I met Monica in my last high school year; she was a friend of a friend. Although we only had a few interactions before college life happened, I clearly remember her charming presence and friendliness toward everyone.

Fast-forward a decade—and then some—and I get an inquiry: Monica is getting married! Since she and her beloved Frank live away from Puerto Rico, our initial consultation happened over Facetime.

I could see all that cuteness I remember, this time multiplied by two: Monica had found her perfect match!

We met in the early stages of their wedding planning; they had just booked the gorgeous Condado Vanderbilt as their venue. So, I could see their wedding plans come together from the beginning.

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel: Wedding Rehearsal and Welcome Cocktails

I attended their rehearsal dinner two days before their wedding at Tacos y Tequila Restaurant, located at the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel.

This helped me get acquainted with their family and guests before their wedding day.

Photographing the rehearsal dinner or welcome cocktail makes my job more manageable on the wedding day. Especially at the arrival: since we've already met, we avoid the awkwardness of walking around confusing moms with bridesmaids. #truestory

Condado Vanderbilt Hotel Wedding Day Photography

Monica and Frank booked me for the full coverage option, so I arrived a bit earlier and stayed for a little longer than usual. This enhanced their wedding photography experience, eliminating the pressure or rush one could expect from such an intense day.

I first arrived at Monica's suite, where I photographed all their day's items, accessories, and symbols. She was accompanied by her bridesmaids and her closest family at her suite.

Since everyone was ready early, we had the chance to do a big reveal of Monica, dressed up with her bridesmaids, and the same thing with her dad. 

Then, I visited Frank's suite next door. They were all dressed and ready, sharing some drinks outdoors on their terrace. After detail shots, groomsmen and solo portraits, and family photos, it was Frank's time to depart for the Ceremony.

At my request, he allowed me one last picture, a very emotional one: He would be standing at his suite's door, and Monica would be at hers. You could practically touch the excitement and emotions in that hallway.

Emotional Catholic Wedding Ceremony at Parroquia San Jorge, San Juan

After that photo, everyone left towards the Church, where a beautiful ceremony was celebrated. Monica and Frank were very present during this part, giggling, cuddling, and hugging each other. After the rituals, we did all the family and group formals before returning to Condado Vanderbilt for the newlywed photos and, eventually, the Reception.

Newlywed Photos and Reception at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel

I got there early to the grand ballroom of Condado Vanderbilt to photograph the beautiful yellow, white, and gold decor. The room, Patio del Fauno, looked stunning, with the sunset light coming through the big glass windows. The newlyweds arrived, so we moved around the hotel for their newlywed portraits.

The newlywed portraits are the moments I plan the least on the pre-wedding part of my job. I like to arrive at the wedding day without expectations and then use the day and the couple as inspiration instead of just recreating a set of photos on Pinterest.

Monica and Frank needed minimal direction: They were so sweet with each other that I just needed to lead them to the correct angle.

The cocktail hour ended, and we celebrated the night away with a great reception that wasn't missing anything. Great food, music, a coffee bar, a cigar station, La Hora Loca, and amazing people.

Thanks, Monica & Frank, for trusting me with your wedding memories; I'm so happy to close off a decade with your beautiful and extraordinary day.

xo,

Cami