Andrew and Claire | Marco Ocean Resort Wedding
Interview with the Bride
Reflecting back with the bride on the wedding day
How long was your engagement?
Our engagement was about a year and a half. It was enough time – I would probably have been stressed with any less time.
Why did you choose your venue?
Based on pictures, reviews, availability, and the ease of planning with the coordinators/resort staff. We chose Marco Ocean Resort without even seeing it and did our tasting after we had already committed!
What was your favorite moment from your wedding day?
The whole ceremony. It was beautiful weather, beautiful set up, our officiant was wonderful, and it turned out exactly as I envisioned and better than I could have imagined.
What was the biggest obstacle you had to face while planning your wedding or on the wedding day?
Planning a destination wedding and inviting all the members of our large families was difficult because we didn’t know what to expect as far as attendance. We were also expected to act as travel agents for everyone planning on coming, which was hard and a bit frustrating. The day of, there was a miscommunication with the florist and one bridesmaid bouquet didn’t show up. We ended up getting it on time due to the venue and the florist rushing to get it to us, so everything was fine.
Looking back on your wedding day, is there anything you would have done differently?
The amount of stress I had the morning of! There was no need for all that stress because everything was perfect.
Vendor Information
Details on who helped make this day a success for the bride and groom
Bride’s Dress Store: Grace Loves Lace
Groom’s Attire By: Express and Cole Haan
Hair Stylist: Meghan Posedel of Studio One Salon and Spa in Gurnee, IL (Cousin of Bride)
Second Photographer: Jamie Lee Duffy
Getting Ready
The bride had a large room set aside in the spa area of the Marco Ocean Resort to get ready with her bridesmaids and mother while the groom had a room in the main building of the hotel.
The First Look
Before the ceremony started, this couple decided to have an intimate moment between each other. This broke the tradition of waiting till processional to see your groom or bride but it made for some amazing candids and rush-free portraits.
The Ceremony
Ceremony was held on the beach behind Marco Ocean Resort. The staff at the hotel ensure that the beach is cleared and the view of the ocean is the only distraction while nuptials are happening.
The Reception
The cocktail hour along with dinner and the first dance was held on the terrace of the Marco Ocean Resort. After dinner, everyone moved indoors to the ballroom for dancing and dessert.
