Suffering from what they describe as “extreme wanderlust,” Sarah and Paul made the conscious decision to have their destination wedding in Todos Santos, Baja California Sur.

“I grew up in CA and always wanted to get married by the pacific – my husband is from New Jersey, but neither of us wanted a city wedding,” says Sarah. “I grew up going to Baja and love the dry desert climate framed by the pacific.”

Looking to create a romantic and unique experience not only for themselves, but also for their guests, the couple knew they wanted a weekend-long celebration as opposed to just one night. “I’d say those invited were really excited for a weekend getaway and were up for the adventure,” says the bride.

Researching and taking inspiration from the Internet, as soon as the bride found the wedding venue, Villa Santa Cruz, she fell in love instantly. “I did a ton of research on the internet – I read loads of reviews on all the locations I was considering and then asked a lot of questions when I got to speak to each one,” says the bride. “Reviews on all the sites are important, because if a venue has messed up weddings consistently, you will definitely find out quickly.”

With a relaxed and stress-free feel to the entire wedding, the couple was able to have a wonderful time in a great location with the help of their wedding planner, Jessica. “A destination wedding is definitely a leap of faith,” says Sarah. “You aren’t 100 percent sure what the end result will be, but that’s part of the experience.”

The couple got the opportunity to “spoil” their guests by spending less money on a destination wedding and spending more time with them to explore the beauty of Baja. The couple knew a traditional wedding would have involved more guests, more stress and wouldn’t have been as fun.

Happy with the overall result of their wedding weekend, we asked the bride to share some advice for other couples planning their own destination wedding. “Do a ton of research – there are so many options, but you know what feels best when you see it,” says Sarah. “Go with your gut, try to have fun, relax and enjoy the time! Half the little details you obsess over won’t matter in the long run.”

Vendors: Photographer: Sara Richardson Photography, Wedding Planner: Jessica Canepa, Ceremony/Reception Site: Villa Santa Cruz, Florist: Barbara Matthews, Stationery: Lucky Luxe, Cake: Hotel California, Hair & Makeup: Blanc Bridal, Gown Designer: Kleinfeld, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Vera Wang Tux, Rings: Anna Sheffield