Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Setting: Hotel
Season: Winter
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 94
Wedding theme/style: Coastal, relaxed.
Jessica and Jace Michael, originally from Southern California, now live in Miami. Jace runs a successful digital marketing agency, and Jessica is the Director of Recruiting for a finance staffing agency. They met on a dating app during the COVID era. Following their engagement, they planned a destination wedding to celebrate with family and friends over a long weekend.
The Marriott Hotel was the perfect venue for Jessica and Michael’s wedding. Situated by the beach, the hotel is surrounded by acres of lush grounds with swaying palm trees and a private beach on the Pacific Ocean. The bright colors and tropical Mexican décor added a vibrant touch to the celebration. It felt like the place was made just for their big day, providing a stunning backdrop for their wedding.
Laughing and drinking champagne, Jessica and her friends spent the wedding morning preparing for the day. Her vision for an elegant and classic bridal look led her to Australian designer Jane Hill, choosing a beautiful strapless off-white mermaid-style dress. With simple, loose curls framing her face, Jessica’s makeup, executed by celebrity makeup artist Chelsea Roach, perfectly embodied her desired “classic bridal look.” Her bridesmaids complemented her style in soft blush dresses, holding delicate bouquets of white and blush flowers, adding to the overall romantic and sophisticated atmosphere.
The groom, dressed in a light beige linen suit, exuded a relaxed yet polished vibe that perfectly matched the tropical setting. His friends wore matching suits, adding a cohesive and stylish look to the wedding party.
The couple’s first look was beautifully captured by the talented photographer Sasha Samsonova. On this sunny day with changing light, she expertly adapted to create stunning photos. In the picturesque setting, she highlighted the lush tropical greenery while capturing the couple’s joy and love amidst the natural beauty.
The ocean breeze, the rays of the setting sun, and the delicately decorated shore with flowers all created the perfect atmosphere to begin the ceremony. “Jace and his family, including the officiant, fell ill a week before the wedding – a nightmare for any couple. Fortunately, I stayed healthy, and everyone recovered in time, reminding us that adaptability is key,” said the bride.
Smiling with emotion, the guests enjoyed such a beautiful moment. The bride and groom exchanged rings, symbolizing a new chapter in their lives full of new amazing adventures.
During the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed mingling on the lush grounds of the Marriott Hotel, surrounded by tropical greenery. Talented local musicians playing traditional Mexican tunes enhanced the vibrant atmosphere, adding an authentic touch to the celebration. It was a perfect start for the evening’s festivities, setting the tone for a night of joy and celebration.
While the guests were enjoying drinks and conversations, Jessica and Michael stole a quiet moment alone on the beach. With the serene sounds of the Pacific Ocean in the background, they walked hand in hand, soaking in the beauty of the moment. Photographer Sasha Samsonova captured these intimate moments perfectly, highlighting the couple’s deep connection against the stunning coastal backdrop. Her photos beautifully conveyed the tranquility and romance of their private time together.
The reception’s setting was a perfect blend of elegance and fun, inspired by a modern garden theme from an Australian wedding. Long wooden tables were adorned with delicate arrangements of white and blush flowers, including roses, orchids, and anthuriums, adding a touch of femininity and romance. The lush greenery of the surrounding tropical plants provided a stunning natural backdrop, while the decor featured playful elements like disco balls hanging above the dance floor, reflecting light and adding a festive vibe.
When the sun set, the couple happily cut the cake in honor of their future together. An exceptional performance from a groomsman added to the evening’s fun and brought everyone closer.
The couple’s first dance was a choreographed performance to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” setting the tone for the evening’s celebrations, where everyone enjoyed dancing. A DJ played the couple’s favorite college songs all night, getting everyone on their feet.
Advice from the couple:
• Reflecting on our experience, we emphasize the importance of allocating time wisely, hiring a wedding planner for the day of, and being intentional with expenditures. We stress the significance of the guest list, advocating for inviting those who hold a meaningful place in our lives for years to come.
PHOTOGRAPHER Sasha Samsonova | VIDEOGRAPHER Max Conrad | VENUE Marriott | PLANNER Melany García | FLORALS Third + Park | MAKEUP Chelsea Roach | BRIDE DRESS Jane Hill | BRIDESMAID DRESS Show Me Your Mumu
