On April 14, 2025, I had the honour of photographing Julien & Josee’s wedding at the breathtaking Barcelo Maya resort in Riviera Maya, Mexico—and it was a first for me in more ways than one. Not only was it my first time capturing a destination wedding, but it was also the first time I photographed a family member's wedding, which made the entire experience feel extra meaningful and personal.
The day began at the Barcelo Maya Beach, where both the excitement and humidity hung in the air. Josee got ready with her bridal party and mom, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the room during her dress reveal—pure joy and love filled the space. I always say some of the most memorable moments happen before the ceremony, and this one was no exception.
Julien & Josee chose to do a first look in a secluded pathway on the resort grounds, lined with lush greenery that made it feel like we had stepped into a private jungle. The natural shade created perfect soft lighting, wrapping them in a quiet intimacy as they exchanged personal vows. Julien held back tears, and I had to hold back a few of my own behind the camera.
With a tight schedule, we had just 10 minutes for bride and groom portraits—but you’d never know it. These two had told me ahead of time that they feel awkward in front of the camera and usually don’t like photos of themselves. But I told them not to worry, to just focus on each other and ignore the lens unless I directed them to look—and they nailed it. Their natural chemistry and willingness to be present with one another made my job effortless. I guided them with a few light prompts, and the rest was just magic—every moment beautifully framed by the tropical landscape.
One of the highlights during our portrait session was practicing a dip-kiss Josee had dreamed of doing after the ceremony. She had mentioned it at the rehearsal but wasn’t sure how to pull it off. So we took a moment to try it out—framed by a giant leafy plant that caught my eye. When I sent her the sneak peeks the next day, she told me it was her favourite plant and that she’d been joking all week about wanting to take it home. Seeing it featured in one of her favourite photos made the moment all the more special.
We wrapped up wedding party portraits just in time to move to the Barcelo Maya Palace for the ceremony and reception. The ceremony took place under a white gazebo overlooking the ocean as the sun began to set—truly a postcard-perfect backdrop. The wedding party made their entrance with two friends handing out tequila shots (a perfect nod to Mexico!). Then, all 50 guests rose as Josee and her father made their emotional entrance. You could feel the love and support in the air.
They exchanged vows and performed a sand ceremony—a beautiful tradition symbolizing the blending of two lives or families. Each bottle of sand represented an individual, and as they poured their sand together, it became a visual reminder of the strength of their unity. After sealing their vows with a kiss, they climbed the steps above the ceremony space and recreated that practiced dip-kiss, this time with all of their guests in the background cheering them on. It was a picture-perfect moment—one I know they’ll treasure forever.
With the sun quickly setting, we took family portraits right at the ceremony site before heading into the reception. Heartfelt speeches followed—full of love, laughter, and a few more tears—and then the party truly began. Rather than having a traditional spotlight first dance, Julien & Josee invited all of their guests to join them on the dance floor. The result? A beautiful, spontaneous circle formed around them as they swayed together, surrounded by everyone who loves them. As their song ended, the circle turned into a conga line and the celebration was officially on.
This wedding was everything a destination wedding should be: intimate, emotional, joyful, and deeply personal. Being both their photographer and a part of the family made it all the more meaningful for me. Julien & Josee, thank you for trusting me to capture your love story. I’ll never forget this day, and I’m so grateful I got to witness it.
Let’s Tell Your Love Story, Wherever It Takes You
If you're planning a destination wedding and looking for a photographer to capture your day with a blend of candid moments and guided portraits, I’d love to chat! I’m currently waiving all photography fees for destination weddings in exchange for travel and accommodation, making it easier for you to bring someone you trust along to document your love story. Let’s connect and start planning something beautiful together.
