Hey, how are you? Those who follow me on Instagram (@aondecasar) can probably guess what today’s post will be about! Yes, my trip to Cartagena. Returning to Cartagena is always special. But participating as an ambassador for the Cartagena Wedding Dreams & Forum (now in its third year) for the second time was a delight. The event has established itself as one of the most important conferences in Latin America in the world of luxury weddings and events. It was three intense days of content, networking, culture, and unforgettable experiences, all with the charm and unmistakable energy of the walled city.
Before continuing, it is worth remembering that I shared here on the blog my first participation in this journey. If you haven’t read it yet, click here to check it out: Aonde Casar participates as an ambassador for the Cartagena Wedding Dreams & Wedding Forum 2024 .
Day 1
The conference kicked off in style with a welcome cocktail reception at Casa Carolina (September 21st), a jewel of Cartagena’s colonial architecture. The following day, guests were welcomed for the opening panel at the Charleston Santa Teresa Hotel, where experts such as Edgardo Zamora, Nadia Durán, Arturo de Noriega, Michelle Pourroy, and David Betancur shared their visions on the future of the luxury industry, multiculturalism, and innovation.
In the evening, we experienced one of the event’s most memorable moments: the bridal fashion show at Castillo San Felipe de Barajas. Dressed in the elegant shade of “Mocha Mousse,” guests watched a spectacle that blended fashion, history, and emotion in one of Colombia’s most iconic fortresses. A fitting start to a true festival of ideas and celebrations.
Day 2
The second day was dedicated to the Expo and masterclasses at the Las Américas Convention Center. Early in the morning, Mauricio Kirschner kicked off the proceedings with a reflection on the transformative power of experiences in celebration tourism. Next, María Paola Mejía delighted everyone with “La mesa de María P.”, a lesson on sensitivity and aesthetics applied to table setting.
The program continued with big names, such as Emilio Olabarrieta, Julio Cintron, Chris J. Evans, Kika Rocha and Meltem Tepeler — the latter, a great friend and international reference in luxury events, gave an inspiring talk on “Communicating with the Heart”.
We ended the day with a cocktail party at the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara, where the dress code was inspired by The Little Prince — a delicate, poetic and meaningful party, reminding us that “what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
Day 3
The third and final day maintained the intense and inspiring pace. At the Convention Center’s Grand Pavilion, Puerto Rican presenter Yizette Cifredo led a morning of lectures with Catalina Droguett, Diana Sandoval, Sabina de Szyszlo, and Arun Bablania, addressing topics such as sustainability, authenticity, and purpose in the events world.
In the evening, the event concluded with a closing party on the beaches of the Hotel Las Américas. The “Arabian Nights” dress code created a magical setting—with golden lights, flowing fabrics, and the Caribbean breeze enveloping the celebration. It was the perfect ending to three days of learning, connection, and, above all, love for the art of celebration.
Participating in Cartagena Wedding Dreams as an ambassador is always an honor. The event not only celebrates Latin American talent but also strengthens cultural and professional exchanges between experts from around the world. Seeing Colombia, and especially Cartagena, establish itself as one of the most sought-after wedding destinations is a testament to the transformative power of our industry. I am immensely grateful for the invitation and the opportunity to represent Brazil once again in this inspiring setting. Cartagena, with its vibrant soul and warm hospitality, continues to remind us why we celebrate.
See you in the next post!
Kisses.,
Simone.
Photos: Bety Yes
