a special place in their hearts. So, when the time came to plan their special day, there was no doubt in their minds that the city of love was the perfect place to bring their dream wedding to life. With the beautiful iconic landmarks, cobblestone streets, cozy cafes, and that undeniably old-fashioned cozy charm—it’s easy to see why they chose a romantic Paris wedding. 

The couple had always dreamt of a grand and unforgettable wedding, which was even more incredible than they could have imagined. Their vision came true on the top deck of a yacht, where they exchanged heartfelt vows. As the boat glided along the Seine River during the sunset, the Eiffel Tower came alive with sparkling lights, filling the moment with pure magic—talk about a floating fairytale They spent the night dancing, surrounded by this enchanting backdrop that made their celebration truly extraordinary!

If you’ve ever wondered about unique ways to tie the knot in Paris, prepare to be smitten as you scroll through these breathtaking photos captured by the Junebug member Through The Glass. The love and beauty radiating from each frame will surely steal your heart, much like it did ours.

The Couple:

Jen and Lucas

The Wedding:

Paris, France

How Their Romantic Paris Wedding Came To Be

I drew a lot of inspiration from France since visiting Lucas for the first time the summer after we met in college. Bringing our dream wedding to life started long before we even knew we would have it in Paris. I had been saving inspiration from Instagram for about three years by the time we met with our wedding planner. Whenever I saw a dress, table setting, photograph, or concept I liked, I would save it. Then, when we decided to have the wedding in Paris, where Lucas’ friends and family reside, that little collection set the tone for what I knew I wanted decor and the overall look and feel to emulate.

A Unique Wedding Venue: How Choosing A Yacht Wedding Let Their Guests See Paris

Our wedding venue was a yacht on the Seine River called The Clipper. We chose it because we knew that many of our guests would be seeing Paris for the first time at our wedding, and we wanted the venue to be an experience for guests to see the city. The ceremony was on the top deck while docked at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, and then the boat sailed on the river for the reception. We had a live band, and the food was served as a cocktail dinatoire, which is basically lots of different small bites, and the fare is substantial enough to serve as dinner. We had no seating chart because we wanted our guests to mingle, go on top of the boat, inside the boat, etc.

Starting a Memorable Tradition During Their Ceremony

Our officiant had a super fun idea to bring a wooden box with a bottle of wine in it, and Lucas and I would each nail it shut during the ceremony. The idea was that we would open it in 10 years on our anniversary. He had us each write love letters and add them to the box before sealing it. We are so thankful he suggested this idea and even provided the wine and box. It made for a fun activity during the ceremony as our loved ones watched, and we look forward to enjoying that bottle—and the letters—together someday.

Dreamy River Seine Cruise At Sunset

The day felt like a dream from start to finish, but the most memorable moment was when the boat started to sail on the Seine River at sunset. At one point, the Eiffel Tower started to sparkle just as we passed it, and my sister caught a candid video of Lucas and I dancing together underneath it. When I saw that video the next day, it all felt unreal. We woke up the next morning, looked at each other, and said, “Did that actually happen?” We reminisce often.

How Spreadsheets Made a Difference During Wedding Planning

For me, spreadsheets are a love language. It helped me keep track of guests, vendors, and complex travel schedules since my family and friends would be flying in from the U.S. and staying in different parts of the city. The wedding day included photos in iconic spots around Paris, so the spreadsheet (and my sisters, who were my maids of honor) were essential to ensure everything ran smoothly. So, if I could give any advice, it would be to a) don’t wait to book your favorite vendors, b) stick to a single spreadsheet rather than trying to keep track of texts, emails, notes, and to-do lists.

A Wedding Planner Is Crucial To a Successful Destination Wedding

One thing too, as important as details are, it’s true when they say it all goes by so fast, and you shouldn’t sweat the small stuff. If you’re planning a destination wedding abroad, hire a planner. Don’t let the tiny details and inevitable last-minute changes take away from the short wedding planning season.

Bringing Family Together at Their Romantic Paris Wedding

We were proud that we were able to unite my American family and friends with Lucas’ French loved ones. It was indeed a once-in-a-lifetime to have so many people we love and care about in the same place at the same time, and we feel proud that we made it happen. Plus, our grandparents were there, which we did not take for granted, and we felt very proud to share that moment with them.

Beyond Midnight: The Unforgettable Hour That Made Their Wedding Priceless

Our wedding was set to end at midnight, and I remember we were having the time of our lives when my wedding planner approached me to give me a 30-minute warning that it was almost over. We were having so much fun, truly the time of our lives, so Lucas and I decided to extend everything by an hour. The DJ, kitchen, bus driver, and everyone involved was willing to stay, and it was worth every single penny. That hour was one of the most magical of our lives.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Through The Glass
Event Planning – Madame M Wedding
Ceremony Venue – Paris Yacht Marina – The Clipper
Floral Design – A Fleur et à Mesure
Cake – Sucré Coeur Paris
Officiant – The Parisian Celebrant
DJ – 100 Event Agency
Videography – The Alter Edit
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Alesia Solo
Transportation – CR Group France

 

Congratulations to Jen and Lucas on their romantic Paris wedding. A big thank you to Junebug member Through The Glass for beautifully capturing every sparkling moment. If you’re ready to be swept away by more breathtaking celebrations like this, be sure to explore their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

After being enchanted by these inspiring photos, we completely understand if you’re tempted to hop on a flight to Paris. If that’s the case, We’re here to help. Kickstart your journey by exploring our destination wedding planning and budget guides. These will be key to planning a faraway celebration that’s one for the books. 

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Moody Lodge at Malibou Lake Wedding With Vintage Touches

August 4, 2023 | justine

When Gabe and Steve planned their wedding, they pulled inspiration from the venue itself—a fishing and hunting lodge built in the 1920s. They wanted their Lodge at Malibou Lake wedding to have a masculine feel complete with florals and vintage touches. Since their big day would be in the fall, they chose warm colors to match the season. Most importantly, they wanted their wedding to reflect who they were as a couple and as individuals, where every aspect would mirror their unique love story. 

The historic property was a stunning backdrop for their celebration. Under the shade of sycamore and oak trees, the couple tied the knot under a lush arch that perfectly framed the Santa Monica Mountain backdrop. Inside the ballroom, they carried over the fall theme with tablescapes of autumn blooms, dark accents, and gold settings that matched the foliage adorning the black chandelier and fireplace.

With the help of their trusted vendor team, the two grooms created a stunning and inviting atmosphere to enjoy special moments together. They also blended their traditions in thoughtful ways that showcased their personalities. If you want to see more, check out these beautiful photos captured by Mandee Johnson and soak in every detail of their romantic and heartfelt celebration.

The Couple:

Gabe and Steve

The Wedding:

Lodge at Malibou Lake, California, United States

Creating Custom Wedding Stationery

We designed all the printed pieces at Gabe’s business, Color Services. Then we took all those pieces home, and together we spent countless hours hand-tearing, cutting, scoring, taping, and sewing each piece. That included table menus, place cards, table numbers, bar signs, and programs. Outside of the design itself, which went through numerous iterations and prototypes, we tested several paper stocks, weights, shades, and colors, before settling on our final choices. Each place card sat in a wooden holder originally in unfinished wood, but we primed and painted each one gold to match the rest of our tablescape.

