Location: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Setting: Beach
Wedding season: Fall
How long did the couple plan the event: 1 year
Number of guests: 95
Wedding theme/style: Chic, timeless, beachfront.
Tanya and Xavier’s love story started in a most unexpected setting — a seminar on econometrics. Their shared confusion over the complex subject matter quickly turned into a shared connection, blossoming into romance by the gleaming lights of the National Christmas Tree. After a proposal by the Washington Monument and numerous travels across 12 countries, they chose to tie the knot in Xavier’s hometown, by the serene beaches of Mexico.
Holiak Photography captured all emotions and special moments with clarity and creativity. Through his lens, he expertly showed the joy, the ambiance, and the intimate connection between the couple and their loved ones, making their wedding day truly unforgettable.
Their wedding took place in a Marriott Hotel Resort in Puerto Vallarta, where the crystal-clear waters and warm, sandy beaches created the perfect backdrop for their ceremony. The beach and garden setting of their fall wedding provided a picturesque stage for the almost a hundred guests from 19 different countries, who joined them to celebrate their union.
Tanya chose a sleek mikado dress from Pronovias, embodying the elegance and simplicity she admired in Sofia Richie’s bridal look. Her hair fell in gentle Hollywood waves, parting in the middle to frame her naturally made-up face.
Her favorite DIY was a customized newspaper with the wedding day itinerary, complete with facts about their relationship and Xavi’s fun and crazy wedding planning ideas.
Their first look was a tender, private moment before all of the festivities that awaited them. They took a walk around the resort area to enjoy each other company.
The ceremony was held against the backdrop of a golden sunset. Tanya was walked down the aisle by her mom, and together with Xavier’s mother, they helped incorporate Mexican and Ukrainian traditions, reflecting the couple’s heritage. Their dear friend officiated, adding a personal touch to the proceedings. With the serene beach and gardens around them, Tanya and Xavier exchanged vows to the gentle sound of waves.
The reception unfolded under a canopy of twinkling lights, casting a warm glow over the elegantly set tables. White decor and lush greenery highlighted the beauty of their beachside setting, providing a romantic ambiance as the sun dipped below the horizon. Guests were greeted by the sounds of a traditional Mariachi band, setting the mood for a night of celebration.
The evening came alive with music and joy as Tanya and Xavier shared their first dance to salsa music – a nod to the couple’s favorite date activity. The night was marked by the couple cutting a cake and a performance from their friend before guests joined in on the dance floor.
Advice from couple:
• Always negotiate every detail, from contracts to extra event time. Schedule an additional 30 minutes for each segment to ensure a relaxed celebration. Enlist friends for support—everyone wants to be involved. Take charge of the guest list; if a distant acquaintance doesn’t resonate, exclude them. Finally, it’s your wedding; embrace your desires. Make it uniquely yours, whether it’s a bouncy castle or any unconventional idea.
PHOTOGRAPHER Holiak Photography | VIDEOGRAPHER Romanov Wedding | VENUE & PLANNING Marriott Hotel Resort | DRESS Pronovias
