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Diana and Michael chose to be married in her home country of Colombia, hosting an elegant destination wedding in the heart of historic Cartagena. Their celebration seamlessly blended refined design with the vibrant culture of the city, creating a wedding day that felt both romantic and deeply rooted in place. From centuries-old architecture to a joyful post-ceremony parade through cobblestone streets, every moment reflected the beauty and spirit of Cartagena.
The wedding design drew inspiration from both Californian and Tuscan garden weddings, combining soft, natural tones with classic European influences. Diana envisioned a romantic, garden-inspired aesthetic built around natural elegance. The palette featured pale blush, peach, taupe, and white, accented with lush greenery. Garden roses, eucalyptus foliage, vintage candleholders, tapered ivory candles, and simple calligraphy were paired with warm, ambient lighting to bring the vision to life. Cartagena’s Spanish colonial architecture, historic stone walls, sweeping balconies, and iconic churches provided the perfect backdrop for this refined yet organic design.
For their ceremony, Diana and Michael selected the breathtaking San Pedro Claver Church, a 16th-century landmark known for its timeless beauty and historic significance. The couple chose to enhance the church’s natural grandeur with delicate altar arrangements and a candle-lit aisle, allowing the architecture and atmosphere to remain the focal point.
Following the ceremony, guests made their way through Cartagena’s historic streets in celebration before arriving at the reception venue, Casa Pombo, a restored Spanish colonial mansion turned boutique hotel. The reception design built upon the ballroom’s preserved fresco walls and wrought-iron chandeliers, incorporating long wooden tables, soft silk runners, and understated floral centerpieces to create an inviting and romantic setting. Every detail felt intentional, elegant, and effortlessly layered.
As the evening unfolded, guests danced beneath warm lighting to the rhythm of a live salsa band while Diana and Michael celebrated well into the early morning hours. It was a night filled with movement, music, and joy, the perfect ending to a wedding that beautifully honored both personal style and Colombian tradition.
Cartagena offers an unforgettable setting for destination weddings, with its historic venues, rich culture, and timeless architecture. Diana and Michael’s celebration is a perfect example of how thoughtful design and meaningful location come together to create an experience that feels both elevated and deeply personal.
vendors:
Venue- Casa Pombo
Photography - Vicki Grafton
Planning & Coordination - Itala Vasquez
Florals - Florarte
Gown - Katie May
Robe - BHLDN Homebodii
Hair & Makeup - Carlos Torres
Invitations & Calligraphy - Valentina Gladden
Caterer - Adriana Santos
Band & Entertainment - Playa Producciones
Musicians - Felipe Madariaga Musicalizaciones
Cake - Elsy de Figueroa (Ideas Dulces & Catering)
Rentals - Florarte
Grooms- Tailor’s Keep
"VG's images are truly timeless—a valuable investment that transports us back in time with every glance." Diane & Mike
Cartagena, Colombia, is a popular wedding destination due to its romantic ambiance, vibrant culture, and stunning venues, particularly within its historic walled city. The city offers a blend of historical charm, colonial architecture, and modern amenities, making it an attractive location for couples seeking a unique and memorable wedding experience.
The best time of year to get married in Cartagena, is during the dry season, December to April, with January being the driest. This period offers the most sunshine and the least rainfall, ideal for outdoor ceremonies and photos.
Yes, legal weddings require documentation and can involve a civil ceremony. Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in San Miguel and handle the legal paperwork at home.
Cartagena offers a variety of unique venues, there are rooftop terraces with ocean views, charming colonial courtyards, historic churches and restored colonial mansions for wedding celebrations. Luxury hotels, boutique hotels, and private villas provide a range of accommodation options for wedding parties and guests.
Absolutely! Vicki has documented destination weddings and editorials in Cartagena capturing the city’s beauty and the emotional depth of each event in her signature fine art style.
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