Blanca and Edgar, both Mexican Americans, wanted their wedding to celebrate their love for each other as well as their culture and heritage. Because of this, they decided to have a destination wedding outside of the US and get married in Puerto Vallarta which was close to where they both had relatives. In this way, many of their family who otherwise may not have been able to attend, were able to be a part of this important day.
They fell in love with Martoca Beach Garden as soon as we toured it. Martoca is a tropical oasis event venue located on the Bay of Banderas in the picturesque town of Bucerias, and is perfect for all types of events, small or large. It had the warm sandy beach they were hoping for and the gorgeous ocean vistas Puerto Vallarta is known for - perfect for the sunset, toes wiggling in the sand, ceremony they were dreaming of. Combined with beautiful tropical gardens that would make a picturesque backdrop for the wedding reception, they knew they had found “the spot”.
Blancas colors were black and white with pops of red. She wanted an elegant and sophisticated look without going too over the top. We used black tablecloths topped with rich, classic overlays of black and white damask, which provided a striking juxtaposition against the tropical garden setting. Blancas bouquet was comprised of deep red roses with a spattering of black feathers to add a touch of whimsy and we extended the same look into the centerpieces. Her maid of honors’ bouquet had the addition of white dendrobium orchids to set the two apart.
We extended the style, feel and colors into the ceremony and reception with details and design concepts incorporated throughout. The escort cards were in mounted in black picture frames with white mother of pearl inlay, each frame a little different. They hung from a lovely wooden gazebo and were interspersed with blown glass red and white hearts in varying sizes. A Wish Tree with white cards tied to red ribbons for guests to write their love and good wishes for the happy couple on and hang them from the tree. The ceremonial arch on the beach also had blown glass hearts in red and white hanging over the area where the vows would be taking place, with flowing white organza blowing in the breeze as well to add to the romance.
In line with their Mexican heritage, Mexican food and tequila played an important part in the day. Place cards were tied to mini bottles of Jimador Tequila (the bottles had white and black in their label) and set at each guests’ place setting; while the crowning tequila moment came during the ceremony. Just before the minister pronounced them and Husband and Wife, waiters appeared on the beach with trays of tequila shots for all the guests and passed them out accordingly. Right after they were pronounced, the happy couple led their family and friends in a congratulatory tequila shot right on beach, which was followed by the minister closing words, “Edgar, you may now kiss your bride.”
Mariachi serenaded the couple and guests after the ceremony, leading them from the beach and into the gardens and continuing throughout the sunset cocktail hour. Appetizers, margaritas and ice cold beer were served, while cigars were hand rolled for any who wanted to partake before dinner. After sunset photos of the couple and family were taken, dinner was served. Keeping in tune to their Mexican roots, Blanca and Edgars’ menu included such favorites as freshly caught Red Snapper and flavorful shrimp that Puerto Vallarta is known for, as well as fresh Ceviche with crispy tostadas and corn flour Tamales stuffed with chicken. Later in the evening an Al Pastor Taco stand with delicious marinated meat grilling on a spit as well as a sweet, fried dough Churro stand were set up for late night noshing…. and then as with any good Mexican fiesta… more tequila!
Take a look at the slideshow below showcasing a few more of the wonderful photos courtesy of Puerto Vallarta’s own talented photographer Josef Kandoll W. He truly captured the beauty and spirit of Blanca and Edgar… such a lovely couple!!