Embracing Mexican Tradition with a Mariachi Serenade

We had a mariachi for our wedding ceremony as a nod to Gabe’s Mexican heritage. We engaged Mariachi Arcoiris, the world’s first all LGBTQ+ mariachi troupe, who performed as our guests arrived during our ceremony and the cocktail hour. They were incredible musicians with an impressive repertoire, took requests from our guests, and lent so much magic to our ceremony. Of course, we selected some beautiful songs for our entrance. The wedding party entered with “Cien Años,” a classic Pedro Infante song. My parents are no longer with us, so I walked down the aisle with my brother and sister. Gabe was walked down the aisle by both of his parents. The song “Que Bonito Amor” played during our entrance, another classic made famous by Pedro Infante. We exited the ceremony as newlyweds to the festive sounds of “La Fiesta del Mariachi, ” another mariachi standard perfect for kicking off the party.

Honoring Mom’s Memory During Lodge at Malibou Lake Wedding Ceremony

To honor my mom, who had recently passed, we asked the florist to include purple flowers in the lasso. My mom was famous for how much she loved the color purple. She wore it all of the time. Not long before she passed earlier that year, she had given us her blessing about getting married. This was momentous for us because she was raised in the South with a very religious upbringing. Her approval meant so much to us.

Honoring Heritage with a Beautiful Lasso Ceremony

As an additional nod to Gabe’s heritage, we wanted to include an aspect of a traditional Mexican wedding in our ceremony. Gabe’s parents had a lasso ceremony at their wedding, so we thought it would also be a marvelous tradition to include in ours. Our celebrant Kristin mentioned all of those considerations as part of the ceremony. We asked our dear friends to be our Padrinos de Lasso, who draped the lasso around us while Mariachi Arcoiris played “Sabor a Mi.” The lasso ceremony encapsulates so much of what a wedding should be—a way to reflect the couple’s love and commitment to each other by honoring and blending both families.

A Handcrafted and Meaningful Memento From Their Ceremony

Our Padrino de Lasso and friend, Greg Lawler, is an incredibly creative artist and maker. We asked him if he could create something special so that our ring bearer, Gabe’s nephew, could carry the rings down the aisle. He created this unique valet tray that included some beautiful features. It was a leather-lined, beautifully stained wooden tray featuring stitching reminiscent of that on a baseball (a nod to our passion for the Los Angeles Dodgers). We love this piece and put our rings into it every night before going to bed.

Gabe’s Touching Tribute to His Parents During Their Lodge at Malibou Lake Wedding

After making our way down the aisle and just before the sendoff, Gabe delivered a beautiful and moving speech thanking his parents for a lifetime of love, support, and acceptance. Entirely in Spanish and a complete surprise to his parents, his speech acknowledged how vital their support was to us as a same-sex couple. Although times have changed, we’ve seen many LGBTQ friends rejected by their families. Gabe’s parents are Mexican immigrants, and machismo is still a massive part of the culture, so that kind of support is still uncommon. We wanted to honor them, and this felt like the right moment for that. Gabe delivered this speech on the mic. And even though many of our guests didn’t speak Spanish, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house when he finished.

From Reception to Home: The Canvas Portrait That Became a Timeless Keepsake

We are so proud of the large canvas portrait of us above the fireplace. We commissioned an artist from Spain, Daniel Jose Cabrera Castro, also known as “El Dibujo,” to do a watercolor portrait for our anniversary earlier in the year. And with his permission, Gabe at his print shop Color Services, blew this up to a life-sized scale (over 7ft tall) to place on the fireplace mantle.

How Music and An Outfit Change Set The Party Tone

We knew from the start we wanted people to dance, so the music was critical. We spent months coming up with suggestions for the reception playlist. Before dinner was served, we went into a 20-minute dance set to loosen up our guests and prepare them for a fun night. This was a brilliant idea by our planner and the perfect way set the tone of the evening. While we loved our suits, having a big outfit change for the after-party was fun. We slipped away from the ballroom just a few minutes before the party was going to end, ran upstairs to our dressing suite, and donned our party clothes—bold shirts, pants, shoes, and beautiful hats, completely different from our wedding suits. We made it back to the dance floor just as the beat kicked in for our last dance. Song of choice? Duh, we’re gay! It had to be “Last Dance” by Donna Summer!

Wedding Planning Advice: Embracing the Process Together

Cherish the time you have together planning and do as much of the planning together as you possibly can. We spent ten months poring over the details independently and with our wedding planner. And when the day is done, you’ll still have wonderful memories of the time you put into it yourselves to make the day magical. Don’t just hand off all the details to someone else, you’ll miss out on so much.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Mandee Johnson
Event Planning – Deanna Nash
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Lodge at Malibou Lake
Floral Design – The Little Branch
Catering – Chef Cordelia Catering
Cake – Sugar Studio
Officiant – Seaside Ceremonies
Live Music – Mariachi Arcoiris
Invitation Design – Paper & Toys
Hair Styling – SugarSkulls
Groom’s Apparel – Studio Suits
Hats – Hollywood Hatters
Ring Bearer’s Suit – Joseph Abboud
Rings – Tiffany & Co
Rentals – Party Pleasers Event Rentals
Pom Pom Exit – Andersons

 

Congratulations to Gabe and Steve on their exquisitely moody and romantic Lodge at Malibou Lake wedding. A big thank you goes out to the talented Mandee Johnson for beautifully capturing every stunning detail and special moment, which will undoubtedly inspire many other couples.

With autumn’s warm colors and enchanting ambiance, make your celebration magical by adding cozy ideas. Use seasonal colors, themed invitations, and signature cocktails to elevate your love-filled wedding. And don’t forget to follow our wedding planning checklist for an unforgettable and meaningful day.

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Bright Guyanese & Fijian Hindu Palm Event Center Wedding

August 2, 2023 | justine

Tricia and Raj wanted their special day to reflect their love and the cultural backgrounds they both cherished. With a bright and bold color palette, florals that were an absolute showstopper, and fabulous wedding fashion, every element of their Palm Event Center wedding had a touch of their heritage, creating a warm and meaningful atmosphere for everyone present.

The pair poured their hearts and souls into creating a truly magical wedding. Their outdoor ceremony took place beneath a lush mandap surrounded by towering Redwoods, the very spot where their love story began. The following winery reception was breathtaking, with beautiful tablescapes adorned with romantic garden blooms. But the highlight was the stunning floral and crystal chandelier, adding a perfect touch to the candle-lit ambiance.

Their wedding was more than just a celebration; it embodied their journey together. What truly made their wedding special was the blending of their respective cultures and traditions, making the event uniquely theirs. Thankfully, Junebug member Apollo Fotografie captured every special moment of their big day. So keep scrolling through for inspiration you can use for your own big day.

The Couple:

Tricia and Raj

The Wedding:

Palm Event Center, Vineyard Avenue, Pleasanton, California, United States

Choosing to Say Their “I Dos” Where Their Love Story Began

We wanted our Guyanese and Fijian Hindu ceremony to be magical and unique, so we decided on a Hindu wedding in the Redwoods. Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, with its stunning surroundings of hills and trees, was the perfect location in Northern California. It felt like a wonderland with friendly wildlife, making it the most peaceful and magical place for our special day. We feel so blessed that SMC allowed us to celebrate our love and the union of our cultures on their historic campus. The redwood grove, where we had our first date, made it the whimsical and unique setting of our dreams.

Personalizing Their Ceremony by Incorporating Traditions that Resonated with the Both of Them

We worked with our Hindu priest to condense the three-hour ceremony into a meaningful 90 minutes. The pundit’s expertise was remarkable as he skillfully explained century-old traditions in a way everyone could understand. We made it special by having the bride’s mother customize the cloth that bound us before we took our sacred steps around the fire. But the most unforgettable moment was when I walked down the aisle toward my groom. As we locked eyes, the world seemed to fade away, and it was just the two of us in that surreal and beautiful moment.

