Jessica and Joseph’s elegant wedding in Vieques, Puerto Rico consisted of 50 guests, vibrant tropical flowers, delicate rattan chairs, and the sounds of the sea. For the bride and groom, the combination was perfectly intimate; everything they’d dreamt of and more.

Vieques is a Caribbean Island off the coast of Puerto Rico; a little, tropical oasis, away from the hustle and bustle of tourism and life. Joseph’s maternal side is Puerto Rican, and many of his family members still live on the main island. After Jessica and Joseph got engaged in Rincon, they felt it would only be natural to have their wedding somewhere in Puerto Rico. Vieques quickly became their first choice.

“Having a destination wedding was big for us as an introverted couple because we enjoyed the idea that we were truly limited on who we could invite,” the couple says. “Also, we both love the ocean and a relaxed vibe so it was a natural choice to take it somewhere meaningful and tropical.”

Jessica and Joseph like to joke that if they hadn’t decided to have a destination wedding in Vieques, they probably would’ve run off to elope. Weighed down with busy schedules and obligations, wedding planning was stressful for the pair at first. However, with the help of their wedding planner, Jillian Anderson, the process became extremely easy.

“Without her to keep us on track we definitely would’ve been scrambling,” the pair says. “Invest in a good wedding planner because they will be what hold you and the whole process together.”

With planning taken care of, the couple were able to focus on what was most important to them: creating a magical experience for their guests. The pair helped each of their 50 guests with travel plans. They even paid for each of their guests’ shuttle rides from San Juan airport to the dropoff location of the Vieques ferry.

“It is really important in our opinion to make sure you’re helping your guests–and maybe some more than others–in the navigation of travel logistics for your destination wedding,” Jessica says. “It makes your guests feel cared about and helps them focus on the excitement of your wedding!”

Everything came together beautifully. The day was partly cloudy, the ocean was sparkling with bits of sunlight, and guests smiled as they witnessed Jessica and Joseph’s island beach wedding. Everyone sat at a single, long table, on a pool deck overlooking the ocean. For the married couple–and their guests–it was an intimate experience they will never forget.

For a smooth destination wedding experience, Jessica advises to, “identify your ‘why’ early, do plenty of research, look up checklists, be prepared to compromise and get creative, and ultimately find a really good team of people to help to bring your ideas to life.”

Vendors: Photographer: E.P. Anderson Photography; Event Venue: Martineau Belle Playa; Event Planner: Green Eyed Girl Weddings + Events; Gown Designer: Made With Love Bridal; Groom’s Clothing Designer: Giorgio Armani