When those most important to you live far away and can’t make a hometown wedding, bring the wedding to them! Maria and Gannon decided to do this, hosting a destination wedding in Mexico where Maria’s mom resides.

“My wedding style was inspired by Mexico. Growing up visiting where my family came from humbled me and showed me to find beauty in the simplicity of life,” the bride says.

Finding a specific location that wasn’t overcrowded and had accommodations and entertainment for guests would be Maria and Gannon’s first major challenge in the planning process. Luckily, one of Gannon’s family members recommended the perfect place!

“We knew we didn’t want an overpopulated resort or city since we both like quiet and relaxing places. When we looked at the Barcelo we fell in love and we heard the weather was guaranteed to be warm and sunny skies,” the couple says.

The next thing to tackle was transportation for everyone. At first, the couple hired a travel agent, but due to some complications, they ended up having guests book their own flights and reservations at the resort. 

“We were constantly checking flight websites and sending them to our friends and families to help them find the best deals,” Maria says.

Just about every other major planning decision the resort handled, leaving room for Maria and Gannon to enjoy their wedding away.

“I feel like our wedding would have been more stressful trying to find each individual vendor, having to choose every detail and aspect of the wedding rather than just being given choices,” the bride says.

The ceremony and reception couldn’t have been more picturesque. Maria even got to share a special moment with her mom before, revealing her gown and shedding bittersweet tears together. These moments and more happened because the couple made sure to leave buffer time between each event of the wedding day (something they advise every couple to do).

In the end, soaking in the Mexican sun on the beach, Maria and Gannon began “forever” with those dearest to them as witnesses. 

Vendors: Photography: Love and Covenant; Venue: Barceló Huatulco Resort; Planning/Florals/Stationary/Cake: Barceló Huatulco Resort; Hair & Makeup: Ikal Noil Hair Studio; Gown Designer: Maggie Sottero; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Menswarehouse; Bridesmaids/Groomsmen’s Clothing Designer: Azazie & Menswarehouse