A Romantic, Modern Wedding in Historic Guatemala

If you’re going to google the person you’re being set up with before you meet, make sure it’s the right one! In August of 2016, Gigi Guerra headed to her friend’s brother-in-law’s birthday party, where her friend was excited to introduce Gigi to Eduardo Sanchez. “She was certain we’d be perfect for each other,” she recalls. “I had looked him up, and assumed I’d be meeting a different Eddie Sanchez. So when I realized the tall, handsome man at the bar was the Eddie I was supposed to meet, I was relieved—and we hit it off right away!” The couple dated for a year-and-a-half, establishing a weekly Wednesday night date night as a break in their busy schedules. On what Gigi thought was a random Wednesday, the couple took a walk along the Miami waterfront toward dinner, where Eddie got down on one knee. “After I said yes, my first questions were about where my family was and why I was in gym clothes,” Gigi says, with a laugh. But Eddie had thought of that. A limo was on its way to take Gigi to change, and their families were waiting at their house to join them for a celebratory dinner!

The couple set their wedding date for January 6, 2018, and Gigi’s mother got to work planning their romantic celebration in Antigua, Guatemala. “She was the brains behind the operation, and wanted to give us the wedding of our dreams,” Gigi explains. They embraced the city’s stunning architecture and dramatic history, weaving a white-and-rose-gold palette through the earthquake-ravaged ruins and cobblestone streets. Filled with thousands of candles and photographed by Christian Arevalo, this modern wedding celebration was the crowning moment of a jaw-dropping weekend. Keep reading for more!

After trying on dozens of dresses at salons all over Miami (and nearly buying two gowns out of desperation!), Gigi finally slipped into this spectacular Monique Lhuillier gown. “I wanted something elegant, fitted, and romantic—and Eddie requested that I not look like a cupcake!” she says.

Intricate embroidery and beading covered the fitted silhouette, and the bride topped her gown with a coordinating Peter Langner veil.

Gigi and her bridesmaids spent the morning getting ready at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo. The couple infused their day with personal touches, including embroidered handkerchiefs that the bride offered to her father and in-laws.

Diego, the couple’s best friend’s son, served as ring bearer, carrying an adorable sign that let Eddie know Gigi was on her way. “As Diego got to Eddie, he dropped the sign and started stomping all over it, then handed it to Eddie with a kiss on the cheek,” Gigi says, laughing.

Though the Catholic mass was in Spanish, Eddie and Gigi exchanged vows in English. “That’s what we usually speak to one another, so it felt more natural that way,” Gigi explains.

The exit!

A pathway of white flowers and candles led guests to the reception. When Eddie and Gigi made their entrance as sparks flew—literally!

The historic space was decked out in modern wedding decor, from the sleek tables to the chargers and chairs. White orchids grew out of towering gold vases, while clusters of white hydrangeas and roses softened each centerpiece.

The couple's lemon poppy seed wedding cake, decorated with cascading sugar rose petals, was the centerpiece of an indulgent dessert display. “The hotel is known for their delicious food, so we wanted to give our guests a lot of choices!” says Gigi.

Eddie’s family has Cuban heritage, so la Hora Loca (the crazy hour) was a must for the newlyweds. Guests were given custom dancing shoes, and sparklers lit the LED dance floor. Says Gigi, “In this charming town in the mountains, our wedding dream became a reality!”