Argentina wasn’t first on the Two for Takeoff bucket list, at least not Buenos Aires. But when our dear friend Grace and her fiancé Sarkis set the date and destination for their October 2019 wedding in BA, we started our research. Our excitement grew as we learned more about the history of Argentina and the many destination points this beautiful country boasts.
From tango in Buenos Aires, to the cascades of Iguazu Falls. From Malbec in Mendoza to long hikes through Bariloche and the Lake District. And of course, the incredible sights and natural sounds of Patagonia. We soon learned that Argentina is truly one of the most dynamic and beautiful countries in the world.
With only seven days to explore Argentina, we focused on a few locations: BA (Capital of Argentina) and Mendoza (wine country).
We arrived in Argentina bleary eyed and fatigued from the 10-hour flight from JFK. The transport from the airport, including the hour-long wait in customs, added to the weariness, but when we arrived at the Hilton Buenos Aires we fueled up on espresso. We powered up the computers, finished a full day of work and then prepared for the rehearsal dinner that was planned just down the street in Puerto Madero at Hotel Faena.
The venue at Hotel Faena was lovely and filled with pops of red and black. The weather had been rainy throughout the day, so the celebration was moved indoors where friends and family talked, laughed, watched videos of the happy couple, chowed on Argentinean delicacies – empanadas, grilled meats, roasted tomatoes and cheeses, gnocchi, burgers, the list goes on. We sampled sparkling wine from Lagarde and famed Malbec from Mendoza. Before the guests knew what was happening – there was an announcement that a surprise was in store and the room cleared way for two professional dancers, dressed in full tango-garb. The show was such a treat! Apparently, the dancers had recently been awarded “Best in Argentina” – which had to be true because they were insanely talented. Legs whipped back and forth, and arms were held in tight, straight lines as they moved from corner to corner in fluid motion. We loved every second of their multi-number tango. Afterwards, bridesmaids and groomsmen toasted to the stunning bride and handsome groom and shared well wishes for a lifetime of happiness. The evening ended with cake and dessert and we whisked the bride home to rest for the big day.
Highlights from #Sarkissedthebride
Estancia Villa Maria 
Halls of the Estancia 
Wedding Ready 
Cocktail Hour 
Celebrating Grace & Sarkis 
First Dance 
Party to end all parties!
Saturday morning brought sunshine and blue skies for as far as the eye could see. It was the perfect day to exchange vows. The bridal party boarded separate buses and made the trek to Estancia Villa Maria in North Ezeiza which is located an hour outside of BA. As we neared the front gates, we gasped in awe at the surroundings. Fields of animals and fresh grasses, willow trees that roamed the entire property, an expansive lake complete with ducks and a gorgeous villa where we would soon ready ourselves for the evening’s events.
Around 4 pm guests began to arrive in their formal wear and filled the white wicker chairs overlooking a massive field. They were handed decorated bags of rice, lush paper programs, and cold lemonade. And just as the sunshine settled in on the Estancia, the bridal party walked the aisle to the sound of violins and birds chirping nearby. Grace and Sarkis exchanged vows and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. It was truly a beautiful ceremony, filled with love and laughter. We were honored to have been part of such a special day.
After the vows were exchanged and the photos were captured, we enjoyed cocktails overlooking the lake and enjoyed the incredible surroundings. Estancia Villa Maria was absolutely stunning; Two for Takeoff will never forget the views at dusk – with cocktails pouring and the sound of happiness floating into the night sky.
It was a party to end all parties, and the newlyweds pulled out all the stops. From ceiling draped floral arrangements and walls of candles, to a complete coffee bar, to Hora Loca and Messe jerseys, to an Argentine band, to music videos and grand entrances from between LED screens… it was an epic experience. Let’s just say the last bus returned to Buenos Aires at 6 a.m. Sunday morning.
We’re not sure how everyone made it to the Lowlands Club for the Sunday asado (barbecue), but everyone was alive and accounted for. And the smoked meat filled the air with the most incredible aromas. Guests paired cervezas with smoked lamb, sweet breads and steak – the hangover helper everyone needed. While most attendees settled in for a full meal, we gave big hugs to the Anac and De Moya families, bride and groom and made our way for the smaller, local airport nearby for our evening flight to Mendoza.
We cruised in the air for two hours, grabbed our rental car and got acquainted with the picturesque, mountain town of Mendoza.
More on that tomorrow!
Well done .