Handcrafted Origamis Were a Thoughtful Addition to Their Mandap

Our wedding mandap perfectly matched the enchanting redwood surroundings, creating a beautiful setting. The florist’s artistry, with elegant blue flowers, flowering branches, and hanging garlands, amazed us. What made it even more special was our 10-year-old nephew, Liam, who handcrafted origami creations to decorate the mandap. His DIY peacocks and cranes, adorned with bells on fish wire, added a whimsical and magical touch that perfectly complemented the rustic simplicity of the structure. We loved our mandap, and Liam’s thoughtful contribution made it even more unforgettable.

Blending Contemporary and Traditional Wedding Style for Their Palm Event Center Wedding

In our quest for a wedding filled with vibrant and daring designs, we embraced modern trends while honoring our beloved traditions. The bride, her parents, and I wore magnificent hand-embroidered outfits by Shyamal Bhumika. My sage green turban was adorned with a custom gold pin from the bride’s mother, representing the heritage of Guyana and Fiji. The trailing bridal veil added a touch of exquisite beauty and grace. The bridesmaids and bridesman were equally stunning, dressed in custom, hand-painted saris and shirts by Indian designer DEVNAAGRI.

Ensuring Their Guests’ Comfort Throughout Their Palm Event Center Wedding Day

Our guests’ comfort was our top priority on our wedding day. Knowing that Indian weddings can be lengthy, we planned a delicious lunch during the ceremony to keep everyone happy. We arranged custom coloring pages for the kids featuring illustrations of us and our beloved dog, making their day extra special. The ceremonial lunch was a delightful fusion of traditional Fijian dishes catered by Curryous and over 250 Guyanese Puris prepared with love by my uncle, symbolizing the beautiful blend of our cultures. With the warmth and love of our family and friends surrounding us, our wedding day became a heartfelt and unforgettable celebration of our union.

How They Navigated Their Palm Event Center Wedding Budget Challenges

Planning an Indian wedding in the Bay Area while managing student loans presented budget challenges. We made adjustments, researched venues and vendors on wedding websites and social media, and sought advice from other couples. Despite the constraints, we remained determined to create a meaningful celebration, and with careful planning, we made our dream wedding a reality.

Choosing Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors as a Reminder of Home

We chose California poppy packets as our bridal favors, a sustainable choice that meant a lot to us. Many of our guests were native Californians now living elsewhere, so seeing their excitement about taking a piece of California with them was heartwarming. Even though it was a small gesture, it carried so much meaning, allowing our guests to keep a part of our wedding and the essence of California with them wherever they go.

Exchanging Symbolic Gifts

At our Hindu wedding, we followed the tradition of exchanging 22k jewelry as gifts. The groom gave me a stunning Mangalsutra, a symbolic necklace representing our marriage and my new role as a married woman. He custom-designed it, adding his birthstone and two diamonds on each side, making this particular piece even more sentimental and unique. It was a beautiful symbol of our love and commitment.

Recommended Reading: 80 First Dance Songs You Haven’t Thought of Yet

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Apollo Fotografie
Ceremony Venue – Saint Mary’s College of California
Reception Venue – The Palm Event Center
Floral Design – Nicole Ha
Catering – Curryous
Cake – Life is Sweet Bakery & Cafe
Officiant – Mother of the Bride, Hema Narine
DJ – New York Event Productions
Live Music – Avrhythms
Videography – Dreambook by Josh T.
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Morsal Z.
Wedding Dress + Groom’s Apparel + Bride’s Parents’ Attire – Shyamal & Bhumika
Bridal Accessories – Desi Chick Jewelry
Bride’s People Apparel – Devnaagri
Rentals – Cultural Event Rentals + Pleasanton Rentals

 

Congratulations to Tricia and Raj on their bright Guyanese & Fijian Palm Event Center wedding. A heartfelt thank you to Junebug member Apollo Fotografie for beautifully capturing all the moments that showcase their love! To see more inspiring celebrations, check out their profile in our directory of wedding photographers from around the world.

To create a multicultural wedding like this, it’s essential to have an experienced team to ensure a seamless combination of all the elements. Their expertise and guidance are invaluable in crafting a wedding that beautifully blends different cultures and traditions, making it a truly extraordinary event. With the right professionals supporting you, there are no limits to what can be achieved!

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Modern and Natural Waiheke Island Wedding

July 25, 2023 | riley

Ashton and Andrew had a simple wish for their wedding: to keep it small, cozy, and stress-free, with just their immediate family and closest friends. Although they lived in Australia, Andrew had a special connection to New Zealand, so it meant a lot to him to get married there. They didn’t have a specific plan for their wedding, but they wanted it to fit in with the surroundings and make the most of the island’s beauty. The result was a modern and natural Waiheke Island wedding, where art, architecture, and luxury came together perfectly.

Their ceremony venue had a unique sculptural structure with breathtaking views of the Hauraki Gulf. It didn’t need much decor, as it was already beautiful, but they added simple white and green flowers to enhance the space. This created a perfect mix of modern architecture and natural elements. After exchanging heartfelt vows, the celebration continued with a relaxed dinner at the pavilion. They enjoyed delicious food and wine while surrounded by the most incredible ocean views.

Placing their trust in the experts, the couple’s expectations were surpassed as their special day turned out even more remarkable than they had imagined. Fortunately, Wildfolk Photography was there to capture each precious detail, allowing us to relive the magic of their wedding day through these breathtaking images. Take a moment to scroll through and immerse yourself in every beautiful and heartfelt moment.

The Couple:

Ashton + Andrew

The Wedding:

Mawhiti, Waiheke Island

How Their Waiheke Island Wedding Came To Be

We live in Australia, but Andrew is from New Zealand, so it was quite meaningful for him to get married there. We first traveled together to Waiheke Island in March 2020 and fell in love with the place—the natural beauty, the fabulous food and wine, and the lovely people! Mawhiti was the first venue our planner showed us, and we couldn’t get it out of our minds! No other places compared. The location overlooking the ocean is amazing. The unique Gateway Sculpture where the ceremony was held isn’t like anything we had ever seen. The modern house was so spectacular and inviting we were blown away.

Creating An Intimate And Relaxed Wedding Vibe Was Top Priority

We aimed to have a small, intimate, relaxed wedding with our immediate family and closest friends. Our masseuse suggested the idea of having a wedding at a house with a chef to cater, so we have her to thank for this because it’s certainly not something we’d considered. Overall, we wanted a simple, modern, and carefree wedding free from expectation. In terms of style, we didn’t have a specific “vision” in mind, but we wanted it to be complementary to the environment to enhance the location’s natural beauty. We were happy to leave it to the professionals and encouraged them to express their creativity.

Wedding Advice: Focus on the Big Picture, Which is Your Marriage

A wedding can be whatever you want, so do what’s right for you, not what you think you have to do. Go with the vendors you like, connect with, embrace their creativity, and trust their judgment. Don’t get too bogged down in the details, the marriage is the main event, and your guests want to celebrate your special day with you!

Staying Present and Soaking in the Joy

Everything was perfect—phenomenal weather, beautiful native floral arrangements, fantastic music, delicious food, and a fabulous photographer who made us comfortable. Beyond the material elements of the day, we both managed to stay very present and “in the moment” so we could soak it all up and enjoy the day. We’re thrilled we managed to do this because the day went so fast, too fast!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Wild Folk Photography
Event Planning – Waiheke Island Weddings and Events
Venue – Mawhiti, Waiheke Island
Floral Design – Wildflower Waiheke
Catering – Chef Deb
Officiant – Helen Oaks
DJ + Live Music – Goldman Sax
Makeup Artist – Island Beauty Waiheke
Hair Styling – Opia Hair and Beauty
Wedding Dress – Bec and Bridge
Bridal Accessories – Kitte
Groom’s Apparel – Calibre
Rings – Sarah & Sebastian
Rentals – My Waiheke + Lockhart & Smith
Transportation – Waiheke Five

 

Congratulations to Ashton and Andrew on their modern and natural Waiheke Island wedding. A big thank you goes to Wildfolk Photography for expertly capturing the heartfelt moments and stunning details that bring their love story to life.

