Jane and Owen Gerber’s Sunset Wedding in Riviera Nayarit

by Chief Editor

Destination weddings at emerging luxury properties are increasingly defined by long-term planning cycles and the integration of personal family legacies. Couples like Owen Gerber and Jane Zachar, who wed at the Siari Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Nayarit, Mexico, represent a growing trend of selecting venues during their development phase to ensure a bespoke, intimate experience. According to the couple, this approach allows for a deeper connection to the property’s evolution, effectively turning the construction timeline into part of the wedding narrative.

Why are couples choosing under-construction luxury properties?

Modern couples are prioritizing exclusivity and novelty, often choosing venues that have yet to host a high volume of events. By visiting sites like the Nauka private club community while still under construction, couples can forge relationships with local management teams early in the process. According to Jane Zachar, this collaborative journey creates a sense of shared history between the hosts and the couple. Industry data suggests that “buy-in” during the pre-opening phase often grants planners greater access to site-specific customization, a factor that differentiates these events from traditional, pre-packaged hotel weddings.

Pro Tip: When booking a venue still under development, ensure your contract includes “force majeure” or “non-performance” clauses that specifically address construction delays or failure to meet amenity specifications.

How do personal heirlooms influence modern wedding design?

The incorporation of family history into contemporary ceremonies is shifting from standard traditions to the active reimagining of heirlooms. Owen Gerber’s decision to reset a family diamond into a new setting serves as a primary example of this trend. According to the couple, utilizing existing family jewelry carries more sentimental weight than purchasing new items. This practice aligns with broader consumer shifts toward sustainability and the circular economy, where existing assets are repurposed rather than discarded.

What are the logistical challenges of remote destination planning?

Planning a wedding across borders requires managing language barriers, local zoning nuances, and the complexities of international logistics. To mitigate these risks, experts recommend hiring experienced event planners who have a proven track record with specific geographic regions. The couple utilized Kat Ferguson of Little Creek, citing her previous success with family events as the primary reason for their confidence. According to the couple, having a planner who acts as a liaison between the client and the property management is essential for navigating the complexities of high-end, international hospitality.

A&A Gerber Wedding // 10.04.24
Did you know? Studies from the Destination Wedding & Honeymoon Specialists Association indicate that destination weddings are often more cost-effective per guest than traditional local weddings, as the total headcount is typically smaller and more curated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of hiring a planner who has worked with the family before?

According to the couple, working with a planner who understands the family’s aesthetic and communication style reduces the friction of the planning process, allowing for more intuitive decision-making.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can couples ensure a surprise proposal remains a surprise?

Owen Gerber suggests coordinating directly with hotel staff to bypass the partner’s own planning efforts. By using the hotel as a proxy for the photographer and wine arrangements, the proposer can maintain the element of surprise even within an itinerary the partner helped design.

Is it risky to hold a wedding at a new, developing property?

Yes, there are inherent risks regarding construction timelines and service availability. However, couples can manage these risks by maintaining frequent, transparent communication with the on-site management team throughout the development process.


Are you planning a destination wedding or looking for unique ways to incorporate family heritage into your big day? Share your experiences in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more expert advice on modern wedding trends.

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