Some weddings are even more beautiful when things don't go exactly as planned. For Kaylee and Josh, a little Costa Rican rain brought an unexpected romance to their intimate beach wedding at Andaz Costa Rica on Peninsula Papagayo. With gorgeous tropical florals, thoughtful design details, and a celebration that embraced the weather, their day was effortlessly chic from beginning to end.
Kaylee and Josh's story began during lockdown in 2020, when Josh made the first move on Instagram. After a month of nonstop texting, they finally met in person at a small gathering with friends and have been inseparable ever since.
Four years later, Josh planned a birthday getaway to Charleston, South Carolina, complete with a suspiciously well-organized photography session. Kaylee had her suspicions, but when he got down on one knee on a beautiful bridge at Magnolia Gardens, the moment still caught her by surprise.
Their wedding design started with an absolutely gorgeous invitation suite. An illustrated outer sleeve introduced the tropical setting, while the chic interior featured a playful coconut illustration. It was a lovely preview of the thoughtful details to come.
On the wedding morning, Kaylee got ready in a coordinated pajama set and robe before changing into her bridal gown, finished with a delicate veil featuring subtle lace detailing. Her bouquet was a beautiful combination of white orchids, roses, and dramatic tropical greenery.
Josh complemented her look in a sharp all-black suit and black tie.
Their first look took place in the rain, creating a wonderfully moody atmosphere as they explored the property's bridges together. Rather than taking away from the moment, the weather gave their portraits an intimate, romantic quality.
The couple exchanged vows during an intimate beachfront ceremony overlooking the water. White and green floral arrangements, with delicate touches of pink orchids, complemented the natural surroundings without overwhelming the view.
Guests arrived in beautiful colors and floral patterns, bringing their own personality to the celebration. And when the rain continued, clear umbrellas became one of the day's most charming details. The transparent umbrellas allowed the scenery and colorful guest attire to remain visible, creating some especially beautiful ceremony photographs.
Wedding Playlist
Bride Entrance: Butterfly Fly Away by Casper Esmann
Ceremony Ends With: Do You Believe in Magic? by The Lovin' Spoonful
Couple's First Dance Song: Porch Swing Angel by Muscadine Bloodline
Father-Daughter Dance: First Man by Camila Cabello
Mother-Son Dance: She Taught Me Love by T Carter Music
Last Song of the Night: Don't Go Breaking My Heart by Elton John & Kiki Dee
Following the ceremony, guests moved into a covered reception space where the design took on a sophisticated, slightly tropical natural chic feel.
Wedding Day Menu
Hors d’oeuvres: Beef Skewer, Tuna tartare, Pita bread, Pork montadito.
Appetizer: Heirloom Tomato Salad
Main course: Roasted Chicken Breast, Beef Tenderloin, Butternut Squash Risotto
Dessert: Opera Cake, Citrus Crème Brûlée, Choco Tivock with Coconut Ice Cream
An elegant S-shaped dining table created a beautiful focal point, dressed in crisp white linens, woven rattan chargers, deep brown napkins, and coordinating menus. Unique chairs added character, while pillar candles brought warmth to the tablescape.
Lush greenery, white flowers, and the smallest touches of pink continued the ceremony's palette. The overall effect was upscale yet relaxed, with plenty of texture and thoughtful details rather than anything overly elaborate.
The celebration continued with heartfelt speeches, a champagne toast, and dancing, giving Kaylee and Josh the intimate, joyful evening they had envisioned.
One More Adventure: Waterfall Wedding Portraits
The celebration didn't end at the reception. Kaylee and Josh also ventured to a Costa Rican waterfall for an additional wedding photography session.
Kaylee changed into a stunning mermaid-esque dress for a completely different bridal look, and the couple embraced the setting, playing together in the waterfall for a series of adventurous, romantic portraits.
From the rain-soaked first look to the candlelit reception and waterfall adventure, their wedding captured something especially lovely about getting married in Costa Rica: sometimes the unexpected moments become the most memorable.