Take a cue from Ashton and Andrew: Your wedding should be exactly how you want it to be. Don’t feel pressured to follow others’ expectations. Choose vendors you genuinely connect with and let their creativity shine. Don’t stress over small details, and less can definitely be more. Remember, the marriage itself is the most crucial part, and your loved ones just want to celebrate your special day with you!

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This Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Was Inspired By Mexican Culture

July 24, 2023 | justine

Karla and Pete were determined to celebrate their diverse backgrounds in a colorful Acre Baja wedding. Instead of a formal ceremony, they envisioned a vibrant and festive celebration. Karla found inspiration in her Mexican roots, taking cues from the iconic Frida Kahlo, known for embracing indigenous traditions, vibrant colors, and unique fashion. They knew it was the perfect venue to bring their vision to life when they arrived at Acre. However, their planning process unexpectedly lengthened due to pandemic-related rescheduling. And although it initially brought frustration, they soon realized that the extra time was a blessing in disguise.

Set against Acre Baja’s lush, picturesque farm, their wedding day was nothing short of magical. Breaking away from tradition, they curated a ceremony that was truly their own. The circular seating arrangement embraced everyone, offering an intimate and equal view of the heartfelt moments. To infuse a sense of home, they stood on a rug from their own house as they exchanged vows. Transitioning into the reception, a joyous fiesta unfolded. They enjoyed a family-style meal and danced all night under the warm glow of string lights. 

And just wait until you see the couple’s fashion! The groom rocked a purple suit, while the bride was absolutely stunning in an ethereal lace dress paired with a floral crown. Every detail of their special day reflected their unique personalities and is definitely worth seeing. Take a scroll through these photos captured by Junebug member Daniela Ortiz to witness every breathtaking moment and stunning detail.

The Couple:

Karla and Pete

The Wedding:

Acre Resort, Cabo, San Lucas, Mexico

Why A Colorful Acre Baja Wedding

Our wedding was a long time in the making. We met in 2015, got engaged a year later, and decided to take our time planning a memorable event. Since our families are from California, Indiana, and Mexico, we wanted a location that was easy to reach and had good weather for an outdoor celebration. In 2019, we visited San Jose del Cabo to find the perfect venue. The moment we arrived at Acre, we knew it was the one. It felt like a peaceful oasis, with delicious food, charming Treehouse hotel rooms, a beautiful mango orchard, roaming peacocks, a refreshing pool, and a farm that reminded us of our childhood homes. Acre felt like a nostalgic homecoming for us. From the beginning, our goal was to make our wedding reflect our unique relationship, blending different cultures and vibrant colors.

A Surprise Dress, A Tribute Dress, And A Memorable First Look

I bought my wedding dress almost four years before the wedding, and we both wanted to keep it a surprise until I walked down the aisle. However, we also wanted to capture the special moment of seeing each other for the first time. So, I chose to wear a second wedding dress. This dress held sentimental value as it was the same one my late aunt wore at her wedding back in 1989. It created a powerful and emotional moment for our family and allowed us to capture a unique first look we will never forget. Instead of a traditional veil, I wore a flower crown to represent my heritage.

A Wedding Ceremony That Celebrated Love, Equality, and Diversity

Our main goal was to create a ceremony that truly reflected who we are as individuals and as a couple. We wanted it to be genuine, filled with emotions, and a tribute to our loved ones who had traveled far and waited patiently to celebrate with us. Equality is a fundamental aspect of our relationship, so we wanted to ensure that we each had moments to shine and express ourselves through our fashion, colors, and music choices. We decided not to have a traditional wedding party or officiant. Pete walked down the aisle with his parents to the music of his favorite composer, Aaron Copland. I walked down the aisle after my parents, symbolizing their support, and chose to independently give myself away as a gesture of equality and love.

Unique Circular Seating and Ending the Ceremony With Well Wishes From Loved Ones

We decided to break away from tradition and create a unique ceremony design. We wanted to be surrounded by love, both literally and symbolically. The circular seating arrangement gave everyone an equal and intimate view of the ceremony. It represented the infinite love we share as a couple, like the rings we exchanged. We didn’t follow the typical religious wedding structure, where a third party officiated the marriage. Instead, we saw ourselves as the central focus of the ceremony, with each guest playing a significant role in shaping our relationship. As a surprise, Karla’s sister closed the ceremony by inviting everyone to share a wish for our marriage, emphasizing the idea of an unending circle of love and support.

Meaningful Bilingual Readings Included in Their Ceremony

After Pete entered, his father–a pastor at a small church in Indiana–shared a short message. Then, my mother–the spiritual guide for the De La Garza family–addressed everyone in Spanish. During the ceremony, instead of reading Bible verses, our closest family and friends took turns reading some of our favorite poems in both English and Spanish. These poems represented the core of our relationship. We deliberately wanted to include both languages, as I’m from Guadalajara, and we wanted to ensure equal representation. Poetry is a significant part of our relationship, functioning as our scripture. Each poem we chose represents a foundational aspect of our relationship, such as embracing imperfections, loving each other completely, and deserving a love that accepts us as we are. We also paid tribute to our writing heroes, with Pete nodding to Winston Churchill and Karla to Frida Kahlo.

Heartfelt Toasts: Honoring Special Family Bonds During Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Reception

We wanted the reception to be a joyful celebration filled with excitement and happiness. Our love for vibrant colors and simplicity inspired the decor. We added greenery to complement the beautiful mango trees, and instead of numbers, we named the tables after cities that have been meaningful to us. To create a warm and inclusive atmosphere, we opted for a family-style meal, emphasizing the importance of family and considering our friends as extended family. During dinner, three special family members—my dad, Pete’s mom, and my brother— gave heartfelt toasts, as they share a close bond with both of us and have been a part of our lives.

Bringing A Piece Of Home To Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Ceremony

To bring a piece of home with us, we used a rug we bought in Sayulita in January 2020, originally intending to use it on our initial wedding date. The rug had been hanging in our kitchen, waiting for its moment. Having it as a physical and symbolic representation during the ceremony served two purposes: (1) It felt comforting and familiar to stand on something we saw every day, making us feel more at home, and (2) after the wedding, the rug will hang on our walls wherever we live, serving as a tangible reminder of that special day and the vows we made.

Their Colorful Acre Baja Wedding Was A Tequila And Music-Filled Fiesta

I’m from Jalisco, the Mexican state known for its contribution of Tequila to the world. As you can imagine, there was an abundance of tequila throughout the night. Our talented DJ deeply understood our diverse music tastes. He flawlessly mixed pop ballads, EDM, emo rock, popular hits, and reggaetón, and even added a touch of Luis Miguel. The dance floor was never empty as we both have a passion for dancing, and we wanted to ensure everyone enjoyed themselves to the fullest. The party started with Lizzo’s empowering anthem, “About Damn Time,” setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Daniela Ortiz
Videography – Krystal Productions Los Cabos
Event Planning – Karla Casillas and Co.
Venue – Acre
DJ – DJ Alexander Ayala

 

Congratulations to Karla and Pete on their colorful Acre Baja wedding. Big thanks to Junebug member Daniela Ortiz for capturing their special day. Check out Daniela’s profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers for more inspiring weddings.

