A Romantic Summer Wedding in Costa Brava, Spain

Set against ancient stone and neoclassical grandeur, Laura and Shaun’s wedding blended Mediterranean romance, architectural elegance, and whimsical details.

Drawn to its weathered stones and the way sunlight filters through arched windows, Laura and Shawn chose Santa María de Vilabertrán to envelope the unfolding of their classically beautiful ceremony.

The reception was held in El Molí de la Torre, a neoclassical mansion in the heart of Empordà, where mulberry trees and lush gardens framed a setting reminiscent of a decadent palazzo. Romantic and whimsical, their aesthetic was inspired by Mediterranean hues and architectural elegance, blending white and green florals with poetic touches.

The bride wore a custom lace Emma Beaumont gown, complete with a mantilla veil from the same lace and Badgley Mischka heels. 

Our Story

Names / Laura Comeron & Shaun Donnelly

Location / Costa Brava, Girona, Spain

Wedding Date / July 6th, 2024

Guest Numbers / 100

Budget / Not Disclosed

How We Met

We first crossed paths while waiting for the same bus every morning. There was an undeniable connection as our eyes met day after day. But life took us in different directions, and we lost touch when we both changed routes. Five years later, fate intervened, bringing us together once more. This time, there was no mistaking it – destiny had placed us on the same journey, and we fell in love instantly.

Our Engagement Story

During a romantic getaway to Florence, seven years into our relationship, Shaun planned the most magical surprise. We went to the enchanting Bardini Gardens. As we strolled beneath a breathtaking wisteria arch, he got down on one knee and proposed. The moment was pure magic – completely unexpected and profoundly intimate. I was overwhelmed with joy and emotion, so much so that I couldn’t even find the words to respond. It was a proposal beyond anything I could have imagined. Beautiful, romantic, and unforgettable.

What we love most about each other…

One of the things we love most about each other is how much fun we have together – we always find joy and laughter in every moment we share. There’s also a deep sense of thoughtfulness in how we care for one another, always making sure the other feels supported and loved. Most importantly, we’ve got each other’s back no matter what!

The Setting

Wedding Location

Our choice for the ceremony was Santa María de Vilabertrán. When we saw it in person, it was love at first sight. Its Romanesque architecture emanates a quiet, timeless beauty, steeped in history and serenity. We were drawn to its stone walls, weathered by centuries, and the way light pours through the delicate arches, creating an almost ethereal glow.

Our reception was at El Molí de la Torre, a gorgeous neoclassical mansion full of history, romance, and beauty. Nestled in the heart of Empordà, its timeless charm and decadent elegance instantly captured our hearts. The mulberries and surrounding the gardens offered the perfect backdrop to an already stunning venue.

Aesthetic

Romantic, decadent and whimsical. We got inspired by the Romanesque architectural style and the colors of the Mediterranean.Preparation

Getting ready for the wedding was such a beautifully intimate experience, made even more special by having my sister by my side. We spent the morning together at the stunning Palau Fugit hotel, its elegant and serene surroundings creating the perfect atmosphere for such an unforgettable moment.

Photography

Our photographer, Rubén Larruy, was an absolute dream to work with. His talent is unparalleled – he possesses an extraordinary creative vision paired with impeccable professionalism and the warmest, most charming personality. From the moment I discovered his work on Instagram, I knew he was the one to capture our day. Rubén has a rare ability to see beauty in every moment, transforming it into art. His photographs tell a story, capturing not only the events but the emotions, the light, and the atmosphere in a way that is truly breathtaking. Having him behind the lens was such a privilege – he immortalized our wedding with such artistry that every image feels like a timeless treasure.

Videography

Our videographer, Jordi Dalmau, and his team were incredible. They captured our wedding with such fun, romance, and authenticity into every frame. They brought such a warm and positive energy to the event, making us and our guests feel completely at ease. Their attention to detail, creative vision, and ability to capture the essence of the day were unmatched.

Style Notes

Ceremony Décor

Our church, Santa Maria de Vilabertran, is breathtaking in its Romanesque style, so we chose to keep the decorations simple yet elegant. Outside, we adorned it with delicate baby’s breath and pine columns, while inside, we placed white candles along the stairs, creating a soft, romantic glow. At the altar, we added a stunning asymmetrical floral arrangement, bringing a touch of natural beauty to the sacred space.

Reception Décor

It was very romantic with a hint of classic, mixing white and green, and having a touch of decadent palazzo style.

Wedding Planner

We worked with La Clau Events to plan our wedding. Their expertise and passion brought every detail of our vision to life. They understood our desire for a wedding that felt personal, romantic and evocative, and they made the entire journey effortless and very enjoyable.

