Real brides

Isabel and Alistair’s Marbella beach wedding

Palm trees, dancing and sand between the toes

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Weddings that took place pre- pandemic—and provided endless sources of fashion, design, and entertaining inspiration—now have us dreaming of the day we can pack our bags, gather, host, and party en like like its 2019 again. It's events like these that replay in our minds as we think of good times past, and all the fun, beauty, and joy that's in store for the future. At TDT, we're looking back to look forward; here, one of the destination weddings we've had in our archives that has us inspired and hopeful for a safe, post-pandemic world of weddings—all in due time.

Meet Isabel and Alistair - The pair met through work in 2015 and had the chance to celebrate their love before the world as we know it changed. In November 2018 Alistair proposed to Isabel after they had watched the sunset in Chapmans Peak in Cape Town, South Africa. How perfect! They pair wed on the 7th September 2019 on the beaches of Marbella in Spain. 

Isabel chose a luxury satin gown that featured both a front andback cowl draping as well as stunning, satin train. This magical dress is by New York based designer, Savannah Miller named ‘Avalon’. She finished off the look with a Balenciaga veil that had been in the family for 30 years as well as a pearl necklace from Suarez, both borrowed from her mum.

This Pre-COVID Destination Wedding Has Us Dreaming of Traveling Again


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Isabel, what was your vision for the wedding? 

I always wanted a beach ceremony, something small and personal. Where we both could spend the best day of our lives with the people we love, even my dog (who has now passed away) was there!



 

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What was the planning process like? 

Let's say...I would never do it again!! hehe. I didn't have a wedding planner and had to organize everything from here. I was lucky because the event planner from Trocadero Arena (where we celebrated the wedding) was marvellous. Also my mum was an amazing help!!

What was the best and worst parts of planning? 

The hardest part was table seating without any doubt... and the easiest was the food tasting and choosing menus . We are both foodies so the process was really enjoyable!

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How did you personalize your wedding to reflect you and Alistair as a couple? 

The music played an important role here, we hired a Spanish guitar and violin for the ceremony and cocktail at the terrace. I walked down the aisle with my grandad and the song She from Elvis Costello. Had to be that song!! I must have watched Notting Hill with my mum and sister about a hundred times!We had 3 speeches during the ceremony, my stepdad, my husband’s dad and my best friend. We made sure the ceremony had our personal touch.

Why did you pick the venue you chose? 

I was looking for a seaside venue, with airport connections. I found it thanks to a blog in Telva magazine. I fell in love with the place, it felt isolated, cozy, it had the beach and the PALM TREES!

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Did you have more than one gown? 

Yes, I had the Savannah Miller Avalon gown for the ceremony and dinner, Then I changed for gown Chloe which I had altered and shortened.

How did you know the Avalon gown was the one?

I literally broke into tears. It was perfect, simple, elegant and beautiful. 

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What were your husband’s thoughts when he first saw you in the dress? 

He was crying while I walked down the aisle...I believe he said something like ‘ you look stunning’. AWWW! 

What advice would you give to brides in search of their dress?

Always be true to your style, is your day and you need to feel comfortable and pretty and the same time.

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What did the bridesmaids wear? 

A silk pink (pastel pink) dress, from H&M. They chose it. I wanted them to be comfortable so I let them choose it.

Do you have any special stories about your flower girl/ring bearer? 

My cousin Sara (10 year old) who wore a pink short dress and cousin Ezra (2 yr old) walk down with flower petals, and a basket carrying the rings. It didn't work very well as Ezra’s mum had to intervene so he would keep moving. But oh well not everything could be perfect and to be honest they both looked so cute!

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What was your menu like?

During the cocktail at the terrace we had a selection of canapes which were a bit of fusion between typical Spanish and modern. Have to mention we OBVIOUSLY had Serrano Ham 5 Jotas. For the dinner menu each guest chose for their main between fish or meat.

Where did you decide to go on your honeymoon? 

We did a mini honeymoon to Cadiz and Sevilla in Spain. Now we are planning Tanzania (safari) and Zanzibar for September. Can't wait!

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What are your three most memorable memories of the day?

My grandad walking me down the aisle (looking like a character from el Padrino) I love him so much. My husband waiting for me with my dog at the altar. The party, seeing everyone I love having fun under the same roof...I felt so lucky.


Wedding Dress: The Avalon Gown, Savannah Miller

Make-up: @yolandamakeupartist on Instagram

Jewelry: Official store | Joyería Suarez (joyeriasuarez.com)

Ceremony Location, Reception & Catering: Trocadero Arena | Restaurant & Beach Club in Marbella (grupotrocadero.com)

Photographer: / Isa & Ali / Boda – Daniel Márquez & Co (danielmarquez.es)

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