With the rainy season comes morning weddings, and sometimes we get overcast, cloudy skies, and sometimes beautiful shining sun skies. On the day that Georgianna and Aaron eloped the sun was shining bright and the sky was a beautiful blue. The light is so different in the morning verses the evening here, and the photos really have a completely different feel to them. Even though we had to work around the harsh shadows created by the sun, the photos still turned out stunning of this beautiful couple and family. 

Georgianna asked me for a recommendation for an officiant, but the normal officiant I recommend wasn't available, so in a pinch my husband, Alvaro, officiated the wedding. It was something different and a little bit fun for him. The three girls stood by watching. 

I think Nissa is one of my favorite brides ever! She is so fun to be around, full of positive energy, and so uniquely herself. Her happiness is contagious and attracts people to her, as demonstrated by her large group of girlfriends, eager to celebrate her wedding in Costa Rica. I didn't get to spend as much time with Gabe, but from the time I did spend with him I could tell he is the perfect partner for Nissa, and a really nice guy. One of those guys that a mother always hopes their daughter finds and marries. 

The weather was questionable that afternoon, and luckily the call was made to move the ceremony inside, as it did begin to rain just before the ceremony started. The ceremony was officiated by Fernando, the hotel manager, and two family members did readings as well. 

Nissa was getting ready with her mom, sister and friends. She was cracking jokes the entire time, and even laughing about how classy she was by drinking Coors Light on her wedding day. Some very odd baby hands props had been acquired before the wedding, and made their weird appearance throughout the day. 

Gabe was getting ready with his two groomsmen. He looked quite dashing in his navy blue suit.

The ceremony was held in the thatch roofed restaurant at Alma del Pacifico. A beautiful arch with large tropical arrangements awaited the couple. During the ceremony, Gabe and Nissa partook in the Costa Rican wedding tradition of passing 13 coins back and forth to one another.

Nissa and Gabe's wedding cake was topped with a custom cake topper, featuring their German Shepherd dog from back home. 

Once the dancing started Nissa changed into a cute little romper which went perfectly with her country gal cowboy boots. The ladies were eager to catch the bouquet, while the guys passed the garter around like a hot potato, hoping the music wouldn't stop while it was in their hand. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Venue: Alma del Pacifico
Planner: Katherine Gamboa
Officiant: Fernando Alfaro
Flowers: Alma del Pacifico
DJ: Son Latino Discomovil

Alison and Tom traveled from New York to marry one another on a tropical beach in Costa Rica. The wedding was nothing short of perfect, as the sun peeked through the rain clouds to shine on them during their vows. It had been down pouring earlier that day when we arrived, and I was certain that the ceremony would have to be held indoors. But the weather cooperated and stopped just long enough for the ceremony and a few photos, before it started drizzling again. 

Alison was getting ready with her mom and her bridesmaids. She looked beautiful. Her bright blue eyes sparkled, and her lace dress had a beautiful back and neckline. She was very sweet and down to earth, and even with the back and fourth and uncertainty of the weather, she remained calm and collected. 

A stunning tropical arch awaited Tom and Alison. The ceremony was held on the beach just in front of the all inclusive Riu resort. 

After the ceremony we took some photos along the beautiful beach. I normally start with family photos, but Alison wanted to start with photos of just her and Tom, just in case it started raining again. I didn't think it was going to rain, but of course obliged, and I am so happy we did start with them because literally 5 minutes later it started raining. Luckily we got a few great shots before the rain, and even one of Tom defending his wife's dress from a beach dog. 

The reception was held in the Riu's event center. Upon entering, the newlyweds took to the floor for their first dance as husband and wife. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videography: Baltodano Films
Venue: Riu Guanacaste

Monica and Nick had one of the most wonderful and happy wedding days I have ever witnessed. There was so much joy coming from the happy couple, and that joy was contagious. One of the beautiful things about Monica is that she doesn't smile, her smile is almost always a heart warming laugh. Someone recently told me that happy brides are the most beautiful, and I couldn't agree more, especially in the case of Monica. 

Monica and her girls were getting ready in the cockpit cottage at Costa Verde, a room that is actually an airplane converted into a hotel room. Monica's hair was AMAZING. I must have told her about 20 times how much I loved it. A Pinterest worthy messy side braid with some lose waves. 

Nick, the groomsmen and his father were getting ready in the other airplane hotel room called the Fuselage 727. Nick seemed down to earth and like an all around nice guy. He had fun breaking it down on the dance floor later on (continue reading for proof of that). 

The ceremony was held on the beach in Manuel Antonio. It was overcast and started raining just before the start of the ceremony. Luckily, the wedding planner Isabel had umbrellas for everyone. And the even better part is that they were all white, so they blended in with the wedding scene. One of the lovely things is that no one really complained or cared much about the rain. Monica and Nick were getting married rain or shine, and nothing could damper their happiness. 

Monica had emailed me before the wedding requesting a photo with her bridal party spraying champagne. You know you have a fun bride on your hands when they request a photo like this! I am so glad they did it, and it turned out great. 

