Wedding Date: February 20th 2020

My friend of twelve years, Katie Dix, has spent her professional life helping brides on their wedding day at Minnesota's darling venue, Bear Path Country Club. Katie is both brilliant and poised at her job as passion for food and fellowship runs deep. When Bob came into her life, Katie fell hard and he eventually led her to a family tradition of experiencing the joyous culture of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; a land where the jungle and mountains come crashing to the sea. I would quickly become obsessed as well.

Katie said yes to his impressive proposal in California's wine country and celebrated with her dear friend and co-worker Kim Davis. The two started to dream and plan immediately and eventually she picked a date and invited me along to join them at a fabulous boutique hotel buy-out that hugged the coast. I was speechless! At night, the whole crew would enjoy lobster and the finest seafood on a rooftop under the stars while mixing in some salsa music and flavor it all with a splash of tequila. All was a build-up to the wedding of a lifetime.

Waves crashed and the sun was happy outside of Katie's cabana. The ladies enjoyed the view and a toast while room-service provided a round of cold beer to the men while they helped Bob into looking his best. High above, Katie took in the view of the islands, pelicans, and guests cheering her on loudly from the beach below. It was finally HER time. Katie's sweet mom and sister clung to her elbows as they led her down the aisle to Bob, who waited patiently at the altar. They two wiped a combination of tears and sea mist from their faces, kissed to seal it all, and the party would start with a bang! A bridge had been built across the pool for dancing but Katie had the final surprise for everyone in attendance, a firework salute over the ocean's mirrored waters! This week was special in so many ways. Bonds were forged as friends became family and everyone left knowing that our paths will cross many more times to come.

Contributing Vendors: Hotel Playa Fiesta (venue, catering, decor), Florart (florist), Willowby by Watters (dress designer), The Wedding Shoppe (dress boutique), Indochino (suit)