When Lauren said “yes” to Walker, she knew what kind of wedding they both wanted; a smaller, more intimate event involving fun on the sunny beach in Mexico. 

“We had stayed in the Mayakoba area before and fell in love with it,” the couple says. “We looked at several resorts in the area, but Banyan Tree Mayakoba blew us away with their beautiful accommodations and amazing staff. It was an easy decision.” 

Although deciding on the venue happened with ease, a few unique challenges presented themselves. Lauren and Walker knew they’d need to put a lot of effort into managing a room block, making travel arrangements for U.S. vendors, and navigating language barriers with local vendors.  That’s when they brought on wedding planner Stephanie Maudsley from En Vogue Events and on-site coordinator Pamela Gonzalez from Banyan Tree Mayakoba. Both ladies streamlined the process and kept an organized, professional and insightful plan the entire way.

While the details fell into capable hands, Lauren and Walker let themselves get excited for all the fun with friends and family that was in store.

“The night we arrived, we had a seated dinner at Banyan Tree’s Tomahawk Den with our immediate family members,” the couple says. “The night before the wedding, we had a buffet-style, Mexican themed rehearsal dinner for all our guests on Banyan Tree’s Terrace.” 

Finally, the day arrived for Walker and Lauren to join together and say their “I do’s.” The rhythmic sounds of waves crashed and melodies from a single guitar floated through the air. Guests mingled over fruit infused water taking in the ocean views before making their way to their gold Chiavari seats. A grand wooden arch decorated with asymmetrically placed floral met the aisle at the water’s edge. The combination of the Caribbean destination, the lush florals and the rhythmic sounds created the most enchanting atmosphere for Lauren to make her short journey to Walker’s side. 

Their favorite moment of the ceremony: “When we finally got to say ‘I do!’”

Overall, Lauren and Walker’s special day couldn’t have been more perfect. Well, perhaps Walker could’ve gone without getting stung by a bug, but he made a quick recovery. At the end of the day, the couple achieved what they’d set out to do: enjoy their Mexico beach wedding stress-free and wearing a smile all evening long.

Vendors: Photographer: Brian Leahy Photography; Wedding Planner: Stephanie Maudsley with En Vogue Events; Ceremony/Reception Site: Banyan Tree Mayakoba; Floral & Decor: Luis Bandha; Rentals and Flowers: Canteiro Weddings, Stationery: My Urban Invites; Gown Designer: Mira Zwillinger; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Jos A Bank; Transportation: Experience Concierge; Lighting: JSAV; Rehearsal Dinner Linens: House of Hough; Entertainment/Band: Rio Funk & Black Jam Duet; Hair + Makeup: Doranna De Bortoli