A Cross-Cultural Celebration: Clementina Davila and Schuyler Ebersol's Jalisco Wedding

The story of Clementina Davila and Schuyler Ebersol began serendipitously in November 2012 when Schuyler first saw Clementina in an Instagram photo with his cousin and was instantly captivated. For years, the same question arose at family gatherings: why hadn’t he been introduced to her sooner? Schuyler fondly remembers thinking she looked like an "angel." Nearly five years later, fate intervened when their cousin, noticing they both resided in Charlottesville, Virginia, finally arranged a dinner date. Clementina humorously recounted calling her cousin en route to the restaurant to confirm the pronunciation of Schuyler’s name, yet their connection was undeniable, extending their date for hours. They discovered shared passions—a past aspiration to be architects, a mutual longing to relocate to New Zealand despite never visiting, and a shared fascination with space. After their initial meeting, Schuyler confided in his sister, declaring he would marry Clementina if he were bold enough to propose the following day.

While their union didn't happen quite so quickly, life momentarily separated them for several years before their paths converged once more. Clementina accepted a position near Schuyler’s parents' Connecticut residence, prompting her to suggest a reunion during his next visit home. Schuyler promptly arranged the trip, inviting her to his parents' house. That evening, his father playfully urged him to propose, a heartfelt exchange Clementina later revealed she had overheard. In 2023, the couple became engaged at Raven's Roost, a scenic overlook in Charlottesville where they had previously enjoyed a sunrise hike six years prior. Overwhelmed with happiness, Clementina accepted, expressing regret about returning to Connecticut the next day. To her surprise, Schuyler revealed a meticulously planned engagement trip to Mexico to visit her family, where both their families were already waiting, leading to a joyful reunion at the Mexico City airport.

From the outset, Clementina and Schuyler envisioned their wedding in Mexico, drawn to its rich traditions and warmth. They selected Hacienda Defranca, an exquisite 18th-century estate nestled amidst Jalisco's agave fields and golden hills, just north of Guadalajara. Collaborating with Alma Beck Wedding Architect, they meticulously planned a weekend that harmoniously celebrated their American and Mexican heritages, as well as their deep affection for their families and friends. The celebrations commenced in Tequila, with a captivating day at the Mundo Cuervo Distillery, where guests explored agave fields, delved into the historic production process, and enjoyed a delightful lunch within José Cuervo’s hacienda. Clementina, honoring Mexican craftsmanship, wore a bespoke silk and linen ensemble from Sweet Hipil. The rehearsal dinner, held at Casa de Los Platos in Guadalajara, was an impromptu celebration filled with mariachi music and spontaneous dancing, creating a truly magical atmosphere. Clementina chose a Danielle Frankel gown with a low, draped cowl back for the evening, which made her feel like a sculpture, its silk-satin gleaming against the rustic backdrop. She accessorized with Agmes pearl earrings and Manolo Blahnik heels. The following day, their ceremony took place on a sun-drenched afternoon outside the chapel of San Francisco de Asís, defying the week's rainy forecast. Clementina again opted for Danielle Frankel, selecting the Bex silhouette from the 2025 collection, complemented by a chapel veil and Pdpaola earrings. A deeply meaningful touch was Schuyler's grandmother's engagement ring, lent to Clementina by his mother. Schuyler wore a Suitsupply tuxedo with a Ralph Lauren bow tie, later changing into a J.Crew white dinner jacket. His Cartier Love bracelet, a gift from Clementina after their engagement, was also a cherished detail. As Clementina approached the archway, her four brothers surprised Schuyler by playing "Concerning Hobbits" from The Lord of the Rings on violin and cello, a poignant tribute reflecting their shared dreams and Schuyler’s love for fantasy. Clementina designed the seating in a Greek amphitheater style to highlight the canyon's natural beauty, with minimal decorations to let the landscape speak for itself. Their Virginia-based priest officiated the traditional Catholic ceremony, which incorporated Mexican rituals like the Arras and Lazo, with their siblings participating in readings and prayers, and Clementina’s three-year-old nephew, Ennio, serving as a "marvelous" ring bearer. Following the ceremony, mariachis led guests to a mountain-edge cocktail hour, where mezcal and tequila-based drinks were served. Schuyler described the breathtaking views as unparalleled. The reception began with their grand entrance to "From Now On" from The Greatest Showman, followed by heartfelt speeches and tequila shots. Their first dance, to Frankie Valli’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” transitioned into the more vibrant “Procura” by ChiChi Peralta and Jandy Feliz. A cake, created by Clementina's cousin, symbolized the union of American and Mexican cultures. The evening's playlist blended American and Mexican influences, culminating in the entrance of vibrant alebrijes, Oaxacan folk-art spirit animals, whose performers danced among the guests into the early hours. Reflecting on the experience, both expressed profound gratitude for their love and families, acknowledging that all the wedding preparations ultimately served to celebrate the love between them and with their cherished guests.

This extraordinary celebration in Jalisco underscored not just the union of two individuals, but the beautiful fusion of diverse cultures and the enduring strength of family bonds. Their meticulous planning and thoughtful inclusion of personal touches ensured that every moment resonated with deep meaning and joy. The wedding served as a testament to their shared journey, culminating in a vibrant festivity that honored their past, celebrated their present, and looked forward to a future filled with love and shared dreams.