Planning a personalized wedding with loved ones can be exciting and fulfilling. It’s a chance to blend your unique love story with a dream celebration with your closest family and friends. With careful planning and a reliable team of vendors, your special day will surely be a dream come true.

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Bold Disco Ball Filled Onyx Coffee Lab HQ Wedding

July 18, 2023 | justine

From the start, Hannah and Victor had a clear vision for their wedding day: a bold and colorful disco-party ambiance. They even had a brilliant idea to honor the groom’s father by incorporating his disco balls, some of which had been treasured for nearly two decades. With a playful retro color palette, lots of sparkle, and the help of their wedding planner—who used the couple’s pictures, videos, and inspiration blogs—their Onyx Coffee Lab HQ Wedding became a celebration that truly reflected their fun-loving personalities.

The 110-year-old building in a downtown industrial area was the ideal location for their wedding, with its exposed brick walls adding to its distinctive charm. They beautifully transformed the space for the ceremony with floral pillars, colorful candles, and antique holders on the mantle. When it came time for the reception, they flipped the same space, keeping the backdrop while adding metallic streamers for a playful touch.

It was a collaborative effort that ensured the wedding embodied the couple’s unique style and spirit. If you want to see more of this funky, fun-filled disco affair, keep scrolling to see every incredible detail and moment, all captured by the talented Elizabeth Salazar.

The Couple:

Hannah and Victor

The Wedding:

Onyx Coffee Lab HQ, Walnut Ave., Rogers, Arkansas, United States

Recommended Reading: 5 Tips for Pulling Off Mismatched Bridesmaids Dresses

How Their Bold Disco Ball Filled Onyx Coffee Lab HQ Wedding Came To Be

The vision from the get-go was to incorporate many colors to create a fun, kind of disco-party vibe. I was so excited to see that mirror balls and disco-themed parties were in style and easily accessible because I wanted our wedding to be a true party. A total celebration of how excited and lucky we felt about getting married. Our incredibly talented wedding planner took all the scattered pictures, videos, and inspo blogs I gave her and made our wedding reflect our fun-loving personalities. Also, my husband’s father was a DJ in Arkansas for many years, and we used some of his mirror balls. Some were nearly 20 years old, so that was definitely special.

Recommended Reading: 7 Wedding Signs You Definitely Need At Your Wedding

A Heartfelt Prelude To Their Ceremony

One of the most important things to us as a couple was to connect before the festivities began. About 20 minutes before the ceremony, we shared private vows we wrote. Good thing they were private because we sobbed the entire time. We used portions of the vows in our ceremony, but that time together was invaluable. We then grabbed a craft cocktail at Pinky Swear, a bar in the same building as our venue, as we waited for the ceremony to begin. Spending that time together allowed us to talk about the gravity and magic of the moment before seeing our wedding guests. It made us ten times more at ease and excited. 

Recommended Reading: Get Inspired By These 30 Touching Wedding Vows Examples

Sharing the Load: The Value of Wedding Coordinators and Support Systems

While planning your wedding, try not to shoulder it alone. If you can, hire a coordinator or planner, especially one willing to hear your concerns and advocate for your vision. There are so many options and unexpected, tiny decisions to be made while planning, and it’s normal to become overwhelmed. It can be both exciting and challenging! I didn’t realize there were many decisions and tasks that only my partner and I could finalize, so having an event planner booking and facilitating communication with vendors was beneficial. If you’re coordinating your event, rely on your support system to help you with everything, big or small. And I can officially say that our wedding and the memories we made were worth the effort.

 

Recommended Reading: Creative Ceremony Backdrop Ideas

Crafting A Personalized Wedding Experience

The things I consistently valued while planning our wedding were: making sure the event reflected our personalities and our excitement about marriage and incorporating authenticity into our ceremony so that guests learned more about us as a couple. Creating an easy-going, comfortable reception where our guests could mingle and celebrate. We’re most proud of our authentic and intimate ceremony, our stunning florals, and how KDT Brides pulled off an event that felt personal, unpretentious, and incredibly fun. Also, our decorative signs, done by KDT Brides, were absolutely excellent.

Why An Onyx Coffee Lab HQ Wedding

Our venue choice was an absolute no-brainer. I knew I wanted something different than a blank canvas venue, and Onyx Coffee Lab’s HQ in Rogers felt like the perfect place for us. Onyx HQ has a cozy, mellow vibe, even though it’s a pretty big space. I loved the fireplace and the long green-velvet curtain. The large plants they have everywhere are gorgeous. The venue is incredible by itself, without needing to add a lot of decor, and very affordable. It has a ton of character, and the building has a neat history. It was fun serving Onyx coffee and espresso martinis at the reception. A bonus was that many of our wedding planning meetings took place over cups of coffee at the venue during their business hours.

Meaningful Gifts And Surprises On Their Wedding Day

We kept our gift exchange small, affordable, and meaningful. We purchased wooden keepsake vow books from an Etsy shop, wrote our private vows in our handwriting, and gave them to each other before our ceremony. It was extremely special. I also planned a surprise date to Dillards the week before our wedding. I bought my partner a new cologne to wear, and Dillards even personalized the glass bottle with our initials and wedding date. It ended up being so fun!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Elizabeth Salazar Photography
Event Planning – KDT Brides
Venue – Onyx Coffee Lab HQ
Floral Design – The Flower Slinger
Catering – Bariola’s Pizzaria
Cake – Esther at Harps Bakery
Officiant – Amanda Campbell
DJ – Elite Beats NWA
Makeup Artist – Hannah Groom
Hair Styling – Katie Medley
Wedding Dress – David’s Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Olive & Piper
Veil + Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Rebelleheads
Groom’s Apparel – Mr. Tux NWA
Rentals – Somethin Borrowed

Congratulations to Hannah and Victor for their bold disco ball-filled Onyx Coffee Lab HQ wedding. A special thanks to Elizabeth Salazar for capturing all the unforgettable moments. Their celebration is a great inspiration for couples who love combining fun and funky vibes.

Choosing a versatile venue like the Onyx Coffee Lab HQ allows you and your partner to express your style freely. It’s a blank canvas that offers endless possibilities. Whether you prefer a classic and timeless wedding theme or a vibrant and daring one, adding your own creative touch creates a memorable and immersive experience for your guests. 

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This Bold Villa Woodbine Wedding Incorporated Italian Touches & Miami Flair

July 10, 2023 | justine

Brooke and Tim had initially planned to have their wedding in Italy, as it held sentimental value for them. However, everything changed when they stumbled upon a magnificent, historic Mediterranean-style villa nestled in the heart of Miami. Its charm captivated them instantly, and they knew it was the perfect venue for their special day. They envisioned their wedding as an elegant contemporary dinner party filled with their dearest friends and family. Vibrant florals, flickering candles, and lush greenery were incorporated into the celebration, bringing their dream of a chic and modern Villa Woodbine wedding to life.

The pair was determined to have their wedding outdoors in a beautiful garden instead of a typical ballroom–and they did just that. They said their heartfelt vows beneath a stunning asymmetrical arch that looked like it was growing from the ground. The reception that followed was equally enchanting, with long tables covered in white linen and bright centerpieces that added bursts of color. Fairy lights created a romantic and magical atmosphere, making their dream wedding come true amid the picturesque garden setting.

The couple’s big day perfectly blended Italian elegance and Miami flair, capturing the best of both worlds. Thankfully, Lauren Alatriste was there to capture it all. Keep scrolling to see every beautiful detail and memorable moment of their soiree. 