The reception was held at El Avion. The couple shared a first dance and dances with their parents. Speeches were given, the cake was cut, and then the real fun began. The party kept on going and was kicked up a notch when the glow items were brought out, this group had so much fun and kept the dance floor full the whole night. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Venue: Costa Verde Hotel
Planner: Isabel Vargas
Hair and Makeup: Mademoiselle Salon
DJ: Joshua Stewart
Guitarist: Alvin 
Officiant: Rodrigo Campos
Flowers: Floresteria Crystal

Stephanie and Steve traveled from Boston to marry one another in the tropical paradise known as Manuel Antonio. It was the beginning of rainy season, so the ceremony was held under cover at the beautiful vacation villa Casa Fantastica (or Fantastic House), but we were able to make it to the beach for photos since the rain held off. 

One of the things that I really loved about this couple, was the love they both have for Steve's children. Normally when their are children involved I can tell right away whether the bride or the groom is the biological parent of the kids, but in the case of Stephanie and Steve it was difficult to really tell. The girls love Stephanie so much, and really look up to her, and she reciprocates those feelings, so their marriage really was such a beautiful joining of a family. 

Steve thoughtfully surprised Stephanie by wearing a pin that was made in honor of her deceased father. It was slipped to him by Stephanie's uncle at the rehearsal dinner, without her knowing, and brought tears to her eyes to see him wearing it on the wedding day.
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The couple decided to do a first look. Stephanie had a feeling that Steve would get emotional when he saw her, and she wanted that to be an intimate moment for just the two of them. I reaction that Steve had when he saw his bride was probably the reaction that every bride hopes for. His jaw dropped and I think his breath was literally taken away. 

Ladies, if you find a man that makes you laugh like this make sure you hold on and never let go. Steve loves making Stephanie laugh. I found that throughout my entire time with Stephanie there were quite a few moments when she had this huge, beautiful smile on her face, and in all of the moments Steve was right by her side. 

The ceremony was held on the pool deck with views of the Pacific Ocean and Manuel Antonio National Park. Upon walking up the aisle Stephanie and Steve lit a candle, in silence, in honor of those who were no longer with them. The ceremony was beautiful and light hearted. Steve, again looking for ways to make Stephanie laugh, surprised her with vows written on a scroll that reached all the way down to the floor. You can imagine the laughter that erupted when he pulled that out. 

The celebration continued with a beautiful reception where the tables were decorated with purple and white flowers and candles. Speeches were given by the best man and maid of honor, dinner was enjoyed and dancing on the pool deck ensued. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Venue: Casa Fantastica
Wedding Planner: Oasis Destination Weddings
Florist: Costa Brava Weddings
Hair and Makeup: Priscilla Solano
​Lighting: Ambiance Event Lighting
Rentals: DGala
Cake; Mariposa Pastry

Allix and Dylan are so much fun and their wedding was a perfect representation of that. From start to finish they were truly authentic, and didn't conform to traditional wedding norms but instead did things their own way, the fun way. They were joined by a close knit group of family and friends, all of whom shared an immense amount of love for the newlyweds. Both Allix and Dylan wear their hearts on their sleeves and because of this the day was full of beautiful happy emotions. 

Allix and her many beautiful bridesmaids all got ready in one of the suites at Zephyr Palace. Allix wore a delicate lace dress, that had a beautiful flare to it when she would spin around. 

Dylan and his groomsmen were getting ready at Zephyr Palace as well. He looked quite dapper with his suspenders and bow tie. 

One of the things that impressed me most about Dylan was his ability to both be the fun, strong, loud friend and a split second later the tender hearted son and husband. The photo and above and below were taken only a few seconds apart and it was just amazing to see the love he has for his mother, and the emotions she can bring out in him compared to the emotions his friends bring out. 

At this point in my blog posts you would normally see details of the ceremony setup such as flowers or an arch, but Alli and Dylan didn't have one. Again, this is them being so genuine and authentic to themselves. What was important was not the frills and fluff of the day, but the beautiful people and the beautiful love they all shared. Besides, the venue itself was so gorgeous that it really didn't need to be dressed up. 

Did I mention these two are fun? How about sealing your vows not only with a kiss but also with a swig?

Things were kicked up a notch when the reception began. Allix and Dylan were welcomed to their reception by a roaring crowd, shots were poured, speeches were given and the dancing was off the hook. Even Allix's mom who was in a wheel chair for the day made it out onto the dance floor for some amazing fun!

I have to say something about the photo below. It is so beautiful. Allix's mom, step mom and brother watch her and her father dance with tears in their eyes and their arms around each other. This is what a loving family looks like. Allix's mom and dad may no longer be together, but she does not come from a broken family. She comes from a amazing family where she now has two moms who are able to get along and love their kids to the end of the world. To me this is what every divorced family should strive to be. Truly moving to see. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Venue: Villa Caletas
Hair and Makeup: Xinia Chacon
DJ: DJ Kika

Danielle and Jared's wedding day couldn't have been more perfect. This lovely couple married one another at one of my favorite venues in all of Costa Rica, Zephyr Palace. Like the name mentions, this venue is decadent like a palace and has a view like none other. It was the perfect spot for these two to marry one another. When out on the pool deck, which is where the ceremony was held, it is sometimes almost impossible to tell where the sky meets the ocean and where the ocean meets the infinity pool. it is just breathtaking. 