Flowers

A very romantic and ethereal style with baby breath, pine and eucalyptus. My bouquet was made of classic stunning white peonies.

Stationery

We got them all designed by and sent by Bliss & Bone, following our wedding aesthetic and color palette.

Food & Beverages

After our wedding ceremony in Girona, we welcomed our guests with a custom made cocktail, following a two-long aperitif, with Aperol spritz, local wines, prosecco, and beer. At 7.30 pm, we gathered for a beautiful sit-down dinner with Mediterranean cuisine to continue the celebration.

Fashion & Beauty Notes

Bride’s Dress & Shoes

My dress was a breathtaking custom design by the incredibly talented Emma Beaumont. The fabric was a delicate lace sourced from Paris, featuring a unique silk cording made exclusively for me. It was a figure-hugging gown with a sweeping round train, elegantly finished with a double row of lace scallop. To complete the look, Emma created the most exquisite mantilla veil from the same lace, adding an extra layer of timeless romance. My shoes were shipped all the way from NY, from Badgley Mischka Bridal.

Maid of Honor Dress & Shoes

She was my ‘something blue’ wearing a beautiful silk crepe gown with long sleeves cape-style to the floor. Her shoes were a 90’s inspired pair of silver sandals.

Wedding Rings, Jewelry & Accessories

We chose our wedding bands with simplicity in mind, opting for timeless, classic gold designs that would symbolize our enduring love.

I wore a very special pair of pearl earrings from my mom – she wore them at her wedding too. Shaun wore a beautiful vintage Rolex that was the perfect touch to his tuxedo.

Hair & Makeup

For my makeup and hair, I embraced a timeless 1940s-inspired look. My hairstyle featured vintage waves, paired with a bold red lipstick and a precise eyeliner flick, capturing the glamour and sophistication of that era.

Groom’s Attire

It was a bespoke black silk tuxedo, with a coma band, and a dicky bow. Very classy and chic.

The Details

Honeymoon

To the stunning Lake Como. We stayed at the magical Villa Serbelloni in Bellagio. We loved the views to the lake and swimming in it, jumping in from the hotel’s garden pool area. The trips by boat visiting the surrounding villages and the vermuts in the sun overlooking the mountains, were unforgettable. We had delicious food at La Terrazza and Bilacus.

Wedding Songs

Canon in D, Pachabel
Claire de Lune, Debussy
Booker T & The MG’s, Green Onions
The Night, Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

Entertainment

We had a DJ who brought all the classic and fun tunes to the dancefloor. It was so much fun seeing everyone dancing the night away.

Celebrant

Our celebrant, Deacon Xavier, was an absolute joy to work with. He truly made our ceremony feel personal and meaningful. What made him even more special was his ability to conduct the ceremony in three languages, Catalan, Spanish, and English, ensuring that all our loved ones could fully embrace the moment.

Readings

We had ‘Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians’ and ‘Song of Solomon’. Both really beautiful and meaningful to us.

Our Advice

A memorable moment…

As we sat at our table during the dinner reception, we couldn’t help but look around at all our friends and family gathered in one room. It was truly magical to have everyone we love in the same place, sharing this moment together. We spent the evening reminiscing about the ceremony, recalling how unforgettable every detail of our wedding had been up until that point.

One thing I wish I knew before I started my wedding plans…

Not to get disappointed if something didn’t match what I had in mind. New approaches and ways to plan your wedding end up being so much fun and refreshing.

If I could give other couples one piece of advice…

Not to get disappointed if something didn’t match what I had in mind. New approaches and ways to plan your wedding end up being so much fun and refreshing.

Sources of inspiration…

We got very inspired by the Romanesque style of Santa Maria de Vilabertran as well as the decadence and beauty of El Molí de la Torre. We also got loads of inspiration from the colors of the Mediterranean.

Our Contacts

Wedding Venue / El Molí de la Torre

Wedding Planner / La Clau Events

Photography / Ruben Larruy

Videography / Dalmare

Bride’s Dress / Emma Beaumont

Bride’s Shoes / Badgley Mischka

Maid of Honor Dress / Rosa Clará

Maid of Honor Shoes / Badgley Mischka

Wedding Rings / De Beers

Jewelry & Accessories / Vintage Pearl Earrings (Bride’s Moms), Rolex Watch

Hair & Makeup / Marina Grikun

Stationery / Bliss & Bone

Florist / Abèlia i Mel

Catering / Aspic

Celebrant / Deacon Xavier

Honeymoon / Villa Serbelloni, Lake Como

Transport / Balliu

Gift Registry / Bliss & Bone