Summer weddings in Puerto Rico are genuinely magical. The sun-kissed beaches, the gentle rustling of the palms, and the allure of the azure Caribbean Sea make for a picturesque backdrop. But, as with most things in life, summer weddings in Puerto Rico come with their own challenges – namely, the relentless summer heat. On such a scorching but beautiful, but scorching July day, I had the pleasure of capturing Lilian & Juan's wedding day at the Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde Resort.

An Intimate, Small Beach Wedding in Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde, Puerto Rico

From the onset, it was clear that Lilian & Juan wanted an intimate, hands-off wedding experience. With the joys and demands of parenthood - their little girl being the apple of their eye - they were more than happy to entrust their big day to the experts. They assembled a top-notch vendor team that seamlessly took the reins, ensuring everything was perfect.

The day commenced at the Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde. Lilian was accompanied by her darling daughter, mother, in-laws, and a handful of her closest friends during the getting-ready phase. These moments were pure and raw, filled with excitement, nervousness, and overwhelming emotion.

Tips for Planning a Summer Wedding in the Caribbean

Now, for those considering an outdoor wedding in Puerto Rico, especially amid summer, here are a couple of pro tips for dealing with the heat:

1. Beat the Heat: Summer in Puerto Rico is sweltering. To ensure the comfort of your guests (and yourselves!), consider scheduling your ceremony closer to sunset. This minimizes the chances of overheating and provides a stunning golden-hour glow for your photos.

2. Hydrate and Refresh: Always have cooling stations with cold beverages and perhaps fans or parasols to shield guests from the sun.

3. Have a Plan B: Rain makes the Caribbean beautiful and lush green, and especially during the summer, it likes to make an uninvited appearance at many weddings. Here's an article about planning a wedding on Hurricane Season for you.

Lilian & Juan's ceremony was the best example of simplicity and intimacy. Held on the beachfront lawn to the east of the Courtyard Marriott, it felt like they were in their own private haven, even though it was a public beach, as all beaches in Puerto Rico are. The waves gently lapped the shore, and the balmy sea breeze added a touch of serenity.

Post-ceremony, the guests were treated to a refreshing cocktail session at the same spot. Meanwhile, the newlyweds and I approached the pristine sandy beach, capturing their newlywed glow against the breathtaking coastal backdrop. We soon regrouped for the family and group formals. Afterward, I headed to the rooftop terrace venue, Las Brisas, to capture the exquisite wedding decor.

Rooftop Wedding Reception at Las Brisas, Marriott Courtyard San Juan

The night was young, and the rooftop came alive as the couple and their guests rejoined. Toasts were raised, dances twirled, and the festivities went on, celebrating the love and union of Lilian & Juan.

In the end, it wasn't just about the beautiful setting or the meticulous planning; it was about two souls coming together, surrounded by those they hold dear, marking the beginning of their forever journey.

xo,

Cami