Danielle was sweet as can be. Quiet and reserved yet radiant. Her dress was an amazing scalloped lace dress that had a high neckline and cuff shoulders. She looked stunning in it and it fit her like a glove. Danielle got ready at Zephyr Palace with her family and bridesmaids including her twin sister who was rightfully deemed maid of honor. 

Danielle was escorted down the aisle by her father. The ceremony was short and sweet and slightly and full of smiles. 

After Jared and Danielle were pronounced husband and wife we headed to the beautiful stone arches for family photos, bridal party photos and newlywed photos. I love this area for photos as it is hands down gorgeous and almost always has beautiful even lighting. 

Guests enjoyed a sunset cocktail hour while portrait photos were being taken. 

The photo below, of Jared staring off into the distance with his mouth slightly open, to me is so special. To others it may look like any other photo, but this image was taken just after the image from above, the girls were still standing by the edge of the pool while friends and family continued on taking photos of them, and I snuck over and snapped this one of Jared, staring at his wife in amazement. I don't know exactly what was going through his head, but by the expression on his face I would imagine he was just thinking of how lucky his was to marry the love of his life, the amazing woman standing over there with her sister and niece, looking so beautiful in her white wedding dress. To me this picture if pure love.

The reception was kicked off with introductions and a first dance by the newlyweds. Speeches were given and an elegant dinner followed. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videography: Baltodano Films
Venue: Zephyr Palace
Hair and Makeup: Xinia Chacon
DJ: DJ Kika

Vanessa and Chris married one another at Parador, a mountain top resort in Manuel Antonio. An intimate group of long-time family and friends attended the wedding and celebrated the love of the newlyweds. The ceremony was held on a grassy cliff, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. A sloth hung nearby in a tree, exemplifying the "pura vida" lifestyle. 

Vanessa got ready in the master suite of the hotel, which provided for plenty of space for her and her bridesmaids. Her dress was absolutely beautiful, and looked stunning on her.  

Chris was getting ready nearby in another room with his groomsmen. The tropical heat didn't stop him from wearing a full suit and bowtie. 

A beautiful tropical arch awaited the couple. Harold, the wedding planner for Parador, did a great job making sure everything was just right for Chris and Vanessa's special day. Vanessa was walked down the aisle by her father, Carl, who was actually the one who did a lot of the wedding pre-arrangements. 

The reception was held in a private event space at the hotel. Birds of paradise decorated the tables, while traditional Costa Rican desserts were beautifully displayed on a nearby table. Chris and Vanessa surprised everyone with a choreographed dance which was a big hit.

Vanessa was really excited about the custom cake topper she had made. The figurines matched exactly to Chris and herself, even down to the bouquet. And when she turned it around everyone burst out into laughter. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videography: Baltodano Films
Venue: Parador Hotel
Coordinator: Harold Rojas
Hair and Makeup: Mademoiselle Salon
Florist: Giovanni Sanchez Mesen
Cake: Parador
DJ: DJ Six

Lisa and James traveled from Texas with a group of family and friends. They married one another on the beautiful beach known as Playa Conchal, or Seashell Beach. It is called this because at the nothern end of the beach there are only shells, no sand, which creates crystal clear water. 

Lisa and her bridesmaids were getting ready at The Westin Resort, an all inclusive resort which sits on Playa Conchal. Her details were beautiful, and she even had a unique see through invitation. 

A beautiful bamboo arch decorated with flowers awaited the couple and their guests. The sun was setting off to the left, behind the hills, creating a magical rainbow of blue hues across the sea and sky. Lisa looked stunning as she walked in on her fathers arm. 

Due to threats of rain the reception was moved indoors, but even inside the bistro lights and beautiful tablescapes looked just as magical. Lisa even special ordered majestic throne like chairs for her and James to sit in. 

Photography: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videography: Baltodano Films
Venue: The Westin Resort
Wedding Planner: Heidy Quesada
Florist: Art Flower
Cake: Victoria Zoch
DJ: Ciro
Rentals: Costa Mesa

Sonia and Bill married one another in a very intimate waterfall ceremony. The ceremony took place at Waterfall Villas, one of only two exclusively vegan hotels in Costa Rica. The ceremony was really special and meaningful for the couple, it included many elements and lasted for an hour. Prayers were said, ancient quotes shared and intentions set. The ceremony concluded with the couple sending off down the river a large leaf piled with seeds, flowers, soil and love. It was really a magical thing to hear and witness, and it was exactly what this couple wanted for their wedding.
The celebration concluded with an afternoon reception where Sonia, Bill and their guests were served a delicious vegan meal complete with a vegan wedding cake.

Photographer: Madison Baltodano Photography
Videographer: Baltodano Films
Venue: Waterfall Villas
​Officiant: Sacred Wedding Ceremonies by Raven