Misa and David’s coastal elopement focused on what was important for them: having a killer natural backdrop, taking in a bit of Irish culture, and focusing on just the two of them and their love for one another. The decision to elope versus having a big wedding is different for everyone. “David and I don’t like attention from other people very much,” Misa explains. “For us we didn’t want to get distracted with guests, planning and rushing around;  we really wanted to enjoy our day together and focus on ourselves.” Nature is very important to both of them, so finding the right spot was the highest priority. They wanted “an extraordinary place with natural backdrop without tourists,” which coastal Cliffs of Moher fits perfectly. Waterlily Weddings helped coordinate the details. “Thanks to Waterlily Weddings all went smoothly!”

We’re loving Misa’s dress (which she saw through the window of the dress shop and was the first on she tried on!”) and David’s blue Bandi suit. The colorful flowers took heavy inspiration from the Irish countryside in summer, bold colors of purples and pops of pink that stood out beautifully against the green and blue tones of the coastline. Gorgeous photos including breathtaking portrait shots from the supremely talented dynamic duo Laurie and Dave of Awake and Dreaming.

Focusing on What Matters

Misa and David met about two years ago at David’s work. They immediately felt an extraordinary connection and have been together ever since! They decided to get married and and kept it all a secret! “We weren’t even technically engaged because that would ruin the surprise — David actually proposed three days before the wedding on a beautiful walk through the nature reserve just to make it official!” The choice to get married in Ireland was an easy one for them. “Ireland was our very first trip together,” recalls Misa, “and we were blown away with the people, nature, and wilderness.”  A cliff side location was the obvious choice, combing both the incredible unique natural backdrop they were looking for as well as the casual, authentic low-key celebration they wanted afterward in the local fishing village. Their humanist ceremony was blessed with sunshine on cue (!) and included an infinity knot, focusing it on the love and commitment Misa and David have for one another.  A casual celebration followed afterwards, wanting to take in the Irish culture and focus on celebrating and having fun with each other. “We went to the pub after the ceremony, had Guinness and sandwiches for lunch, and talked to the locals… it was absolutely perfect!”

Favorite Moments

“The whole day was perfect!” recalls Misa. “The ceremony, photo shoot, the awesome locations our photographers took us to and chilled afternoon where we could just relax and talk about the day was just perfect!”

We love the slam-dunk inspiration looking to Ireland’s countryside for a casual (and effective!) color palette and vibe for the look and flowers. Love the use of both purple and pink tones, instantly invoking summer vibes and a hint of boho, matching the dress and suit perfectly. Love Misa’s choice of footwear! Sparkly casual sneakers are definitely the way to go exploring the cliffs and coastline!

A Piece of Advice

“Go with your feelings! Plan what you two want, not what other people and family expects. It should be a celebration of your love, not a day about the bride’s dress, food, music you pick and what other people thought of it!”

 

Misa and David — congratulations and many wishes for a long life together full of love and more adventures and hand-in-hand walks through beautiful wildflower fields!