The Couple:

Brooke and Tim

The Wedding:

Villa Woodbine, Bayshore Drive, Miami, Florida, United States

How Their Villa Woodbine Wedding Came To Be

We were adamant about not getting married in a ballroom, so a beautiful outdoor garden was a must. We originally wanted to get married in Italy–somewhere I had lived, and the first big trip we took together as a couple. But we were sold once we found this historic Mediterranean-style villa in the heart of Miami. During the tour, we immediately fell in love with the venue’s lush outdoor garden, the open-air setting, and the personality throughout. It was like stepping into a beautiful Tuscan villa in the heart of our new home in Miami. We wanted our wedding to feel like a chic and modern dinner party surrounded by our closest friends and family. We pictured bold, bright florals with many candles and string lights to enhance the lush greenery.  Long tables allowed everyone to mingle, and bamboo chairs introduced a more modern and tropical element.

Setting A Romantic Villa Woodbine Wedding Tone With Their Floral Arrangements 

Our florist, Kaleidoscope Floral, was our standout vendor. I made edits to the flower design until the very last minute, and they executed above and beyond our imagination. They were a pleasure to work with and even provided an extra installation on one of the fireplaces that made our cake-cutting photo. My jaw dropped when we walked into the venue and saw the arrangements. They designed the most breathtaking asymmetrical, deconstructed arch to look like it was growing from the ground. It was unlike anything I’d ever seen at a wedding and created such a stunning backdrop for speeches throughout the night too.

Taking Dance Lessons To Prep For Their First Dance Turned Out To Be Their Favorite Activity

We started taking dance lessons for a few weeks to learn basic moves and ensure we looked natural for our first dance. It turned out to be our favorite break from wedding planning, and we found ourselves dancing around our kitchen and trying new renditions of jumps and dips most nights. When the time finally came for our first dance, it felt like we were alone in our little world, gliding around our kitchen even though our loved ones surrounded us. Ultimately, we got to look around at our friends and family and have them join us on the dance floor, the perfect image of our special day.

Navigating Villa Woodbine Wedding Planning Challenges: Keep Your Focus On The Big Picture

Our advice is to focus on the big picture and remember that at the end of the day, it’s all about you and the person you love getting married. Things out of your control will go wrong, but don’t let that diminish the day’s enjoyment. If you and your spouse have fun, guests will bring that same energy. Most importantly, remember that your loved ones are likely traveling and spending money to attend your big day, so go the extra mile to ensure everyone is comfortable, whether organizing room blocks, buses, or special food options. Also, provide your vendors with as much direction and guidance as possible so you won’t have any regrets.  

Designing The Paper Goods for a Unified Look And Redirecting Their Funds On Other Wedding Details

I was focused on making everything cohesive, so I designed all the paper goods myself. While this required much more time and effort, it helped us use that budget for other things. I hit a roadblock with our place cards at the last minute when I learned that our caterer required meal identifiers for each guest, and I wanted to keep the design clean and minimal. To get around this, I decided to hand illustrate the different floral varieties our florist used on the tables. I was surprised how many guests noticed these tiny details that I thought only mattered to me. The end result was really unique and special to us.

Budgeting with Purpose: Prioritizing Upgrades for Maximum Impact

We knew when we booked the venue that there were certain items we’d want to upgrade—bamboo chairs, farm tables, string lights, and plenty of bud vases with taper candles adorning the tables. We added those items to our budget before booking our venue and made a list of the other estimated expenses, from guest transportation down to the stamps for invites. We decided that things like chair upgrades would impact more than upgraded dinnerware or linens and prioritized things like an upgraded bar menu for our guests instead. It’s easy to get carried away, but the best thing to do is get quotes from multiple vendors before booking and be honest with them about your budget to see how you can make things work.

Infusing Miami Flair Through Music and Creating A Playlist for Every Moment

Good music was really important to us, so we created a playlist for the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and reception to guide our DJ and musicians, and from there, they played to the crowd’s energy. We wanted our guests to have a great time and infuse our wedding with a little bit of Miami flair, so we had a live saxophonist play party music alongside our DJ and brought out LED glow sticks for the last hour of the reception. Our guests were all out on the dance floor until the end, with late-night pizza in hand. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lauren Alatriste
Event Planning – The House of Gather
Venue – Villa Woodbine
Floral Design – Kaleidoscope Floral
Catering – Bill Hansen
Cake – Cloud 9 Bakery
Officiant – Rev. Eddie Rodriguez
DJ – Event Factor
Live Music – Marcos del Risco
Dance Lessons – Sol & Jun
Videography – A Creation Films
Makeup Artist – Nicole Emano
Hair Styling – Junkie Bride
Wedding Dress – Ines di Santo
Bridal Accessories – Jimmy Choo
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Cult Gaia
Groom’s Apparel – Tom Ford
Groomsmen’s Apparel – George Cleverley

 

Congratulations to Brooke and Tim on their Villa Woodbine wedding. And a big thank you to Lauren Alatriste for capturing all the spectacular moments and beautiful details. 

From the venue to the decor and florals, the most unforgettable weddings are filled with creativity, personal touches, and genuine elements that narrate a beautiful story. To begin your wedding planning journey, take a look at our guide and explore unique ideas that will inspire you to make your special day extraordinary.

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This Paris Elopement Will Have You Booking A Flight to France ASAP

July 9, 2023 | justine

Choosing to embrace intimacy, Valeh and Mehdi decided on a Paris elopement to capture the essence of their relationship. With a vision for something simple and understated, they effortlessly crafted a remarkable and heartfelt celebration that will forever hold a special place in their hearts.

Their choice of destination couldn’t have been more romantic. Just imagine exchanging heartfelt vows with the magnificent Eiffel Tower as their backdrop—it was truly a dream come true! After the ceremony, they took leisurely strolls along charming streets, pausing to capture stunning café portraits. Later, they found solace in a century-old chateau, where they savored a private lunch in their cozy hotel room. They shared stories and laughter and embraced their own unique way of commemorating their love.

From the exquisite florals to the chic fashion choices, we are absolutely captivated by the beautiful understated details that perfectly complemented the vibe of their special day! If you’ve ever dreamt of getting lost in the romance of the city of love with your future spouse, scroll through and be prepared to fall in love with these breathtaking photos by Junebug member Through The Glass.

The Couple:

Valeh and Mehdi

The Wedding:

Paris, France

Shop Similar Vow Books: 1. Personalized Handmade Paper Booklets 2. Wedding Vow Books Set of 2 3. Personalized Vows with Silk Ribbons

How Their Paris Elopement Came to Be

As two graduate students from Iran studying at the University of California, we started as close friends and built our relationship from there. We wanted our wedding to be a cherished moment that celebrated our bond and marked the beautiful beginning of our love story. Our Paris elopement truly represented who we are as a couple, celebrating love, freedom, and simplicity. We created a meaningful experience that allowed us to focus on each other and celebrate the beautiful journey we had embarked upon.

Exchanging Vows Against The Eiffel Tower

Undoubtedly, the ceremony was the most memorable part of our wedding day. The romantic backdrop of the Eiffel Tower in Paris was the perfect choice for us. We aimed to infuse a Middle Eastern vibe by incorporating pastel flowers into our color palette. These flowers added a subtle pop of color while maintaining a soft and romantic ambiance. It was a truly magical moment in Paris, with the February sun illuminating the Eiffel Tower as we exchanged our vows. The officiant did an incredible job of narrating our love story. As we stood there, tears of joy filled our eyes, and we couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the sheer romance of the moment. It was a truly enchanting experience, and we feel immensely grateful to have had such a special and romantic ceremony in the city of love.

