A surprise proposal ten years in the making, a sunset catamaran adventure, and a tropical wedding overlooking Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Vanessa and Kevin's March 15, 2026 wedding at Villa Caletas brought together their love of travel, beautiful natural surroundings, and a celebration full of personality.
Vanessa and Kevin first met at the University of Florida, where Kevin was friends with Vanessa's roommate. What began as a college friendship grew into a relationship that took them from Florida to Michigan and eventually California.
Over the years, they've built a life filled with adventures, from travelling through Europe and exploring Iceland to enjoying simple evenings cooking together, playing video games, and dancing around their kitchen.
After ten years together, Kevin decided it was time to propose, but he knew surprising Vanessa wouldn't be easy!
He planned an elaborate weekend disguised as dinner with friends and a comedy show in Los Angeles. Instead, he surprised her with dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, followed by an overnight getaway in Topanga. The next morning, after brunch and a hike through the mountains, Kevin found a quiet spot away from other people and proposed.
It was exactly the private, meaningful moment Vanessa had hoped for, even if she hadn't expected it!
For their destination wedding, Vanessa and Kevin invited their closest friends and family to spend several days together at Villa Caletas on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
The day before the wedding, guests were invited on a sunset catamaran cruise featuring beautiful coastal views, swimming, tropical cocktails, and an onboard meal. It was a wonderful way to introduce everyone to Costa Rica and spend time together before the wedding day.
With additional time built into the itinerary for enjoying the hotel's pools and nearby beaches, the celebration felt like a holiday shared with their favourite people.
Vanessa and Kevin exchanged vows surrounded by the tropical beauty of Villa Caletas.
Vanessa wore an elegant off-the-shoulder wedding gown, with a delicate orchid tucked into her hair. Her radiant smile was one of the loveliest details of the day!
Kevin complemented the tropical setting in a stylish green suit, bringing a little colour to his classic wedding look.
The ceremony featured a simple square arch decorated with tropical flowers, allowing the lush surroundings and beautiful views to remain the focus. Wooden cross-back chairs added a natural touch, while welcome coconuts brought a fun Costa Rican detail to the celebration.
Wedding Playlist
Ceremony starts with: The Legend of Zelda - Main Theme (by Geek Music)
First Kiss: Overworld theme a cappella from New Super Mario World by Smooth McGroove
Ceremony ends with: The end-of-level tune from Mario
Couple's introduction: Soda Pop from K Pop Demon Hunters Saja boys
Couple's first-dance song: My Universe - Coldplay
Cake-cutting: Sugar Sugar - The Archies
Bouquet toss: Space Jam: Let’s Get Ready to Rumble
As the sun went down, the atmosphere shifted into a romantic evening celebration beneath glowing string lights.
The warm lighting, tropical setting, and great music created the intimate yet playful atmosphere Vanessa and Kevin had envisioned.
They wanted their wedding to feel special and romantic, but also full of happiness and silliness, a reflection of the everyday moments they enjoy together.
Wedding Day Menu
Hors d’œuvres: Fried lobster ravioli, Lorraine mini quiche, Eggplant bruschetta Shrimp mini bouchee, Chicken and parmesan cheese mini bouchee
Appetizer: Mixed Greek Salad with feta cheese, green olives, and caletas dressing, or Seafood cream and mussel ragout flavored with vodka, or Smoked salmon carpaccio, caper, and apple cider vinegar dressing.
Main course: Duck magret with mango sauce, sweet potato puree & fresh vegetables, or Sea Bass in a dull sauce served with jasmine rice and vegetables, or Rib eye steak served in green pepper sauce with cassava croquette & fresh vegetables, or Ñoquis with pomodoro sauce and basil. Kids' meal: Mini Burger
Dessert: Pistachio and almond opera stuffed with chocolate ganache and mocha cream, or Raspberry and vanilla bavarois served with raspberry sauce, or Mango parfait with vanilla mousse, caramelized nuts, and caramel sauce.
From their college days to their travels around the world, Vanessa and Kevin have always found ways to make life an adventure.
Their Villa Caletas wedding brought that spirit to Costa Rica, combining a sunset sailing experience, tropical wedding design, and a relaxed celebration with the people they love.
And after ten years together, Kevin finally got to officially call Vanessa his wife!