Chelsey and Britt’s Tulum wedding was a stunning fusion of modern elegance and tropical charm, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Akiin Beach Club. From a custom black suit with hidden personal details to a light-up dance floor and maracas-filled ceremony, every element was thoughtfully designed to reflect their vibrant love story. The result was a celebration that felt effortlessly stylish, deeply personal, and unforgettable from start to finish.
Location: Tulum, Mexico
Style: Modern, chic, tropical
Time of planning: 11 months
Number of guests: 86
Setting: Beachside villa
Season: Fall
Chelsey and Britt’s story began a year ago, with an instant connection that defied explanation. From that day on, they were inseparable, drawn together with a pull stronger than gravity. Just three months later, on Chelsey’s birthday, Britt had planned the perfect proposal in Turks and Caicos, but due to the hurricane he had to cancel everything last minute. With only 24 hours to spare, Britt reimagined the entire trip, rerouting their love story to Grand Cayman without missing a beat. There, beneath a starlit sky and the whisper of waves, Britt proposed with a grand bouquet and Chelsey’s best friend secretly waiting nearby. It was spontaneous, intimate, and unforgettable, everything their love had always been.
Location & Planning
The planning of Chelsey and Britt’s wedding was more than organizing an event, it was about crafting a heartfelt journey that reflected their story, and the people who mean the most to them. The vision was rooted in the natural magic of Tulum, effortless, soulful, and alive, infused with a hint of glam and a spirit of celebration. From the very beginning, the couple placed their full trust in their planner, For Destination Weddings Tulum, who made every step feel seamless and stress-free.
The entire wedding vision to life with effortless precision. Picture candlelight dancing in the warm night air, disco balls scattering light across the dance floor, and a setting that felt both untamed and refined. Every detail was designed to strike a beautiful balance between intimacy and captivating energy. It was a celebration where earthy textures met dazzling accents, and heartfelt romance flowed into an unforgettable sparkling celebration.
Bride's Look
Chelsey’s morning unfolded in the serene beauty of Zorba Tulum, a dreamy hideaway nestled right on the beach. With the sound of waves just steps away and sunlight pouring in through swaying palms, Chelsey and her bridal party began the day with laughter, champagne, and soft satin pajamas. There was an atmosphere of calm excitement as they got ready, the perfect setting for the bride.
The bride discovered her gown by Neta BenShabu after an extensive search, 15 boutiques to be exact, at the charming Solutions Bridal. As soon as she slipped into it, she knew it was the one. The dress perfectly balanced sensuality and sophistication, featuring a structured corset top and delicate sheer layers adorned with Chantilly lace, intricate beadwork, and exquisite hand-sewn embellishments. Its dramatic, extra-long train swept gracefully behind her, adding a sense of grandeur as she walked.
Chelsey carried a fresh, organic bouquet of white tulips, orchids, ranunculus, and hydrangeas, accented with soft greens and tied with a simple white ribbon. Her sleek ivory satin heels by Bella Belle, with delicate ankle ties, added a romantic, whimsical touch. Flowers and Braids styled Chelsey’s hair into a smooth low bun, while the warm-toned makeup with a defined eye and classic nude lip let her natural beauty and stunning gown take center stage.
Groom's Fashion
Britt spent his morning at La Valise, surrounded by the warmth of the tropical setting and the rustic textures of the villa. The groom got ready with his close friends and family, sipping on refreshing drinks and chatting.
The groom wore a custom black suit by Balani Customs, perfectly tailored for the tropical Tulum setting. Though he originally leaned toward a tan look, his bride made the executive decision to go classic black, and it paid off beautifully, complementing the coastal chic aesthetic of the day. The suit was crafted from breathable fabric to keep things cool and comfortable, with thoughtful personal touches like a custom lining, his initials, and their wedding date embroidered on the back collar. To make it even more special, his dad and best man wore a matching version.
Ceremony
Chelsey and Britt chose Akiin Beach Club for their ceremony, a breathtaking spot where the ocean met the sky, creating a naturally stunning and romantic backdrop. The aisle was lined with lush greenery and white florals by Grisel Florals, leading to a floral arch draped in soft white fabric. Personalized maracas awaited each guest on their seat, adding a festive Mexican touch that made the ceremony feel both joyful and deeply personal.
The couple exchanged their vows in front of the stunning turquoise ocean, with the breeze and soft waves creating a naturally romantic atmosphere. The officiant, known for his heartfelt ceremonies, added a deeply personal layer to the moment with his warm and meaningful words.
