If you’re on the hunt for destination wedding inspiration that blends rich history, meaningful cultural elements, and breathtaking design, Alexis & Yuji’s San Miguel de Allende wedding at Casa Adela may be the only inspiration you need. Their celebration was a love letter to Mexican architecture, Art Nouveau elegance, and personal heritage—all set against the sun-washed charm of one of Mexico’s most romantic towns. Thank you to our planning and design member Vanessa Noel Events and our photography member Ali Beck Photography for sending this beautiful Mexico wedding our way!
Why San Miguel de Allende Was the Perfect Wedding Destination
Initially drawn to the energy of Mexico City, the couple pivoted to San Miguel de Allende after a venue tour revealed it was the ideal blend of beauty, culture, and intimacy for their guests. With its cobblestone streets, historic facades, and vibrant art scene, this UNESCO World Heritage city was also the perfect destination for guests to get to know the local history and culture while celebrating the couple.
Their venue offered a warm and architectural richness that set the tone for the entire event. Casa Adela is an 8-acre natural estate tucked away in the high desert, overlooking San Miguel de Allende below. The venue itself is luxe, tranquil, and private, making it feel like the perfect escape… without leaving the city.
It was at Casa Adela that Alexis fell in love with a specific yellow kitchen tile, which inspired one of the more playful details in their wedding design.
The Welcome Party
The Ceremony
The ceremony took place in the garden courtyard of Casa Adela, where the architecture alone felt like a sacred invitation. Surrounded by warm, textured walls and flowering trees, Alexis and Yuji exchanged vows in a setting that blended old-world charm with deeply personal symbolism.
The aisle was lined with delicate floral arrangements in soft peach and terracotta—colors pulled directly from the sun-bleached facades of San Miguel’s historic center. A thoughtfully composed altar anchored the space, framed by natural greenery and soft yellow blooms as a subtle nod to the color that first captured Alexis’s heart during their venue visit. Rather than a traditional arch, the couple chose a more organic backdrop that allowed the architecture and landscape to shine—unobstructed and utterly timeless.
A Wedding Color Palette Inspired by Place
The wedding palette drew from the natural beauty of San Miguel—terracotta, sun-kissed peach, and soft blue reflecting the city’s classic hues. Pops of golden yellow, inspired by the tile at Casa Adela, were incorporated throughout the florals and even in custom pendant lights sourced from the local market. When Alexis saw it during a venue tour she exclaimed, “I LOVE that color! Can we make that make sense?”. These unique pieces were later shipped home as keepsakes for the couple, as little reminders of their wedding story to display throughout their home.
Art Nouveau with a Cultural Twist
A major influence in the design was Mexican Art Nouveau, an often-overlooked aesthetic that combines romanticism with intricate detail. Stationery designer Emily Baird beautifully married this style with Japanese symbolism, honoring Yuji’s heritage. Cranes—symbols of good fortune in Japanese culture and often seen in Art Nouveau art—were woven into the save the dates, invitations, menus, and seating chart.
The couple’s personal stories brought layers of meaning to every design detail. Alexis’s sibling, an artist and sculptor, contributed original artwork that was styled into the welcome table and the seating chart floral installation.
The Reception
Custom Touches and Special Moments
Unable to find ready-made textiles that captured the ornate beauty of Art Nouveau, the planner sourced fabric and had custom linens made for the reception and cocktail hour, tying everything together with texture and richness.
One standout moment? A surprise Carajillo cart rolled out during dancing, swapping the typical espresso martini for this Mexican favorite and giving guests a delicious late-night boost.
Fun fact: Yuji was the only one who knew how Alexis’s late-night dress fastened in the back. He came up to help her change and became part of her glam squad. Such a fun and special moment that no one expected!
Cheers to the happy couple!
PS: Find more destination weddings right here.
Photography: Ali Beck Photography | Planner & Designer: Vanessa Noel Events | Venue: Casa Adela in San Miguel de Allende | Floral Design: La Floreria | Catering: Zumo | Videography: Zach & Dune | Stationery: Emily Baird Design | DJ: BGolden Productions | Ceremony Strings: Sonus | Rentals: Warehouse Rentals | Lighting: Ambar
