Real Wedding Photo Contest Winners: Caroline & Sébastien
How it all started
Caroline, who works in the tourism industry, and Sébastien, a project leader, began their love story in Quebec at Caroline’s parents’ dairy bar. Sébastien felt an instant attraction, seeing beyond Caroline’s funky pink outfit from work for her beauty inside and out. He wasted no time in asking her out and Caroline knew almost instantly Sébastien was the man she wanted to spend her life with. 20 years ago, the year they met, Caroline proposed to Sébastien with a ring on the nightstand. Knowing Sébastien wasn’t ready to commit to a wedding before having kids, they agreed to get engaged but wait for the wedding. A few years ago, after dinner with family, Caroline and Sébastien decided the best way to celebrate 20 years together was by finally getting hitched.
Planning the wedding
While Caroline had a wedding in their hometown province of Quebec in mind, Sébastien had his heart set on a destination wedding – his only request! The couple quickly decided on Los Cabos for its beauty, incredible sunsets and dry weather – plus, the Latino music is sure to fill any dance floor. Caroline and Sébastien found their ideal spot at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas, which offered the right wedding package that made their special day much less stressful, plus an iconic location, El Arco in the distance, a stunning beach and wedding gazebo that delivered fantastic sunset views – the perfect backdrop for their I do’s.
Wedding day details
On January 16, 2023, Caroline and Sébastien finally recited their vows at a private event in the resort’s oceanfront gazebo, surrounded by 30 of their closest family and friends. The wedding was a simple, elegant and refined event with decorations courtesy of the Royal Package in their wedding colour of burgundy. The couple offered pashminas from Turkey to the female guests and engraved scotch glasses from Vancouver to the men – a thoughtful touch, we agree. After the ceremony, the wedding party made their way to the terrace for their reception with music played by a talented DJ who brought the evening up to an 11. Next year, for a shared honeymoon and one year anniversary celebration, Caroline and Sébastien will be heading to Punta Cana – we can’t wait to see the pictures!
Wedding day wear
Caroline’s gown: Strapless gown from the Divine Collection at a bridal boutique in Quebec
Caroline’s shoes: Black pumps from Michael Kors
Caroline’s accessories: Bold, tiered black necklace and bracelet from Bourne Elite® Jewelry and a Tahitian gardenia flower that she brought back from Polynesia
Sébastien’s attire: White button-up shirt with burgundy cuffs custom-made from Valin Confection in Quebec, and a cream suit from Hugo Boss
Sébastien’s accessories: Burgundy bow tie and suspenders from Valin Confection in Quebec
Wedding bands: Sébastien’s ring was custom-made at Bijouterie Gagnon Inc. using materials from his father’s own wedding ring, including the metal and two diamonds. Both the couple’s wedding bands have three black diamonds symbolizing their three daughters
The wedding party wore: Custom burgundy gowns and custom white button-up shirts with cream pants and burgundy bow ties from Valin Confection in Quebec
Small details
First dance: “Iris” by Josh Ross
Flowers: White roses
Photographer: Wedding Day Stories
Hair: The Renova Spa at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas. Caroline looked beautiful in a tousled up-do with braided crown, accessorized with a flower that she brought back from French Polynesia
Makeup: The Renova Spa at Riu Palace Cabo San Lucas
Tips for future wedding couples
Use professional services and don’t hesitate to ask your wedding coordinator questions. Choose your destination according to your tastes, not to please your guests, and accept that you can’t control everything – just go with the flow on this adventure!
We’re thrilled to celebrate Caroline and Sébastien as one of our Real Weddings Contest winners and give them another way to commemorate their recent nuptials! This beautiful couple has won a seven-night stay at Riu Palace Costa Mujeres in Cancun, Mexico where they can share in a luxurious vacation experience with romance at every turn.