As the couple sealed their vows with a kiss, the joyful sound of maracas filled the air, blending seamlessly with cheers from family and friends. It was an unforgettable, cinematic moment of pure celebration. Later many guests described it as one of the most beautiful weddings they had ever witnessed, where every detail felt thoughtfully chosen and flawlessly brought to life.
When Chelsey and Britt walked back down the aisle hand in hand, they were showered with white rose petals. This moment was perfectly captured by Luxart Wedding Studio. Throughout the day, the photographers curated a collection of unforgettable images that felt effortlessly chic, yet bursting with energy and emotion, dynamic, fun, and full of life, just like the celebration itself.
Decor & Setting
The decor was nothing short of magical. Designed to feel both lush and luxurious, the space embraced natural elements with an elegant, modern touch. Towering centerpieces of tropical greenery and cascading white orchids adorned the tables, glowing softly under the warm candlelight. Above, floating ferns, delicate draping, and woven lanterns cast a dreamy light, creating an ambiance that felt intimate and cozy.
The black and neutral-toned table settings added a layer of sophisticated contrast, with sleek glassware, black linen napkins, and flickering candles completing the look. Every detail came together to transform the night into a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
Reception
Chelsey and Britt made their grand entrance together, beaming with joy as they stepped into the glowing reception space. Chelsey waved her bouquet playfully, met with roaring cheers and applause from their guests. It was the perfect kickoff to an evening of pure magic.
The five-course menu took guests on a culinary journey, blending bold Mexican flavors with international flair. Signature cocktails added a playful touch, ‘The Baby Maker’ spicy margarita, the crisp ‘Woman in White’ lychee martini, and the bold ‘El Jefe,’ each crafted to reflect the couple’s fun and sophisticated style. Heartfelt toasts filled the room, bringing happy tears and wide smiles. Every word felt warm, genuine, and perfectly true to Chelsey and Britt, an emotional highlight that made the night even more unforgettable.
"Sitting and looking around at all our closest loved ones under one roof was so heart touching and to see how they all flew out to Tulum to celebrate our love and be there for us was so special!"
Chelsey and Britt had a magical surprise in store for their guests under the open sky, a dazzling light-up dance floor that felt like something straight out of a music video. As they stepped onto it for their first dance, fountains of cold sparklers lit up around them, casting a golden glow over the moment.
They swayed to ‘Soulmate’ by Chanin, a song that spoke directly to their hearts. The lyrics echoed their promise to be each other’s ride or die, making the moment feel euphoric and deeply personal. It was more than a first dance, it was a cinematic celebration of their love.
After a quick outfit change, Chelsey returned in a chic, strapless mini dress that sparkled with subtle texture, playful, elegant, and perfect for dancing the night away. Right after the couple shared a sweet cake-cutting moment, laughing together under the warm glow of string lights. The cake itself had a minimalist design with a smooth white finish, decorated with delicate white blooms and tropical greenery that echoed the day’s lush floral theme.
The energy of the party was unstoppable, the DJ kept the beats flowing all night, never missing a moment to elevate the celebration. This wasn’t just a wedding, it was an experience. A live saxophonist, Ariel Mezzapesa, played alongside the DJ from SoundCity, adding a soulful, electric layer to the music that had everyone on their feet. The fusion of classic romance and modern rhythms created a soundscape that was both vibrant and unforgettable, making the dance floor the heart of the night.
"When we look back at our wedding all we see is a dream come true. Everything about it was perfect. We felt total trust in Gwen and her team and they executed our once in a lifetime day better than I could have even imagined!"
Advice from the couple:
• Plan early! And if you have to go over budget… Do it! LOL you will not regret it!
PLANNER & DESIGN Destination Weddings Tulum | PHOTOGRAPHER Luxart Wedding Studio | GETTING READY VENUE Zorba Tulum & La Valise Tulum | CEREMONY & RECEPTION VENUE Akiin Beach Club | FLORALS Grisel Florals | MUAH Flowers and Braids | DRESS Neta BenShabu & Solutions Bridal | SHOES Bella Belle | SUIT Balani Customs | SAX Ariel Mezzapesa | DJ & SOUND SYSTEM SoundCity | RENTALS & FABRICS & LIGHTING Aquadeco Tulum Rentals | CHAIRS Minimal Rent
