Ashley and Rafael’s love story began in a cozy basement bar in NYC, where fate—and a little encouragement from friends—brought them together. What started as a chance encounter led to a whirlwind romance, filled with adventurous dates and shared passions. Rafael’s charming persistence eventually won Ashley over, and the two have been inseparable ever since. Their engagement was equally unique, involving a motorcycle ride into the woods and a conversation about birds before Rafael popped the question in the most "Rafa" way possible. Now, after years of building a life together, including their beloved French bulldog Oscar, the couple was ready to celebrate their love with a destination wedding in Costa Rica.
Ashley + Rafa really wanted a wedding that in their own words "screams that we are in Costa Rica and expresses the fun adventure that we always have there." We love when couples are just as obsessed with this place as we are!
Their stunning wedding took place at Punto de Vista, a luxurious venue in Manuel Antonio, offering breathtaking ocean views and a blend of tropical rainforest and beach settings. The couple wanted an unplugged ceremony, so they asked their friend Franc who officiated for them to humorously request guests to put away their phones and cameras, ensuring everyone was present in the moment. The ceremony itself was a beautiful reflection of their journey, with personal readings from their closest friends and heartfelt words about love and connection.
The ceremony design echoed their love for tropical greens and natural beauty. Ashley walked down the aisle to an altar framed by lush greenery, white florals, and soft touches of pink, all inspired by the couple's favorite colors. The couple exchanged vows surrounded by the vibrant landscape, with the sounds of the ocean and rainforest as their backdrop.
Wedding Playlist
Ceremony starts: I'm Yours by Jason Mraz
Ceremony ends: You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne
Couple's first dance: Tennessee Whiskey by Chris Stapleton
Father + daughter dance: Life's a Dance by John Michael Montgomery
Brother + sister dance: A Pedir Su Mano by Juan Luis Guerra 4.40
Last song of the night: Loving Is Easy by Rex Orange County
After the ceremony, guests enjoyed a fun cocktail hour with local ceviche, cold beers, and refreshing margaritas—a nod to Ashley and Rafael’s shared love for spicy, flavorful food and great drinks. The reception was held under a canopy of string lights, with the tables set in a minimalist yet elegant style. Emerald greens, white linens, and dark wood accents created an atmosphere that was both intimate and chic. The couple’s personality was reflected in every detail, from the casual, lively atmosphere to the delicious family-style dinner that celebrated Costa Rican flavors, including fresh seafood and flavorful pork dishes (a favorite of Rafael’s).
The night ended with a dance party that could only be described as epic. As the DJ spun tunes, guests danced the night away under the glow of the twinkling lights, fully embracing the festive atmosphere. A beautiful two-tiered cake adorned with tropical flowers rounded off the celebration, offering the perfect sweet touch to a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Wedding Day Menu
Hors d’oeuvres: Beef and cheese empanadas, mango and avocado summer rolls, ceviche and pulled chicken
Salad: Salad with grilled avocado, corn, feta cheese, toasted pepitas, and citrus honey dressing
Main course: Beef tenderloin with chimichurri sauce , potatoes and veggies, grilled Mahi Mahi with mango salsa and veggie
Dessert: Tres leches, lemon bars, and salted caramel brownies
Late-night food: Churros, chicken and veggies quesadillas with salsa, and sliders with bacon and cheese
Ashley and Rafael’s wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their love but a fusion of cultures and families coming together in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. It was everything they envisioned: fun, intimate, and full of life. And as the couple embarks on their next adventure together, they do so with a lifetime of memories made in the heart of Costa Rica.
