Real Bride Alexia at her Wedding in Antigua Wearing Monique Lhuillier
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
Francisco and I had actually met once before, but life took us in different directions. Exactly one year later—on the very same date—our paths crossed again, and this time it felt as though destiny had quietly stepped in.
From the moment he saw me, he says he knew I was the one. That very night, he told his mom, “Mom, I saw her again today—the girl I’m going to marry.”
From there, everything unfolded naturally and effortlessly. As we began truly talking, our connection deepened with every conversation—easy, genuine, and undeniable. Our relationship blossomed quickly; Francisco never wavered in what he felt. From the beginning, he knew he wanted to marry me.
Our families connected just as seamlessly, and the proposal reflected everything we are—intimate, heartfelt, and meaningful. It took place at a breathtaking lookout point, surrounded by sweeping mountain views—a moment that felt both deeply personal and timeless.
When you started planning your wedding, what did you envision? How close did it come to that vision?
I envisioned a wedding that felt timeless yet magical—something that blended seamlessly with the charm of our venue, a garden nestled within a château. I wanted our guests to feel transported, as though they had stepped into another world far removed from the everyday.
One of my biggest inspirations was Alice in Wonderland, with its sense of whimsy and wonder woven into every detail. It was important to me that the décor felt in harmony with the venue’s natural beauty—the gardens, ponds, and architecture—rather than competing with it.
In the end, the day was everything I had imagined and more. From the enchanting setting to the thoughtful details layered throughout, it truly felt like stepping into the pages of a storybook I had always dreamed of.
What were a few things that were important for you as a couple to include (or not include)?
“More than anything, we wanted our wedding to feel full of warmth, love, and family. It wasn’t just about creating something beautiful, it was about creating something meaningful. Good music, incredible food, and shared experiences were essential. We didn’t want the night to feel overly formal, but rather like an unforgettable celebration where everyone could truly connect and enjoy.
It was also important for us to incorporate personal elements, from honoring my Greek heritage to weaving meaningful details into the décor. Every element; the lighting, the florals, the atmosphere, was intentional. We wanted it to feel like more than a wedding; we wanted it to be an experience.
How did you decide on the location?
We knew we wanted somewhere that felt both special and unforgettable—combining natural beauty with architectural elegance. It was also a mutual decision to get married in our home country, Guatemala, and we felt incredibly lucky to have a place like Antigua.
Villa Bokéh was exactly what we had envisioned—and more. The lush gardens, fountains, and château-style architecture create a setting that feels both refined and enchanting.
What makes it even more magical is its surroundings. With volcanoes and mountains framing the landscape, there’s an almost otherworldly quality to it. From the beginning, I knew that if we were getting married in Guatemala, it would have to be there.
Let’s talk about the dress!
My gown was everything I had ever dreamed of, timeless, romantic, and slightly otherworldly. I tried on nearly sixty dresses, but none compared to the one I ultimately chose.
Designed by Monique Lhuillier—whose work I’ve always admired—it struck the perfect balance between tradition and modernity. Crafted in delicate lace with soft pleating, it carried a sense of history and romance, while the silhouette felt light, fluid, and ethereal.
More than anything, it was important for me to feel like myself. It truly reflected my personality and everything I love. The gown moved with me in a way that felt alive, graceful and effortless. I kept my accessories minimal to let the craftsmanship and detail shine.
I had always imagined wearing something grand—you only have one moment in your life to embrace that kind of magic and feel like a true princess in white. This dress gave me that moment in the most beautiful way.
How did your family and friends play a role in the planning and the day?
My mother was truly the heart of it all, I could not have done it without her. Her guidance, dedication, and love carried me through every stage of the process. My mother-in-law was also incredibly supportive and played such an important role.
Beyond that, we were surrounded by so much love from both of our families and our friends. Their support, advice, and excitement made the entire journey even more meaningful.
On the wedding day, their energy brought everything to life. Having such a strong, loving circle around us made the experience not only possible, but unforgettable.
What’s one moment from your wedding day you’ll never forget?
One of the most unforgettable moments was our Greek family dance. On my dad’s side, my grandfather is Greek, and our family is incredibly close—this was our way of honoring that part of who we are.
We practiced for weeks, and even my husband, who had never done it before learned every step. On the day, the energy was incredible. The music, the rhythm, everyone dancing together, it felt like pure joy, and that moment captured everything we are as a family.
We turned it into an experience for our guests as well, complete with plate smashing and celebration. It wasn’t just a dance—it was a show. The entire room felt electric, and it’s a memory I will carry with me forever.
How did you decide on your hair and makeup?
I wanted something polished yet natural—timeless and true to who I am.
We chose a soft, elegant ponytail that framed my face beautifully, paired with glowing, romantic makeup in soft pink tones. Radiant skin, delicate eyes, and just the right amount of definition created a look that felt elevated yet effortless.
It complemented the dress without ever competing with it, which was important, because the dress was truly the star.
Was there a vendor you absolutely loved?
Absolutely—our entire photo and video team.
Our photographer captured not just images, but emotion. Every detail, every feeling, it all lives in the photos in such a beautiful, timeless way.
Our videographer created something truly cinematic. It wasn’t just a video, it was a film. His wife, who worked as our content creator, brought such creativity and energy, capturing candid moments that added another layer to the experience.
And of course, our wedding planner made everything possible. She was the visionary behind it all, bringing every detail together seamlessly and turning our dream into reality.
Where did you go on your honeymoon?
We traveled to Japan—a destination we had both always wanted to visit.
It was the perfect balance of vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable food, paired with moments of calm in temples and gardens. We’ve always loved Asia, and Japan was somewhere new for both of us—making it feel even more special.
But the best part was simply slowing down after the excitement of the wedding and enjoying our first days as newlyweds, just the two of us, experiencing something new together.
Vendors
Wedding Planner: Muckay Ixcamparij (@muckayi)
Photographer: Mariel Orellana (@marielorellanaphotography)
Videographer: Rodrigo Zadro (@rodrigozadro)
Content Creator: Federica Dominguez (@behindthebridefilms)
Decorator & Florals: Rolando Ramazzini (@rolandoramazzinievents)
Dress: Monique Lhuillier (Chic Parisien)
Mother of the Bride: Tarik Ediz (@tarikedizofficial)
Makeup: Jessie Harrison (@jessiharrisonmakeup)
Venue: Villa Bokéh Relais & Châteaux, Antigua Guatemala
Music & Entertainment: Mas Audio (@masaudioeventos)
Cake: Sofia Cobian (@sofiacobian)