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	<title>Weddings &#8211; Sarai Flores Wedding Design</title>
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	<description>weddings San Miguel de Allende</description>
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	<title>Weddings &#8211; Sarai Flores Wedding Design</title>
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	<item>
		<title>Unveiling the Allure of Oaxaca: A Modern, Culturally Rich Destination for Weddings </title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/unveiling-the-allure-of-oaxaca-a-modern-culturally-rich-destination-for-weddings/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/unveiling-the-allure-of-oaxaca-a-modern-culturally-rich-destination-for-weddings/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Alyssa Pfennig]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Sep 2024 18:20:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[México]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding Pros]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=2654</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[We had the pleasure of working on some amazing Oaxaca projects last summer, and I&#8217;m still savoring the richness of the city, its culture, the amazing culinary offerings, and the endless creative inspiration.&#160; Planning a destination wedding in Oaxaca, Mexico, offers the perfect blend of luxury and cultural immersion. You&#8217;ll find exceptional venues that provide...]]></description>
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<p>We had the pleasure of working on some amazing Oaxaca projects last summer, and I&#8217;m still savoring the richness of the city, its culture, the amazing culinary offerings, and the endless creative inspiration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Planning a destination wedding in Oaxaca, Mexico, offers the perfect blend of luxury and cultural immersion. You&#8217;ll find exceptional venues that provide distinct settings for couples seeking a stylish yet authentic Oaxacan experience. With a focus on creativity, art, and exceptional service, this destination promises an unforgettable backdrop for a modern, culturally rich celebration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Here are only a couple of the Oaxaca wedding venues we’ve worked with: </p>



<p><a href="https://www.casaantonieta.com/">Casa Antonieta</a> &#8211; this is the ultimate romantic spot for couples and intimate weddings. Nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, Antonia is a charming boutique hotel that combines contemporary design with the city’s colonial architecture. The rooftop terrace, with panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains, makes for a breathtaking ceremony or reception space. With personalized service and attention to detail, Antonia offers a stylish, yet warm atmosphere perfect for a smaller, more intimate wedding.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.escondidooaxaca.com/">Escondido Oaxaca</a> &#8211; Another gem, Escondido Oaxaca offers a luxurious, modern retreat within a historic setting. This boutique hotel, housed in a beautifully restored colonial building, blends the old and new seamlessly, making it an ideal venue for couples seeking a stylish, yet authentic Oaxacan experience. The lush gardens and serene courtyards provide picturesque settings for both ceremonies and receptions, while the hotel’s focus on high-end service ensures that every detail is meticulously handled.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/proyecto_murguia/?hl=es">Proyecto Murguía</a> &#8211; For couples looking to blend art, history, and elegance in their wedding, Proyecto Murguía is an exceptional option. Located in the heart of Oaxaca, this avant-garde venue is set in a beautifully restored 18th-century house and offers a stunning mix of old-world charm and contemporary design. Its art-filled interiors and spacious courtyards provide a unique, stylish setting for a wedding that feels truly personal and distinctive. Proyecto Murguía offers an unforgettable backdrop for a modern, yet culturally rich celebration.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Oaxaca is not just a city; it’s an experience. From its rich cultural history and exceptional cuisine to its artisanal traditions and boutique venues, a wedding here is more than just a celebration—it’s a journey into the heart of authentic Mexico. For couples who want to create lasting memories for themselves and their guests, a destination wedding in Oaxaca offers the perfect blend of culture, luxury, and timeless tradition.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="500" height="280" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png" alt="" class="wp-image-2495" style="width:188px;height:auto" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png 500w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-300x168.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure>



