A Casual Beach Destination Wedding at Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino in Oranjestad, Aruba

Rachael Lanman (28 and a program consultant) and Bryan Knops (30 and a banking consultant) first met as neighbors in Chicago and became engaged on Christmas Eve after six years of dating. The couple spent their next year planning a bohemian beach destination wedding accented with neutral hues. “After vacationing in Aruba in December 2014, we knew we found something special. We both felt the magic of the island and couldn't wait to have our family and friends experience it with us!” says Rachael. Inspired by the natural setting, the couple let it serve as the main decor. Rachael and Bryan exchanged personal vows under a white fabric-draped bamboo wedding arch decorated with ivy, white hydrangea, orange and pink roses as well as orange stargazer lilies as a close friend presided over the service. After their custom ceremony, all went to the Renaissance Aruba Resort and Casino for an outdoor palm tree-line reception and cocktail hour. Rachael and Bryan decorated the space with white fabric-covered tables, white chairs, candles and low floral centerpieces that include white hydrangea, white, pink and yellow roses, lilac stargazer lilies, baby’s breath and eucalyptus. The reception ended on the dancefloor as the couple and their 65 guests enjoyed a night of dancing to a custom playlist. “The dance party inspired a spontaneous limbo, with a little touch of music festival silliness - glow sticks!” says Rachael.