Couple Says "I Do" After Hurricane Maria Postponed Wedding

Learn more about how Marilyn and Neftali handled the change of plans.

Though they certainly had to deal with stress leading up to their big day due to unforeseen circumstances out of their control, Marilyn and Neftali still affirm they wouldn't change a thing.

By Kelcy Christy

ceremony-space-beach-wood-chairs-arch-greenery-sand-wedding-oceanside-california
Photo: John Schnack Photography

Bride and groom dark night wedding portrait puerto rico wedding after hurricane maria first hotel wedding

When Marilyn Arjona was training at Caribe Hilton, a sister property of Hilton Ponce, she first met Neftali Resto. "I just loved how sweet and attentive he was... He was a total gentleman," she remembers of their first meeting over 11 years ago. When the time was right, the couple decided it was time to get married. They began planning their nuptials where they both work at Hilton Ponce in Puerto Rico. Though they planned to wed in December 2017, their wedding date had to be postponed to February 17, 2018 following Hurricane Maria last fall. "Things got a little complicated after Hurricane Maria since the venue was not going to be available for our original wedding date," says Marilyn. "We had to postpone and make sure all of our vendors were available for our new date." 

Though later than they originally thought, 70 of the couples nearest and dearest at last joined them for a memorable poolside ceremony overlooking the sea. Following the heartfelt service, guests adjourned to the hotel ballroom for a celebration showcasing a vintage theme with a color scheme of blush, ivory, and gold. "We liked the romantic, delicate, and sweet feeling it would give our wedding," shares the bride. Tables were decorated with gilt candelabra adorned with cascading pearls and topped with hydrangeas, roses, orchids, and lilies. Once the delectable fare and slices of the couple's confection were enjoyed, loved ones hit the dance floor. "We danced all night long!" says Marilyn. "Seeing all of our family and friends together having a great time after experiencing the hardship Hurricane Maria left Puerto Rico in months prior [was very special]."

Though they certainly had to deal with stress leading up to their big day due to unforeseen circumstances out of their control, Marilyn and Neftali still affirm they wouldn't change a thing. "My wedding day turned out perfect and everything was as I had pictured and more," shares the bride, providing the following advice for future couples preparing to wed: "Make your wedding day what you have always dreamed it would be. Try to stress as little as possible and enjoy the process."

Take a look at photos from the couple's Puerto Rico wedding below!

Bride in veil getting ready for wedding in puerto rico after hurricane maria

Bride and groom poolside wedding ceremony in puerto rico wedding after hurricane maria

Wedding reception ballroom hilton ponce puerto rico after hurricane maria

Bride and groom cutting wedding cake wedding puerto rico after hurricane maria

Hilton Ponce in Puerto Rico ballroom wedding after hurricane maria first wedding post hurricane

Photos by Feliu Photography

Beauty: Miguel Alexan Makeup Artist; Bridal Gown: St. Patrick; Bridal Salon: Novia Bella; Bridesmaid Gowns: David Antonio; Cake: Rosa Saure Cakes; Entertainment: DJ Elvin & In Prelude; Floral/Lighting Design: Azio Floral Design; Formalwear: Leonardo Fifth Avenue & Trajes Gobernador; Headpiece: Bel-Aire Bridal; Honeymoon: The London NYC; Invitations: Simply Unique Invitations; Mothers' Gowns: Macy's; Shoes: Badgley Mischka; Transportation: Ponce Limousine; Veil: Pronovias; Venue/Catering/Linens: Hilton Ponce Golf & Casino Resort

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