Puerto Vallarta, Mexico - Kim and Zadik had been engaged for three years when they were invited to Vallarta to celebrate a friend's wedding. Called by the romance of our bit of paradise, they thought, "Why not tie the knot while we're there?"

After all, they already would be in a gorgeous location, perfect for both marriage ceremony and honeymoon ... and could save the expense, time and effort of planning a big wedding. Kim found me through BanderasNews.com and phoned for help planning the ceremony. So, together, we designed their intimate Vallarta beach wedding.

The celebration included the bride and groom, two friends, a photographer, and myself as the officiant. Though we were a small gathering, the ceremony was elegant and personal. I loved standing with the groom waiting for the bride to appear and then seeing his face light up as she approached (I always love this moment!)

Zadik and Kim had chosen their vows, a blessing and a reading. Kim's son was not able to attend, but chose a colored sand to represent him in the sand ceremony that would join them as a family.

The couple kissed, and the wedding party completed the festivities with a beautiful cake and champagne, and photos to commemorate their special day. The wedding under clear skies - in the morning, a good bet for June - meant their honeymoon in bathing suits could begin shortly thereafter.

In the end, Zadik and Kim were delighted with their decision to "elope" to Vallarta. They shared an intimate dream wedding on the beach - focusing only on each other instead of the thousand details of a large "stateside" event.

They celebrated with family and friends when they returned from their romantic Vallarta honeymoon, and still saved enough money to get a great start in their new life together as husband and wife.

So, if you recognize the couple in this photo - THEY'RE MARRIED!