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		<title>Destination Weddings in San Miguel de Allende: A Celebration of Culture, Cuisine, and Unforgettable Venues </title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/destination-weddings-in-san-miguel-de-allende-a-celebration-of-culture-cuisine-and-unforgettable-venues/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/destination-weddings-in-san-miguel-de-allende-a-celebration-of-culture-cuisine-and-unforgettable-venues/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Alyssa Pfennig]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2024 22:02:04 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[México]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding Pros]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=2646</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[For the last 8 years, San Miguel de Allende has been the place I call home. Initially, I came for a &#8220;short&#8221; consultation project for Luna Escondida, and it became a major project that inspired me to move from Los Cabos to this charming destination. San Miguel de Allende offers an enchanting backdrop for couples...]]></description>
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<p>For the last 8 years, San Miguel de Allende has been the place I call home. Initially, I came for a &#8220;short&#8221; consultation project for <a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/ultimate-chic-wedding-in-san-miguel-de-allende/">Luna Escondida</a>, and it became a major project that inspired me to move from Los Cabos to this charming destination. <a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/dreamy-stylish-spring-editorial-at-casa-chorro/">San Miguel de Allende</a> offers an enchanting backdrop for couples seeking a wedding experience that is both timeless and extraordinary. From its rich cultural heritage to its culinary delights and warm hospitality, this UNESCO World Heritage site is more than just a destination—it&#8217;s a celebration of love, community, and tradition.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>San Miguel’s cultural heritage runs deep, and this history is reflected in every aspect of the town. From the striking Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel that dominates the skyline to the vibrant colors of the local markets, culture is woven into the fabric of daily life here. Couples who choose to wed in San Miguel have the unique opportunity to infuse their celebrations with local traditions and unique flavors. These experiences make a wedding in San Miguel not just a ceremony, but a celebration of life, love, and community.&nbsp;</p>



<p>San Miguel de Allende is also a haven for food lovers, making it a dream location for couples who value an extraordinary culinary experience on their big day. The town is home to a thriving food scene that expertly blends traditional Mexican flavors with modern, international cuisine.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Perhaps one of the most special aspects of hosting a wedding in San Miguel de Allende is the warmth and hospitality of the local community. The people of San Miguel are known for their genuine friendliness and hospitality, always going the extra mile to make visitors feel at home. This welcoming atmosphere is a significant part of what makes San Miguel such a wonderful destination for a wedding. From local artisans crafting wedding favors to musicians filling the air with live mariachi music, the locals’ pride in their culture and tradition shines through, making every couple and their guests feel like part of the family.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Here are only a few of the Incredible San Miguel de Allende Wedding Venues that I love: </p>



<p><strong><a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/delightful-boho-wedding-at-luna-escondida/">Luna Escondida</a>:</strong> A hidden gem, Luna Escondida offers a magical blend of natural beauty and timeless elegance. Located in the hills just outside of town, this venue is perfect for couples seeking an outdoor wedding surrounded by panoramic views of the countryside. If you like a Tuscan vibe, or French province kind of look, Luna Escondida will give you just that. With its tranquil gardens, cobblestone pathways, and stunning vistas, Luna Escondida feels like a private sanctuary.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/mexican-colorful-wedding-at-casa-cien/">Casa Cien</a>:</strong> If you want to have the downtown experience, Casa Cien provides the perfect blend of luxury and charm, without leaving town. With its beautifully landscaped gardens and private courtyards, this venue offers a romantic setting for smaller weddings, ensuring a personal and tailored celebration for couples who want something truly special.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong><a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/festive-tastefully-chic/">Live Aqua</a>: </strong>For couples seeking a more contemporary yet luxurious venue, Live Aqua offers modern amenities in a breathtaking setting. With its stylish interiors and expansive views of the surrounding landscape, it’s the ideal location for a chic, sophisticated wedding. The property’s large event spaces allow for grand celebrations, while still maintaining the charm that makes San Miguel so special.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Rosewood San Miguel de Allende: </strong>One of the most iconic venues in the city, Rosewood offers everything you could want in a destination wedding. From its elegant colonial-style architecture to its lush gardens and rooftop terraces with stunning views of the city, Rosewood provides a timeless, sophisticated setting. The venue also offers incredible dining experiences, with personalized menus crafted by its talented chefs to ensure a truly memorable feast.&nbsp;</p>



<p>San Miguel de Allende is not just a wedding destination—it’s a place where culture, cuisine, and community come together to create an unforgettable celebration of love. With the warmth of the local community and the magic of this historic city, a destination wedding in San Miguel de Allende promises memories that will last a lifetime.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="500" height="280" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png" alt="" class="wp-image-2495" style="width:213px;height:auto" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png 500w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-300x168.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure>



