US newlyweds invited to honeymoon in Croatia after surprise celebration with Croatian fans

(Photo supplied by Croatian Tourist Board)

A couple from Philadelphia whose wedding day was unexpectedly transformed by hundreds of Croatian football supporters will soon be travelling to Croatia for their honeymoon.

Ashton and Zach Smith exchanged vows at Philadelphia City Hall on the same day the Croatian national football team was in the city ahead of its match against Ghana.

After leaving the ceremony, the newlyweds were met by hundreds of Croatian supporters who had gathered in the city centre before the match. What followed was a spontaneous celebration, with singing, photographs and congratulations as fans welcomed the couple into the festivities.

The unexpected encounter created a memorable moment for Ashton and Zach, who said it was an experience they would never forget.

(Photo supplied by Croatian Tourist Board)

Inspired by the story, and following an initiative by the Croatian supporters’ club Croatian Fans Embassy We Croats (Mi Hrvati) and Igor Čavlović, the Croatian National Tourist Board has invited the couple to spend their honeymoon in Croatia.

The invitation has been enthusiastically accepted by the newlyweds.

(Photo supplied by Croatian Tourist Board)

Details of their visit, including the destinations they will explore and the programme of their stay in Croatia, are expected to be announced soon.

The story has attracted attention as another example of the warm welcome and hospitality often associated with Croatian supporters, with a chance encounter on a wedding day now leading to a honeymoon in Croatia.