We’re back with another Real Weddings feature, and this week we are talking to Calli, a destination bride who had her wedding at the beautiful Dreams Natura in Cancun, Mexico. She shares real advice from a bride’s perspective on why she picked her venue, as well as whether or not to do a first look – so grab your sunglasses because this destination wedding will have you ready to pack your bags and plan your own tropical escape – wedding or not!
How long have you and your spouse been together, and how did you originally meet your spouse?
Seven years! He moved next door to me my senior year of college.
How did they pop the question?
On a catamaran in Isla Mujeres, Mexico on a trip we took with his sister and husband.
When it came to planning your wedding, what was most important to you?
Making sure my guests were going to have the best time. Everyone was traveling for a destination wedding, so I wanted to make sure they enjoyed every minute of their stay. I really enjoyed the beach bonfire welcome party the night before the wedding because it gave us an extra night to celebrate and everyone to meet.
What was the best part of your wedding day?
This is a hard question because I truly loved every minute of it! I think the best part was marrying my husband and being surrounded by all of our favorite people.
If you could provide a tip to another couple planning their wedding, what would it be?
Relax as much as possible and enjoy every moment. All wedding planning is done, enjoy your day!
When it came to your venue selection, why did you choose to get married there?
I searched wedding venues Mexico and the outdoor venue next to the beach at Dreams Natura kept catching my eye. I wanted a fun wedding with a beautiful scenery being we were in Mexico.
What made you choose our company?
Rachael is truly the sweetest and made us feel beyond comfortable. I could not recommend her enough. And she does the most amazing work, I truly couldn’t be happier with my photos!
Where did you say YES to the dress, and what designer did you wear?
Here Comes the Bride Boutique in Glendale Heights, IL, and the designer is Elizabeth Lee.
Where were the bridesmaids dresses purchased from?
Show Me Your Mumu (the color is copper in luxe satin).
Groom/groomsmen attire – where were they purchased/rented from?
Groom got a custom suit from Wool & Linen, with shoes by Christian Louboutin. The groomsmen got custom suits from Mens Warehouse.
Are there any things you would change about your wedding day? This doesn’t have to be a big thing – for example: I wish we would have scheduled 30 minutes of downtown, or I wish I had opted for comfy shoes over heels!
Maybe doing a first look so you can enjoy cocktail hour. We went back and forth on this. The only reason I say this is because the day goes by so fast, and you don’t want it to end. So, any extra time you’re able to give yourself, I highly recommend.
Anything else you would like to share with other couples? (Tell us as much as you would like!)
Give yourself time to look around and take it all in. It’s truly so special looking around and seeing all your loved ones that came to celebrate you and your love. And seeing all of your favorite people interacting is even more special.
What was your wedding style? Ex. Romantic, Whimsical, Modern, Rustic, Bohemian,Elegant.
Tropical Boho
Vendor Team:
Rachael Osborn, Photographer: @rachealosbornphoto || Jennyfer Reyes, Wedding Planner: @jennyferreyesweddings + @belovedplanners || Alyssa Lalagos Frangella, Make Up Artist: @alyssalynnmakeup || Lauren Brown, Hair: @tlorenstudio || Kathy Ramirez, Videography: @kathyramirezfilms || Natural Flowers, Floral Design: @naturalflowersevents || Dreams Natura, Venue: Dreams Natura Resort & Spa
Interested hiring Rachael to photograph your destination wedding? With over a decade of experience, Rachael offers luxury wedding photography services to both the Orlando / Central Florida market, Chicago, and destinations worldwide. Please contact us for more information!
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