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		<title>Enchanting Venues and Natural Beauty: Los Cabos Destination Weddings </title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/enchanting-venues-and-natural-beauty-los-cabos-destination-weddings/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/enchanting-venues-and-natural-beauty-los-cabos-destination-weddings/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Alyssa Pfennig]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Sep 2024 21:45:38 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[México]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wedding design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=2641</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Los Cabos was my home for 10 years, and it is the place where I began my business many moons ago, so it holds a special place in my heart. Los Cabos offers destination weddings that perfectly blend luxury and natural beauty, and has captured the hearts of couples seeking idyllic settings on their big...]]></description>
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<p>Los Cabos was my home for 10 years, and it is the place where I began my business many moons ago, so it holds a special place in my heart. Los Cabos offers destination weddings that perfectly blend luxury and natural beauty, and has captured the hearts of couples seeking idyllic settings on their big day.&nbsp;</p>



<p>With its pristine beaches, breathtaking desert landscapes, and world-renowned venues, Los Cabos promises an unforgettable wedding experience. Whether you envision an elegant beachfront ceremony or an intimate garden gathering, the hallmark venues in this region are sure to elevate your event into a truly magical affair.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Here are only a few of my personal favorite venues for luxury weddings in Los Cabos: </p>



<p><strong>One&amp;Only Palmilla: Classic Elegance by the Sea&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>For couples dreaming of a timeless, oceanfront wedding, <a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/mexican-modern-wedding-at-the-palmilla/">One&amp;Only Palmilla</a> is the epitome of luxury. Side note, this was one of my first jobs, (back in 2005!) as a wedding planner in Mexico. With breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez, this venue blends traditional Mexican architecture with contemporary elegance.  The resort&#8217;s world-class service ensures that every detail is handled with precision, creating a day as exquisite as the location itself. </p>



<p><strong>Las Ventanas al Paraíso: A Paradise of Personalized Experiences&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>Las Ventanas al Paraíso was technically the resort that put Los Cabos on the map, and it lives up to its name – &#8220;Windows to Paradise&#8221; – offering a dreamy backdrop for couples seeking an exclusive, highly personalized wedding experience.  With luxury suites, infinity pools, and awe-inspiring views of both desert and ocean, the setting is a sanctuary.  Las Ventanas combines natural beauty with opulence to create a truly magical celebration.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>Flora Farms: Rustic Charm Meets Organic Elegance&nbsp;</strong></p>



<p>For a more earthy, yet equally luxurious setting, <a href="https://saraiflores.com/gallery/destination-wedding-at-floral-farms/">Flora Farms</a> offers a beautiful alternative to beachfront weddings. Nestled in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, this 25-acre organic farm is an oasis of rustic charm. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by vibrant gardens, with the scent of fresh herbs and flowers in the air. The farm-to-table culinary experience is a highlight, with fresh, seasonal ingredients incorporated into custom menus. Flora Farms captures the spirit of laid-back luxury, making it a perfect spot for couples who want a celebration that feels intimate, natural, and unforgettable.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Beyond the lavish venues, Los Cabos offers a diverse and striking natural landscape that enhances the magic of any wedding. The juxtaposition of desert and ocean creates dramatic backdrops for photography, while the year-round sunshine ensures perfect weather for outdoor celebrations.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" width="500" height="280" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png" alt="" class="wp-image-2495" style="width:168px;height:auto" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png 500w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-300x168.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px" /></figure>



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		<title>More about Saraí</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/more-about-sarai/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[flores.sarai]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Sep 2023 18:59:48 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Team]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=2494</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[My name is Saraí. I am an entrepreneur, a natural mediator and a highly creative doer based in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.&#160; Here is a brief recap of my over-a-decade-long trajectory, serving amazing couples and creating beautiful things.&#160; 2004 I graduated from University Lumiere&#160;II, in Lyon, France, where I was awarded a Master’s Degree...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>My name is Saraí. I am an entrepreneur, a natural mediator and a highly creative doer based in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Here is a brief recap of my over-a-decade-long trajectory, serving amazing couples and creating beautiful things.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2004</strong></p>



<p>I graduated from University Lumiere&nbsp;II, in Lyon, France, where I was awarded a Master’s Degree in Information and Communication. Afterward, I decided to move to Mexico, where I started my career in Customer Service at some of the most luxurious hotels in Los Cabos. While working in such a dynamic field, I further developed my knowledge and skills in crisis management.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2005</strong></p>



