Sometimes, love stories are written in the stars, but sometimes, they’re nudged along by a well-meaning friend (or two!). That’s exactly how things unfolded for Courtney and Matt, introduced by their close friends Joe and Lily Buss. Despite living just doors down from each other in Chicago, fate (and Lily’s intuition) brought them together at a Sunday soiree in September 2019. Fast forward a few months, a “coincidental” apartment move for Courtney, and a global pandemic – and you’ve got the recipe for a beautiful Covid love story ending in a destination at Viceroy Los Cabos.

Love Takes Flight (and Hikes!)

Their love story took a romantic turn during a vacation in Aspen. “We decided to go on a hike on a Sunday,” Courtney shares, “I requested a harder, longer hike and a new one that we had never done before. It’s called the American Lake Trail. He proposed at the top of the trail that ends at a beautiful lake. I was completely surprised!” Knowing they wanted a celebration beyond the ordinary, they set their sights on a destination wedding weekend.

Destination: Paradise Found

Enter the Viceroy Los Cabos, with its stunning water views and modern aesthetic. “It was love at first sight,” Courtney remembers. The feeling of zen tranquility perfectly captured their vision. From the welcome party at the Viceroy’s rooftop restaurant to the colorful rehearsal dinner at Rancho La Huerta (complete with a dress code of “colorful for the ladies, white for the gents”), the festivities were off to a vibrant start.

Beachside Bliss & Chic Simplicity

The wedding ceremony itself was a picture of coastal elegance. The platform on the edge of the beach served as the perfect backdrop, with lush greenery and white blooms framing the aisle. Ghost chairs and infinity pools added a touch of modern minimalism, while string lights twinkled overhead as the sun dipped below the horizon. The reception mirrored this chic vibe, with a neutral palette accented by palm leaves and white orchids.

A Weekend to Remember

But this wasn’t just a wedding, it was an experience. Courtney always envisioned a destination weekend to create lasting memories with loved ones. “I had an opportunity to at least try to slow down time, savor the moments with friends and family, and take it all in,” she reflects. The festivities culminated in a relaxed Sunday brunch and a final romantic photo session on the beach.

A Dream Team of Cabo Vendors

Making this dream wedding a reality was a talented team of local vendors. Amy Abbott Events ensured everything ran smoothly, while M. Hart Photography captured every magical moment. LeReve Films preserved the memories in motion, and the Viceroy Los Cabos itself provided a stunning backdrop for both the ceremony and reception.

From Aria Vera’s breathtaking florals to Ashley Carroll’s flawless makeup and Chelsea Hunter Hair’s artistry, every detail was meticulously planned. Entertainment flowed throughout the weekend, with Caly and JMC setting the mood for the ceremony and cocktail hour. The Liquid Blue Band kept the party going at the reception, while DJ Daniel Cantisani and Daniel D Lizanka kept the dance floor hopping at various points throughout the weekend.

A Few Extra Touches

Paradise Design Co. curated beautiful welcome bags, while Serendipity provided charming rehearsal dinner signage. Cabo Inside added a touch of local flair, and Pirotecnia Los Cabos lit up the night with a dazzling fireworks display. Lumina’s production expertise ensured everything ran flawlessly, with Teeven providing logistical support and Transcabo ensuring smooth transportation. Sweet Dreams whipped up a delicious cake to cap off the night, and Published + Pretty made sure this beautiful celebration would be shared for years to come.

Vendors: Wedding Coordinator: Amy Abbott Events; Photography: M. Hart Photography; Videographer: LeReve Films; Wedding & Welcome Party Venue: Viceroy Los Cabos; Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Chileno Bay Club; Rental Company: Del Cabo Event Design; Flower Company: Aria Vera Floral; Bride’s Makeup Artist: Ashley Carroll Makeup; Bride’s Hair Stylist: Chelsea Bennett Beauty; Bridal Party Hair and Makeup: Blanc Bridal Salon; Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Caly and JMC; Reception Entertainment: Liquid Blue Band; After Party + Welcome party (at the beach) Entertainment: DJ Daniel Cantisani; Rehearsal Dinner Entertainment: Daniel D Lizanka & Radical Latin Band; Stationary & Welcome Bags: Paradise Design Co.; Rehearsal Dinner Signs: Serendipity; Happenings: Cabo Inside; Fireworks: Pirotecnia Los Cabos; Production Company: Lumina; Band Rider: Teeven; Transportation Company: Transcabo; Cake: Sweet Dreams Cabo; Wedding Submission Services: Published + Pretty; Bride’s Rehearsal Attire: Dolce & Gabbana; Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav; Shoes: Christian Louboutin; After Party Dress: David Koma; After-party Shoes: Rene Caovilla; Earring: Verstolo; Groom’s Suit: Q Clothier; Groom’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin