I had been going to Tulum for years, it’s a really beautiful beach village on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico – people always talk about it being quite magical and spiritual – and we knew we wanted to get married there. As soon as I had a guest count I was certain we should go the villa route to create the intimate environment we hoped for.
Everything went to plan. It was a laid back and beautiful day. Guests were invited to come at any time to simply hang out, which is what we wanted: to spend the day with our loved ones. We also said no gifts – we wanted guests to be present, not bring presents.
The ceremony was held on the sand right by the beautiful clear ocean and then the reception at Gitano (which means gypsy in Spanish!), a famous mezcaleria in a cool jungle setting, laid back but still really glamorous and fun, with drinks inspired by 1940s tiki cocktails. The food is next level and they also made our desserts, which we had instead of a cake.
We liked to reference our style as ‘gypsy disco’ for our wedding. There were lots of bohemian elements slightly elevated by throwing in a touch of glam rock – whether it was my headpiece or the giant disco ball at our reception. Our ceremony arch lovingly made by my dear friend and artist Josana Blue was a dream for us! I remember saying, “I want it to feel like some gypsies washed up on the shores of Tulum and decided to have a wedding.” So she incorporated lace she hand dyed with tea and some deep red roses and greenery. It was absolutely perfect!
Lihi Hod is a fabulous Israeli designer whose dress I randomly happened upon at Gabriella Bridal in Soho. There was a sample recently dropped off by their team that day and I gravitated towards it because I loved the open back and lace mixed with the beadwork. When I ordered mine I had them deepen the plunged neckline slightly. My headpiece was custom-made by Hushed Commotion in Brooklyn. Major gypsy disco action!
Photography, Daniel Orren for Chelise Michael | Styling, Kerry Beach Events | Brides Dress, Lihi Hod | Hair and Makeup, SB Beauty | Brides Shoes, Jimmy Choo | Flora, Planner 1 | Reception, Gitano Tulum | Grooms Suit, Suit Supply
