Nate + Sofia's Epic Wedding at Discovery Beach House

EPIC. That is the word that comes to mind when I think of Nate and Sofia's wedding.  The ceremony was beautiful, the decor was stunning, but that is not what made this wedding epic. What made this wedding so fun was the people. Their joy for life and love was just amazing, and on top of that they danced the night away like no wedding group I have ever seen before. They danced hard, and loved every minute of it.

Nate and Sofia were wed at the Discovery Beach House located in Manuel Antonio. The house is wonderful for weddings as it is located directly on the beach, and has enough room for both a ceremony and reception area. The day started off as it normally does with the girls getting ready. 

The Discovery Beach House is owned by an amazing woman names Evelyn. Evelyn puts a lot into making sure that her guests feel welcomed in the house. She also has an interesting life story, as her job was to photograph primates in the wild while they were being studied. The walls of her house are adorned with amazing photographs of her working with these animals. The book shelves are lined with books about monos, and one of the books made for a perfect ring photo.

The groom was getting ready at a nearby hotel. I walked down the beach to meet him and his groomsmen for a few photos before the ceremony. 

This is just to give you an idea of how wonderful this venue is. Sofia and Nate were able to party in the lush, green, jungle heat, and have their ceremony just beyond this directly on the beach. As a photographer it is great as it is so easy to sneak out and capture the reception details without having to take much time away from the bride.

What better a way to celebrate getting married than by taking a celebratory shot with your bridal party.

While the guests enjoyed a beach side cocktail hour, I took Sofia and Nate along the beach to get some beautiful sunset portraits of the two of them.

Guests were moved to this magical night-time reception. Dinner was served and toasts were made. Then the real party began.

Some of the grooms family was unable to attend the wedding. They sent a video to be played during the toasting hour. It was hilarious and included them showing off their dance moves as if they were there partying too.

I always like to look over at the bride while the groom is dancing with his mother. Sometimes the bride is somewhat interested, watching and maybe talking with a guest, or sometimes the bride is just not paying attention at all. I so loved how Sofia sat contentedly the entire song, just smiling and watching her husband dance with the other most important woman in his life. 

And then the dancing began, and oh how they danced!

TURN DOWN FOR WHAT! The energy of this wedding was so high. Take a look at the young man paying homage to these two sisters breaking it down.

The bride had kept a huge secret from everyone at the wedding. Only her and the wedding planned knew about the awesome comparsa group that was coming to entertain the group and bring. When they she surprised everyone they went wild! A comparsa group dresses in festive outfits and dances to very fast and loud drum beat. They then begin to pull guests in to join in the dance. It is a great cultural yet fun addition to any wedding or event.

And with that the epic day concluded, although I suspect that the party continued after I left in the pool.

Photography: Yours Truly
Wedding Planner: Weddings Costa Rica
Day of Planner: Chelsea Brandau
Venue: Discovery Beach House
Rentals: Eventos Boadicea
Hair Stylist: Monica Mosapor
Makeup: Claudia Ramirez
Caterer: Desiree Brassert
Florist: Stylos y Flores
Cake: Mariposa Pastry
Guitarist: Alvin Urbina
DJ: A Class Production
Lawyer: Ana Castro
Comparsa: Comparsa Latin Sound