<p>Enter the weddings. By this time, I started to plan several weddings and events, with many projects piling on my desk. Surprisingly, my very first client wanted to invest in creating my own agency, which I thought was crazy at the time. I declined.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2007</strong></p>



<p>I officially started my own wedding planning business at a time when the US financial recession was about to begin. Notwithstanding, I began working from the privacy and comfort of my dining table and made my business grow, resulting in opening an office, building a wonderful work team, getting a business partner, and meeting wonderful clients just a couple of years later.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2012</strong></p>



<p>By producing the most amazing events in destinations such as Cabo, Riviera Maya, Puerto Vallarta, and the Caribbean, our work gained great momentum, and we were praised and published in national and international media. I began to get a deeper sense of what a balanced life was about, and what I wanted for myself. As a person who values family and friendship equally, and believes in the importance of nurturing long-lasting relationships both in my private life and at work, I wanted to ensure my work life was fulfilling at all times.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2016</strong></p>



<p>One of my beloved clients asked for help to transform their private estate into a destination wedding venue in the mesmerizing Mexican town of San Miguel de Allende. A life-transforming experience was taking form. After a few months of consulting, I decided to reduce my wedding practice and started new creative projects, such as Amelia Market. Today, San Miguel de Allende, with its cobblestone streets and hints of magic, has become the place I call home. I love its sense of community and culture, as they have made me appreciate life much more.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2020</strong></p>



<p>As for almost everyone, this year was a game-changer. It brought light to the things that needed to change, and to those I want to focus on and cultivate. It’s not a destination, but a path I’m happy to walk every day. Rethinking things such as my contribution to the world, projects that I want to bring to life, the way I spend my days, focusing on what matters most, and cherishing those who make my life better whether it’s friends, clients, family, or pets, is the journey I’m on.&nbsp;</p>



<p><strong>2023</strong></p>



<p>Being in my mid-40s, I have a recurring feeling that I’m designing the second half of my life. If the stars allow it, I would love to work and collaborate on creative projects until what I say doesn’t make sense anymore. Weddings are very much a part of my life, and they’ll continue to be so.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Also, I’m investing time, energy, and love in learning other crafts. The world of grief counseling, divine feminine energy, and conscious spirituality is very much a part of my life. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png" alt="" class="wp-image-2495" style="width:165px;height:93px" width="165" height="93" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack.png 500w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-300x168.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 165px) 100vw, 165px" /></figure>



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<p class="has-text-align-right has-small-font-size"><em>Photography by <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://marianabarbosa.com.mx/" data-type="link" data-id="https://marianabarbosa.com.mx/" target="_blank">Mariana Barbosa</a> </em></p>
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		<title>How to find the right wedding team</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/how-to-find-the-right-wedding-team/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/how-to-find-the-right-wedding-team/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Dec 2021 04:24:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/2023/05/03/artisanry-why-i-started-working-with-clay-and-ceramics/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Life is too short to…you name it. To complain, to spend time with people you don’t like, or to put up with situations that won’t make you a happier, better person. Also, life is too short to stress ou...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Life is too short to…you name it. To complain, to spend time with people you don’t like, or to put up with situations that won’t make you a happier, better person. Also, life is too short to stress out about wedding planning.</p>
<p>I spend a lot of time “rebuilding the world”, as I like to call my long chats with my sister. Finding new sources of inspiration, making the best out of any situation, and looking at life possibilities. All of that entails my daily motto.</p>
<p>What does that have to do with your wedding? Everything. I don’t think you should spend 12 months of planning with a pit in your stomach, doubting your decisions, and stressing over things that are supposed to bring you major bliss, not make you suffer.</p>
<p>My advice to you is: <strong>know your core and your wants</strong>, define your goals and select the right team for your wedding carefully. Not exactly in the same way as you would select a friend, but close. You want to share the same values, your voice to be heard and your style to be reflected; you want to be properly represented and, luckily for me, you want to be wowed and impressed.</p>
<p>Thus, you’ll want a team that will guide you every single step of the way and that will not only turn your wishes into a reality but will also take you beyond the dream. For that, you’ll need a team that brings a touch of fantasy, value, and amazement to your wedding, making it truly unforgettable.</p>
<p>My wish to you is that you find that team and for the trust to be such that you’ll be able to enjoy every single moment. We don’t live in a bubble; trouble will come, and challenges will be part of the wedding, but that doesn’t have to be your main concern and take the joy out of you. Rely on your team and put yourself in the hands of professionals, and very importantly: savor the moment. That moment is your life.</p>
</p>


