Theatrical Production Experience Aids Costa Rican Wedding Planner

Randy Gritz knows all about planning tropical weddings, and she should, as she has designed and organized over 200 of them in the past seven years! Originally from Philadelphia, Randy has made Costa Rica home for the last 20 years. She speaks fluent Spanish, has an extensive knowledge of the country and the people, which helps her successfully navigate the often unpredictable course of planning the perfect wedding ceremony and reception.

“Planning a wedding is like mounting a theatrical production,” says Randy. For years she has been an active member, producer and stage manager for The Little Theatre Group of Costa Rica. Founded in 1949 by Bert Williams, the Little Theatre Group is the oldest continuously running English-language theatre in Central or South America. A dedicated wedding professional and member of the theater group, she is always aware that this very special day is one that the happy couple and their family will remember for the rest of their lives, and therefore, must be perfect in every detail. “Each wedding has a different script and budget, and just like before the opening night of a play, a wedding requires careful direction and detailed planning,” states Randy.

“For Act 1,” Randy laughs, “no auditions are held as the leading, romantic roles are already cast! The bride and groom will be waiting in the wings after listening to my suggestions about designing how they want to play their parts. Every wedding ceremony is personalized.”

“The set designer is Costa Rica, which offers stunning backdrops of glorious beaches with spectacular sunsets, verdant green rainforests, misty mountains or a pyrotechnic display, sometimes laid-on by Arenal Volcano. Set decorations play an important part and vary from wedding to wedding.”

Over the years, Randy has built-up an extensive repertoire with professionals in the events industry. Whether you want roses, vividly colored tropical flowers or orchids, she can provide whatever your heart desires however strange your whim. Wildlife is not guaranteed, but monkeys and parrots often appear to add to the tropical ambience and décor.

“Act 2 – The rest of the cast arrives and photographers, hairdressers and make-up artists are there for the bidding. All is made ready for the perfect wedding. Then, the nuptial ceremony begins and the happy couple exchange vows. Not to worry, as all the legal requirements have been taken care of by me,” affirms Randy.

“Act 3 – The wedding feast has been carefully chosen to delight all palates, whether you want a barbecue, a Vegan menu, a 3-tier wedding cake or simple cupcakes. I’ve done banquets from 4 to 104. The celebration continues until the final curtain with applause all around and a standing ovation.”

Randy says with a smile, “I’m a romantic at heart, and I really love what I do. Each wedding is different; from helping plan an elopement to a lavish affair in a four-star hotel. This is what makes it such a challenge, just like the unique planning for each play with the Theater Group.”

Randy has coordinated Jewish, Persian, Indian and Spiritual marriages as well as many traditional ceremonies in a variety of locations all over Costa Rica, and thrives on planning the perfect wedding. “Celebrations Costa Rica is ready, willing and able to help you make your day, the happiest and most memorable one of a lifetime,” says Randy. ”The show must go on, and with my experience with theater and over 200 wedding, the show will go on perfectly.” For more information on planing the perfect wedding, go to www.celebrationscostarica.com.

Little Theater Group "Laughter" Play

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