A Simple and Comfortable Wedding Look To Match Their Laidback Wedding

We envisioned a wedding that was simple and minimalist, so I chose a short white dress instead of a traditional gown. We intentionally kept the makeup and hairstyle minimal and simple, emphasizing natural beauty. A delicate veil added a touch of romance to my look. In keeping with the theme of freedom and comfort, my partner wore a cream suit without a tie.We wanted to feel free and comfortable and radiate happiness on our special day. 

Capturing Memories Beyond the Lens by Forgoing A Videographer

We consciously decided to forgo videography to maximize our time together and escape the need for additional posing on our special day. After the ceremony, we retreated to our chosen hotel, Saint James Paris. This charming 100-year-old château nestled in its private garden provided an intimate and peaceful environment for us to celebrate our union. We treasured our moments together, enjoying a private lunch in our hotel room, sharing stories, and celebrating in our own unique way.

Trusting Your Instincts: Crafting an Authentic and Meaningful Wedding Experience

When it comes to wedding planning advice, it is crucial to prioritize your feelings and desires. Remember, every couple is unique, and your wedding should reflect your love and personality. Amidst the excitement, take the time on your special day to find moments for yourselves. Find a quiet spot, sit together, and bask in the joy of your love. Cherish the opportunity to have intimate conversations and create memories that will last a lifetime. Hold each other’s hands and savor the significance of this day as a symbol of your lifelong journey together. By focusing on what truly matters to both of you, you will create an authentic and meaningful wedding experience. This is your special day, so fill it with moments that celebrate your love and the bond you share. Trust your instincts, stay true to yourselves, and let your wedding day be a reflection of the beautiful love story you have created.

How Choosing the Right Vendors Helped Make Their Dream Paris Elopement Come to Life

We take great pride in setting aside others’ expectations and judgments to create a wedding that is truly our own. It was liberating for us to follow our hearts and make decisions based on what truly mattered to us as a couple. We’re particularly proud of our choice to work with an exceptional event planner and photographer, who played a crucial role in capturing the essence of our special day and preserving every moment beautifully. The expertise and talent of the team allowed us to relive the magic of their wedding through stunning photographs and flawless execution. Having the right team by our side made all the difference, and we’re grateful for their dedication and professionalism.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Through The Glass
Event Planning – The Paris Elopement
Ceremony Venue – Trocadéro Paris
Floral Design – Be One Paris
Officiant – The Parisian Celebrant
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Alesia Solo
Wedding Dress – Olivia Bottega
Bridal Accessories – Ofrenda + Badgley Mischka
Bridesmaids’ Apparel –
Groom’s Apparel – Indochino
Groom’s Accessories – Allen Edmonds

 

Congratulations to Valeh and Mehdi on their Paris elopement. And a big thank you to Junebug member Through The Glass for capturing all the beautiful moments. To see more spectacular celebrations that make you want to book a flight to France asap, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

After looking through these inspiring photos, you might want to elope, and we totally get it. If so, begin your planning journey by exploring our elopement planning guide. It includes the best locations, vendors, and inspiration that show how, sometimes, simplicity is all you need.

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Charming Flower-Filled Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

July 7, 2023 | justine

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Emily and Cullen wanted a small wedding allowing them to spend quality time with their loved ones. They had often thought about getting married in Ireland, and one night, Emily discovered the perfect venue—a stunning Italian restaurant inside 300-year-old bridge mills right on the River Corrib. It was a match made in heaven! With a sultry color palette, gorgeous florals, and a mix of traditional and modern touches—their Il Vicolo destination wedding was a beautiful combo of old-world charm and a timeless romance.

To begin their special day, the couple shared the sweetest first look at Menlo Castle, relishing in the moment’s joy as they explored the grounds together. For their outdoor ceremony, they added a touch of rustic charm with elegant floral pillars perfectly complementing the old stone walls of their venue. The transition from the ceremony to the restaurant reception was seamless, as the cozy ambiance greeted their guests. The tables were filled with luscious blooms and soft candlelight, creating a warm and dreamy atmosphere.

Junebug member Gabi & Nessa expertly planned this couple’s special day, and these images captured by The Martins Photography perfectly showcase the love and beauty that filled their wedding. As you scroll through, you’ll be treated to unique ideas and inspiration for your own intimate celebration.

The Couple:

Emily and Cullen

The Wedding:

Il Vicolo, Galway, Ireland

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Why An Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Our wedding melded beauty and history together in one stunning location with ocean and river views on top of an award-winning food menu and stellar cocktail list. There was so much vintage charm from the building alone that it would have been perfect by itself. All of our vendors were absolutely incredible. However, we would like to give a special shout-out to the staff of Il Vicolo, who treated us like family. Evidently, they loved working together and made the evening so much fun. A team that can serve a delicious meal, mix up wonderful cocktails and still finds time to joke and laugh with everyone is a special group.

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

A Memorable First Look Before The Ceremony

The most memorable part of our day was our time together at Menlo Castle before the ceremony. We had our first look, then explored the grounds and estate ruins with our photographer, who cheered us on the entire time while taking the most incredible photos.

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Weaving Celtic Rituals With Personal Touches At Their Il Vicolo Destination Wedding Ceremony

We worked with Dara Molloy, a Druid Priest from the Aran Islands, to fully customize our ceremony in an authentic way. He incorporated ancient Celtic rituals like handfasting with contemporary readings of our choice, which we both felt exemplified our love for each other and our promise to be partners in life.

An Unforgettable And Stress-Free Guest Experience Was A Top Priority

We wanted to ensure that we spent time with our family and friends who traveled to another country to be there for us on our wedding day. From their flights to Ireland, until they arrived home, we tried our best to ensure our guests’ experiences were as stress-free as possible. We wanted everyone to be able to relax and enjoy our time with each other while basking in the beauty of Ireland. The fact that we successfully planned a wedding in a foreign country, then coordinated a travel experience for 40 people of various ages from different cities all over the United States with no major issues was remarkable.

Junebug Planner Gabi Kmitas Brought Their Dream Wedding To Life With Her Creative Vision

Our planner and floral designer, Gabi & Nessa, took everything to the next level. We wish we could take credit for the style and design of our wedding. But all credit goes to Gabi, who created the color palette, designed place settings, and created breathtaking floral arrangements that flowed seamlessly with the restaurant’s aesthetic. Every idea she sent us during the planning process was perfect, making it easy to trust her vision for our day. Gabi and her team brought out the beauty of Ireland with a balance of light peach and moody red florals, accented by various greens, all cohesively brought together by the vintage furniture and Italian artwork of Il Vicolo paired with the history of the bridge mills.

Advice For Choosing The Right Vendor Team

The best advice we could give is to find vendors that make you excited for the day and make the planning process easy. We kept waiting for the wedding planning to become stressful, but everyone we worked with made the planning process a delight. From our planner and photographer to the Il Vicolo team, who took us on a FaceTime tour of the restaurant—we lucked out with the most amazing vendors who made planning a wedding in a foreign country a breeze. Also, send out email calendar invites to your guests. This tip is from Cullen specifically.

