Chic destination wedding weekend in san miguel de allende
This couple had one wish for their wedding weekend–to feel what it would be like if all of their favorite people lived in the same small (insanely photogenic) city–enter San Miguel de Allende. From writing their own vows and a private first look to assigned table leaders to keep the party going, they weren't afraid to ditch tradition and just do what felt right to them. Keep scrolling to see every last detail from this lovely wedding captured by the talented Ildefonso Gutiérrez. And trust us when we say, you won't want to miss a single one of these fashion moments!
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their love story
Oscar and Jillian met at Columbia University in New York City, where they both completed their MBAs. They had lots of mutual friends and crossed paths often at parties and on trips, but it wasn't until months after graduation that love first flourished during a joint birthday party in the West Village. At the end of the party, they kissed, and that's how it all started! Their first official date was a whirlwind weekend trip to Miami, Oscar's hometown. We had gone a few weeks prior with friends, and after enjoying spending time with each other, Oscar suggested that we go back together just the two of us. Oscar was living in Charleston at the time, while Jillian was still living in New York City, so a spontaneous weekend getaway felt like the perfect first date. Two years later, Oscar convinced Jillian to move to Miami–not an easy feat. A little over a year after the move, Oscar plotted the best surprise and proposed to Jillian at home in Coconut Grove with their dog Hudson.
the destination
Oscar is Mexican and Jillian is Canadian, and they both now live in Miami. Oscar always knew he wanted to get married in Mexico because so much of his family still lived there, and Jillian was happy to oblige having visited multiple times, as long as it was San Miguel de Allende. She had never even been to SMA until they got engaged, but had seen photos and it was the most beautiful place she could imagine. We really wanted a smaller town where our guests coming from all over the world felt like they could take over and fell in love with Instituto Allende. We loved the idea of a place where everyone would run into each other by chance in the streets, which was exactly what happened!
the escort display
All the guests were greeted with Talavera shot glasses, and assigned "table captains" ensured the energy was non-stop!
the reception
We both value family more than anything, so having an extra large head table with our parents, siblings, and partners allowed for a family dinner-like feel in the middle of the wedding which we loved!
A rich pastel color palette, reminiscent of the city's skyline, ruled the day. A low peach, blush, and ivory floral garland centerpiece by PS Flower Studio stretched the length of the table while mid-century modern cane-back chairs added a vintage vibe.
the fashion
I actually found my dress before even booking our wedding date or venue! I was overwhelmed by the whole process and unlike many, didn't know what I wanted at all. My mom came to visit in Miami and insisted we go shopping "just for fun". I booked an appointment at a small boutique in our area, Coconut Grove, called Amable, that I had walked by so many times. The store owner picked out 4-5 dresses for me to try on, and the third one I tried I immediately fell in love. It was simple, but classic and chic. I tried on my veil with it and was immediately sold. Both the dress and veil were by Sarah Seven, a NY-based brand that paid homage to my time living in NYC.
My other outfits were much more difficult to land on! I wanted variety in shape/style. I obsessively scrolled through social media for inspiration, got input from my sister and friends, and made more online orders and returns than I care to admit. I landed on a white Cult Gaia set for the welcome party paired with fun blue Attico shoes and vintage blue Oscar de la Renta earrings. For my after-party dress, my only criterion was sparkle, which I succeeded with! I paired it with metallic Jimmy Choo heels which surprisingly I danced in until 3 am without issue.
For the ceremony, the groom sported a chic navy tuxedo with black satin lapels and black velvet loafers. We love a man who seizes the moment and isn't afraid to shake things up with his wedding look.
advice from the happy couple
Get a local planner! I realize that may be a luxury, but our planners Solei Weddings were based in San Miguel and they were fantastic. They suggested amazing vendors and thought of little details that would have never crossed my mind. Everything I asked for, they executed perfectly. Other than that, just focus on what you and your partner want. What are the non-negotiables? Do your best to not be influenced by the weddings you see on social media, it's not going to be special if it's just repeated!
- Wedding Photographers: Ildefonso Gutiérrez
- Flowers: PS Flower Studio
- Wedding Planner: Solei San Miguel
- Venues: Instituto Allende
- Video: Fernando Ruiz
- Wedding Dresses: Sarah Seven
- Hair, Makeup & Beauty: Team DaniPal Makeup & Hair
- Wedding DJ: VB Music
- Cakes & Catering: A Banqueteria
- Paper Goods & Calligraphy: Invite Me Special