Destination Micro Wedding Weekend at Casa Valerie
A Romantic Destination Micro Wedding at Casa Valerie, in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
When Juliette and Matthew dreamed of their wedding day, they envisioned an intimate celebration in a place that held deep meaning for them. Casa Valerie in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, became the perfect choice for their destination micro wedding — a stunning, cliffside villa with sweeping ocean views that captured the natural beauty of the coastline.
The couple’s love story brought them back to Puerto Vallarta, a destination close to their hearts after attending a friend’s wedding in the vibrant city years before. This time, they would share the magic of Puerto Vallarta with their closest loved ones during a three-day wedding weekend filled with unforgettable memories.
As a California-based editorial wedding photographer, I was honored to capture Juliette and Matthew’s incredible wedding weekend. Traveling from Los Angeles to Puerto Vallarta to document this celebration was an absolute joy. Destination weddings like this one—spanning multiple days and filled with meaningful moments—are my passion.
Juliette and Matthew’s wedding was a celebration of love, family, and the start of a new chapter. Casa Valerie provided the perfect setting for their unforgettable day, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.
Day One: Arrival and Rehearsal Dinner
Juliette and Matthew’s celebration began the moment they and their guests arrived at Casa Valerie. The villa’s warm, welcoming ambiance was elevated by on-site catering, offering delicious snacks to help everyone settle in and relax. As the sun set, the group gathered at Le Kliff, a picturesque restaurant just down the road. The rehearsal dinner was a casual yet elegant affair, with margaritas flowing, a mariachi band welcome, and family-style delicacies shared amidst the breathtaking sunset views. It was the perfect way to set the tone for the weekend.
Day Two: The Wedding Day
On the second day, Casa Valerie transformed into Juliette and Matthew’s modern, romantic wedding vision. The couple chose a design that embraced the villa’s natural beauty, with white orchids and roses adorning the space. The focal point of the reception was a striking black-and-white checkered dance floor, framed by the villa’s iconic coastal views.
With fewer than 40 guests in attendance, the atmosphere was intimate and heartfelt. The bride and groom opted for a traditional “first look” at the altar, ensuring that their first words to each other that day were their vows. This deeply personal choice set the tone for a ceremony filled with love and emotion.
As the evening unfolded, Juliette surprised everyone by announcing her pregnancy. The moment became even more special when the couple revealed the baby’s gender during the reception, creating an unforgettable memory for all in attendance. The celebration ended with a magical final dance, where guests circled the couple with sparklers, filling the night with joy and light.
Day Three: All-White Yacht Party
To cap off the weekend, Juliette and Matthew hosted an all-white yacht party on a private 100-foot catamaran. This all inclusive yacht became the venue for day three of celebration! Guests sailed along the Puerto Vallarta coastline, soaking in the stunning views and reflecting on the weekend’s beautiful moments. This day perfectly encapsulated the couple’s vision of a celebration that went beyond a single day - bringing together family to share and create such special memories together that will last a lifetime.
Why Casa Valerie is Perfect for Destination Weddings
Casa Valerie is a dream wedding venue. Its luxurious amenities, breathtaking views, and intimate setting make it an ideal location for micro weddings and multi-day celebrations. The villa’s versatility allows couples to create a unique wedding experience tailored to their vision, from elegant ceremonies to lively receptions. Its proximity to Puerto Vallarta adds the perfect touch of cultural vibrancy and adventure for couples and guests alike.
VENDORSPhotographer: Vanessa ToddVenue: Casa ValerieRehearsal Dinner: Le KliffCatamaran: Chica Locca ToursPlanning and Floral Design: Tamara Bradly from Chic ConceptsDJ, Lighting, and Dancefloor: Michael Huhndorf from Vallarta DJsCatering: Chef Josue from Concept Catering MXHMU: Paola Amaral Makeup
captured on digital, 35mm, and 120mm film