We LOVE destination weddings, especially when the couple decides to have one spontaneously! Vanessa tells the story best so we’ll let her paint the picture for you:
“My fiancé and I had disagreed about our best day ever even before we got engaged (yeah, I was planning WAY ahead). He wanted a big party with his family in Michigan and I wanted an ultra intimate gathering somewhere tropical. We settled for my favorite day trip spot, Sonoma, CA. Maybe it was a miracle, or rush of endorphins and emotions, but the day he proposed someone asked us where we were getting married and the first thing to come out of his mouth was “Costa Rica!” I was shocked, Costa Rica is so near to my heart, its my dad’s home country and where we feel the most at home.
Our wedding day was nothing short of magical. We were surrounded by the best and most supportive people we know. My brother married us late-afternoon. After the ceremony we walked over to our favorite beachfront restaurant for cocktails and dinner and had our first dance while watching the sun dip into the ocean. There isn’t a thing I would change about that week or that day and I am so excited to share it!”
Not sure how we’ll top that but we’ll try as we take you through the stunning photos, taken by White Diamond Photography of their wedding day. Vanessa found her beach goddess inspired Theia Couture gown at Lovely Bride. The dress had flowing lace sleeves, a low back and a ribbon to show off the bride’s slender waistline. She wore her hair in an effortless updo, a loose and low bun by Famous Points Beauty and finished her look with a tropical flower crown to match her beautiful bouquet by Four Nineteen Weddings. She looked incredible.
Joshua wore a light grey suit and ditched the tie (hello, they’re on the beach). He looked anxious and excited waiting for Vanessa to grab his hand. After the sweetest first look ever, the bride enjoyed one of Hotel Bahia del Sol’s hammocks we’re sad we don’t have in our backyard. Gorgeous!
Salt and Sage Designs (one of our favorite calligraphers with the most unique lettering) accented these welcome signs with palm leaves. A greenery covered alter stood framing the beach and palm leaves lined the aisle. Vanessa’s father walked her down to her beaming groom and, in front of their closest loved ones, they shared vows and a romantic first kiss. Palm trees swayed softly in the wind and the sun shined over the ocean behind them. Perfection.
If you’re having a small wedding a group photo is a must. Guests kicked off their shoes to join Vanessa and Joshua on the warm sandy beach for photos. Everyone wore white, grey or beige!
The couple walked with guests along the beach to Coco Loco but got a head start so they could take some just married photos with their photographer. Basically we want to go to Costa Rica immediately. Each picture seems more perfect than the last. This couple is so happy, relaxed and in love.
Tables lined with tropical greenery and flowers sat outside under market lighting so guests could listen to ocean waves and watch the magical sunset. Vanessa and Joshua cheered with coconut mojito served in actual coconuts and shared a first dance as the sun dropped over the horizon.
We are SO happy for these two and also feel the strongest urge to book a getaway to Costa Rica!! We hope that Vanessa and Joshua continue to visit this place that was special to them before but even more special now, and remember the joy they felt on their wedding day. We hope they continue to live their lives spontaneously and following their hearts!! Happy Married Life!!
