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A Tropical Destination Wedding Masterpiece at Hacienda Siesta Alegre

Writer's picture: Veronica Gonzalez Matos Veronica Gonzalez Matos
7 days ago5 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

Location: Rio Grande, Puerto Rico

Time of planning: 12 months

Number of guests: 100

Setting: Hacienda

Season: Summer

Wedding Coordination: Island Life Events PR


Samantha and Siegfried’s wedding was a destination tropical wedding masterpiece, set against the breathtaking landscapes of Rio Grande, Puerto Rico. With lush greenery, vibrant details, and heartfelt personal touches, their celebration perfectly balanced elegance and cultural charm. From oysters and caviar to Puerto Rican-inspired cuisine and espresso martinis, this wedding was a feast for the senses and a testament to timeless love.



A Glimpse Into Samantha and Siegfried


Samantha and Siegfried are the epitome of a modern, adventurous couple with a shared love for meaningful experiences. Samantha, a poised project manager with refined taste, and Siegfried, a tech consultant known for his thoughtful surprises, envisioned a wedding day that celebrated their bond while embracing the natural beauty and cultural richness of Puerto Rico.


Their wedding vision—romantic, intimate, and international—came to life in every detail, from the neutral, nature-inspired colors to tropical calla lilies at the reception. With priorities focused on delicious food, drinks, and unforgettable music, their day was nothing short of spectacular.




A Bridal Morning to Remember


Samantha began her day at the stunning Hacienda Siesta Alegre, a Spanish architectural gem nestled at the foot of El Yunque Rainforest. Surrounded by antique mirrors, wood pillars, and lush tropical views, Samantha exuded timeless elegance in her feathered robe as she prepared for the day.


Before the ceremony, Samantha had a private moment to admire the tablescapes, a fusion of tropical and romantic elegance featuring white blooms, papayas, coconuts, and lush greenery. It was a magical preview of the unforgettable evening ahead. The morning turned even sweeter when Siegfried surprised Samantha with a Cartier necklace and bracelet, a thoughtful gift that captured the essence of their special day




A Romantic Ceremony in Paradise


Under a picturesque trellis overlooking the rainforest, the enamored couple exchanged heartfelt vows. The ceremony was intimate and whimsical, with white flowers, green and Amaranthus adorning the altar, reflecting their preference for timeless beauty. Guests were moved to laughter and tears as they witnessed this touching moment. Following the ceremony, the couple got legally married with an officiant online in the cozy bridal suite, marking the official beginning of their journey as husband and wife.






Cocktail Hour Bliss


The cocktail hour was a celebration of tropical flavors and lively vibes. Guests sipped on piña coladas & crafted cocktails from HSA's bar. They indulged in decadent hors d’oeuvres, such as dates filled with pistachios wrapped in bacon and lamb meatballs with local honey and gorgonzola cheese catered by the skilled Chef Yamira from YOP Banquets.


The guests enjoyed live tropical jazz music from Eduardo Zayas, that set the perfect tone for the evening. Meanwhile, the newlyweds took pictures by the fireplace and the fountain with their family and friends.




Culinary Experience: Indulging in Puerto Rican Flavors


Guests were treated to an opulent oyster and caviar bar, complete with crispy tostones for a tropical twist. A seafood station showcased fresh scallops, sea bass, cod fish, & shrimp, expertly prepared and infused with vibrant island flavors. The menu effortlessly combined sophistication with local culinary traditions, creating a feast that delighted every palate. A dedicated rice with pigeon peas & pork belly station celebrated Puerto Rican staples.


We partnered with the top dessert chefs of Eat Dunda to create a stunning spread featuring a custom two-tier vanilla cake, mini gluten-free treats, cheesecakes, truffles, and cookies. The display was beautifully styled with elegant plates and floral accents, adding a touch of sophistication to the celebration. The highlights included mini manchego cheesecakes with walnuts and strawberry-red wine jam and the Tarta de Santiago with goat cheese cream, lavender, and olive oil.






A Reception of Tropical Elegance


This tropical wedding reception seamlessly blended Caribbean flair with modern luxury. The tablescapes, beautifully brought to life by Lorraine's Flowers, adorned with papayas, coconuts, candles, and anthuriums, complemented the lush surroundings of Hacienda Siesta Alegre, while romantic draped runners and custom square signage designed by our team at Island Life Events PR added a contemporary touch.


Our team surprised the couple with a custom creation: a stunning 24-inch wide by 72-inch long bow designed to adorn the fireplace. Paired with elegant calla lilies and cascading hanging amaranthus, it added a modern and sophisticated touch to the display. Guests dined amidst the stunning décor, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that captured the essence of their destination wedding in Puerto Rico.



