Brandy and José’s Isla Verde celebration at Courtyard Marriott

I arrived at Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde without many expectations and with all the curiosity in the world. Brandy and José were hands off in the best way. They trusted their vendor team and wanted a day that felt effortless and warm. From the first hello, I could feel it in the air. An easy laugh here. A calm timeline there. The kind of energy that tells me we are about to have a very good day.

We kept the focus on people more than things. Their gallery is full of hugs, happy tears, and the kind of dancing that makes your feet sore in the best way. The design still deserves a moment. Peach and pink and tropical greens. Tall arrangements by Lorraine’s Flowers. A ceremony framed by palms and ocean. The ballroom at Las Brisas glowing while the sun slipped into the sea. It looked like Puerto Rico and it felt like home.

Getting ready with time to breathe

Both of them got ready on site, which gave us a relaxed start and a tidy timeline. Everything ran so smoothly that we began portraits a full hour ahead of plan. We wandered through the courtyard and then into the newly refreshed lobby. I was thrilled to photograph that space right after its remodel and it was the perfect contrast to the beach. Brandy surprised me with three bridal looks. A sleek silhouette for the vows. A princess overskirt that turned her gown into a ballgown for portraits. A sparkly mini with fluffy loafers for the party. José looked timeless in a classic tux.

Ceremony by the water in Isla Verde

Their ceremony was short and heartfelt with the ocean as witness. Guests from Alabama, Florida, and across Puerto Rico gathered under soft light. We kept family photos quick and kind, then stole a few golden hour minutes by the beach. This is one of those moments I love as a Puerto Rico wedding photographer. The light is low. The breeze is gentle. It is easy to forget the camera and just be together.

A reception that never slowed down

The party was pure joy. Conga lines. Dance offs. Everyone singing. The batucada arrived with zancudos and the dance floor lit up again. There was never a dull moment. I love when a destination wedding in Puerto Rico becomes a little tour of our music. Salsa for the first dance. Batucada beats for the crowd. Pop anthems and classics so everyone can jump in. It is why I call this one of my favorite weddings of the year.

Why this Caribbean destination wedding worked so well

They chose Puerto Rico for love and family, and designed a celebration that let their guests experience the island. Led by Ariadne from KAZ Events, they also booked an amazing expert vendor team that has worked together many times and has extensive experience in destination weddings in the Caribbean and Puerto Rico.

We kept logistics simple with everything at one resort in Isla Verde. We planned portraits with light in mind. We built a timeline around people before details. That balance let me tell their story with intention and gave them space to be present.

Courtyard Marriott Isla Verde is a strong option for couples who want a beachfront ceremony with convenient travel, room blocks, and an easy flow between spaces. Isla Verde sits close to the airport and Old San Juan, which makes it great for destination weddings in Puerto Rico. If you are comparing Puerto Rico wedding venues or beach wedding venues in Isla Verde, walk the outdoor ceremony lawn at sunset and peek into Las Brisas after dark to see the vibe you will get in your photos.

xo,

Cami