While Marcelo and Magdalena’s eternal bond was officially established in the vibrant city of Oaxaca, Mexico, it began in their hometown of Monterrey, Mexico. Meeting at a party, the two sparked a connection that would propel them down the aisle at Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca. “We never stopped talking,” Marcelo remembers fondly, highlighting their shared interests in sports and music.

Fast forward to 2018, and destiny intervened. A wedding in Oaxaca planted a seed in their hearts. “We fell in love with the city, the food, its colors, the culture, and its people,” Magdalena explains. They knew this was the perfect place to celebrate their love, far from the constraints of a traditional wedding. “We wanted to have an all-weekend, close celebration with our loved ones,” Marcelo says.

The Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca, a renowned venue known for its open spaces and natural beauty, became their canvas. “What really brought together all the decor was the lighting of the venue and the decoration of the dome,” Magdalena describes. Personal touches added warmth – handwritten thank you notes and custom-designed cups featuring the couple – reflecting their desire for a celebration that felt intimate and special.

The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of tradition and personal expression. An official wedding at the Museo Belber on Friday was followed by an icebreaker party, allowing them to connect with all their guests. Saturday’s religious ceremony at the Templo de Santo Domingo culminated in a vibrant Calenda, a cherished Oaxacan tradition. “This was one of my favorite moments,” Magdalena beams, “During a Public Calenda, people walk the streets playing traditional music, wearing different local elements and they give out mezcal.”

Planning a destination wedding presented its own set of challenges, but Marcelo and Magdalena were fortunate to have the expertise of wedding planner Antonio Caballero by their side. “Our wedding planner was wonderful,” Marcelo says. “He was always available to answer our questions and did a great job with all the planning.” Two pre-wedding visits ensured everything was in place, from menu tasting to makeup trials.

Looking back, they both agree that their decision to hold a destination wedding was the perfect choice. “Having the wedding away from home allowed us to enjoy the whole weekend with our loved ones,” Magdalena reflects. It was a weekend-long celebration of their love, filled with laughter, traditions, and the magic of Oaxaca.

Vendors: Photographer: Mario Tijerina Photography; Wedding Planner: Antonio Caballero; Ceremony/Reception Site: Jardín Etnobotánico de Oaxaca; Florist: Carlos Guzmán Decoradorn; Stationery: Inviteca; Hair: Anakaren Zertuche Hair; Makeup: Silvia Marorv Studio; Gown Designer: House of St Partrick; A/V: Efectos Digitales FX; DJ: DJ Chucho Teliz