Dancing, Champagne, and a Poolside Party


As the sun set, the DJ turned up the energy, and the reception transitioned into an unforgettable party. Samantha and Siegfried led the way, their joy contagious as the dance floor filled with friends and family. The night’s highlights included a sparkling champagne tower, cake cutting, expresso martinis, cigar bar, coffee cart, phone to leave messages and a spontaneous dive into the pool, with guests joining the couple for an impromptu splash.


The laughter and carefree joy of that moment epitomized the spirit of their celebration. The evening concluded with a grand sparkler send-off, leaving everyone in awe of the magical day Samantha and Siegfried had created.





A Celebration to Remember


Samantha and Siegfried’s wedding was more than an event; it was an experience filled with love, culture, and breathtaking beauty. Their day reflected the charm of Puerto Rico, from the vibrant tropical décor to the rich local flavors. As the night ended and the newlyweds began their next chapter, their wedding left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. It was a celebration of love, family, and the unforgettable magic of a destination wedding in Puerto Rico.


Looking to Get Married in Puerto Rico?


If you're dreaming of your own destination wedding in this paradise, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. From personalized touches to seamless planning, we’re here to make your journey as beautiful as your big day. 💕 Let’s create something unforgettable together! 🌴✨


Island Life Events - Puerto Rico

Planners+ Designers+ Creative Studio

Phone/WhatsApp: 939-222-9549

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Dream Team Vendors Behind the Wedding Magic ✨💍

  • Event Planners + Creative Vision + Signage Design: @islandlifeweddings 🪄🧙🏼

  • Photographers: @twoisbetter 📷🖼️

  • Venue & Bar: @haciendasiestaalegre 🏰🍹

  • Catering: @yopbanquets 🍴✨

  • Sweets: @eatdunda 🍰🍓

  • DJ: @deejayspr 🎧🎶

  • Musicians: @zayaz_music 🎻🎤

  • Sparklers: @pr.fireworks 🎆🌟

  • Flowers: @lorrainesflowers 🌺🌿

  • Hair & Makeup: @angelrodzmakeup 💄💋ྀི

  • Coffee Station: @tomacafepr ☕

  • Transportation: @fivestar 🚐✈️

  • Printer: @fullhousegraphic 🖨️🖋️




videos filmed by Eloia Films


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Experience the Ultimate Corporate Retreat in Puerto Rico

Writer's picture: Veronica Gonzalez Matos Veronica Gonzalez Matos
Jun 23, 20231 min read


As a destination event planner living in Puerto Rico, I have had the pleasure of organizing numerous corporate events over the years. However, none have been quite as memorable as the recent Chartwell Futures company retreat hosted at Siesta Alegre. This event was one for the books, with attendees enjoying the best of what Puerto Rico has to offer.


With the stunning Siesta Alegre as the backdrop, attendees were treated to a truly immersive experience. As event planner we love working at this venue that has lush greenery and tropical climate made for the perfect atmosphere to foster collaboration and relaxation alike. And with Caribbean Catering providing the delicious cuisine, attendees were able to indulge in the flavors of Puerto Rico, with local eats and refreshing mojitos.



The event was not just about relaxation, though. Attendees were also treated to a salsa class, led by a local instructor who showed them the moves and rhythms of Puerto Rico's most beloved dance. And to cap it off, a live music performance by the Cien del Cielo provided the perfect soundtrack to the evening, with attendees dancing and enjoying themselves well into the night.



Overall, the Chartwell Futures company retreat was an event that truly showcased Puerto Rico's beauty and culture. As an event planner, it was a joy to see attendees fully immerse themselves in the experience, and I can confidently say that this event will be remembered for years to come. So if you're looking for the perfect destination for your next corporate retreat, look no further than Puerto Rico - you won't be disappointed!


Event planners: Island Life Events PR

Photography by: Sunkissed Blue


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How to Plan the Perfect Destination Event in Puerto Rico

Writer's picture: Veronica Gonzalez Matos Veronica Gonzalez Matos
Jul 4, 20224 min read



If you are reading this you are considering or you are fully embarked on planning a destination event in Puerto Rico . This happens to be our area of expertise and we already like you because you are bold enough ( not to say crazy enough) to take your corporate or social event abroad. I will dive right in and give a no-bull-shit approach to event planning in Puerto Rico.


 

Choosing Your Date


The best time to host an event in Puerto Rico is from mid-January to May, right after the busy holiday season and just before the rainy summer. The spring weather is very pleasant, barely escaping the mid-80s on most days. I advise avoiding holiday weekends, spring break, and Valentines.


