Baby-Pink Drapery, a Statement Cake & Dramatic Reception at This Chic Alicante Wedding

A cliffside venue in Alicante, candlelit tables arranged in a circle, and a bride in French Chantilly lace — Ayo and Timi’s wedding was all about thoughtful design with a distinctly personal feel. Having discovered their venue on Pinterest, the couple traveled to Spain and fell for the panoramic views at Marques de Montemolar, a setting that felt made for their vision of an intimate outdoor celebration. With THE WED members La Federica leading the planning and event design, the space came together through considered details. As the sun dipped, the atmosphere shifted effortlessly from a heartfelt ceremony to a lively evening of speeches, music, and shared moments. Captured by THE WED member, photographer Ivan Ladejo, this was a celebration where the details felt considered, the styling felt personal, and the best moments belonged just as much to the people as to the place.

Our Love Story

The Day We Met

It all started on a random Friday evening at the height of COVID. Timi and I were on a group call with a mutual friend who used to host Friday night sessions for people to hang out while we were all cooped up at home with not much to do. Somehow, I caught his attention that evening, and he sneakily found a way to get my number. From that day on, we haven't gone a single day without speaking to each other.

The Proposal

I had planned a surprise trip to Milan for Timi's 30th birthday. I thought it would be a cute trip to Alicante to check out the wedding venue, as we had started looking at places where we could possibly get married. Little did I know, Timi had planned a proposal at Marques de Montemolar! It was so beautiful that we had no choice but to get married there.

The Engagement Ring

The engagement ring came about through random questions about what I thought Ayo would like. We started with an oval shape, but as time went on, we ended up with a radiant cut. With the help of Adama London, I came up with a design that I thought would look elegant and beautiful on her finger.

Our Wedding

The Vision

As a Nigerian couple with a big traditional wedding, we pictured our wedding as intimate and close, set outdoors for a softer, more natural atmosphere. That vision led us to our venue and to a circular seating plan so conversation could flow and everyone could see one another. We didn't want to be tucked away; we wanted to be at the table with our friends, sharing the night. An evening ceremony with candlelight set the tone.

Our Team of Vendors

La Frederica was our first great decision. They curated a local Alicante vendor team that worked together seamlessly. We felt especially comfortable with our photographer, Ivan, and videographer, Ethan; they made the day feel truly special. From the cake to the flowers to the table design, every detail surpassed our expectations. Thanks to La Frederica, it all came together like a dream.

The Location

We actually found the venue on Pinterest. We'd never even been to Alicante before then. But after our proposal, when we saw the venue in person, we fell in love and knew we had to book it right away.

The Ceremony

Timi was a bundle of nerves during the ceremony. There's even a photo of my bridesmaids trying to calm him down at the arch. My dad was nervous, too, and I remember thinking, "Why is everyone so on edge on such a beautiful day?" Then, the view of the city stretching to the water settled everything. The ceremony was short, which is what Timi wanted, but the vows were everything. He surprised me with his, though I still say mine were better.

The Cocktail Hour

During cocktail hour, we slipped away for a few sunset photos while everyone mingled. We also brought in Sweet Sisters to create personalized drawings of the guests, and people really loved it. It kept guests chatting and gave them something fun to take part in.

The Reception

At the reception, the seating chart felt like a little masterpiece. It got everyone mingling as they searched for their names. Once everyone was seated, we made our entrance from the top of the building. It felt really special. The food by Opur Bley was fantastic. Zero complaints! And since our families had so much to say, we jumped straight into the speeches. They were thoughtful and heartfelt, and yes, my dad set a record with his 17-minute speech.

The Special Touches

The special touches were really brought to life by La Frederica. We had a vision for the cake, but they completely surpassed our expectations. It was a long cake that ran through the center of the circle of seats, and instead of using a knife, we cut it with a sword. Then there was our entrance from the top of the building. To top it all off, my family surprised Timmy and me by singing "Oh Happy Day," which is a family wedding tradition.

Our Favorite Moment

My favorite moment was right after the ceremony. We stole a few minutes alone to breathe and swap our first impressions of the day. We'd gotten ready separately and hadn't seen each other until the altar, so that little pause meant the world. Ivan and Ethan captured a few shots of us on the cliff's edge.

Our Style

The Bridal Looks

The brief for my dress was simple and elegant. I tried on a few dresses but never quite found the one, so I decided to have something custom-made. Rebecca Tembo, a London-based designer, helped bring my vision to life. I knew I wanted French Chantilly lace, but I also wanted sequins that would catch the light and sparkle as the evening went on. More than anything, I wanted a dress that felt elegant but still made me feel like myself.

The Groom's Look

For my look, I wanted to wear an all-black tuxedo. I'm not really a fan of the white tuxedo jacket with black trousers, so I opted for a classic style that I felt complemented the venue. I saw a groom's look that Momos Tailors had created and fell in love with the cut. Luckily, they were based locally, near our wedding venue. Momos has a great sense of style and customizes each look for the groom. I added custom details to my suit, and I would trust them every time.

Our Bridesmaids' Looks

I wanted my bridesmaids to feel comfortable while still feeling like themselves. Rather than choosing one dress or one color for everyone, I gave them a palette of pink and wine shades to choose from. I loved the idea of the colors being mismatched but still coming together beautifully, and they absolutely pulled it off!

Our Groomsmen's Looks

For my groomsmen, I gave them just one instruction: to wear a black tuxedo they felt most comfortable in. I wanted them to feel natural and confident in whatever made them look their best, and that really came through in the final photos we took together.

Our Advice

For the Planning Process

First, get clear on your style. Are you picturing something indoors or outdoors? Laid-back or formal? The vibe matters because it sets the tone for every other decision. Then, sit down with your partner and talk about your nonnegotiables. What really matters to each of you? That way, you're aligned from the start and less likely to butt heads later. And honestly, use a spreadsheet. Track spending, meetings, and deadlines. It keeps everything organized and helps you stay calm throughout the process.

For On The Day

The day goes by so fast, so soak up every moment, even the quiet moments while getting ready. And even if being the center of attention feels a little daunting at first, it eventually just feels like being surrounded by love all day.

For Post-Wedding

After the wedding, my advice is to plan for some real downtime. Timi and I went to Mallorca, and it gave us space to breathe, scroll through photos, and just be together without all the wedding buzz. That pause helps you slow down and really take it all in.