Imagine eloping in an intimate oasis in Tulum, surrounded by jungle elements and sacred rituals. Inspired by the natural elements of this Mexico region, photographer, Iann Ivy, wanted to create an editorial with a luxury boho feel focused on highlighting this incredible destination. We had the honor of interviewing Ivy to get the scoop on how this shoot came together and the thought behind its various elements. See her responses below.

The Beginnings

“This shoot got started when I was already booked to shoot a destination wedding in Playa Del Carmen. Since that was a resort wedding, I wanted to experience the magic of Tulum and connect with locals to create something beautiful and lux which is something I haven’t really seen with Tulum elopements which tend to lean more boho. Serendipitously, another photographer, Galaxie Andrews, was also working in the area, so we co-planned this styled elopement and handpicked each vendor along the way.”

Inspiration

“The inspiration was an intimate elopement in a private oasis. The private estate was inspirational of the area regarding the color palette, organic shapes and usage of nature. We wanted every element to feel integrated.”

Ceremony Design

“The story takes us through our couple getting ready together, which is becoming increasingly popular. The private pool and jungle elements are the background to their cacao ritual and later where they take a romantic dip among soft candlelight.”

Reception Design

“The reception area was set to be an intimate space, weaving together modern and organic materials to create an elevated dining experience. We love the layers of texture and thought the usage of candles and incense would add to the sacred space. Arrangements were kept low and green on top of a gauze table runner, with smoky water goblets and gold-rimmed wine glasses. Our floral artist handmade small ceramic plates that can be used as a local treasure to take home. Lastly, the pops of color come from the creative catering of our chef, Christian Fauser of La cuisine de l’amour, who created a textural coconut ceviche with coconut prawns and wasabi and marinated watermelon cubes with feta, roasted nuts, and pineapple.”

The Vendor Team

“It was an AMAZING day. We all jived so well, and our couple was completely in love and had a very sensual energy. They both work in a healing space so they felt very in tune with our vision and we incorporated parts of their own story like the cacao ritual. Everyone was super collaborative and it was a great team and experience. I know other brides and grooms would love to work with these vendors and their high-quality professionalism. Mexico vendors are actually hard to find especially since many don’t have a website and you have to find other ways of seeking them out, so we felt lucky in putting together such a solid team that delivered on the vision.”

Reflecting

“My favorite part was seeing the couple get ready together and share intimate moments before they were all dressed up. From Ez lovingly putting on Dani’s shoes, to the sensual moment where he smells the perfume on her neck – I just loved all those moments of connection.”

Vendors: Photographer, Creative Director, Planner: Iann Ivy Photography; Co-Planner: Galaxie Andrews; Floral Artist, Staging, Ceramics: Aralia; Bride’s Gown: Halston; Bride’s Shoes: Bella Belle; Earrings and Wedding Bands: Talāyee Fine Jewelry; Hair and Makeup: Maria Ayala for Zoë Elizabeth Makeup; Groom’s Clothing: Tommy Hilfiger & CON.STRUCT; Men’s Shoes: Nisolo; Invitation Suite: Truly Engaging; Catering: La cuisine de l’amour; Rentals: Archive Rentals; Real Couple: Dani Maya (bride) & Ezriyah Ben Derrick (groom)