<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography by <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.mc-weddings.com/" target="_blank">MC Weddings</a></figcaption></figure>



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		<title>One thing that made my life better this season</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/one-thing-that-made-my-life-better-this-season/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Sep 2020 01:33:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=1448</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Visiting my parents and staying with them in the country   San Miguel de Allende has become my primary residence for the last 4 years but I'm also deeply rooted in Baja California Sur. Thus, when t...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Visiting my parents and staying with them in the country &nbsp;</p>



<p>San Miguel de Allende has become my primary residence for the last 4 years&nbsp;but&nbsp;I’m also deeply rooted in Baja California Sur.&nbsp;Thus, when the COVID-19&nbsp;crisis began, it seemed natural to me to continue my life in San Miguel, where my business is. Like everyone in the wedding industry, I’m still dealing with events&nbsp;being&nbsp;rescheduled&nbsp;and&nbsp;preparing for&nbsp;plan B,C&nbsp;and&nbsp;so on.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Little by little, businesses&nbsp;and&nbsp;other&nbsp;places in San Miguel started to shut down,&nbsp;and my “life”, like&nbsp;that of&nbsp;many&nbsp;people&nbsp;on&nbsp;the planet, consisted&nbsp;of&nbsp;staying home, walking my dog and going out for&nbsp;essential&nbsp;items. Most of my clients are in the USA, so&nbsp;it’s natural for me to work from&nbsp;a&nbsp;distance.&nbsp;Also,&nbsp;I managed to keep a healthy routine, increase my meditation time, and&nbsp;have&nbsp;meaningful conversations with close friends on the regular. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Nevertheless, the global situation&nbsp;and the overall mood&nbsp;started to&nbsp;take&nbsp;a toll on me. I couldn’t explain&nbsp;why some&nbsp;days&nbsp;began to&nbsp;feel&nbsp;so&nbsp;heavy. I’m a naturally&nbsp;optimistic&nbsp;person and&nbsp;I&nbsp;live&nbsp;happily by&nbsp;myself, so&nbsp;this negative feeling was semi-new to me. As soon as I could take a flight to the house&nbsp;I grew up&nbsp;in, I took it. The moment I landed in La Paz&nbsp;felt&nbsp;like&nbsp;a&nbsp;breath&nbsp;of&nbsp;fresh&nbsp;air.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>My parents live outside the city, in the country. It was so nice to be outside and spend&nbsp;quality time with them. As many people do, I&nbsp;have to&nbsp;come to value my parents’ wisdom as I’ve&nbsp;grown&nbsp;older. They embody everything I care about and look for in my own life: a strong sense of community, a life of service and&nbsp;a&nbsp;deep spiritual practice.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>They lead&nbsp;a simple, beautiful life. Their days are filled with gardening, checking on their neighbors, caring for the elderly&nbsp;and&nbsp;family&nbsp;members, cooking delicious food, and sharing that food with someone in need. I couldn’t ask for a better example of what life is really about. And I can only aspire to imitate them and follow their steps.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>As I resume&nbsp;semi-isolation in my&nbsp;San Miguel&nbsp;home, I&nbsp;am&nbsp;grateful to have them in my life, as a reminder of celebration of&nbsp;life and&nbsp;people above all&nbsp;else. &nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography by <a href="http://elizabethmedina.com/">Elizabeth Medina</a></figcaption></figure>



<p></p>
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		<title>On creating intimate weddings</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/on-creating-intimate-weddings/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/on-creating-intimate-weddings/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2020 01:54:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=1469</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Last June, my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in a very intimate ceremony. My mom had been anticipating this date for the last 2 years. She envisioned a big celebration where family ...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Last June, my parents celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in a very intimate ceremony. My mom had been anticipating this date for the last 2 years. She envisioned a big celebration where family and friends would join them to honor a life of love, community and service.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>As&nbsp;a side note, my mom is the oldest of 16 siblings, and my dad is the youngest of 10. Any simple birthday or gathering turns out to be at least a party of 50 people. Thus, for their wedding anniversary, we were nervously anticipating 200 people or more, and this&nbsp;was&nbsp;only counting family and the closest of friends. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Enter the&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;era. Up until early April, my mom was still hoping for their big celebration, despite&nbsp;all&nbsp;the&nbsp;events unfolding that&nbsp;were&nbsp;threatening their plans. Soon enough it was clear that things wouldn’t happen the way she wanted. &nbsp;</p>



