Tell us a little about yourselves, what you do, what you love, what is unique about you and your relationship…
We are both creatives at heart – Me (Jess) working full time in wedding and event coordination and design, and Kevin as a new real estate agent. We’ve both always chosen paths that allow us the freedom to travel and be spontaneous…
Over the last 6 years together, we’ve visited over 14 countries and both consider travel to be a non-negotiable in our life! Our relationship is fun and playful and most days has me laughing so hard I have happy tears running down my face. That’s what a partner should do to you – that’s what everyone should get to look forward to every day!
Tell us about your special day, was there a specific theme or style? Tell us a little about the setting, the styling and some of your favorite details…
Acre Baja was the one and only venue we toured shortly after getting engaged – for us it was like heaven on earth and checked all of our boxes! Long concrete paths lead you through a lush tropical jungle with luxury treehouses scattered throughout. The reception space such a unique and special setting – a tiled mango orchard with cafe lights strung over head.
After working in the wedding industry the past 4 year and seeing so much blush, I knew I wanted to incorporate color into our day. One of my closest friends (and boss), Manda with Mae&Co Creative, dreamed up the fun color scheme and classy, boho design. The vibrant, organic floral arrangements, knotted rust napkins, and custom acrylic place cards were some of my very favorite aspects of the tablescape.
The papel picado was such a fun addition to the space and added that Mexican vibe that we so love! We went to a friend’s wedding in Ibiza a few years ago, so when our time came to start wedding planning, we knew that it had to be a destination event! There was nothing more special than spending the week in Mexico with our very closest friends and family! Late night ocean swims, karaoke and dancing under the palapa – we wanted the whole week to be a celebration, not just a single day!
Tell us about your main outfits:
I always knew I wanted to wear something simple, classy and timeless… with just a bit of sass. When I came across this fitted, crepe gown by Theia, I knew it was the one! I loved the snug fit, classic crepe material and plunging modern neckline. Kevin, being a fashionista himself, wanted something beyond the typical black tux. We found his dusty blue suit, lined with a silky tropical print on ASOS and paired it with casual leather slides from Nisolo.
After dinner, I changed into a fun two piece ensemble – a white patterned crop top from Revolve and high waisted trousers from a local Portland boutique. It was the perfect, comfy outfit for dancing the night away. Kevin didn’t intend on changing, but a red wine accident led to him changing into one of his “party shirts”, as he likes to call them.
What were some of the most memorable/unique moments from the day?
One of my very favorite moments of the day was getting ready together, in lieu of a first look. We had a beautiful private treehouse at the venue and took our time, sipping cocktails, hanging out and helping each other get dressed. So often I feel like couples end up hiding from each other for most of the day and then once the festivities begin.. it’s hard to catch your breath.
We had a really relaxing, causal morning and then he zipped me up in my dress, just as he would at home. It was very “us”. Having the mariachi band at cocktail hour was SO MUCH FUN! The music was amazing and it created the perfect ambience for the space.
Any advice for other couples planning to spend the rest of their lives together?
Don’t get too caught up in the planning – your wedding is a really important day, but there is SO much more to look forward to beyond it. From day one, we promised each other we wouldn’t argue about wedding plans and we stuck to that (for the most part). We both compromised here and there and in the end the day was absolutely perfect to us!
Plan a day that is exactly what YOU want. Forget the traditionals – skip the ring bearer, invite only 20 people, get ready together.. get crazy and see your guests before the ceremony. It’s your party and it should be a representation of you and your relationship, not a replication of what society says a wedding should be.
Photographer: Karra Leigh Photography | Videographer: Jessica Heron Images | Bride: a & bé & THEIACouture | Groom: ASOS | Rings: Local Eclectic | Shoes: Nisolo | The Frye Company | Other jewelery: A B Ellie | Makeup: Makeup by Bricabo | Ceremony location, Catering + Beverages: Acrebaja | Reception: Acre Resort | Entertainment: Alex DJ Cabo Events | Styling: Mae and Co Creative | Flora: Brier and Ivy | Signage: Kalen Rivers
