I’m thrilled to share Katy & Adam’s enchanting Spanish destination wedding, a celebration that left me utterly captivated. The couple tied the knot on May 31st, 2019 at Masia la Garriga de Castelladral in Spain – a venue they had fallen for during their initial visit and knew would be perfect for their big day. The sun-kissed landscape was transformed into a vibrant oasis, filled with glittering decorations and an infectious atmosphere of love, lively music, and mouth-watering cuisine. Despite the challenges of planning from their home in Dubai, Katy & Adam’s hard work paid off, as they reveled in the joyous outcome on the day. The photographs, courtesy of Dan Hough Photography, are a testament to the couple’s excellent choice in capturing their special moment. Thank you, Dan, for sharing these stunning images with us!
The Proposal
In the heart of Dubai, where cultures blend, Adam from Australia and Katy from the UK found themselves living together in a cosmopolitan haven. When Adam’s family extended an invitation to spend Christmas 2017 ‘down under’ with Katy’s family, the latter jumped at the opportunity. Little did Katy know that this trip would become a memorable milestone in her life. Adam seized the moment to pop the question, meticulously planning a wine-tasting escapade in Perth’s Margaret River region for both families. He chose a winery affectionately known as ‘chick on a stick’ to be the backdrop for his romantic gesture.
As fate would have it, Katy found herself stealing away from the group with Adam, who led her hand-in-hand through the picturesque flower garden of the winery. The atmosphere was set ablaze when Adele’s soulful ‘Someone Like You’ filled the airwaves. Adam seized the moment to express his deepest sentiments: ‘There really is no one else quite like you…’ Katy’s heart skipped a beat as Adam dropped down on one knee, and her response of ‘yes’ sealed their love forever.
The celebration that followed was nothing short of magical – champagne toasts at sunset on Western Australia’s stunning coastline, surrounded by the people they loved. The memory of this special day would remain etched in their hearts, a testament to the power of love and the beauty of life’s unexpected twists.
The Vision
We opted for an unconventional approach to our special day, focusing on inclusivity and self-sufficiency. We wanted everyone involved, not just the happy couple, so we decided to take charge and make the day our own. We aimed for a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of colour, a relaxed ceremony that included sweet treats and a shot of limoncello, friends serving as celebrants, shared meals, refreshing cocktails, lively music, and of course, a healthy dose of whimsy in the form of dinosaurs. Our search for the perfect venue led us to a stunning Spanish location online, which we promptly booked before setting foot there.
The Planning Process
As we approached our big day, we found that the initial excitement of planning a wedding can quickly turn into overwhelm. With an 18-month engagement, we initially thought we had ample time to get everything sorted, but as the reality set in, we realized that some things just can’t be accomplished until the last minute. Our experience was no exception – despite our best efforts to stay organized, there were still moments of chaos and stress. However, amidst the craziness, we never lost sight of why we were doing it all in the first place: for each other. We were both hands-on planners, determined to be involved every step of the way, even when planning a destination wedding where language barriers posed an added challenge. Our planning process involved countless spreadsheets (much to Katy’s dismay), mood boards and Pinterest pages (which Adam begrudgingly tolerated), and long hours spent preparing for the big day – including mere hours of sleep in the week leading up to it! It was a true test of our friendship, but ultimately, we relied on the support of loved ones to get us through the final stretch. The countless weekends devoted to ‘wedmin’ were exhausting, yet the end result made every moment worthwhile.
Budget
Initially, we excelled at crafting a budget from scratch. However, it’s quite challenging to adhere to it, and it’s easy to get sidetracked. To overcome this hurdle, we identified our top priorities and designated these as ‘big spends.’ We then focused on cutting back on non-essential expenses, aiming to strike a balance between indulging in what mattered most and being mindful of our financial constraints.