<p>My parents are devout&nbsp;Catholics. Having a priest celebrating their ceremony was a huge deal. Luckily, their community priest agreed to come to their home and celebrate the service in the garden. Only my brother, my&nbsp;sister, their spouses and&nbsp;their&nbsp;children were part of the service,&nbsp;apart from a&nbsp;couple of longtime neighbors, whom they’ve shared quarantine time anyway. &nbsp;</p>



<p>If I could name one positive thing that&nbsp;Covid&nbsp;has&nbsp;brought us,&nbsp;it&nbsp;is the fact that this ceremony&nbsp;turned out&nbsp;the way it&nbsp;did:&nbsp;a&nbsp;small vs a big Mexican wedding. The atmosphere that surrounded the day, the kind gestures of love that my parents gave and received,&nbsp;and&nbsp;the ease of just celebrating&nbsp;with&nbsp;family&nbsp;while&nbsp;sharing food and enjoying each other’s company,&nbsp;was an&nbsp;unparalleled&nbsp;experience. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Besides being grateful for my parents, my family,&nbsp;and the example of commitment and loyalty that I’ve received,&nbsp;this celebration&nbsp;made me remember what&nbsp;a&nbsp;wedding is&nbsp;all&nbsp;about. Of course,&nbsp;we know it is about love and the people at the altar. However, we&nbsp;quite often forget&nbsp;that&nbsp;and get trapped into all sorts of little lies, such as&nbsp;aligning to ideas or practices that don’t mean anything to you, or adopting trends and traditions that no longer apply to you. &nbsp;</p>



<p>I believe that,&nbsp;as we move on with weddings, during and after the pandemic, we’ll be&nbsp;asked, both as wedding professionals and as clients, to seek and create meaning. To&nbsp;bring together&nbsp;all those people, traditions and things that actually add value to you and make you feel&nbsp;larger than life. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Also,&nbsp;the word “celebration”&nbsp;will take a whole new meaning. Love and community are not small things, and even if the number of guests is small, the actual celebration will be bigger than ever. That is my wish&nbsp;for&nbsp;you. &nbsp;</p>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography by <a href="https://www.diegopadillaphoto.com/work">Diego Padilla</a> </figcaption></figure>
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		<title>Luna Escondida</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/luna-escondida/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/luna-escondida/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2020 01:46:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=1462</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Luna Escondida has quickly become an iconic wedding venue in San Miguel de Allende. I've been working with their teams as a wedding collaborator and consultant. I'm totally biased when it comes to my ...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p><a href="https://lunaescondida.com/en/home/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luna&nbsp;Escondida</a>&nbsp;has quickly become an iconic wedding venue in San Miguel de Allende. I’ve been working with their teams as a wedding collaborator and consultant. I’m totally biased when it comes to my opinion of this beautiful venue. However, once you step inside, you’ll quickly realize that my words and the beautiful photos you’ve seen don’t do justice to this gem of a place. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Luna&nbsp;Escondida&nbsp;is a 33–acre ranch&nbsp;that&nbsp;remained completely private&nbsp;up&nbsp;until&nbsp;16 months&nbsp;ago&nbsp;when it&nbsp;became&nbsp;open to the public. When you walk through&nbsp;the gardens,&nbsp;the&nbsp;stables,&nbsp;the&nbsp;homes and&nbsp;all of the&nbsp;event areas, you feel&nbsp;how&nbsp;every little detail has been taken care of with attention and love. As a wedding designer, this&nbsp;place&nbsp;is the ultimate ideal canvas to work with. &nbsp;</p>



