QCOSTARICA via Brides.com – Jennifer Billups and Wesley Clements met for what seemed like just a moment at Marshall University before Wesley, a soon-to-be medical student, left for greener pastures — literally!
He set off on trip to bike across the country with friends, then flew to Costa Rica, where he farmed country fields through the volunteer program World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms. Wesley finally returned to the university to pursue his advanced degree and a relationship with Jen.
Three years later, Wesley asked Jen to be his wife. It took the couple little time to realize a celebration in Costa Rica, a country Wesley had learned to love, would be perfect for their May 15, 2015 nuptials.
“We are both extremely passionate about outdoor adventure, so what better place to get married than Costa Rica?” Jennifer says. Mountain Paradise Hotel, near tourist destination Arenal Volcano, offered a breathtaking backdrop for the couple’s intimate fete, captured by Wesley’s cousin, photographer Lisa O’Quinn of Sweet Tea Photography.
The couple invited just 27 guests to join them in Costa Rica two days before their Friday wedding and planned several optional excursions for loved ones to enjoy with them in the days leading up to the ceremony.
Guests joined the couple on adventures like exploring bridges that hung above the jungle, zip-lining through the rainforest, and white-water river rafting. “We have friends and family around the country,” says Jennifer.
“We liked the idea of giving people the opportunity to enjoy a vacation while being part of our big day.”
“If a wedding dress could feel like yoga pants, this would be the one!” Jennifer says of her head-to-toe lace Olvi’s gown.
“It was perfect for Costa Rica because it’s wasn’t too poufy, but it was still elegant.” She carried a bouquet of soft pink orchids, white calla lilies, and green hydrangea, but saved a white orchid blossom to tuck into her hair.
More photos and complete story at: Brides.com
