Glamorous Romance Meets Riviera Maya Charm: A Grand Velas Celebration

The Planning
Design / Vibe / Vision
From our bride, Nara: "The vision for our wedding was a beautiful blend of modern elegance and romantic charm. I envisioned spaces adorned with stunning floral arrangements that would immediately catch the eye—a mix of white blooms and soft pastel shades to create a fresh and inviting atmosphere. For the reception, I wanted it to feel intimate, filled with the subtle glow of candles and soft lighting that would envelop our guests in warmth. Personal touches throughout the decor would reflect who we are as a couple, from custom signage to meaningful mementos that tell our story."
Proposal Story

From Nara, our bride: "After four incredible years together, Justin completely took me by surprise with a proposal I’ll never forget. Just a day before we were headed to Jamaica to celebrate my birthday, he had something far more special in mind. My sister cleverly tricked me into thinking we were going to a business dinner, so when we arrived, I had no idea what awaited me. As soon as I walked through the double doors of the venue, my breath was taken away. It felt like stepping into a romantic dream. I immediately saw Justin standing at the end of a rose petal-covered aisle, lined with candles, looking incredibly dapper in a charcoal double-breasted suit. Above him, a sign read, "Will you marry me?" The soft strains of "All My Life" by KC & JOJO filled the air, creating the perfect atmosphere. When I looked at him, I saw that warm, genuine smile that melts my heart. At IAtthat moment, it felt like time stood still. As I got closer, I noticed our families quietly cheering us on from the side, their faces glowing with love and joy. When he took my hands and asked me to marry him, a rush of happiness overwhelmed me. Surrounded by the people we love most, everything felt perfect. I said yes without hesitation, knowing I wanted to spend forever with him. It was a magical night, and I couldn’t have imagined a better way to start this new chapter together."

The Fashion
Wedding Gown

From Nara, our bride: "My ceremony dress was truly a dream. Designed by Martina Liana, it was the very first dress I tried on, and as soon as I slipped it on, I knew it was the one. I was captivated by the stunning 3D flowers and the subtle hints of shimmer that added just the right touch of magic. It felt like the most perfect dress for my special day. For the reception, I chose a dress by Essense of Australia, which complemented my ceremony dress beautifully. The elegance of both dresses created a seamless transition, allowing me to feel just as radiant during the celebration as I did during the ceremony. I wore Jimmy Choo shoes that perfectly complemented my dress. For my earrings, I chose a beautiful family heirloom that held special meaning; my sister had worn them at her wedding. They served as my "something borrowed". "

Bridesmaid Dresses

From Nara, our bride: "Each of my bridesmaids had the freedom to choose their dresses from Revelry, as I wanted them to feel comfortable and uniquely beautiful. My Matron and Maids of Honor wore a lovely light blush color, while the other bridesmaids wore a soft desert rose. This thoughtful color palette allowed each of them to stand out without looking too matchy-matchy, celebrating their styles while still harmonizing beautifully together."

Groomsman Attire
From Nara about the groom's attire: "Justin looked incredibly sharp in an oxblood suit featuring a satin black lapel, elegantly adorned with a lapel chain. He paired it with classic tuxedo pants, and his outfit was completed with a Ferragamo belt and stylish Louboutin shoes. His ensemble perfectly balanced sophistication and style."
The Details
Food & Drink

From Nara, our bride: "During the cocktail hour, we had two signature drinks, a margarita, which was mine, and an old fashion that was Justin's."

Florals & Decor

From Isabella, their wedding photographer: "The florals and decor were a stunning combination of elegance and nature-inspired beauty. The floral arrangements featured lush greenery paired with soft white blooms, creating a timeless and romantic ambiance. The ceremony setup in the garden, with a breathtaking beach view, was highlighted by a floral arrangement that perfectly framed the couple as they exchanged vows. At the reception, the florals continued the theme of natural elegance, enhancing the sophisticated tablescapes with white and blush floral arrangements and delicate gold details. Overall, the decor balanced modern sophistication with natural beauty, creating an atmosphere that was both luxurious and effortlessly romantic."

Wedding Cake

From Isabella, their wedding photographer: "The wedding cake and dessert table, crafted by Lluvia de Azúcar, were true showstoppers that perfectly complemented the sophisticated elegance of the celebration. The cake featured a minimalist design adorned with delicate floral accents, exuding timeless charm. Thoughtful details, such as the couple’s initials subtly incorporated into the cake’s design, added a personal touch. The dessert table was equally enchanting, presenting an array of exquisite treats—macarons, petit fours, and mini tarts—all artfully arranged. Like the cake, some desserts were thoughtfully personalized with Nara and Justin’s initials, making the display feel even more intimate and special."

Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs

From Nara, our bride: "The officiant for our ceremony was Justin’s dad, which made the experience even more intimate and personal. Having him lead us through our vows added a special warmth and connection that made the day all the more memorable." From Isabella, their wedding photographer: "The wedding ceremony and cocktail hour were elevated by the melodies of a live band led by the talented harpist Paco Dominguez of Arpason. Their music set a romantic and serene tone, enhancing the beauty of each moment. During the ceremony, the delicate strings of the harp and accompanying instruments created an ethereal ambiance as the couple exchanged vows against the stunning backdrop of the Riviera Maya. As guests transitioned to the cocktail hour, the band effortlessly shifted to a more lively yet sophisticated repertoire, providing the perfect soundtrack to accompany the sunset and the joyful conversations. The harmonious blend of traditional and modern pieces, played with finesse, made every note feel like a reflection of the celebration’s timeless charm and grace. For the reception dinner, guests were serenaded by saxophonist Rafael Carrasco, whose soulful performance added an elegant touch to the evening. His music created a relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere as the guests dined, offering a perfect accompaniment to the intimate setting. "

Special Detail #1

From Nara, our bride: "We had a glam black-and-white photobooth for our guests during the reception, allowing everyone to capture fun memories from the night."

Special Detail #2
From Nara, our bride: "Justin and his fraternity sang the Alpha Phi Alpha hymn, followed by a chant honoring their fraternity."
Special Detail #3

From Nara, our bride: "To add a special touch, we also had cigar rollers on hand, celebrating Justin’s love for cigars and tying in beautifully with my Cuban heritage."

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Videography: Frame Wedding Film | Floral Design: Pure Love Weddings | Bride's Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Revelry | Makeup & Hair: Zoe Elizabeth Makeup Artist | Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Arpason | Production: Biename Weddings & Events | Reception Dress: Essense Of Australia | Groom's Belt: Ferragamo | Resort: Grand Velas Riviera Maya | Cake & Dessert Table: Lluvia de Azúcar | Groom's Shoes: Louboutin | Ceremony Dress: Martina Liana | Florals & Rentals: Mena Floral | Photobooth: PIC/ME | Saxophone: Rafael Carrasco | Personalized Tequila Bottles: Tequila Don Ramón Personalizado | Hand Fans: Tulaka | Wedding Design & Moodboard: Whimsical Affair Event Design