Some weddings are designed for a crowd. Others are created purely for the couple, focused on meaning, beauty, and the freedom to celebrate exactly as they wish. Brianna Andrade and Alex Garate Rodriguez chose the latter, planning a private elopement in Costa Rica with just the two of them at the heart of every moment.
Travelling to Costa Rica in November, the couple based themselves at Nayara Springs, one of the most sought-after luxury stays in the Arenal region, surrounded by rainforest, tropical gardens, and sweeping volcano views.
Their wedding day began slowly and intentionally in their villa, where Brianna enjoyed a full hair and makeup session before slipping into her gown. With no large timeline to manage and no guest list to entertain, the morning carried the kind of calm many couples dream of. Instead of rushing, they were able to savour every detail, from quiet anticipation to private portraits together at the resort.
For the ceremony, Brianna and Alex drove themselves through La Fortuna to the historic Old Chapel at Los Lagos, creating an experience that felt personal and adventurous from start to finish. The chapel, tucked beneath the lush greenery of Arenal, offered a romantic and timeless setting for their vows. Floral design featured two wooden columns dressed in cascading blooms and greenery, while Brianna carried a bouquet tied with white ribbon and Alex wore a classic white rose boutonniere.
With an officiant and legal witnesses present, the two exchanged vows in an intimate symbolic ceremony surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. One especially thoughtful request was that their first kiss photo captured only the two of them, a reflection of how intentionally they designed the day around connection rather than spectacle.
Afterwards, the celebration took a playful turn as horses arrived for portraits around the chapel grounds. The couple spent time taking photos together, blending romance with the adventurous spirit that makes Costa Rica elopements so memorable.
That evening, they returned to Nayara Springs to refresh before a private dinner. Waiting for them was an elegant candlelit dinner for two and a sweetheart cake, the perfect ending to a day that never tried to be anything other than authentic.
Brianna and Alex’s wedding is a reminder that an elopement does not mean sacrificing beauty or experience. In Costa Rica, it can mean luxury accommodation, meaningful vows, stunning scenery, and an entire day centred completely around your love story.