Costa Rica has long been a sought-after paradise for destination weddings because of its romantic, tropical atmosphere. For Lewis and Alyssa, celebrating their Chinese heritage amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Manuel Antonio made their day even more special. By blending Chinese and Western traditions, the couple crafted an intimate wedding that honored their cultural roots while embracing the beauty of Costa Rica.

“We explored our options and looked into Hawaii and Bali at first, and even Europe,” says Alyssa. “But we decided on Costa Rica because we fell in love with the venue.”

After exploring various options, the couple discovered Villa Punto de Vista. The luxurious private villa has 10 bedrooms, accommodates up to 30 guests, and has a full-service staff. Nestled in a rainforest close to the Manuel Antonio coast, guests were treated to an unforgettable view of the Pacific Ocean, framed by playful monkeys swinging through the trees and sloths lounging among the branches.

To ensure a smooth experience for their guests, Lewis and Alyssa visited Costa Rica before their wedding to better understand the logistics involved and prevent as many hiccups as possible. Knowing the celebration would be intimate, they invited guests to stay at the spacious villa. For those who preferred other accommodations, the couple created a wedding website through The Knot, providing guests with recommendations for nearby hotels and flights to ease travel plans.

Lewis and Alyssa’s wedding day was a dreamy blend of cultural and personal touches. One of the most significant moments was their Chinese tea ceremony, or cha dao, a heartfelt tradition honoring elders. Dressed in traditional ceremonial clothing, Lewis and Alyssa served tea to their parents, a custom expressing respect and gratitude.

Before the tea ceremony began, Lewis and his groomsmen participated in the lighthearted Chinese tradition of “gate-crashing.” In this playful ritual, the groom must pass a series of “trials” designed by the bridesmaids before he can enter the bride’s room. One of the funnier moments involved Lewis searching for Alyssa’s hidden shoe, which he had to put on her before being allowed to marry her. This game, while entertaining, symbolized the groom’s dedication and effort to win the bride’s heart.

“These details were all integral in creating a wedding that felt uniquely ours, staying true to our cultural roots,” says Lewis.

In the afternoon, the couple transitioned seamlessly into a Western-style ceremony and reception, guided by their wedding planner. To bring their vision to life, they relied mostly on local vendors, with one special exception—Alyssa’s makeup artist from California. Alyssa’s love for soft pink and sage green was reflected in every detail, from the floral arrangements to the table settings, creating a romantic and tranquil atmosphere. The invitations and menus incorporated the character 囍, symbolizing abundant joy and happiness.

“Most of our guests spoke Mandarin, so we made everything bilingual to the extent possible,” says Lewis.

In the end, it was not just the stunning backdrop of a Costa Rican jungle or the impeccable blend of cultures—it was a day that celebrated the love Alyssa and Lewis share, the respect they have for their families, and the memories they would cherish forever.

“It was the best day of my life, and I would change absolutely nothing, not even the rainy weather,” says Alyssa. “Everything was so magical, and we had so much fun.

Vendors: Photographer: Adri Mendez Photography; Wedding Planner/Stationery: One Heart; Venue: Villa Punto De Vista; Florist: Marcela Orozco Ramirez; Cake: José Pablo Vega; Hair & Makeup: Francoise Zhang; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Indochino; Caterer: brulee gourmet; Rentals: Costa Mesa