Groomsmen
The attire for the groom and his groomsmen was a stylish collaboration, featuring crisp shirts by TM Lewin, trousers from MJ Bale, and their own unique footwear choices. To add an extra touch of coordination, they donned matching braces from ASOS Men that perfectly complemented the bridesmaids’ pants, while individual bow ties from DapperJack added a playful pop of personality.
The Venue
As soon as we stumbled upon Masia la Garriga de Castelladral online, we knew we had found our perfect wedding venue. We were so smitten that we put down a deposit before even visiting it in person. It was love at first sight! What truly set this place apart, though, was the wonderful family who owns and operates it. They went above and beyond to ensure everything ran smoothly and with their help, our special day turned out to be exactly as we had envisioned it. Located just over an hour outside of Barcelona, the venue boasts breathtaking views of the Monserrat mountains, a peaceful atmosphere, and kindly owners who truly care about making your experience unforgettable.Our ceremony took place in the picturesque forest within the venue’s grounds, with our two closest friends serving as celebrants. We had written the ceremony ourselves, making it an even more personal and meaningful experience. After exchanging our vows, we enjoyed a few hours of delicious cocktails, ice-cold beers served from wheelbarrows, Spanish Cava, and mouth-watering canapés on the venue’s expansive grand terrace, with the majestic Monserrat mountains serving as a stunning backdrop. Our band got everyone in the mood to dance, and we even had an incredible dinner based on a sharing concept of fresh tapas-style food. As the sun began to set over the Monserrat mountains, we danced together on the lush meadow, surrounded by our 140 closest friends and family. It was truly magical to be able to celebrate in such a unique and breathtaking setting.From the outset, we knew we wanted an outdoor wedding, immersed in nature with awe-inspiring views. And that’s exactly what we got – plus so much more! Masia la Garriga de Castelladral prides itself on being kind to the planet and sustainable, which was just one of the many aspects that drew us to this incredible venue.
Your Outfits & Accessories
When it came to selecting the perfect dress for her special day, Katy knew she had found ‘The One’ with Mila Nova’s ‘Kamelia’, albeit with some clever alterations courtesy of a talented UK-based seamstress. Her mum and bridesmaid were equally smitten, sealing the deal in Katy’s mind. Meanwhile, her feet were clad in Emmy London’s ‘Bluebell block heel’. To add a touch of whimsy to her overall look, Katy’s twin sister crafted a dazzling sequin-adorned captain’s hat for the evening, while Katy herself created a vibrant multicolored pastel pom pom jacket for those chilly speech moments. As if all that wasn’t enough, Katy’s loved ones gifted her a meaningful ‘no man is an island’ bracelet from @bybiehl – a piece she hasn’t removed since. Lastly, her earrings were a charming find from Seville, Spain’s ‘Acus’, adding the perfect finishing touch to her ensemble.
Beauty
The beauty experts at @Nikoletamakeup and @hairoverheel, Nikoleta and Martina, brought their exceptional skills to the table by handling not only Katy’s bridal hair and makeup but also those of the mothers of the bride and groom. This duo’s talents are renowned for being top-notch, and it’s easy to see why after meeting them. For instance, Martina crafted personalized hair extensions for Katy, which she wore on her special day accompanied by a handmade leaf pin, uniquely designed in Dubai. To complement her understated makeup look, Katy opted for a soft, natural finish and chose turquoise nail polish that harmoniously matched her earrings, adding a vibrant pop of colour to the overall aesthetic.
The Readings & Music
As Katy walked down the aisle to Xavier Rudd’s ‘Follow the Sun’, she was accompanied by a sense of serenity. The song, discovered on a Spotify playlist alongside her fiancé Adam, had resonated deeply with them. Meanwhile, the guests strolled back down the aisle to Hall and Oates’ classic ‘You Make My Dreams’, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration. Three heartfelt readings punctuated the ceremony: ‘I Like You’ by Sandol Stoddard, Taylor Mills’ poignant ‘Falling in Love is Like Owning a Dog’, and a reworked excerpt from Robert Fulghum’s beloved ‘All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten’. The most emotional moment came when two friends, both in their eighties and traveling from Florida, delivered the last reading with remarkable poignancy. They had flown across the country to be part of this special day. NOMAD, the talented wedding band we found through Fix the Music, brought the party alive with their infectious energy. Playing two sets – one during canapés and cocktails, and another during late-night dancing – they left an indelible mark on our celebration. What’s more, despite a major setback when their instruments went missing due to an airline mishap, NOMAD remained undeterred, delivering an incredible performance without anyone being the wiser.
