A DESTINATION WEDDING IN COSTA RICA: An Unforgettable Journey of Love and Culture

After a decade of capturing the magic of weddings, designing enchanting spaces, and dabbling in the art of wedding planning, it seemed only natural that I would eventually step into the spotlight as the Bride!

For years, I believed I might never walk down the aisle, even contemplating elopement if love ever swept me away. My professional life was steeped in the world of weddings; thus, I anticipated the challenge of stepping away from the director's chair to truly enjoy my own celebration.

Life, however, has a way of surprising us. Meeting Soul transformed my outlook. I yearned for a union that would not only celebrate our love but also unite our families and friends. My dream was for our loved ones to intertwine, sharing stories, cultures, and the unique dynamics of our lives. With our families hailing from different corners of the world, I understood this might be our singular opportunity to gather everyone together – perhaps until a far less joyful occasion (sad but true).

A dusty beach town called Nosara in Costa Rica, became the perfect backdrop for this dream, though the journey to get there was anything but smooth. The choice of destination was a labyrinthine process! With my network in Toronto, planning locally could have easily turned into an obsession over decor details. I knew this would consume me and test Soul's patience. Therefore, opting for a destination wedding was my way to surrender control, and boy, did it work! Initially, we envisioned France, then Nicaragua where we have property and where we got engaged. However, political unrest redirected our compass, leading us to a breathtaking estate atop a mountain called Finca Austria. This venue offered multiple houses to host our nearest and dearest, set amidst lush, remote landscapes with panoramic views that left us breathless. It was a logistical puzzle, yes, but one that gave our guests stories to cherish. In the end, all 75 attendees from France, Canada, the US, and Denmark arrived safely and with an adventurous story in the books.

Calling this the best day of my life would be an understatement. Planning a destination wedding in Costa Rica wasn't without its trials – from DIY flowers to coordinating with a "Living la vida loca" vibe – but every moment was worth it. Our wedding was a testament to our love and gratitude towards our family and friends. We spoke much, perhaps more than some would prefer, but this was our moment to express our thanks. Our day unfolded in both English and French, with a ceremony that was nothing short of perfect. We embraced the tradition of speeches under a grand tree, providing shade from the scorching 43-degree heat, while guests sipped on fresh coconuts. After exchanging our vows, we ascended to the hilltop for a sunset reception. Despite minor logistical hiccups, like a tardy shuttle, the beauty of the moment prevailed. I was overwhelmed by emotion, love, and appreciation for everyone who has touched my life.

Our reception was a casual affair with food stations, allowing everyone to mingle freely, and the dance floor by the pool's edge became our stage until we all took a splash to end the night. The celebration continued for seven more days, exploring the natural wonders of Costa Rica with our closest friends.

For those pondering whether a destination wedding in Costa Rica is worth the logistical challenges, I say wholeheartedly, go for it! It's an experience you'll never forget.

xx - April

Planning, Art Direction, Stationery Design, Menu’s, Guest Favour Bags, Bouquets + Headpieces by April: Olive Studio // Photography by Lelania: Olive Studio + Scott Ramsay // Wedding Coordination by Alexa: Weddings Nosara  // Venue, catering, lighting: Finca Austria // Ceremony + Reception Flowers by Phyllis Kramer // Officiants by Leslie + Serge: @smaleles + @eric_gnago // Stationery printing: The Printing House // Music by Yannick: @djkaynix // MC by Ihab: @ibokinz // Furniture Rentals:  Costa Mesa Event Rentals // Bride’s Hair + Makeup by Eunice: @euni_t // Bride’s Lashes by Kara: Bright Eyes by Kara // African Dress by Nagat: @nagatb // Wedding Dress by Allure Bridals: Ferre Sposa // Bride’s Shoes: Forever Soles // Bride’s Clutch: Macrame Wonderland AU // Groom’s Shoes: Stacy Adams // Groom’s Dashiki: @etsy // Bride’s Engagement Ring: Blu Boho // Bride + Groom’s Wedding Bands: Made You Look // Wedding Day Earrings: Coal Miner’s Daughter // Bridesmaids Makeup by Veronica: @belziquiroa // Bridesmaids Hair by Cherie Jin Hae // Desserts: @nosaradulce

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