Annika + Xavi live in California and planned their destination wedding at Don Pedro’s Palapa in Sayulita, Mexico pretty much all via email. After one trip down to the area, they knew it was the right place for them, and so they hired a team of amazing local creatives (like Lauren of Nicoella + Sea of Dreams) to help them bring their dream day to life. If you’ve been tossing around the idea of a destination wedding yourself, this beautiful celebration might convince you to go for it. Just check out Taryn Baxter‘s beyond gorgeous captures + read Annika’s persuasive blurb about their jet-set wedding below:
Having a destination wedding was the best decision we ever made. Sayulita is such a magical place and will forever hold a special place in our hearts. This sleepy little beach town turned what is normally one special day into a weeklong event filled with laughter, memories and lots of beers.
Loving the bridesmaids cute getting ready outfits? Shop a few more options for your girls in the Robes section of the GWS Shop!
We are obsessed with Annika’s gorgeous Gemy Maalouf dress, which she paired with with the perfect nude Jimmy Choo shoes.
How beautiful are the bridesmaids in Flynn Skye? Steal their look in our shopping guide below:

A picture-perfect bouquet by Francisco Salazar via Lauren of Nicoella lent a bold, colorful feel to Annika’s effortlessly understated look.
What a dreamy ceremony backdrop!
Lauren of Nicoella shares, We chose colors – deep green, red, fuchsia, cream, black and gold – that merged the jungle scenery with posh details. For pattern and texture – we choose macramé, Mexican style patterns and juxtaposed them with chic black and ivory striped runners.
Annika says, The reception was better than we ever imagined. We also fit all 125 guests under the palapa which was important to us so everyone felt included. The room was lit perfectly by candles and strung lights and was so romantic. The flowers were so beautiful; rich in color and adorned with pheasant feathers we brought from past hunting trips. The speeches made us laugh hysterically and cry at the same time. Our friend sang Ray LaMontagne for our first dance which turned something we joked would probably be awkward into a very special part of the night. When it came time for dancing, the music was perfect, the tequila was endless and we had the time of our lives.
The newlyweds close with these sweet words, We didn’t pay much attention when everyone kept telling us that our wedding day would be the best day of our lives but it absolutely was. Looking back, we can’t think of one thing we would have done differently. We are so thankful for all of the vendors, friends and family that made this day so special. We wish we could do it all over again!
Thanks so much, you two, for sharing your gorgeous day with us! Best wishes for a lifetime of love + happiness!

photography: Taryn Baxter // venue name: Don Pedro's Palapa, Sayulita, Nayarit, Mexico // event design: Lauren of Nicoella // florals: Francisco Salazar Lauren of Nicoella // wedding dress: Gemy Maalouf // bride's shoes: Jimmy Choo // bridesmaid dresses: Flynn Skye // hair stylist: Funky Diva // makeup artist: Funky Diva // videography: Red Carpet Films // cake: Pie in the Sky // music: Nick of Nicoella // wedding coordinator: Sea of Dreams // bride's veil: Borrowed // bride's bracelet: Something borrowed, vintage // bride's black ring: Gift from Groom's family - family crest // bridesmaid: Plum Pretty Sugar // bride's pjs: Plum Pretty Sugar // invitations: Scout There // branding: Scout There // escort cards: Charlie Whiskey // table numbers: Charlie Whiskey // macrame table runners for head table: Anthropologie // butterfly chairs: Urban Outfitters // escort macrame: Urban Outfitters // pillows: Urban Outfitters // candle holder rentals: Talbot Ross // other rentals: Dazzling Details // groomsmen outfits: Jack Threads // shirt: H&M // pants: Bonobos // pocket square: Tie Bar // welcome party: La Terrazola // rehearsal dinner: Teitiare Estates
So, I’m basically obsessed with this wedding. She really kept it sophisticated with the attire of the wedding party and feminine with her lace gown! The ceremony locale is breathtaking and the florals are spot on, with a hint of modern flare that compliments the paper goods really well. Gorgeous!!!!
Love the table numbers!
Who would have thought a beach wedding could have been so elegant in a sleepy little Mexican town? Beautiful bridesmaids dresses; love the same color different styles. There are no words for how beautiful the bride is. Simply stunning! Have never seen the groom’s attire match the groomsmen but I like it! And the reception put the chic in boho/chic. They didn’t miss a thing and it shows!
Wow great beach wedding. This looks great. Looks like they had a great day.
Beautiful couple and what a lovely wedding. I absolutely love the wedding dress.
Perfection! Does anyone know where they stayed? The beginning photos look like some sort of villa they rented, and I love it!
It’s called Casa Ilusion and it’s absolutely beautiful!
Thank you so much! My fiance and I are looking into Brisa Mar after seeing photos of your stunning wedding! Congrats.