Croatia wasn’t a random choice. Kevin’s ancestors were Croatian, and something about the coastline felt like coming home. They envisioned a private ceremony with a beautiful backdrop—simple, meaningful, and intimate. Their initial idea? A small elopement at Sponza Palace in Dubrovnik’s old town.

As we started our first few calls, brainstorming the possibilities, I had a feeling there was more to uncover. While Sponza is stunning, it felt a little too straightforward. I believe elopements should be just as thoughtful and rich in experience as a full wedding day. Why not spend the day connecting, laughing, reminiscing—the same way you would on your wedding day, just without the 100+ guests?
So I asked questions. Lots of them.

They told me about their first date—dinner at a seaside restaurant where Kevin forgot to book a table. We laughed. Then came the story of their engagement, in a tunnel of greenery, where Kevin popped the question. These little moments felt important. They were theirs.

With that in mind, I wanted to craft a day that wove those memories into something new.

We landed on the Spanish Fortress on the island of Hvar as their ceremony location—a sweeping panoramic view over the Adriatic, history carved into stone, and just the right mix of grand and intimate. It was private, it was stunning, and it felt like them.

Next came the dinner. While there are beautiful restaurants in Hvar, none felt quite right. Brooke & Kevin also wanted to include Split in their day, so we had to think logistically, especially with one-year-old Luca along for the adventure.
There we had our idea: the Colnago 35. A sleek, comfortable Croatian-made boat perfect for a smooth journey—and a little luxury. It was Luca-approved, of course.

Here’s how the day unfolded:
The morning started slowly, just the way a wedding day should. Before heading to the first look, Brooke and I shared a relaxed bridal morning together. We made our way to her hair and makeup appointments, and in the break between the two, we treated ourselves to cocktails—because if you can’t toast with your wedding planner on the morning of your elopement, when can you?

Their elopement began in Split, with a quiet and emotional first look in Sustipan Park, a peaceful clifftop space overlooking the sea.
From there, they boarded a private Colnago 35 boat from ACI Marina and set off across the Adriatic toward Hvar. As they cruised along the coastline, the salty breeze in their hair and the sun glistening on the water, Croatian music played softly in the background. Brooke, embracing her role as a true Croatian nevjesta (bride), had learned a few lyrics and sang along, adding a touch of fun and tradition to the journey.

Upon arrival in Hvar, they made their way to the Spanish Fortress, a breathtaking venue perched high above the town. There, in the golden light and surrounded by sweeping sea views, ancient stone walls, and absolute stillness, Brooke & Kevin exchanged their vows. And walking ahead of them, stealing hearts and the spotlight, was baby Luca—the world’s tiniest and sweetest flower girl.

It was intimate. It was heartfelt. It was everything they wanted.

After the ceremony, we made our way to Zori Restaurant on Palmižana. And guess what? Kevin did make a booking for this one! We docked the boat right in front of the restaurant, and Brooke & Kevin were off to their wedding dinner—just the two of them—while Luca was cared for by a babysitter. A quiet meal, delicious food, and the warm hum of happiness in the air.

As the sun dipped lower, Brooke & Kevin boarded their boat once more and sailed off to Hvar, ready to continue their European summer adventure, newly married and glowing.

As a wedding planner, if I could choose one day to relive—it would be this one. Every moment was intentional, personal, and deeply full of love.