The Flowers
We opted to minimize floral arrangements, as our stunning wedding venue already offered an abundance of natural beauty. Initially, we envisioned a sea of pink pampas grass, but unfortunately, sourcing it in May in Spain proved to be a significant challenge. Instead, we discovered Xavi at Muguet Florista online and commissioned him to create exquisite bouquets for the bride and bridesmaids, buttonholes for the groom and his attendants, and a breathtaking flower crown for one of our honored celebrants. As the night progressed, we placed the bouquets in vases and Xavi crafted a few elegant arrangements to adorn the space. It was remarkable that he managed to recreate our Pinterest-inspired vision with such precision, all through a series of emails and image exchanges.
The Cake
We were delighted to have an array of delectable desserts baked fresh by a local baker and our exceptional catering team, led by Katy and Adam, who ensured that every dish was carefully crafted to cater to their own dietary preferences while still delivering on flavor and presentation. The talented duo behind ‘Say Cheese’ – a catering company – shared the same values as their sister concern, ‘Little Green Trailer’, and we were impressed by their staff’s warm hospitality. We collaborated with them to create a personalized menu for our sharing concept, inspired by tapas, but with a modern twist that prioritized vegan and vegetarian options. The result was nothing short of phenomenal – the food was exquisite, satisfying everyone’s cravings throughout the night. If you’re seeking an unforgettable culinary experience with personalized service from a team that truly cares, look no further than ‘Say Cheese’.
Bridesmaids
Katy’s vision for the bridesmaid dresses was a perfect blend of relaxed and summer vibes, but she found it challenging to find a single design that met her expectations. Undeterred, she took matters into her own hands and commissioned a tailor in Dubai to create bespoke outfits for her attendants. The result was a unique ensemble that perfectly captured the tone of the wedding. Each bridesmaid wore handcrafted pants, which were designed using a pattern Katy had discovered, and paired with their own shoes. To add a touch of glamour, they also donned earrings from the small company @hello_stud. In another creative move, Katy opted for the bridesmaids to wear pyjamas from Piyama, an Australian brand that added a playful twist to the overall aesthetic.
Your Photographer
When we first reached out to Dan, it was thanks to a glowing recommendation from a friend whose wedding he had captured beautifully a few years prior. What struck us about Dan was his impressive versatility – not only is he an exceptional photographer, but he’s also adept at assisting with the dress, planning the table layout, and even lending a hand with heavier tasks. Despite being based in a different country, Dan made time to connect with us over Skype, sharing valuable insights and expert advice as we worked together to envision our special day. His professionalism is unwavering, yet he’s unassuming enough that you might not even notice him mingling among the guests on the big day. He exudes warmth and friendliness, making everyone feel at ease in his presence. Once the photos were ready, Dan delivered them promptly, presenting us with stunning high-quality images that perfectly captured the essence of our celebration. Additionally, he crafted a captivating slideshow set to enchanting music that perfectly complemented the wedding’s atmosphere. What sets Dan apart from other photographers is his remarkable ability to capture life’s precious moments – he truly has an artist’s eye.
Your Filmmaker
Our search for a videographer was challenging, as Spanish cinematographers seemed to have a distinct style. After discovering Ferran from Padilla & Rigau online and having one Skype session with him, we felt confident that he understood our vision. On the wedding day, Ferran excelled at capturing every moment effortlessly, moving around the guests with ease. For those considering whether to invest in a videographer, we initially had doubts, wondering if it was worth the extra expense. However, having found the right professional like Ferran, we can assure you that it will be a worthwhile investment.
