Instead of planning a large traditional wedding, we’re choosing something that feels more like us—smaller, more relaxed, and a little more vacation-forward. Our wedding will take place on Monday, April 19, 2027, in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Rather than one busy day, we’re turning the celebration into a getaway with the people we love most. Think sunshine, good food, beach time, poolside afternoons, adventures, laughter, and making memories together. We also know a destination wedding isn’t possible for everyone, and there is absolutely no pressure or expectation to attend. Travel, schedules, budgets, family obligations, and life in general are all real considerations, and we completely understand. Whether you celebrate with us in Mexico or from home, your love and support mean the world to us. If you do decide to join us, we’re intentionally keeping things flexible. Come for a few nights, make it a long weekend, stay a week, explore the area, book excursions, or simply relax by the water. Whatever works best for your schedule, energy, and budget. All travel details, accommodations, and booking information will be shared on this website. Please check out the Travel & Booking and FAQ sections for updates and helpful information. If you think there's a good chance you'll be joining us, we highly recommend placing your $100 room deposit as soon as possible to lock in your spot while keeping your options open. Our hope is that this feels less like attending a formal wedding and more like taking a vacation where some people you love happen to get married along the way. For now, save the date, check those passports, and maybe set aside a little PTO. #WashburnWedcation
Thinking you'll be joining us? Book now. The resort is filling up quickly, and availability may become limited as we get closer to the wedding. A $100 deposit secures your room, and final payment isn't due until March 18, 2027, giving you plenty of time to plan. To receive our group rates and be included in the wedding room block, please book through our travel agent, Meg Thacker, by text at (904) 612-1429 (text preferred). Her services are completely free, and she can assist with accommodations, optional flights, airport transportation, and any other travel details. Please mention you're with the Lawrence & Washburn wedding group. Please note that reservations made directly through the hotel or third-party travel websites cannot be added to our wedding group and are not eligible for our discounted group rates.
Like most modern love stories, ours started online — and after meeting in person shortly afterward in July 2024, things just clicked. What started as a first date quickly turned into long conversations, weekend adventures, shared routines, and the kind of relationship that feels both exciting and incredibly easy at the same time. Over the last two years, we’ve made a lot of memories together — just the two of us, with our boys, and alongside family and friends. From long weekends in Hocking Hills and Tennessee to Oktoberfest trips, West Virginia getaways, and a trip to Grenada, we’ve built a relationship rooted in equal parts fun, comfort, laughter, and partnership. One of the best parts of this story is our boys. Steven’s son, Owen, and Rachel’s son, Abram, are both 10 years old — and exactly two days apart in age, which Abram makes sure absolutely nobody forgets. Together, the four of us have created a blended little family that means everything to us. And then there’s the engagement story. Before our first date, Rachel joked that she didn’t want Steven picking her up because “what if you murder me, stuff my body in the trunk, and throw me off a bridge?” Steven replied that if he did, it would at least be a classy bridge… like the Roebling. So on May 15, 2026, during a walk along the river — while making very sure the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge was clearly within view — Steven asked Rachel to marry him, and she enthusiastically said yes. Afterward, we celebrated with cocktails at The Banks and dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, Nolia. We knew pretty early on that we didn’t want a huge traditional wedding. What felt most like us was something smaller, more intentional, and centered around quality time with the people we love most — which is exactly why we’re heading to Mexico. We’re so excited to celebrate this next chapter with all of you.