What’s not to love about a destination wedding? Warmer climates, vacation vibes, and lots of cultural flair – to name a few! We’ve shared many love stories of brides saying “I do” on beaches and mountaintops. But have you ever considered having a destination wedding…locally? A team of Denver wedding vendors had a vision of a Cuban wedding inspiration and brought it to life right here in the Mile High City! Keep reading for more details and ideas to make your own local destination wedding a reality. 

Cuban wedding inspiration

Earlier this year, Elevate Photography and blanc Denver partnered on a styled wedding shoot. Next, they commissioned Erika of Erika Sandoval Events to plan and design something spectacular. Erika said, “ ‘How awesome’ I thought to be trusted to do this! I wanted something different and bold and everyone knows I love a good theme! I decided on a Cuban inspired shoot and got the very best team to pull this off!” Her creative juices were flowing and before she knew it, her vision became a reality! 

Summer, palm trees, and sunshine were muses for this Cuban wedding inspiration styled shoot. Bright colors, rich texture, and tropical florals served as key players. When Erika asked us to provide dresses for the shoot, we were SO excited to learn one of the models was our very own bride. Jovan found her dream Martina Liana wedding dress with us a few years ago, and we loved working with her. Her wife Emily is also incredible! One of the best parts about having a real couple model for a photoshoot is the genuine, authentic connection. As you can see in the photos, these two are the real deal! 

Wedding dresses for Cuban wedding inspiration 

Since there were two brides to dress, we had double the fun choosing gowns! First, we went with a sexy fit and flare for Jovan. “Avis” from L’amour by Calla Blanche is the quintessential destination wedding dress. Lightweight (read: easy to travel with!), a little boho, with tons of texture; just a few reasons this dress was a no-brainer.

Contrary to Jovan’s figure flattering dress, we opted for a more traditional look with Emily’s gown. While a ballgown isn’t always what comes to mind when you think “beach wedding,” we’re firm believers that there are no rules when it comes to wedding dress shopping. To honor this, we chose one of our all-time favorite ballgowns from Justin Alexander. Style 8779 combines the ultimate classic bridal silhouette with modern details for a wedding dress that is timeless, beautiful, and unique. 

Surrounded by Cuban wedding inspiration, Emily and Jovan looked as stunning as they did on their own wedding day!

Now sit back, grab a frozen cocktail, and prepare to be swept away on a mini-vacay through these amazing photos by Elevate Photography! 

Erika putting the finishing touches on the table. Look at all that color!

Emily accessorizing like a queen.

Jovan & Emily are so gorgeous together!

Totally feeling the love.

Every wedding detail was filled with Cuban inspiration. Look how festive these appetizers are!

This cake is one of the coolest we’ve ever seen!

Loving the pop of color from their bouquets against the white walls at blanc!

What a chic styled lounge area! Perfect for a pre-reception cocktail!

Jovan is rocking that L’amour gown, while Emily is twirling the day away in her Justin Alexander wedding dress.

You can’t have a Cuban wedding inspiration styled shoot without Cuban cigars!

Vendors

Venue: blanc Denver

Photography: Elevate Photography

Planner: Erika Sandoval Event Planning & Design

Flowers: Inspired Designs

Caterer: Three Tomatoes Catering

Invitations: Tasha Rae Designs

Linen: La Tavola

Beauty: Chateau de beaute

Cake: A Cake Come True

Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals

Furniture: Hazel Grove

Wedding Dresses: The Bridal Collection

Jewelry: The Diamond Reserve