Want to plan a gay destination wedding to Costa Rica? Find out what it is really like!
What is it truly like to have a gay destination wedding in Costa Rica? Alain and Brad had their gay destination wedding in Costa Rica at Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa. Alain was kind enough to sit down and answer a few of our questions about:
What It’s Really Like To Have A Gay Destination Wedding In Costa Rica
1. Why did you choose a destination wedding in Costa Rica? Why Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa?
A destination wedding was always our plan. We love to travel and prefer exotic peaceful destination. We love to enjoy the sites but then have some time to relax. Costa Rica is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation.
After a visit to Blue Osa during a retreat, I could already imagine we would get married here. I took Brad with me in one of my trips and we both agreed that Blue Osa was the perfect location.
Blue Osa’s manicured grounds and exotic architectural design make the perfect backdrop. The proximity to the jungle and the beach offers seclusion and intimacy with nature. Additionally, you have a wonderful team that makes sure you feel at home.
2. What was your favorite aspect of having a gay destination wedding in Costa Rica? What was your favorite part of the experience?
A gay destination wedding allowed us to have an intimate ceremony. We were surrounded by close family and friends.
We were able to use local talent. Local people such as our photographers enhanced the experience. Local handmade party favors and delicious homemade ice cream made all our guests feel really special.
Our favorite part was we felt at home. We were surrounded by people who wanted to make sure it was the perfect day for us.
3. What traditions did you incorporate in your wedding?
We had a yoga inspired ceremony performed by our yoga teacher Joan. We exchanged garlands as performed in the ritual of Varmala in Indian ceremonies. Let’s say we tailored our ceremony to ourselves and made our families part of it.
4. What advice to you have for other grooms/grooms thinking of a gay destination wedding?
My biggest advice is to take a deep breath and then start planning. Decide how involved you need to be during the wedding planning! Don’t think you can do everything yourself. We were lucky to have our friend and wedding planner Jose Miguel from Refejos. He created the most beautiful decorations for us.
Research your destination and go there! It was easy for us since we were already in love with Blue Osa. Meet with the owners and the staff, ask questions, and plan for the worst-case scenario. You don’t want surprises on your wedding day. Michael and Jorge are Blue Osa’s managers. They went above and beyond for us. They took care of everything for us.
Shop local. We decided to use as many local resources as we could.
We took advantage of the amazing team of photographers. Carlos and Pamela from Costa Rica Wedding Photo were fantastic! They allowed us to be ourselves while capturing the best emotions without being intrusive.
We used products made locally as party favors. Products by Rainforest Solutions and delicious homemade ice-cream by Barbara from Jade Luna.
The best part about Blue Osa is that the food is amazing so no need to find a catering company. We had the most delicious meals and wedding cake created by the kitchen staff.
Finally, let it go! It’s about you and your future spouse. Don’t’ let the memories be what went “wrong” and focus on you two and the moment. Enjoy the process and don’t sweat the small stuff, let nature take care of the sweating for you.
5. What three words best sum up your wedding day?
Unforgettable
Family
Fun
A personal message from us to our Blue Osa family:
We had the perfect wedding day because of you! Aaron and Adam, thanks for creating this magical place where we could be ourselves and join our lives. Thanks to the staff for making us, our family and friends feel at home. You went above and beyond for us and we will never forget the little extra things you did to make our experience extraordinary. We look forward to visiting again and again with family and friends. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU! Brad and Alain
Click here to connect with the photographer for these photos.
