“Here is what you need to know about Maria and Julian’s wedding. They had karaoke at their reception….they had full blown, “Bohemian Rhapsody, Livin on a Prayer, Lets Get it On” karaoke. If that wasn’t cool enough, they also got married in San Juan, Puerto Rico which is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. The ceremony took place at the San Juan Cathedral in Old San Juan, a cathedral that was originally built in 1521!!!! Following the ceremony, we took pictures just outside the church in Old San Juan making use of it’s gorgeous and colorful alleys, walls and doors. It also helped to have a breathtaking sunset. The reception then took place at the quaint yet grand Casa Olimpica. After a few speeches, dances and dinner, the karaoke ensued, led by Maria and Julian of course. Not pictured in this feature is the amazing traditional Puerto Rican fare that was served, two tasty beers brewed by one of Maria’s brothers for the reception and the photo booth complete with hats, boas and fake mustaches. A beautiful location and an equally beautiful couple. Congrats to Maria and Julian!” – Ben Elsass Photography

Ok, how freaking cute is this picture!!! …do you see those gorgeous gold heels… guess what!? She DIY-ed those babies! You go Maria!!! We love your glam DIY style!

“That’s a hard question! Every single second was magical. But if I had to pick just one… it’s probably when I caught the first glimpse of my husband to be – I was all set and ready in my hotel room, waiting for our guests to arrive in the cathedral via shuttle before I departed with my dad and maid of honor. I sneaked a peek from my balcony and to my surprise I saw Julian standing by the shuttle, making sure everyone was accounted for. I quickly rushed back in so that there was no chance he’d see me! My heart totally skipped a beat… he looked so incredibly handsome, and he was surrounded by all these people we love, friends and family who traveled from near and far for our special day. That little moment crystallized what was about to happen, it’s like a tiny movie that will live in my memory forever.

..DIY was a big part of the wedding – everything from our table numbers to the photo booth props, to the cake and dessert display, to the wedding favors created by an artisan cousin and the two home-brewed beers handcrafted by my brothers. I’m surrounded by an incredibly creative family and everyone rolled up their sleeves and volunteered to take something on. Besides saving money, those DIY accents just make your wedding day even more special and unique. At the end of the night I looked around in amazement, this incredible day came together with so much love with help from so many people I love! The fact that we pieced it together, with our own hands, was such a special feeling.

..Yep! Something old is a good one…  I originally bought this pricey pair of designer shoes, but then realized that it was probably an unnecessary extra expense, I had a nude pair of pumps that I loved and were super comfortable. So my mom, sister-in-law and I tossed around some ideas of how we could DIY them. A couple of days later, I woke up to find that my mom had covered them in this gorgeous coppery glitter – they looked amazing! It was a total Cinderella moment, and I had found my something old! For something borrowed I wrapped a beautiful heart shaped pendant that my mom wore on her wedding day around my flower bouquet – a very special token for me. Something blue… a sexy pair of undies!

..Keep a level head and remember the true meaning behind all the potential craziness – you and the man of your dreams are celebrating the start of a new chapter and throwing a big party filled with all these people you love. Remember that your wedding should be a reflection of who you are as a couple, with all your charms and quirks. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family, hire vendors that match your budget and personality, and have fun! It’s true what they say… the day goes by in what feels like a second, one little magical second.” – Maria, the bride

photography: Ben Elsass Photography // church: Cathedral San Juan // cake: Bientesabe // dress: David’s Bridal // DJ: DJ Rock Hand // hair: Juan Rodriguez Escalera // tuxedo: Manny’s Formal Wear // flowers: Manteleria // venue: Casa Olimpica