A Destination Wedding in Zihuatanejo, Mexico with Neutral Décor and Breathtaking Views
McKenna Frenzel and Robert Sieh’s love story began in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, during spring break of their senior year in college. McKenna, attending college in North Dakota, had traveled with a close group of six girlfriends. Robert, attending school in Southern California, was there with six of his college friends. It was one of those fateful moments where paths from two completely different worlds converged.
Robert’s first impression of McKenna was immediate and undeniable. He would later tell her that from that very first moment, he knew they were destined to be together, despite McKenna being unavailable at the time. The energy between them was palpable, but they both left Cabo thinking their story would end there, returning to their separate lives 1,700 miles apart.
“What started as a chance meeting turned into a love story that has continued ever since.”
Six months after that spring break trip, life brought them together again. McKenna had just moved to Denver, and Robert was visiting the city. What started as a chance meeting turned into a love story that has continued ever since.
A Dream Proposal in Hawaii
When Robert decided to propose three and a half years later, he planned a trip to one of their favorite places: Hawaii. Under the pretense of a helicopter ride to see lava flowing from the island’s volcanoes, Robert crafted an adventure that seemed believable, given their history – their first trip to Hawaii had ended with a dramatic helicopter rescue off a mountain after a hike gone wrong – so McKenna didn’t suspect a thing.
As the helicopter flew over the ocean, instead of hovering over a volcano, it descended toward a secluded cliffside and landed beside a stunning waterfall. It was there where Robert got down on one knee and asked McKenna to marry him. The moment was so magical, McKenna still describes it as a dream when recounting the story to others.
Planning a Destination Wedding in Zihuatanejo, Mexico
From the beginning, McKenna and Robert knew they wanted a destination wedding. As a couple who loves to travel, it made sense to incorporate that passion into one of the biggest days of their lives. Marrying in Mexico came naturally, as it was where their love story had begun almost exactly five years earlier. After researching different locations, they found Zihuatanejo, a picturesque fishing village on Mexico’s Pacific coast. Famous for its stunning beaches and charming atmosphere, Zihuatanejo immediately felt like the perfect spot.
The planning process unfolded seamlessly thanks to having a great local wedding planner. From finding the perfect venue to choosing food, drinks, and entertainment, everything came together with ease. They were able to craft an experience that felt entirely "them" – a celebration that embraced travel, adventure, and the love they share.
Celebrating Love with Family and Friends
Their wedding day was everything McKenna and Robert had dreamed of and more. It was a celebration not just of their love, but of the incredible support system they have in their family and friends. As they stood in front of their loved ones and read the personal vows they had written, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room.
They made sure to weave as many personal touches as possible into the day. McKenna’s stepfather officiated, Robert’s mom played the piano, McKenna’s cousin and Robert’s sister sang and played piano for their first dance, and Robert’s friend played acoustic guitar during cocktail hour. Each of these moments added another layer of love and meaning to the day, making it even more intimate and special.
The venue, with its breathtaking views, was the perfect setting for their neutral-toned decor, accented with white roses and baby’s breath floral arrangements. They kept the vibe relaxed yet chic, with tequila shots welcoming guests as they arrived, setting the stage for a fun and beautiful evening.
A Reception to Remember
The couple’s reception felt less like a traditional wedding reception and more like a dreamy dinner party. Surrounded by 70 of their closest friends and family, they sat at a long banquet table as the sun set over the bay, painting the sky in vibrant shades of pink and orange. The food was good, the wine flowed freely, and the speeches brought laughter and tears in equal measure.
The highlight of the evening came when they turned the after-party into something truly unique. Four of their DJ friends took turns playing 30-minute sets, creating an epic dance floor that no one wanted to leave. The twinkling lights from the cliffside houses cast a warm glow over the scene, making it feel even more magical. To cap it off, the bride and groom, along with their wedding party, jumped into the infinity pool, marking the end of a night they would cherish forever.
A Honeymoon Around the World
For a pair of globetrotters like McKenna and Robert, an ordinary honeymoon wouldn't do. Instead, they embarked on a month-long honeymoon that took them around the world. They started in the Maldives, swimming in crystal-clear waters and relaxing in an overwater bungalow. From there, they traveled to Australia for good coffee and amazing beaches before heading to New Zealand’s South Island. There, they pushed their limits with thrilling outdoor adventures (cue Robert making McKenna skydive and hike five miles straight up a cliff).
As they reflect on their whirlwind romance – from that fateful spring break in Cabo to their dreamy wedding in Zihuatanejo and their global honeymoon adventure – McKenna and Robert's love story reads like a fairy tale. Yet for this adventurous couple, it's just the beginning of their greatest journey yet: a lifetime of love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
WEDDING TALENT
Location: Casa Angelina; Planner: Eva Ramirez; Floral Design: Flor Caberllero; Engagement Ring: Ilan Portugali; Ceremony Dress: Custom by Narong; Reception Dress: Rat & Boa; Shoes: Jimmy Choo; Hair & Makeup: Prep Tulum; Entertainment: DJ Ixtapa; Invitations: VO Handmade; Photography: Oscar Castro