<p>What makes this place so unique? &nbsp;</p>



<p>The spaces &nbsp;</p>



<p>From&nbsp;the&nbsp;main entrance,&nbsp;the&nbsp;organic farm&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;conservation pounds,&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;30-year-old&nbsp;olive grove,&nbsp;the&nbsp;stables and&nbsp;the&nbsp;overall&nbsp;architecture, the ambiance at Luna is&nbsp;quite&nbsp;special. The vision of&nbsp;its&nbsp;owners is&nbsp;for you to&nbsp;feel at home, as&nbsp;if&nbsp;you&nbsp;were&nbsp;hosting your wedding&nbsp;in your own private yard.&nbsp;Now, I must admit that&nbsp;my own yard doesn’t&nbsp;look&nbsp;at all&nbsp;like Luna,&nbsp;but I totally&nbsp;get&nbsp;it!&nbsp;Couples who&nbsp;have&nbsp;celebrated their destination wedding&nbsp;have shared that they&nbsp;felt&nbsp;as if&nbsp;the ranch&nbsp;were&nbsp;an essential&nbsp;part of their love story. &nbsp;</p>



<p>3 beautiful homes at your disposal &nbsp;</p>



<p>When you&nbsp;choose the&nbsp;buyout&nbsp;option&nbsp;at Luna&nbsp;Escondida, you&nbsp;gain&nbsp;access to 3 newly renovated homes. Luna can accommodate&nbsp;up to&nbsp;24 people&nbsp;in total.&nbsp;Each home has its&nbsp;own&nbsp;style&nbsp;and privacy. There, families&nbsp;can really enjoy the weekend&nbsp;and&nbsp;spend quality time&nbsp;while&nbsp;also&nbsp;having a private place to rest and restore. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Amazing curated gardens&nbsp;</p>



<p>One of Luna’s distinctive features is the Hummingbird area. The style and inspiration behind it were Monet’s gardens in France. A short walk through its tunnels and magical areas allows you to envision a beautiful ceremony. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Vendors’&nbsp;area&nbsp;</p>



<p>Luna&nbsp;Escondida&nbsp;offers&nbsp;a&nbsp;designated vendors’&nbsp;area with easy access to bathrooms, water, and showers. This is the ideal space for vendors to gather, florists&nbsp;to work prior&nbsp;to&nbsp;the events, waiters to go on short breaks, etc. When you see this from the vendors’&nbsp;perspective, this&nbsp;space is&nbsp;awesome!&nbsp;Most places don’t offer this area,&nbsp;and if they do,&nbsp;it&nbsp;is&nbsp;rarely&nbsp;large enough,&nbsp;or&nbsp;even&nbsp;shaded. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Beauty salon&nbsp;</p>



<p>Villa Andrea, one of the homes at Luna, has a small and private beauty salon area. Beautiful natural light and a mini kitchenette for tea make it, in a few words, the perfect getting ready spot when you don’t want all your aunts and friends crowding your room. &nbsp;</p>



<p>Exclusivity &amp; Privacy  &nbsp;</p>



<p>Luna&nbsp;Escondida&nbsp;ensures your privacy.&nbsp;This means that no other event will be held during your wedding, even if the space allows for&nbsp;it.&nbsp;Thus, you can rest assured&nbsp;that nobody will randomly walk into your event. &nbsp;</p>



<p>The&nbsp;Staff&nbsp;</p>



<p>When you rent Luna,&nbsp;its&nbsp;services&nbsp;include:&nbsp;security&nbsp;staff,&nbsp;valet parking,&nbsp;housekeeping and&nbsp;a&nbsp;chef (as&nbsp;breakfast&nbsp;is&nbsp;included).&nbsp;Members of the&nbsp;staff&nbsp;at Luna work&nbsp;all year round,&nbsp;and&nbsp;they&nbsp;have been working for the owners for more than a decade. These&nbsp;are dedicated, committed and&nbsp;professional people who will be delighted to be part of your wedding. &nbsp;</p>



<p>If you want to know more about this special wedding venue, let me know. &nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photographer Carlos Rodriguez</figcaption></figure>
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		<title>Redefining the meaning of your wedding</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/redefining-the-meaning-of-your-wedding/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/redefining-the-meaning-of-your-wedding/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2020 03:58:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=1487</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[I live in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico and I've been creating destination weddings for the past 15 years. I first opened my business in the wake of the recession of 2008. Then, a couple of years late...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>I live in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico&nbsp;and&nbsp;I’ve been creating destination weddings for the&nbsp;past 15 years. I first opened my business in the wake of the recession of 2008. Then, a couple of years later, when I had just expanded&nbsp;my company and initiated a business partnership with an&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marthahuerta.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">awesome</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.marthahuerta.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">woman</a>, the H1N1 pandemic of 2010 hit us&nbsp;hard.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>We&nbsp;have&nbsp;been through hurricanes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;we have&nbsp;even&nbsp;had&nbsp;to move an entire wedding across the country.&nbsp;Thus,&nbsp;I’ve experienced enough challenges to know that, together, we can make it to the other side, both personally&nbsp;and&nbsp;professionally. &nbsp;</p>



