Love stories often begin in the most unexpected ways. In Carlie and Markus’ case, it all started with a chance encounter at a restaurant where a simple piece of paper held the key to their future. Carlie recalls the magical moment she handed Markus her phone number on that fateful piece of paper, and the rest, as they say, is history.

“I slipped him a piece of paper with my phone number on it (he still has that piece of paper!),” Carlie chuckles. Markus didn’t waste any time and texted her the very same night. A dinner date followed, and from there, their love blossomed over the course of a year and a half. Markus, the super romantic, chose to propose on Carlie’s birthday, making it a day to remember.

The Proposal

To make the proposal extra special, Markus took Carlie back to her roots, right by the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, with the breathtaking Manhattan skyline as their backdrop. But there was more to this surprise than just a stunning setting; he had their nearest and dearest waiting in the wings, ready to capture the moment in all its glory. With family and friends in tow, a photographer on standby, and love in the air, Markus asked the ultimate question, sealing their fate in the most picturesque way possible.

With the proposal setting the bar sky-high, the couple decided to make their love official with a wedding just as extraordinary. Carlie, who always dreamed of a destination wedding, couldn’t have chosen a more perfect spot to say “I do.” They opted for Markus’s home country, Germany, as their wedding destination. And what a choice it was!

Planning The Wedding

Planning a wedding from abroad is no small feat, but Carlie’s determination and vision for her big day made it all worth it. She wanted a timeless and romantic wedding, and that’s exactly what she achieved. Picture all-white candles and flowers, setting the scene for a classic and elegant affair that would stand the test of time.

The Venue

The venue, the Relais and Châteaux Hotel Burg Schwarzenstein in Germany, turned out to be a fairy tale come to life. The dining room, with its long table, vine-adorned ceiling, and panoramic views of lush vineyards, evoked a Tuscan feel that Carlie had hoped for. It was the epitome of romance. Overlooking the Rhein River, the venue had the added charm of a Michelin-starred restaurant and a beautiful hotel, all on the same property.

With an intimate guest list of just under 50 people, their celebration brought together loved ones from various corners of Germany and the United States. The choice of venue allowed everyone to stay together and soak up the joy of the celebration.

The Wedding Dress

When it came to choosing her wedding gown, Carlie found the brand Made with Love and fell head over heels for the “Darcy” gown. With its plunging neckline, backless design, form-fitting silhouette, and 3D floral lace, it was a dress that combined sensuality and elegance in the most stunning way. It was, in fact, the first dress Carlie tried on, and the tears in her mother’s eyes confirmed that this was “the one.”

All The Details of Carlie and Markus’ Destination Wedding

Their wedding was a beautiful blend of cultures, as they had a Catholic ceremony where the priest skillfully incorporated both English and German to honor their heritage. It was a lovely reflection of their love’s diversity and uniqueness.

When asked about his favorite part of the wedding, Markus couldn’t help but be captivated by the moment the sight of his beloved Carlie walked down the aisle towards him. With the timeless melody of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” setting the tone, it was a moment they’ll cherish forever.

Advice For Future Brides

Carlie leaves future brides with some sage advice, “Do whatever makes you happy for your wedding. Sometimes you try hard to please everyone, but it really is your day!” In the whirlwind of the big day, remember to take a moment to soak it all in, because time flies. The most important part is marrying your person, and that’s what truly matters.

Cheers to the happy couple and their love story that began with a simple piece of paper and continues to grow stronger each day!

The Wedding Vendors

Venue: @burgschwarzenstein

Photographers: @destinationlovers.wedding

Flowers: @blumenlaube_ffm

Dress: @madewithlovebridal @lovelybride

Suit: @suitsupply

Rings: @ringconcierge

Hair & Makeup: @katha_mua

Nails: @houseofbeautyfrankfurt

Dress alteration: @irinasigaldressmaker

READ MORE: THIS COUPLE HAD A WHIMSICAL DESTINATION WEDDING IN PUGLIA, ITALY

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