Mila + Shawn had a small, intimate wedding with 30 of their closest friends and family in Yelapa, Mexico – a small fishing village only accessible by boat. They both wanted a non-traditional wedding and decided not to have a wedding party or first dance. After the ceremony officiated by Mila’s best friend who introduced the couple 4 years ago, they had an amazing feast of fresh caught fish and traditionally prepared steak followed by dancing under the stars. Their wedding was all about the location and Verana (the home they rented in Yelapa) is by far one of the most incredibly gorgeous places in the world. Big thanks to Jillian Mitchell for the stunning photos today and congrats to Mila + Shawn!
As passionate travelers, I was researching a new place for us to visit on our next vacation before we were engaged. I stumbled upon Verana through a website called Boutique Homes. I knew instantly that we would go there the next chance we had. A few months later we were engaged and had to start thinking of places to have the wedding. Verana seemed like a place that represented some of the many things we love and enjoy about life and we could have a celebration there that really reflected who we are. We felt Yelapa, Mexico would be perfect: it’s not too far from LA where we and most of our friends and family are loacted, we took our first vacation together to Mexico, and we absolutely love Mexico’s rich culture.
Verana and Yelapa are truly magical places. Both are places that once you’ve been, you’ll always want to return. The panga ride down the coast from the boat dock in Boca de Tomatlan to Yelapa was one of my favorite memories, the beginning, the excitement of discovery and a breathtaking coast line. We will never forget the wonderful, warm, welcoming staff at Verana for making our celebration so special and a fantastic dream come true. Shawn and I look forward to returning to celebrate many anniversaries and reliving the memories of our wedding in the jungle of Yelapa.
Sharing self-composed vows with each other in front of our loved ones.
Enjoy the process. Make it about who you are and don't dwell on the little things that may not happen exactly as planned. Don't put too much pressure on yourselves the day of worrying about all of the guests.
photography: Jillian Mitchell // venue name: Verana // wedding dress: Thai Nguyen Couture // hairpiece: coral found at Verana // bride's shoes: Nicholas Kirkwood // groom attire: Dior Homme // paper goods: Minted // catering: Verana // cake: Verana // music: local trio sourced by Verana // invitations: Minted