Are you ready to take it back to my very first Cancun destination wedding!? I still get giddy with excitement every time I see the photos. I’ve received Mexico destination wedding inquires, but plans never panned out. So, I was over the moon when Sarah and Joe booked me for their Cancun wedding weekend! Not only was it my first wedding outside the U.S., but we instantly clicked, and I knew it would be nothing short of epic!
Home is Where the Heart Is
Our journey began with a fun in-home engagement session at Sarah and Joe’s lovely home, where their adorable dogs welcomed me–I always feel like I’ve hit the jackpot when I get to do a cozy lifestyle session with pups in the mix. We strolled through their Roscoe Village neighborhood on an unusually warm December day, capturing lovely indoor and outdoor shots.
All-Inclusive Cancun Destination Wedding
Fast forward to April, and my husband and I were Cancun-bound! Naturally, we turned it into a mini-vacation, soaking up the city vibes before heading to the jaw-dropping Haven Resorts in Cancun, Mexico. As a first-timer at an all-inclusive, I finally got the hype—lounging by the pool, swimming, and devouring books was the ultimate pre-wedding chill session. Plus, it got my creative juices flowing and gave me a better feel for the setting and pace.
Now, let’s talk wedding day! Walking into Joe’s room and seeing all their amazing details was overwhelming in the best way—everything they chose was on point, and I had a blast crafting flat lays with a palm leaf I snagged from the resort. The florals were top-notch, with a simple yet elegant boutonniere and an organic, neutral-toned bridal bouquet. And Sarah’s dress? Absolute perfection! (I mean, they’re both adorable, so how could it not be?)
Their ceremony was short, sweet, and oceanfront—cue my favorite part: couple portraits! We roamed the grounds, and I was in photographer heaven with all the palm trees, stunning light, and this super chill couple. Seriously, they were the most laid-back duo ever, making the whole experience a total dream. It doesn’t come as a surprise that the luxury resort also had some fabulous and eye-catching backdrops we could take advantage of. I especially loved the funky cutout wall. All in all, shooting in such a gorgeous location with waving palm trees was a dream come true.
Dancing the Night Away
They wrapped up the evening with a choreographed dance, tear-jerking speeches, endless laughter, and a dance party that rocked the night away. Their friends were a blast, making for some priceless dance shots (which you don’t always get with smaller groups)! Finally, we snuck outside for some nighttime photos, capturing more dance moves with the pool’s glow, adding a fun pop of blue to the final portraits.
Newlywed Honeymoon Photoshoot in Cancun
The next day, we hit the beach for a post-wedding shoot! Despite the humidity fogging up my lens, the session was perfect. Sarah’s dress was the cutest, and chatting about their favorite wedding moments was such a treat. I feel so honored to have captured this incredible Cancun wedding. Here’s to many more adventures like Sarah and Joe’s!
3 Reasons to Pass on the Resort’s Photography Package & Book Your Own
Planning a destination wedding? Before you settle for the resort’s limited photography services, let’s talk about why hiring a local wedding photographer is the game-changer your big day deserves.
Tailored Experience
With your chosen professional, you’ll get a photographer who listens. I’ll work closely with you to understand your style and vision. Resort photographers often juggle multiple weddings, which can lead to a one-size-fits-all approach.
More Bang for Your Buck
Sure, the resort package might seem like a good deal. But remember, with a local photographer, you can negotiate packages that fit your needs. Want more than a couple of hours of coverage or a specific photography style? Are you hoping to document the post-arrival dinner, full wedding day, and a day-after photoshoot like Sarah and Joe? Capture your wedding experience just as you would if you were home in the States.
No Language Barriers
Reverse the roles for a second. Imagine you had to try to capture all the nuances of a wedding day for a couple and their family from another country. You may feel a little lost on how to capture their customs and traditions best. Since you can’t speak their language, you’re stuck doing your best with what you have. All that to say, language can be a hurdle in some destinations. A photographer from your area may better understand your vision, style, and personality.
Advanced Planning & Established Rapport
Booking your own photographer means you can discuss your needs and expectations well in advance. This direct line of communication can lead to a more seamless, stress-free experience on your big day, as opposed to meeting your photographer on your wedding day. Plus, building a personal connection with your photographer is easier when you choose someone local. We can meet beforehand for an engagement and/or bridal session and discuss your preferences so you feel comfortable on your big day.
So, while the resort’s photographer might seem like the easy choice, booking someone you know and trust offers a personalized and memorable experience that’s worth every penny. Say “I do” to a photographer who truly gets you and the stunning destination you’ve chosen to celebrate your love!
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