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

Il Vicolo Destination Wedding

The Wedding Team:

Photography – The Martins Photography
Event Planning + Floral Design + Invitation Design – Gabi & Nessa
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Il Vicolo
Cake – Elite Cakes Boutique
Officiant – Dara Molloy
Live Music – Nova Quartet
Makeup Artist – Sara Duffy Makeup
Hair Styling – Sinead Lee Hair Design
Wedding Dress – Sarah Seven
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – David’s Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Balani Custom Clothier
Rings – Jewelers Rowe Diamond’s
Welcome Dinner Cruise – Corrib Princess

 

Congratulations to Emily and Cullen on their charming flower-filled Il Vicolo destination wedding. Many thanks to The Martins Photography for capturing all the beautiful details, memorable moments, and everything in between. And lastly, a special thank you to Junebug members Gabi & Nessa for planning the entire thing. To see more celebrations she expertly brought to life, take a look at her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding planners.

Destination weddings offer a unique opportunity for intimate gatherings with your loved ones, where you can create meaningful connections. Remember, the key to a successful destination wedding is working with experienced vendors who can make your celebration truly remarkable. Start your own journey by exploring our exclusive directory of the world’s best wedding vendors.

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Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

Quintessential Colorful New Orleans Wedding At Race and Religious

June 30, 2023 | justine

With guests flying in from around the world, Rebecca and Luke were determined to create an unforgettable experience for everyone attending their big day. Their top priorities included a celebration infused with love, joy, lively music, and delectable cuisine. That’s why they decided to have their special day in New Orleans, where the city’s energetic atmosphere aligned with their vision. The result was a quintessential colorful New Orleans wedding that truly represented their own style and personality.

To showcase the magic of New Orleans, they chose the historic Race and Religious. The venue’s charming brick courtyard was a perfect backdrop, adorned with simple black chairs and beautiful ikebana-style aisle arrangements. Following the ceremony, they embraced the NOLA tradition with a spirited second-line parade through the streets. Upon returning to the courtyard, the celebration carried on with a reception featuring long tables adorned with repurposed florals and lots of candles. 

The couple’s hard work and dedication paid off on their wedding day. Their celebration was filled with bursts of color and contagious energy, making it an unforgettable experience. Beautifully captured by Lyndsey Goddard, feel the excitement as you scroll through these incredible photos highlighting the unique and personal touches that made their big day one-of-a-kind.

The Couple:

Rebecca and Luke

The Wedding:

Race and Religious, New Orleans, Louisiana

Embracing The NOLA Spirit Starting With Their Colorful New Orleans Wedding Venue

We knew we wanted to get married in NOLA, and the first thing we decided on was the venue. We fell in love when we saw Race and Religious and started researching. The layout was perfect for creating the fun and exciting day we envisioned. We wanted something that truly embodied the spirit of New Orleans and had historical and cultural significance. One of the buildings is among the 11 remaining original Creole cottages in the city, with bricks made from mud from the Mississippi River. The beams are crafted from decommissioned river barges, and another building features beautiful original artwork from around the world. It’s such a unique and stunning venue, and we felt incredibly fortunate to be able to get married there.

Celebrating In Style At Their Colorful New Orleans Wedding

We wanted a vibrant, cheerful color scheme, as we love lively colors! The floral arrangements followed an ikebana style, highlighting the individual flowers’ colors and shapes. We enjoyed the asymmetrical form of the arrangements. Our florist devised a great idea to line the aisle with flowers, which we later reused on the dinner tables. We chose natural, mustard-colored linen for the tables and added red velvet napkins. It turned out well, giving the dinner a relaxed and fun vibe instead of a formal setting. Everything worked beautifully with Race and Religious, a venue that already exudes its own natural beauty.

Personalizing The Ceremony By Honoring Their Parents, Crafting A Meaningful Wedding Script, And Writing Their Own Vows

We had our parents walk down the aisle first, a unique choice that allowed them to shine and engage everyone. Collaborating with our officiant, we crafted a beautiful and heartfelt wedding script that felt truly special and was eloquently written. Additionally, we wrote our own vows, which added a lovely personal touch to the ceremony. It was a truly beautiful and memorable moment for us.

Dancing Through The Streets Of New Orleans

It’s hard to pick just one favorite moment from our wedding day, but the second-line parade stands out as something extraordinary. This New Orleans tradition brought so much fun and excitement to our celebration. We joyfully danced through the lively streets of New Orleans, accompanied by an upbeat jazz band and surrounded by our loved ones. It was an absolute highlight that we’ll always cherish.

Lessons Learned: Communication Tips for Working with Wedding Vendors

I recommend having clear communication with your vendors. Thankfully, most of our vendors were terrific, but we did have one negative experience. It came down to more communication regarding their requirements and timelines. To avoid similar issues, clearly communicate your expectations and needs. Don’t wait for them to ask questions; be proactive and ask for timelines. Clear communication will help ensure a smoother experience with your vendors.

Leaving it to the Pros: Enjoying a Stress-Free Wedding Experience

We were incredibly relaxed throughout the day and enjoyed ourselves to the fullest. We never wanted the day to end! With so many moving parts and prior planning, we were grateful to entrust the professionals and avoid getting caught up in the minor details on the actual day. We take pride in successfully pulling off a wonderful overseas wedding and ensuring our family and friends had a fantastic time. It was essential to us since everyone made an effort to be there. We treasure these special memories with our loved ones and wholeheartedly embrace the joy of getting married.

Custom Poems As Memorable Mementos at the Colorful New Orleans Wedding

Instead of traditional wedding favors, we opted for a unique and memorable approach. We invited Cubs the Poet, an incredibly talented poet, and artist, to join us on our special day. Cubs brought his typewriter and created custom poems for our guests as cherished keepsakes. The experience was truly magical. Through a conversation, Cubs crafted a beautiful poem and even a portrait for us. It provided a serene moment amidst the joyful chaos, connecting us with our emotions and feelings. We now proudly display both the poem and portrait in our home as a cherished reminder. Our guests also found the experience poignant, with some describing it as therapeutic. It was undoubtedly one of the day’s highlights for us and our loved ones.

Treating Their Guests To A True NOLA Feast

Considering the significance of food in New Orleans culture, we aimed to showcase traditional local cuisine with a unique twist. Collaborating with Black Pearl, we curated an exciting menu that excited us for the big day. Our culinary journey began with mouthwatering oysters served with sazarac mignonette. As for the passed appetizers, we delighted in BBQ shrimp toast, roast beef po’bao (a fusion of the New Orleans classic ‘po boy’ with an Asian influence of ‘bao’), tomato pie, and crab-stuffed artichoke. For the main course, we put a spin on surf and turf, featuring a grilled NY strip with bay laurel shrimp, accompanied by a fresh salad and vegetables. To ensure we could hit the dance floor, we opted for passed desserts, including delectable beignets and wedding cake. As a late-night snack, we indulged in a ‘McRib’ and chips, a treat we still regret missing!

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Lyndsey Goddard
Event Planning – Southern Approach
Ceremony Venue – Race and Religious
Floral Design – Herbivore Floral Designs
Catering – Black Pearl Catering Co
Cake – Bittersweet confections
Officiant – Let’s Elope New Orleans
DJ – Aaron Lane Entertainment
Live Music – Kinfolk Brass Band
Videography – Idlewild Media
Wedding Dress – Lola Varma
Bridal Accessories – Gucci
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rings – Cushla Whiting
Rentals – Love Good Rentals + Linen rentals
Beer tap/drinks – TaptruckNOLA

Congratulations to Rebecca and Luke on their quintessential colorful New Orleans wedding. And a big thank you to Lyndsey Goddard for beautifully capturing all the special moments and lively energy of the happiest day of their lives.

To create an unforgettable celebration, you need a winning combination of elements: a captivating venue, exciting entertainment, and delicious food. Just like this wedding! And with the right team of vendors to bring your vision to life, there are no limits to what you can achieve. Don’t be afraid to dream big and let your creativity soar.

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