Real Wedding-Leslie and Michael, Zephyr Palace,Villa Caletas

What's better than fireworks on the 4th of July? How about a breathtakingly sumptuous wedding complete with spectacular fireworks? That, my friends, is how the beyond-lovely Leslie and the dashingly handsome Michael celebrated Independence Day, along with 60 of their nearest and dearest at Zephyr Palace. Matter of fact, this wedding was featured in the ultra-exclusive Inside Weddings Magazine, a huge honour for us as it was the first (and only) wedding in Costa Rica to ever be featured. Let the gorgeousness ensue...The terrace at Zephyr Palace was tented (being July, we had to think about possible rain) but we incorporated the structure into the design, suspending glass lanterns and orange tulips from the ceiling, creating a warm atmosphere. An arch of 'monkey stair' vines, filled with lillies, calas and tulips, took centrestage for the evening ceremony by candle light.Using a palette of mahogany, orange and sapphire blue, we created a sophisticated look that worked beautifully with the terracotta tones and blue of the pool at Zephyr Palace.Instead of the typical escort cards, we used clay tiles handpainted in Mexico and calligraphied with the names and table assignments. The design on the tiles matched the invitations perfectly! After the wedding, the tiles could be used as coasters in the guests homes.Green hydrangeas, orange tulips, coffee beans create a dreamy, earthy look.Long imperial tables featured low arrangements filled with flowers whilst lanterns and chains of rose petals hung down from the extra-high ceiling, creating a more intimate space.Orange and hints of blue add subtle colour punches against the organic feel of the decor and flowers.Ribbon ring around the napkin doubled as seating cards. A monogram of the bride and groom's initials was featured on all the paper products as well as the custom-made runners. A week before the wedding, the bride had called me in a panic that the fabric for her runners had yet to arrive. Luckily, the amazing Roberto Rivera of Eventos Boadicea  was able to step in and made the runners here, on time. They turned out gorgeous!Lighting transforms everything!Even the cake featured the monogram!Not only was this a beautifully elegant wedding, it was one heckuva PAR-TEE! Michael, Leslie and co. knew how to get down, get back up and get down all over again. Too. much. fun.Being July 4th, we had to have fireworks. Lots and lots of mind-blowing fireworks (accompanied by some John Phillip Souza no less!). Wowza!A massive thank you to the outrageously talented Paula & Mike Luna of Luna Photo for their jaw-dropping photos. Love them truly, madly, deeply!Congratulations again, Leslie and Michael! We loved every single second of working with you.