Relaxed island vibes set the tone at this laid-back and lovely holiday wedding
Lots of love and one sensational sunset! It was a recipe for wedded bliss for Caitlin and David, who first put an exotic locale in the planning mix when they spent three months travelling around South East Asia. “We loved it so much, we decided ‘why not have the wedding there?’” says Caitlin.
Finding Phuket’s gorgeous Centara Grand Beach Resort was key to creating a holiday feel for the couple’s 60 cherished guests, who jetted in from around the world. Coastal cool was the order of the day — including a dreamily delicate palette, tailored shorts for the boys, and an exquisite Grace Loves Lace gown for the bride. “Having all our friends and family on a beautiful beach to celebrate our wedding was amazing!” says Caitlin. And the setting sun was timed to perfection, bathing the ceremony in golden sunlight then melting into the horizon just in time for a spectacular photo shoot. No filter required here!
One of the day’s funniest moments came courtesy of the best man — as it often does! “After numerous rehearsals regarding the ceremony itself, the best man forgot he was supposed to present the rings,” laughs Caitlin. “When the celebrant asked for them, he just stood there for around ten seconds before someone reminded him!” There were plenty more laughs (and a few happy tears) to come at the couple’s Luna Bar reception. “It was a magical setting outside overlooking the ocean,” says Caitlin. “We went for a Thai buffet menu and the spring rolls were an absolute hit.”
Just as the couple had hoped, their guests shared the laid-back, island spirit. “They loved how casual everything was,” says Caitlin. “The dress was not overly formal, the food was buffet style, and the speeches were more from the heart as opposed to stiff and rehearsed.” Although their day was a complete success, planning from afar (without a venue visit) was initially a little daunting for the couple. “The biggest challenge was around which flowers to choose and décor at the reception,” says Caitlin. Luckily, their trusted wedding planner Saranya was always on the same page. “Saranya had a great sense of what we would like,” says Caitlin. “Ultimately, Saranya’s good decisions, with a little input from us, worked perfectly.”
The newlyweds added a modern touch to the celebration by delaying their ‘official’ Maldives honeymoon. “Because we had so many friends and family that travelled to the wedding, we went to Phi Phi Island for a buddymoon,” say Caitlin. Love it!
The Details
Ceremony & reception: Centara Grand Beach Resort, Phuket // Wedding planner – Saranya Kularbvan // Gown: Grace Loves Lace, ‘Harriet’ // Buddymoon: PP Ingphu Viewpoint Resort, Phi Phi // Honeymoon: Maldives
