Los Cabos, Mexico served as an annual family vacation spot with many fond memories for Madison and Ryan so deciding to plan their destination wedding there came naturally. “The first year I went, we had a date night at the marina and it’s still one of my favorite memories,” says the bride. The couple also decided a destination wedding made the most sense since their families lived in different states and would be traveling regardless.

Initially, guests had mixed reactions about traveling to Cabo for the couple’s big day. “The guests that didn’t love the idea ended up having a blast,” says the bride. “The family and friends that didn’t make it were definitely missed, but we completely understood.”

The couple decided to hire a wedding planner, Lynette with Amy Abbott Events, which Madison says made the process so much easier. “My amazing wedding planner really kept everything together for me,” says the bride. The couple also gives their wedding planner all the credit for coordinating and planning with their vendors. “I sent [Lynette] some Pinterest ideas of what I liked, and talked to her on the phone about ideas and she took it from there.”

Madison also kept an organized folder with the guest list, budget, floral, food and beverage and clothing information on her computer to keep track and help along the planning process.

The crafty bride also kept herself busy with a few different DIY projects, including the handmade welcome bags for guests and the bride’s favorite project — her denim jacket. With the help of Pinterest, the bride learned how to cross-stitch her new last name and wedding date into the jacket and she sewed on a “Just Married” patch.

The couple says they spent about the same on the ceremony and reception as they would have on a local wedding, but with travel accommodations included, they ended up spending more.

With less guests, the couple was able to accomplish and enjoy a more intimate setting. “We had the most amazing experience with the destination wedding. I think because everyone was on vacation they were able to let loose and enjoy their time,” says the couple. “It was a weekend chock-full of family, friends and fun. We made some truly magical memories.”

The newlyweds have some advice for other couples considering a destination wedding. “Just relax! It’s a very special day, but it’s also just one day,” says the couple. “Don’t let little details or the uncontrollable details stress you out. Your wedding day memories should be full of love and laughter. And if need be, a little tequila never hurts!”

Vendors: Photographer: Photos by Julieta, Wedding Planner: Amy Abbott Events, Ceremony/Reception Site: Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach Resort, Florist: Pina Hernandez, Stationery: JP Stationery, Cake: Pueblo Bonito, Hair & Makeup: Los Cabos Makeup, Gown Designer: Olivia Bowen Bridal, Groom’s Clothing Designer: Men’s Wearhouse, Bridesmaids Dresses: Alfred Sung, Rings: Happy Jewelers, Rentals: Let It Be Events and Del Cabo Event Design, Invitations: Shine Invitations, Entertainment/Lighting: Alex DJ Cabo Events, Painted Material: Serendipity Personalized Art, Save the Dates: Minted, Engagement Photography: Lisa Marshall Photography, Hair Piece: Davie and Chiyo, Cufflinks: BHLDN, Groom’s Shoes: Salvatore Ferragamo, Paper Goods: Bells + Whistles Design