The Love Story
After spotting Bryan's Hinge profile, Gabrielle knew she wanted to get to know him but wasn't sure how to make the first move. So she started a casual conversation about his dog as her opening line. Soon enough, they were exchanging numbers and spending time together at Hermann Park. Despite their hectic work schedules, they always made time for one another. After a few months of dating, Bryan officially asked Gabrielle to be his girlfriend on April 21, 2022. One year later, during a special anniversary dinner, Bryan had something even more unforgettable planned. He got down on one knee and proposed on a romantic rooftop, surrounded by their closest friends and family.
The Planning Experience
A trip to the nail salon convinced Gabrielle and Bryan to have a destination wedding! At first, it wasn't even on their radar, but after Gabrielle chatted with a fellow bride-to-be about her own destination wedding, they realized it was the perfect idea. Since both Gabrielle and Bryan are from different states, it was a great way to bring their guest list together and make it one big vacation. They knew they didn't want to say their "I dos" in Mexico or the Dominican Republic, so they narrowed it down from there and found Curaçao. Once they visited Dreams Curaçao, they knew they had found the perfect place for their celebration. "The beach was beautiful and the idea of having the ceremony at the gazebo overlooking the beach was breathtaking," recall Gabrielle and Bryan.
The Celebration
The decor for their special day was simple, but the breathtaking backdrop of Curaçao spoke for itself. Gabrielle, who is Native American (Haliwa-Saponi), made the ceremony extra meaningful by including a smudging ritual. She used sage to cleanse herself, then Bryan, and finally the two of them together, all while a hand drum song recorded by her brother played in the background. For a fun and personal touch, they added baby photos of themselves to match each table number, and their guests loved it. As they stood at the altar under the wedding gazebo, they couldn't believe the moment they had waited and prepared for was finally happening. It felt surreal in the best way.
The Memories
To sum up their destination wedding in paradise, they describe it as "exciting, fulfilling, and unforgettable." One of their favorite memories from their celebration was being able to spend time with their loved ones. Before saying "I do," they kicked things off with a welcome party at the resort bar, where everyone mingled, shared laughs, and celebrated them almost being newlyweds.
Advice for Future Couples
Gabrielle and Bryan's advice for couples planning a destination wedding?
Trust the process, and know that those who are meant to be there for the celebration will be there.
Other Vendors:
Photographer: Mivatoo
Videographer: Mivatoo
Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero
Dress Boutique: K&B Bridals - Bel Air
Shoes: Kelly & Kate
Jewelry: Rings: Brilliant Earth
Hairpiece: Amazon
Stationary: Invites:Shutterfly; Signage:Designed by Bride; Coasters:NaksWood (Etsy)
Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie
Menswear: The Black Tux & Azazie