Romantic Puerto Rico Destination Wedding

The stunning Condado Vanderbilt Hotel San Juan, Puerto Rico hosted Karen and Nick’s intimate destination wedding, planned from afar by enlisting the help of AMK Events! Karen says “Anne Marie made planning our wedding a dream and connected us with such a fantastic team of professionals”, including the fabulous Anabelle Barranco of STEM Events! The event was relaxed but romantic, with bridesmaids in white gowns of their own choosing, and Karen is a positively exquisite Anna Maier gown with intricate beading and chic short sleeves. The entire day was a family affair, with the couple’s youngest son walking Karen down the aisle to Nick, and their eldest throwing rose petals. Karen’s family is from Puerto Rico, and her aunt created a traditional Puerto Rican wedding cake, and even a second cake with guava filling that had guests lining up for more! Absolutely adore this beautiful family and the images from Lucky You Weddings!

Bride in Anna Maier Ulla Maija
Beaded Sheath Wedding Gown
Adoralbe Flower Girl Holding Bouquet
Bride in Beaded Anna Maier Gown
Flower Girl with Flower Crown
Mix and Match White Bridesmaid Dresses
Bride with Maid of Honor
Flower Girl in Dress with Sash
Bridesmaid in White Dress
Puerto Rico Destination Wedding 2
Puerto Rico Destination Wedding 3
Puerto Rico Destination Wedding 1
White Roses in Bud Vases
Wreaths on Hotel Entry Door
Centerpiece of Cluster Bud Vases

In their own words

How did you meet?
We started running into each other socially. He invited me and a group of friends to spend 4th of July weekend at his house near the beach. His kids, who were 15 and 13 at the time, were there too. We all bonded over the weekend and were pleasantly surprised at how that weekend almost 8 years ago turned out.

What is your proposal story?
I was in between contractions with our, now, 4 year old son. He was nearly 8 weeks early. My nurse and midwife say they have to step out to check on something. Meanwhile my stepson had taken the train up from Baltimore to quickly pick up the ring and meet the baby. He walks in my room with his sister following behind him. She begins to sing in her angelic voice “Sea of Love” and my husband gets down on one knee. He says something utterly beautiful and romantic while I began to cry and say “yes”.

What was the most important to the two of you while planning? Was there anything that you chose to splurge on or skip?
We splurged on food and drink for reception and dinner. We skipped day after breakfast/brunch.

What were your favorite parts of the day?
Hearing my husband’s vows to me was unforgettable. Getting dressed for my wedding with my dearest friends. Hearing my grown-up stepchildren give the most wonderful toasts. Getting my son’s dressed in their tuxedos. Walking down the aisle with my youngest son while the oldest threw rose petals around.

Do you have any advice for couples planning their weddings now?
I’d advise you to write a list of your must haves for the wedding and negotiate from there. Also take it easy, don’t get so caught up in the details that you miss the creative process of putting together your dream wedding.

Did any of your wedding pros deliver a standout experience?
Anabelle Barranco is amazing! She made the room look so beautiful. She knew how to make the most of the space and was easy to work with. Anne Marie Kleis went above and beyond as our wedding planner She made planning our wedding a dream. I’m so grateful to her for connecting us with such a fantastic team of professionals. Aleksandre Debbie nailed the natural but polished look I was going for. Our videographer Jomar was outstanding and we love our wedding video! Our photographer, Marisol Pesquera, captured such magical moments that we’ll treasure for life.

Event Credits

Wedding PlanningAMK Events
Bride’s ShoesOscar De La Renta
Groom’s AttireYves Saint Laurent
Bridesmaids DressesMissoni
Bridesmaids DressesCalvin Klein
Bridesmaids DressesJill Jill Stuart