Real Wedding: Lindsay & Joe

Where it all started

Some say that when you meet your person, you know right away. That was the case for Lindsay and Joe, who have known and loved each other since they were teenagers. While they were high school sweethearts, they didn’t actually go to the same school – they met through a mutual friend in their hometown of Smiths Falls and the sparks flew right away. From the moment they met, they were instantly attracted to each other and would always ask their mutual friend to hang out so they could see each other.

Finally, Joe asked Lindsay out on a date, a romantic walk along the canal and they haven’t looked back since. They moved in together at a young age and there was no doubt for either of them that they would get married, but it didn’t become official until the two travelled together to Varadero, Cuba with Sunwing! Joe asked Lindsay to join him for an evening stroll along the white sands and popped the question right on the beach. Lindsay couldn’t believe it – she kept asking if he was joking!

Planning the wedding

Lindsay knew instantly that she wanted to get married with sand between her toes and Joe couldn’t have been more on board, so a destination wedding it would be! They both decided that Varadero would be the perfect destination given it’s where Joe proposed and the beautiful Melia Varadero offered the perfect setting to host their nuptials. The adults only property has a breathtaking stretch of beach and charming grounds, plus it meets all the vacation needs of their invited guests.

Wedding day details

On a clear and sunny day in February, Lindsay and Joe tied the knot in paradise! They were joined by 33 of their family and friends for a beautiful ceremony in an elegantly decorated gazebo, dressed in white chiffon, with the brilliant blue waters in the background. Afterwards, they moved their party to a covered outdoor reception area where they celebrated the start of their happily ever after to the sounds of a trio of Cuban musicians.

Wedding day wear

Lindsay’s gown: Timeless gown with a sleek neckline, delicate detailing and a shorter train purchased from Christiane’s Bridal, a small bridal boutique in Orléans

Lindsay’s shoes: “Touch ups”, classic pumps purchased online

Lindsay’s accessories: A sparkling tiara that was a gift from her mom

Joe’s attire: Originally, Joe brought a tailored shirt from Moore’s but in search of a piece that felt more like himself, he went to the hotel shop and picked out a white shirt with wood-detailed buttons. Lindsay had no idea but it was a perfect fit!

Wedding bands: The couple went with gold bands from Peoples, Joe’s a solid band and Lindsay’s studded with diamonds.

The bridesmaids wore: Coral dresses from Dynamite with white flip flops

The groomsmen wore: White dress shirts with khaki shorts and flip flops

Small details

Flowers: The flowers were picked out by Lindsay at the resort. The bridesmaids had bunches of all white flowers and Lindsay’s were a bouquet of tropical white flowers with a pink centre, with Joe’s boutonniere to match.

Photographer: Lindsay’s brother-in-law, Tim

Hair: Hair was done on-site at the beauty salon

Makeup: Lindsay and her party’s bridal makeup was done by the resort’s beauty salon team

First dance song: My Forever Best Friend – Ambush

Tips for future wedding couples

Definitely pack whatever you’ll need for the wedding day in your carry on. Have fun with the planning process and don’t stress over the small stuff!

Lindsay and Joe are one of our Real Weddings Contest winners! As part of the contest, this beautiful couple has won a seven-night stay at Hideaway at Royalton Negril An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resorts Adults Only in Jamaica where they can spend their days soaking up the sun and reminiscing on their big day.