Beyond the Aisle: Love, Commitment, and the Magic Behind Every Wedding by Sonia Martínez

Weddings are moments when dreams transform into reality, where love stories are
immortalized in time. But for me, they are the answer to God’s prayers for my life story.
Since ten years ago, my heart beats faster, my world quiets, and love takes center stage.
That’s how I’ve named this story today: Living in a World Full of Dreams, Magic, and Commitment.
There’s a saying that love is a force of nature, unstoppable in its power to heal and
transform. But behind every love story I help bring to life, there’s another story—my own.
A story of fighting battles most people never see, of showing up even when the weight of the world feels unbearable, of creating magic in the face of unimaginable challenges. Behind every wedding I plan, behind every perfect moment, there’s a story of resilience, heartache, and an unwavering belief that magic can happen—even when life feels impossible.

Every day I ask myself: How do I create and plan these weddings when nobody sees the struggles behind the scenes? How do I face each challenge in this career? How do I make destination wedding magic happen for my clients all across Colombia, working in ten different cities, and planning with people who live in different countries, far away from me? The answer is always the same: Love, Passion, Resilience, and a clear Vision. This is how I’ve been doing it for years.
Bridal Agency was my thesis project, awarded the best in 2015 by my university. Since then, I’ve been creating unforgettable moments for my clients, my family, my team, and my industry. Today, as the Chapter Head of the International Association of Destination Wedding Professionals in Colombia, I work with those who want to make something special for others. I dive deep, not only into the logistics with technology and planning, but into the human side—working with women, indigenous people from the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, the Palenqueras of Cartagena, single mothers, foundations, artists, and communities from diverse cultures to create the perfect team for each wedding.
Three years ago, life dealt me another blow—a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The moment I heard those words, the future felt uncertain. How do you continue planning the biggest day of someone’s life when your own body begins betraying you? I wrestled with fear and doubt, but in the end, I chose love—love for my craft and career, love for the people who trust me with their stories, and love for the belief that magic can still happen, even in the darkest moments.

Destination weddings are filled with wonder—breathtaking backdrops, perfect sunsets,
dreamlike moments, and love that transcends borders. But behind every perfect scene, there’s a planner fighting for every detail to fall into place. For me, it’s more than just organizing beautiful events; it’s about showing up, no matter what.
Behind every dress, every bouquet, and every vow is a journey that takes courage,
compassion, and heart. Destination weddings are not just about beautiful venues and
decorations; they’re about the story that gets you there. They’re about finding the courage to say, “No matter what happens, we will create something beautiful.” And that’s what I strive for every day.
As a certified planner with expertise in same-sex marriages, Jewish weddings, green
weddings, and more, I’ve seen love in all its forms. I’ve seen it broken, rebuilt, celebrated,and tested. And through it all, I’ve learned that love is not perfect. It’s not always easy. But it is always worth fighting for, and it is always the answer.

My journey behind the scenes is one of faith, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the magic of love. It’s a journey that continues with every couple I meet, every trial, every scouting and tasting, every challenge I face, and every moment where I stand back and say,
“This is why I do what I do.” Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about making
weddings happen—it’s about making love happen.
My journey is far from over, and as I continue to make destination wedding magic happen, I do so with the belief that the best is yet to come.
This essay is not just a reflection of my work as a wedding planner; it is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and unwavering commitment. As I look to the future, I am more determined than ever to continue creating unforgettable moments, empowering
communities, and proving that magic is always possible—no matter the challenges we face.
The best stories are still waiting to be told, and I will be there to help write them.
Through my experiences, I have not only grown as a wedding planner but as a person who understands the importance of human connection. Each wedding is a unique world from the threads of love, culture, and individual stories. In my role, I strive to honor those stories, ensuring that every couple’s vision is realized, and their love is celebrated in a way that is deeply personal and meaningful.

Moreover, I have witnessed the profound impact of these celebrations on the families and communities involved. Weddings are not just a day of joy; they are a gathering of love that strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories. By focusing on local artisans and suppliers, I am proud to contribute to the economy and support the livelihoods of many talented individuals in Colombia. This approach enriches the weddings I plan, infusing them with authenticity and cultural significance.
As I reflect on my journey, I recognize that my work extends beyond individual weddings; it is about creating a legacy of love and hope. I aim to inspire others in the industry to prioritize not only the aesthetics but also the heartfelt connections that weddings foster. By nurturing relationships and empowering those around me, I believe we can collectively elevate the wedding planning profession in Colombia to new heights.

In conclusion, my journey is not only about the weddings I plan; it is about the love I
champion and the communities I uplift. With each wedding, I reaffirm my commitment to this beautiful industry and the incredible couples I have the privilege to serve. The best is yet to come.

With Love,

Sonia Martínez

CEO Bridal Agency