Aside from spring, October is a great month to plan events on the island. The weather is starting to cool off and there are no big local events.


If you dream of a corporate holiday affair, plan a year or at least 6 months in advance and bump up your lodging budget. Stay off from planning events on Christmas or New Year. Local vendors do not work those Holidays and if they do they will slap on a hefty holiday fee.


No matter what time of the year you decide to come, you are guaranteed to have a great time; so make sure to book at least 2 extra days to enjoy the beaches, the people, and the culture.


Best Locations for Events


Puerto Rico is 100 miles by 35 miles, not sure how many times it fits in Texas but my guess is more than a few times. The island has event spaces and lodging options all around: the coast, mountains, and plains. It is very safe so it is common for tourists to rent cars and explore.


The most popular area to host events is the "metro" area which comprises San Juan ( the capital), Carolina, Trujillo Alto, Guaynabo, Cataño, and Bayamon. Unarguably Old San Juan, Condado, and Isla Verde are among the most sought-after neighborhoods for corporate events; because of their abundance of hotels, shopping and nightlife.


However, the "west", comprised of Aguadilla, Aguada, Rincon, and Cabo Rojo, has become a close second popular destination for corporate & social celebrations in Puerto Rico. You will find the best beaches Peña Blanca, Crash Boat and Steps, and a variety of critically acclaimed restaurants. You can expect a quieter experience filled with local flavor,"hippy" shops, surfing & local music.



Choosing Your Event Space


There are four types of event spaces where you can host your destination event in Puerto Rico: hotels, restaurants, "canva" spaces & airbnbs. I recommend booking hotels if you are hosting a large conference, trade show, or activation.


The benefits are large meeting spaces, concierge services, and amenities ( AV, wifi, golf carts, pools, spas, restaurants, beach access). Some of my favorites are La Concha and Hyatt Regency in Rio Grande. The downside, be prepared for 8k-25k consumption minimums and a 36% hotel fee, service charge, and tax fee.


Some restaurants can hold small groups of 5-25 guests for events. They can reserve a special room or a section of the restaurant for your special occasion. Some offer a la carte or a pre-set menu to make service times speedier.


Canva spaces are rental event spaces where you can bring your own vendors (i.e Casa Blanca Museum, Casa España, and Miramar Event Center) to name a few. These are my favorite types of spaces because you can have fun experimenting with food, beverage, and decor. It gives the client and us the freedom to choose the vendors that best fit our event's vision and needs. You can expect these to be in the 2.5k-4.5k range.



Creating Your Onsite Team


I said I was going to keep it real and I will/ Hiring vendors in the island is time-consuming and can be frustrating. Because of high demand and a laid-back "island life" factor, vendors take longer than usual to respond to emails and calls. I am Puertorican, live in Puerto Rico and am maried to a Puertorican, but this is just a reality.


I advise doubling your planning time, especially with corporate events and productions. Also hiring a local event planning or production firm that has years of experience, a great portfolio, and amazing client testimonials.


Here are some other reasons you will need an onsite team:

  1. Translation: Many locals do not speak English, and contracts are written in Spanish.

  2. Scouting Vendors: Even great vendors have terrible social media accounts making it hard to make the right decision, those that have good portfolios can be extremely overpriced & overbooked. Then there are a few that are well known locally and live from word of mouth so they LITERALLY have no social media at all.

  3. Hours of Operations: PR has local holidays, rental companies close on Saturdays and Sundays, some spaces close from 12 pm to 1 pm for lunch or require an appointment to visit and there are sound ordinances until 11 pm in some areas.

  4. Vendor Mgmt issues: If you do not know the vendor and you take time reviewing a proposal, they might give your date to someone else without a notice. Others only accept cash or checks even for deposits and these have to be mailed or wired from abroad. Some vendors will not manage expectations on what items are in stock or can be delivered to PR on time for your event, causing potential mishaps on your original vision.


Destination event planning firms, like us at Island Life Events PR, offer hourly consultations, staff, and partial and full coordination services to help you mastermind a glittering awards gala or spice up the next annual conference in paradise.


We work hand in hand with you to communicate a clear vision of your brand. Then, we create a custom design that efficiently and powerfully delivers your message. Production is a concise process handled by our team of experts who use decor, fabric, staging, lighting, furniture, and unique, and custom touches to transform venues into mind-blowing experiential environments.





Univision & L2 - A Taste of Puerto Rico Event

event planners @islandlifeeventspr

all images copyright @dianaweddings


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