The intimate 16 Tulum wedding of Maria and Chris was an exercise in understated elegance. This micro-wedding may have been small in size, but it packed a big punch when it came to beauty, love, and style. Set amidst the lush jungle surroundings of this architecturally striking venue, the day was infused with warmth and romance. A pop of colour from the red, orange, and pink flowers added a touch of vibrancy to the clean lines of the venue, while black accents in the tableware and candles brought a sense of sophistication. But it wasn’t just the aesthetics that stole the show – Maria and Chris also looked stunning in their attire, as they exchanged vows during two meaningful ceremonies. And let’s not forget the breathtaking wedding flower arch, which truly took our breath away. We’re grateful to Romad Photography for sharing these incredible images with us.
16 Tulum Wedding
The Proposal
Chris demonstrated his understanding of the significance my family holds for me by planning a memorable surprise during our trip to Guadalajara, where my roots lie. In the presence of my parents, siblings, nieces, and grandfather – all of whom were beaming with excitement – he took it to the next level by arranging a mariachi performance. As I stood there, taken aback by the romantic gesture, Chris got down on one knee and popped the question, his love and commitment shining through in that moment.
The Vision
Our dream wedding was to be surrounded by the people we love most, in a stunning setting that would make memories to last a lifetime.
Budget
The Venue
Your Outfits
I’m thrilled to have discovered the perfect dress at Love & Lace Boutique in Irvine, California – my stunning wedding gown is an Alyssa Kristin maven design that exudes simplicity and sophistication while being remarkably affordable. In contrast, my husband opted for a timeless classic with his Ted Baker tuxedo, perfectly complementing my elegant look.
The Ceremony & Music
As we sought to craft a spiritual and meaningful celebration, our search led us to Spirituality Rivera Maya – an experience that resonated deeply with us. The ancient Mayan tradition is steeped in mysticism and profound spiritual significance, making it the perfect backdrop for our union. The ceremony itself became a sacred moment, one that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.The musical accompaniment was equally enchanting. For our cocktail hour and reception, we hired mariachi Tulum to set the tone with their lively rhythms. Meanwhile, Antonella Vera’s beautiful violin solos during our vow exchange added an air of romance and intimacy to the proceedings.
Your Photographer & Filmmaker
The featured photographer, Romad Photography, has collaborated with Filmcraft Stories to bring this visually stunning piece to life. With their expertise and creative vision, they have captured a moment that tells a story and evokes emotion.
The Styling & Decor
Our wedding was held at a stunning venue that required minimal decoration, thanks to the excellent service provided by Archive Rentals. They took care of all the necessary furniture, ensuring our big day had a cohesive look. The chic wooden bar with pink and black accents was a highlight, as were the beautifully arranged seating areas for both the ceremony and dinner. Canteiro Weddings played a crucial role in bringing our vision to life, creating breathtaking flower arrangements that included my own bouquet, my bridesmaids’ bouquets, and even the groom’s boutonniere. They also handled the outdoor lighting and candlelit ambiance, setting the tone for a romantic reception. Icaiza Catering impressed with their delectable dinner offerings and open bar featuring signature cocktails. Rather than a traditional wedding cake, we opted for a show-stopping dessert – a churro vanilla ice cream sandwich drizzled in caramel. Our overall aesthetic was sleek and modern, with pops of color to add visual interest. The minimalist-chic vibe of 16 Tulum’s architecture was the perfect backdrop for our celebration, with lush greenery and a striking color palette featuring deep reds, pinks, and oranges that complemented the venue’s white and black hues.
The Honeymoon
The dream of a romantic getaway, specifically to Japan, has been put on hold due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As newlyweds, we were eager to embark on our first trip together, but alas, it seems that 2021 will be another year where travel restrictions persist. We continue to hold out hope that circumstances will change and we’ll finally have the opportunity to take our maiden voyage as the new Mr & Mrs Lee.
Memorable Moments
As I reflect on the Mayan ceremony, a profound impact resonates within me. The wisdom imparted by our shaman left an indelible mark on both my partner and me. A particularly poignant moment was when our shaman’s words of inspiration and significance unfolded from start to finish. Moreover, receiving my mother’s blessing added an extra layer of emotional depth to the experience.
Advice For Other Couples
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but there are ways to make the process smoother. For instance, consider hiring a professional planner who can handle all the logistics and stress on your behalf. Additionally, don’t feel pressured to invite every acquaintance or colleague you’ve ever met – it’s okay to keep the guest list intimate. In fact, a micro wedding with just close friends and family may be the perfect way to go, as it allows for a more personalized and relaxed celebration.
Special thanks goes out to all of the talented individuals who helped bring Maria and Chris’s beautiful 16 Tulum wedding vision to life: photographer Romad Photography, filmmaker Filmcraft Stories, venue 16 Tulum, florist Canteiro Weddings, cake and food provider Icaza Creative Catering, dress designer Alyssa Kristin Bridal, suit designer Ted Baker, bridesmaid dress designer David’s Bridal, entertainment provided by Mariachi Tulum & Antonella Vera from Scenic Music Shows, makeup and hair stylist Zoe Elizabeth Makeup, decorator Archive Rentals, bride jewelry designer Olive + Piper, veil designer Blanca Veils, and planner Fer Gallegos & Co. We’re honored to share their stunning story with you.