Real Wedding: Catherine & Craig

How it all started

Both from Kitchener, Ontario, Catherine – a nurse – and Craig – a firefighter – met in college. It was love at first sight and Craig asked Catherine out for a movie and drinks. By their second date, they both knew that they were meant to be and pictured getting married one day.

The proposal was nothing short of magical and took place on a vacation to The Bahamas. One day, the couple went scuba diving – little did Catherine know, Craig had been working with the dive crew to set up an unforgettable proposal. While diving around a shipwreck, Catherine found a secret message in a bottle inside the wreck. When she pulled out the message and began reading it, she realized it was a note from Craig. When she finished reading, Craig pulled out the ring and dropped to one knee underwater. Of course, she gave a thumbs up to say ‘yes’!

Planning the wedding

From the moment they started planning their big day, Catherine and Craig knew that they wanted to have a destination wedding. They chose Riviera Maya in Mexico as their wedding destination for its natural beauty and affordability for their guests. The couple decided to exchange their vows at Now Sapphire Riviera Cancun, a luxurious resort that their close friend had recommended.

Day details

On July 13, 2019, Catherine and Craig said “I do” in front of 32 of their closest family and friends in a casual beachside ceremony, decorated in tropical hues of turquoise and coral. The couple’s favourite moment was the ceremony, when Catherine walked down the aisle and they saw each other for the first time.

After exchanging their vows, they moved the party to the resort’s picturesque beach terrace for their reception. For their honeymoon, the couple embarked on a second vacation to exotic Costa Rica!

Wedding day wear

Catherine’s gown: Flowing tulle ball gown with an open back and illusion bodice

Catherine’s shoes: Sandals

Craig’s attire: Turquoise shirt and white linen pants

Craig’s accessories: Grey sheepskin shoes and watch

Wedding bands: White gold double diamond ring for Catherine and a white gold scaled ring for Craig

The bridesmaids wore: Turquoise dresses

The groomsmen wore: White linen shirts, sand-coloured linen pants and grey sheepskin shoes

Small details

Flowers: Lilies and coral roses

Photographer: Israel Mtz

Hair and makeup: Bride did her own hair and makeup

First dance song: How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding

Favours: Message in a bottle with sand and mini seashells