When mature couples plan a wedding, priorities are different than for a couple in their 20s. Many have married before and done the big wedding, but would do it again. Some chose to keep it simple this time around: not an extensive guest list, not a big budget, and many even opt out of making a day out of it.

Desiree and Arcadio didn't want to impose a trip in the middle of a pandemic on their families, so they had an elegant elopement in Old San Juan. However, they did want to make it memorable, so they dressed up, hired a florist, a make-up artist, and a photographer. And we made a day out of it!

Getting ready and first looks at Hotel El Convento

On their hot summer wedding day, I arrived at Hotel el Convento, where a friendly Arcadio greeted me in the lobby. As expected, he was not allowed in their suite while Desiree prepared, but he took me to meet her. 

A calm Desiree smiled at me while her H&M artist finished the last touches, and I started photographing all those little details: the beautiful pink and red florals, the rings, and the shoes. Then I helped her put on her sparkly wedding gown, which I LOVED! The sparkles on her fair skin and its contrast with her black hair and red lips looked incredible! 

Once she was ready and we finished her close-up bridal portraits, I went outside with Arcadio for some groom portraits as well. He had an ivory dinner jacket and black tuxedo pants and shoes. They both looked so elegant and classy; my heart couldn't handle it! After his portraits, Desiree came to surprise him; they were so excited! After a short set of photographs, we headed out to Bastion de San Agustin, where Aida, their officiant, was waiting for us. 

Elegant elopement photography by the fort walls of Old San Juan

They got married under the iconic tree of the Bastion that overlooks the ocean. Us and the cats from Save A Gato were the only witnesses, so my assistant and I signed on their certificate, and we celebrated with photos! 

We did some portraits by the walls, and then we did a short walk back downtown. We stopped everywhere we liked, capturing candids and casual portraits showcasing the old town's beauty and the gorgeous couple's love. 

A reception for two at Hotel Palacio Provincial

Our final destination was El Convento's sister hotel: Hotel Palacio Provincial, where the couple celebrated with champagne, cake, and dinner after we left. 

It felt like just a simple walk around town, but I loved the intentional attention to detail that made this day memorable for both the couple and us vendors working with them. 

Congrats to the newlyweds, and I hope every day of your married life together is as delightful as the first one!

xo,

Cami