Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

When they met through mutual friends in 2002 Mariel and Matt hit it off instantly. Six years later, Matt delivered a surprise proposal in Los Angeles. “Mariel thought she was attending a  BBQ, but I had secretly decorated the backyard with rose petals and a beautiful table with two cards—the first one telling her how much I loved her, and the second containing a mood ring. I got down on one knee and asked if she would accept a ring upgrade,” explains Matt. The couple already knew they wanted to have a destination wedding, where their guests could experience their big day, and enjoy some fun-in-the-sun. Mariel and Matt found their dream location on a breathtaking beach at the Jamaica Inn Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
The beautiful bride marches to her own drummers. Mariel carried a bouquet of fuchsia peonies as a vibrant accent to her figure-flattering lace gown with a sweep train by Monique Lhuillier.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica

When they met through mutual friends in 2002 Mariel and Matt hit it off instantly. Six years later, Matt delivered a surprise proposal in Los Angeles. “Mariel thought she was attending a  BBQ, but I had secretly decorated the backyard with rose petals and a beautiful table with two cards—the first one telling her how much I loved her, and the second containing a mood ring. I got down on one knee and asked if she would accept a ring upgrade,” explains Matt. The couple already knew they wanted to have a destination wedding, where their guests could experience their big day, and enjoy some fun-in-the-sun. Mariel and Matt found their dream location on a breathtaking beach at the Jamaica Inn Resort in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
The relaxed bride and groom exchange personally written vows against a scenic backdrop. Their biggest savng was using the natural surroundings as decoration.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
As a special and practical touch, mango-colored parasols were given out before the ceremony for guests to stay cool—and take home as a favor.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Matt and Mariel go barefoot—the fashion-forward bride adorns her feet with sparkly jewels.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Now introducing Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin! Favorite memory: “I’ll never forget the feeling of jumping into the ocean, hand-in-hand with Matt the morning of our wedding. I knew the next time we did, we’d be husband and wife.” 
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
The happy couple kicks back on their private deck.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
To complement the natural hues of the location, they added hits of magenta and orange to their reception decor. The breezy, chiffon-draped reception area was decorated with tropical floral centerpieces, hanging lanterns and cozy benches.
READ MORE
Stir It Up: Mariel & Matt in Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Mariel and Matt organized a weekend of festivities, ranging from an ocean-view welcome cocktail hour and a sunset boat cruise to a volleyball tournament on the beach. Welcome cards included the detailed itinerary.
READ MORE
See More Photos