Enchanting Same-Sex Wedding at Hotel el Guajataca
After 15 years in the wedding photography business, I was thrilled about my first Hotel El Guajataca wedding with Kirstie and Jessie. The coastline in that area is one of my favorites, and it holds many beautiful memories.
When I arrived and met the two beautiful brides, dressed in striking all-black attire with rainbow hair and kittens photobombing our photos, I knew this beachfront setting would make for an incredible wedding photography gallery.
I didn't anticipate, though, the depth of emotion, connection, and energy I would experience on that decisive day, which created lasting bonds.
Capturing the Couple's Love Story
Kirstie and Jessie come from diverse backgrounds that have enriched their relationship. Jessie was born in Virginia and raised in Florida, with her mother hailing from Puerto Rico and her father from Argentina. Kirstie, on the other hand, was born and raised in Louisiana and has Cajun roots.
Their love story began in 2017 on the roller derby track when Kirstie's team traveled to Florida to play Jessie's team. Although they became Facebook friends, they only started talking years later when Jessie visited New Orleans. That visit sealed the deal; their connection grew stronger, and Jessie soon moved to New Orleans, making their relationship official.
Kirstie loves how caring and supportive Jessie is. Jessie loves how Kirstie feels like home to her.
A Proposal in Puerto Rico
In November 2022, during a trip to Puerto Rico for Jessie's birthday, Jessie proposed to Kirstie in a magical setting at an Airbnb in Naguabo, right in the middle of the El Yunque rainforest. Months later, during their engagement photoshoot, Kirstie returned the surprise by giving Jessie a ring.
Choosing Puerto Rico as their same-sex wedding destination felt like a full-circle moment. They always talked about going to a destination wedding, and the beauty of Puerto Rico compelled them to bring all their favorite people to experience it.
The Romantic Setting of Hotel el Guajataca
Nestled along the breathtaking coastline of Quebradillas, Hotel el Guajataca offers a serene and romantic setting for weddings.
The hotel's outdoor terrace, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, was the perfect spot for Kirstie and Jessie's first-look photos. Down by the coast, the couple celebrated their ceremony at a wooden pergola with direct access to the beach.
Then we went upstairs to the indoor ballroom, where the reception and dancing happened. The couple chose gold, black, and maroon as the color palette, which beautifully contrasted with the venue's natural beauty.
Planning the Perfect Same-Sex Wedding
My day with them began early in the afternoon. Both brides were getting ready in separate rooms, surrounded by their closest friends and family, ready to embark on the next chapter of their love story.
Planning a destination wedding can be daunting, but Kirstie and Jessie's meticulous planning made it feel effortless, even when their wedding day was not running smoothly.
A situation with the venue stirred Kirstie while she was getting ready. I assured her that, although things were beyond our immediate control, we would work hard to enjoy and seize the day in the best way possible.
One of the outdoor platforms provided a stunning beach-view backdrop for their first look. Before we started the first look session, I enlisted Jessie to help me pull Kirstie from her -understandable- frustration.
We spend too much time, energy, and money planning a wedding day. Even when things don't turn out perfectly (and they never really do), we must do everything we can to celebrate, enjoy, and make the most of a day that goes too fast.
During that first look session, the couple finally got to see each other, hug, and get excited about their upcoming celebration. After that intimate moment, I approached them to create gorgeous portraits in the area. Guests were already sitting by the ceremony area. When we got our cue, we went down to start the ceremony.
Heartfelt Ceremony and Joyous Reception
After the brief ceremony, group portraits captured the couple with their derby buddies, immediate families, officiant and wife, guests of honor, and parents.
After that, we separated from the crowd and walked down to the beach, where we had portraits on the gorgeous coast of Hotel El Guajataca. There, we took full advantage of the last moments of daylight for a romantic beach photoshoot. The soft light of the setting sun added a magical touch to their portraits, creating images they will cherish forever.
After we were finished, we moved upstairs to the reception. The couple and their guests enjoyed a night filled with laughter, dancing, and many heartfelt moments. My evening concluded with a final check-in with Kirstie and Jessie to ensure all their photography needs were met, wrapping up on a high note of happiness and satisfaction.
Throughout the day, it was evident that Kirstie and Jessie's love is deep and enduring. Their interactions were filled with tenderness, laughter, and a profound connection. Whether they shared a quiet moment during their first look or danced together at the reception, their joy and love for each other were palpable, inspiring everyone around them.
Thank you for letting me join in this moment.
xo,
Cami
For this event
Puerto Rico Wedding Vendors
Venue Hotel El Guajataca
Wedding Photographer Camille Fontz
Coordination Daniel De La Cruz for Decorations by Daisy
Decor Decorations by Daisy
Wedding Cake Beautiful Cakes
Music & DJ DJ Remy
Hair Tangles
Make-up Skin Boutique PR
Bridal Attire The Bridal Boutique by MaeMe