In a destination rich with turquoise waters and endless sunshine, Joseph and Stefanie began their “forever.”

How They Met

Joe and Stephanie actually knew each other many years before the sparks flew. (Stephanie’s best friend is his cousin, in fact.) One serendipitous Christmas Eve kiss started all!

“We got engaged two years later on the docks of Lake George at The Sagamore Hotel,” the couple says.

Why They Chose a Destination Wedding

As Stephanie and Joseph began to conceptualize their dream nuptials, they pictured a celebration that stood out in a year of SO many weddings. One that offered their guests an unforgettable experience. Turks and Caicos immediately stood out.

“We chose Turks and Caicos because it was a quick, short flight for most of our New York guests,” the couple says. “We also wanted a resort close to the airport and that was all-inclusive for our guests!”

The Planning Process

The next step for the couple: hire a planner. Bari Elexa Events made for the perfect match, and they immediately put the couple’s worries at ease.

“It’s comforting knowing you have a planner that has your best interest in mind,” Stephanie says.

While their planner tackled the wedding logistics and design, Stephanie and Joseph’s travel agent worked out all the booking details and communicated the COVID restrictions. Upon arrival, all guests entering T&C would have to be vaccinated with a negative COVID test.

Time to Celebrate

Luckily, the couple and their guests safely rolled into paradise, ready to party it up in the Caribbean. After spending countless hours of fun in the sun with their favorite people, Stephanie and Joseph couldn’t picture everything having gone any other way.

“I can’t imagine having a local wedding,” Stephanie says. “I’m sure it would have been beautiful, considering I loved all my vendors, but there is something about blue water, sunshine and palm trees that can’t be explained!”

Vendors: Photographer: Savannah Brown Photography; Venue/Florist/Cake: Beaches Turks & Caicos; Wedding Planner: Bari Elexa Events; Beauty: Victoria Elizabeth; PR Rep: OFD Consulting LLC; Gown Designer: Ines Di Santo; Groom’s Clothing Designer: SRG