Some couples choose their destination based on postcard images or Instagram inspo. For college sweethearts with a love story over a decade long, Alexandria and Janssen’s choice came with a backstory. “Janssen had vacationed in Costa Rica with family when he was younger. He always had great things to say about his adventures,” Alexandria explains. But practicality played a role too: “We saw that we could stretch our budget further for 12 days (ceremony, reception + honeymoon) in Costa Rica versus 1 day in the States.”

They spent a week in Guanacaste for the wedding festivities, followed by a romantic escape to La Fortuna, home to volcanic views and the luxury resort Nayara Springs—honeymoon goals unlocked.

A Villa With a View (and a Plan B)

The couple wanted a wedding venue that could host most of their immediate family under one roof—and Villa Puesta del Sol delivered in a big way. “We chose to host our reception at the villa because of the large dining area that could accommodate 24 guests but still feel intimate,” Alexandria says.

But, as any seasoned destination wedding couple will tell you, flexibility is key. Just two days before the big day, their planned ceremony at Playa Azul was derailed due to some unexpected condo-related drama. Fortunately, the team at Mil Besos swooped in with a solution. “They resolved the issue quickly by finding us another beach location that still aligned with our vision,” Alexandria shares. (Shoutout to destination planners who wear invisible superhero capes.)

Heartfelt Details + Hanging Florals

The celebration was filled with thoughtful touches—from hanging florals overhead to the bouquet design that perfectly matched the bride’s updated gown. “A few weeks before, I sent an updated wedding dress photo to [Keri at Mil Besos] and discussed changing my bouquet and immediately she agreed that we needed a different design to match my dress,” Alexandria says.

But perhaps the most special element of all? “My grandparents attended our wedding. They never traveled to another country, let alone a vacation in 20+ years. They both had to get passports and we are so grateful they did all of that for us.” Cue the collective awws.

Ceremony With Soul (and a Little Humor)

Held just steps from the water, their ceremony was personal and poetic—literally. “My sister, Natalie, did a reading during the ceremony… a poem called Falling In Love Is Like Owning a Dog by Taylor Mali,” says Janssen. “It was so perfect because Alexandria and I love our fur baby, Athena, so much.”

Their officiant helped weave together key moments of their journey, from late-night college dances to cross-country moves and shared adventures with pets. Every word felt like it belonged to them.

What They Learned Along the Way

Planning a destination wedding without ever setting foot in the country ahead of time sounds bold—but these two pulled it off seamlessly thanks to their all-star planning squad. “We did not do any site visits apart from Google Maps 🤣,” Alexandria laughs. “Keri’s design of our ceremony and reception was beautiful. Sol and Ilaria were so organized, kind and professional on the day of our wedding. My entire family loved Sol’s energy!”

And when it came to managing the process, the couple leaned on a mix of creativity and grace: “We were super late in getting our save the dates out, so we opted for a beautiful e-card instead of physical mail.”

Words of Wisdom

If you’re considering a destination wedding, Alexandria and Janssen have this advice: pivot when needed, start shopping early, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. “Having a trusted friend or family member help you and your fiancé make decisions if you’re indecisive is a game-changer,” Alexandria adds. “My mother-in-law hosted a bridal shower for me the morning of the wedding and it was so special.”

From a college campus dance floor to a Costa Rican villa overlooking the sea, this couple’s journey proves that love (and great planning) really can take you anywhere.

Vendors: Planning + Design: Mil Besos; Photography: Estefania Herrera; Videography: DW Stories; Venue: Villa Puesta del Sol; Florals: Flores de Campos; Lighting: Los Primos Designs; Hair & Makeup: Nadia Cambronero; DJ: DJ Kika; Bride’s Gown: Pronovias