The inspiration for Derek and Ashley’s day stemmed from their marriage arriving at their 7-year anniversary. Originally, they had eloped in the city court house as Derek had just enlisted in the Air Force, and Ashley was a recent college graduate. At the time they didn’t have the resources to have a true wedding ceremony back in 2015, so they signed their documents and left the courthouse married! Since then, the two have built a life together, each running successful businesses together. It was finally time for a crazy, once-in-a-lifetime wedding with their closest friends and family. Tulum was perfect for its architecture, culture, upbeat atmosphere, and elegant decor. It matched the couple’s personal preferences, as well as their love for travel. It was a real magic elopement in the middle of the jungle, with their nine favorite people.
The couple shares how photographers Gabri and Carla were two of the most important people of their day. D + A met the two in Tulum the year prior and were the reason they continued to have their wedding in Tulum.
“They showed us love, compassion, grace and gave us the confidence that we could have a wedding here in this crazy place. We didn’t have vendors taking our photos, we had lifelong friends. The entire day was better by their presence and their photographic capabilities.”
Grisel Serrano drenched the gorgeous venue in beautiful neutral florals while Daniel Parra Design brought the couple’s vision to life. We know you guys are going to love these results so let’s take a look!
Bohemian Paradise
We just adore their minimal wedding invitations! And that personalized ring dish by Aralia – gorgeous!
This lovely lace gown features a beautiful plunging neckline and a dramatic train. We asked bride Ashley to share how she found her dress:
“Finding my dress was a challenge because nothing ever felt quite right. I went through multiple boutiques before choosing BHLDN in my hometown up in Massachusetts. My dress was a perfect match at first site, I had it saved in my Pinterest boards for months and when I saw it in person I knew it was the one.”
What a gorgeous place to exchange vows! With a beautiful floral arch and four benches to hold their dearest friends and family, it was the intimate ceremony of Derek & Ashely’s dreams.
Processional: Million Dreams by Ziv Zaifman, Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams
Recessional: Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
First Dance: Lover by Taylor Swift
How sweet are these two!
The most perfect wedding favor fan!
The Reception Space
The couple’s venue was a hideaway location named Kima Tulum. “Dorothy and her husband were so welcoming, helped serve us, the beautiful cocktail menu included, and the location made it a perfect place to gather our family for this special night. It was truly out of a storybook to be at Kima Tulum.”
“Paola and Daniela, our designer and planner, took our dream and made it a reality better than we could have ever imagined. They are so talented, kind, passionate and supportive. Without them on our team, none of this would’ve been possible.”
Dreaming of a bohemian tablescape? GWS has the best inspiration for you!
Our advice for planning your wedding would be to find vendors that you connect with, on a personal level. Ones whose work will be an expression of your vision through their passion and knowledge. Having the right vendors will bring your wedding to life, in a way that you couldn’t imagine. Start one year in advance if you can.
The cake of our dreams! Pasteleria la Migaja created this delicate masterpiece!
The most memorable moment was the family dinner on wedding day. It was the most beautiful, dreamy and magical dinner setting we’ve ever had. It felt like a moment frozen in time with our loved ones.
What a way to conclude the night! Laughter, dancing, and sparklers! As their love story continues, we wish Derek and Ashley all the best!
photography: Gabri Palmieri // venue name: Kima Tulum, Tulum, Mexico // event design: Daniela Parra Design // florals: Grisel Serrano Florals // hair stylist: Daniel Perez Astorga // makeup artist: Zoe Elizabeth // videography: Morgan Scott // cake: Pastelería La Migaja // tabletop rentals: Archive Rentals // furniture rentals: Archive Rentals // music: Magalum music // Music: Event Technology // prints and personalized ring dishes: Aralia