The Details & Décor
With hands-on enthusiasm, we took on the challenge of decorating every aspect of our special day. We brought our creative vision to life by crafting personalized table plan cards using Top Trumps, designing a bespoke sangria bar and biodegradable glitter station. To create an unforgettable atmosphere, we also built an archway for the ceremony and designed custom menus and stationery with the help of Canva. To showcase our favorite memories, we printed photos on vibrant deckchairs from Tiga, adding a pop of color to the scenery.In collaboration with our catering team, we tailored the drinks and food offerings to reflect our unique style. The presentation of each dish became an integral part of the overall aesthetic, weaving together seamlessly with the decorations we rented from various suppliers. This fusion of creativity and attention to detail transformed our wedding into a truly one-of-a-kind celebration.
The Honeymoon
After the whirlwind of our wedding celebration, we decided to take some time for ourselves in Croatia. A week of sunshine and relaxation was just what we needed to recharge. As we looked ahead to next year’s anniversary, we couldn’t help but start planning an even bigger adventure – a trip to South America! Who says you can only have one honeymoon? We’re embracing the idea that our love is worth celebrating twice. The thought of exploring new lands and experiencing different cultures with my partner in crime is incredibly exciting.
Memorable Moments
We crafted our own wedding ceremony, with the help of two cherished individuals serving as celebrants. Their personal touch brought an added layer of warmth and intimacy to the proceedings, setting the tone for a day filled with love and joy. The fact that they got to share in telling our story made it all the more special.Two remarkable friends of Katy’s flew in from Florida to join us on our big day – no small feat, especially considering their ages (over 80) and the fact that one of them had only met Katy twice prior! Their joint reading, which drew parallels between life lessons learned at kindergarten and the wisdom we’ve accumulated over time, was a truly moving experience. The touching display of affection as they held hands throughout added to the emotional impact.Our photographer seized an opportunity to steal us away for a quick sunset shoot by the pool, affording us some much-needed downtime amidst all the chaos. The resulting photos were nothing short of stunning, and we cherished those precious moments spent together, away from it all.
Advice For Other Couples
As you plan your event, it’s essential to clarify what matters most to you and what you hope to achieve. For us, the success of the day hinged on ensuring that our guests left feeling fulfilled. We focused on creating an atmosphere that would leave a lasting impression, prioritizing factors like exceptional food, refreshing drinks, and lively music. While the finer details – such as decor or catering choices – may fade from memory over time, the emotions and experiences people have will remain with them for years to come. Our ultimate goal was to create a day that would be etched in their minds long after the celebration had passed.
Credit Where Credit Is Due
Dan Hough Photography was behind the lens as Adam and Katy’s special moments were captured. The catering team from Say Cheese and Little Green Trailer ensured that guests were well-fed throughout the celebration. The picturesque Masia la Garriga de Castelladral served as the perfect venue for the couple’s big day. Floral arrangements by Muguet Floristeria Barcelona added a touch of elegance to the decor, while NOMAD kept everyone entertained with their lively performance. Ferran from Padilla & Rigau was responsible for preserving the memories through his videography skills. Nikoleta and Martina from Nikoleta Makeup & Hair Services were on hand to help Adam and Katy look their absolute best. The bride’s stunning dress came courtesy of Millanova, while Bridesmaid Jewellery provided the perfect accessories. The groomsmen looked dashing in their TM Lewin shirts, MJ Bale trousers, ASOS braces, and DapperJack bow ties. Vila Viniteca, Barcelona kept the drinks flowing, while Alquiler Hosteleria, Barelona supplied the necessary materials for the celebration. Your Happy Day brought the perfect ambiance with their lighting expertise. What a truly magical day it was, thanks to all the talented professionals involved! Rachel x