While enjoying a night out with friends in Washington, DC, Pilar Acosta could not deny the instant connection she shared with Nick Veizaga. “We had what felt like a magnetic attraction to each other that night. We continued to get to know each other the rest of the summer before dating for five years,” she shares. Nick then proposed to his sweetheart while vacationing in Cabo San Lucas for her 30th birthday.

Upon deciding to host their nuptials in Colombia, the couple elected a hotel that would ensure the comfort and enjoyment of all 80 guests. “Planning a destination wedding is extra complicated. Therefore, picking a hotel that had impeccable service was key and gave me peace of mind,” Pilar admits. The long weekend commenced with welcome cocktails on a rooftop bar, followed by a day on a boat island-hopping and the rehearsal cocktail party that featured traditional Colombian food and music.

“Our hanging-greenery ceiling installation was the first step in turning the space into an indoor garden. The suspended vines were stunning!”

The next day, loved ones gathered at sunset for the alfresco ceremony and were enthralled by the gorgeous view and floral arch. “It was made up of 1,200 roses, 120 dangling boat orchids, snapdragons, and an array of greenery,” Pilar describes. “It was important for us to include the orchids in the arch and my bouquet because orchids are Colombia’s national flower.” After exchanging vows, they invited their guests to enjoy a delightful menu at cocktail hour as well as jaw-dropping fireworks.

The bride described her vision for the décor of the evening as, “a magical, indoor garden illuminated with dangling chandeliers and many candles,” she tells. “Our hanging-greenery ceiling installation was the first step in turning the space into an indoor garden. The suspended vines were stunning!”

In addition to the ambience and menu that the couple titled “A Taste of the World,” the saxophonist was a real crowd-pleaser. “At the reception, we had a saxophonist join us on the dance floor, which our guests still talk about to this day! We had scheduled our saxophonist for an hour show and had to hire him for a second hour on the spot because the guests were thrilled,” the bride confides.

Pilar also shares the advice she and Nick wish to pass on to all engaged couples: “The best advice we received and continue to pass along is to enjoy the moment and be present, because the day and night fly by!”