Our 5 Favorite Details from Tika and Nick's Wedding Day

It’s no surprise that Tika Sumpter and Nick James left no detail unconsidered as they planned their destination wedding in Mexico. After all, providing their family and friends with an unparalleled experience from beginning to end was their primary goal, and that meant that every element of the day—from the décor and the music to the drinks and food—had to be perfect. With that mission in mind, the bride and groom worked with their wedding planner, Ximena Perez of Amy Abbott Events, to craft a celebration that was as meaningful as it was beautiful.

Here, we’re sharing our five favorite details from this sunny destination wedding, all of which are guaranteed to inspire your own plans and help create an epic experience for your own guests.

What guest doesn’t love imbibing in a signature drink during the cocktail hour or reception? Tika and Nick served three different signature cocktails on their big day: the Señorita Tika, made from pink lemonade, vodka, grenadine, lime, and sparkling water; the Señor Jordan, made from Aperol, mezcal, limóncello, and sugar; and a sage margarita. The variety meant that there was something special for everyone to choose from, and both Tika and Nick’s drinks told guests a bit about their personal preferences.

Tika and Nick tapped Lucas Ravera of Aria Vera Floral to create all of their floral arrangements, including the statement circular arch that served as the backdrop to their emotional ceremony. Clusters of roses and peonies in shades of white, cream, and blush were arranged over top dried palms and pampas grass, creating a textural display that moved with the ocean's breeze. Because Tika and Nick wanted a modern-bohemian vibe for their celebration, the dried floral moments were instrumental in driving their aesthetic home.

Family was a prevailing theme throughout Tika and Nick’s wedding day: Their daughter, Ella, was included in every single part of the celebration, including the getting-ready process (where she joined her mother and grandmother in prayer before walking down the aisle), the ceremony (where she stood by her father's side), and the entire reception (where she hosted her very own table). "It was beautiful to have my daughter there and knowing she'll remember that forever," Tika said.

Tika and Nick very intentionally chose the color palette for their wedding, selecting hues that would help their guests sink into a feeling of total relaxation. "When you look at water, it just flows—that's what I wanted it to feel like. I wanted the colors to feel like we were on vacation,” Tika said. Ocean blues popped up everywhere from the water goblets and flatware handles to the pillows on chairs, creating a serene space for guests to unwind and fête the newlyweds.

If there's one thing Tika knew, it was that she wanted to be able to dance at her reception, and while she loved her Galia Lahav wedding dress, she needed something different for the party. Her wishlist? Fun, flirty, short, and "a little sexier," she said. Her Taller Marmo mini dress, sourced by her stylists, Wayman and Micah, absolutely delivered and helped the bride make a statement on the dance floor.