By: Veronika Lazabal
Ready to bring a taste of the Caribbean to your big day? There are plenty of ways to add a little island sass to your nuptials (without recreating the Cuban Missile Crisis on your budget). Whether your family hails from the steamy streets of Havana or you just fell in love with The Lost City, (and really, who didn’t adore Andy Garcia after seeing it?) here are some ideas on how to Cuban-ify your wedding:
What to Write
If you’re planning on having a Cuban themed wedding, let everyone know from the start with clever invitations. Bypass the cardstock and calligraphy in favor of invites that resemble Cuban cigars. (Think dark brown parchment, rolled scroll style. Add a gold band with the happy couple’s initials and presto- instant stogie.
What to Wear
For a wedding ceremony that will leave everyone talking, consider skipping the traditional tuxes for guyaberas, the traditional Cuban linen shirt worn all over the island. (Bonus points if you’re getting hitched outdoors, on a sandy beach.)
What to Eat
Your reception is where you can really pump in some serious Cuban flare with delicious Cuban style food. Consider pairing Cuban food with Asian influences. Ever tasted famed restaurant Asia de Cuba’s Fried Rice with Avocado dish. Or, forget cocktail hour… how about tapas hour instead? Pass around empanadas, bocaditos, and croquettes while listening to the smooth sounds of Tito Puente and Celia Cruz.
What to Drink
Having a couple of signature drinks (Rasberry Mojitos and Cuba Libres, anyone?) will add to the feel while keeping your costs down. Swap out the band and corny wedding singer for some Cuban musicians and the let the island rhythm take over. If you’ve got some extra cash, consider a cigar rolling bar.
Just remember to keep things fun- there’s no such thing as a grumpy wedding party on the island.