<p>It is hard to see the silver lining when we’re in the middle of the storm,&nbsp;because,&nbsp;literally,&nbsp;<em>we don’t know what we don’t know.</em><em>&nbsp;</em>However,&nbsp;what we&nbsp;can already&nbsp;witness&nbsp;is&nbsp;the flowing creativity, the&nbsp;will&nbsp;to help and the goodness&nbsp;of humanity&nbsp;that this situation carries along. </p>



<p>If you&nbsp;are&nbsp;planning a destination wedding and you had to postpone the date, I feel you. I know what&nbsp;it’s&nbsp;like to have your hopes and dreams vanish. My wish to you is that you can refocus your energy and your intention for the months to come. Your wedding WILL happen, and it will actually be way more meaningful, fun&nbsp;and&nbsp;unique to you if you let it. &nbsp;</p>



<p>There might not be too many things on&nbsp;your&nbsp;to-do list,&nbsp;especially&nbsp;if your wedding was originally planned for March, April and May and you&nbsp;postponed&nbsp;it&nbsp;to the next 6&nbsp;to&nbsp;12 months. Chances are you already made all&nbsp;the&nbsp;decisions&nbsp;that needed to be made,&nbsp;and&nbsp;that&nbsp;all things were pretty much settled.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>However, you can take this time to&nbsp;savor&nbsp;what you’ve done so far,&nbsp;and&nbsp;to think on how you really want to experience the&nbsp;upcoming&nbsp;months and the wedding itself. I don’t&nbsp;mean&nbsp;you&nbsp;should&nbsp;go&nbsp;in&nbsp;opposite directions and start from zero, but I do think you have a beautiful opportunity to redefine the meaning of your wedding, and what you want your guests&nbsp;to&nbsp;experience. &nbsp;</p>



<p>As a wedding&nbsp;professional, I already know that the relationships&nbsp;with my clients and colleagues&nbsp;are&nbsp;becoming stronger than ever. This is the time to listen to each other, to support each other in the best way possible, and to&nbsp;reinforce&nbsp;collaboration and loyalty.  &nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photographer&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.marcusjolly.com/" target="_blank">Marcus Jolly</a></figcaption></figure>
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		<title>When hiring wedding vendors</title>
		<link>https://saraiflores.com/when-hiring-wedding-vendors/</link>
					<comments>https://saraiflores.com/when-hiring-wedding-vendors/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Gylmer]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 04 Mar 2019 04:22:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Weddings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://saraiflores.com/?p=1520</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[I often say that I already have one diva on the wedding day, and that role cannot be for other person but the bride. On most cases though, clients I work with are kind, fun and very compassionate peop...]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>I often say that I already have one diva on the wedding day, and that role cannot be for other person but the bride. On most cases though, clients I work with are kind, fun and very compassionate people. Too often, the diva ends up being a wedding professional and I have zero tolerance for that behavior.</p>



<p>The wedding professionals I love to work with are people and companies that know the value they bring to the table but don’t let egos take over. They are creative, innovative and are total team players. I know these companies for many years. This doesn’t mean I’m opposed to working with new talents.&nbsp; I look for shared values, creativity, ethical practices and definitely a mastery of their own craft.</p>



<p>Collaboration, collaboration! No one does anyone a “favor”. I don´t believe I create other companies growth because the clients I refer to them. The very reason I bring clients to them is because these companies are very good at their craft too and perhaps we share values and love working together.</p>



<p>When behind the scenes of an event production, there are no egos, no divas, no stars [besides the client], I feel I am in the right place. I feel we are doing our job properly.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1441" style="width:213px" width="213" srcset="https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited.png 498w, https://saraiflores.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/SF_Logo-Pack_Signature_PinkBlack-edited-300x169.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 498px) 100vw, 498px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Photography by <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.leighmillerphotography.com/" target="_blank">Leigh Miller</a></figcaption></figure>
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