Ever since I arrived at Hacienda Azucena for Ana and Gus’s wedding, I knew it would be one of those days that stay in my heart forever. Surrounded by the lush greenery of Río Grande, this beautiful rainforest wedding venue in Puerto Rico felt like a world away from everything, the perfect setting for a laid-back and deeply emotional celebration.

From our first emails, I could tell they were an easygoing couple. They didn’t overthink the details and were happy to go with the flow throughout our planning and consultation process. That same calm energy set the tone for the entire day, which unfolded with tenderness, humor, and small moments that said so much about their love.

A Laid-Back Destination Wedding at Hacienda Azucena

Hacienda Azucena is a private estate tucked into the mountains of Río Grande, overlooking the rainforest canopy all the way to the ocean. It’s one of my favorite wedding venues in Puerto Rico because it already looks magical without much decoration. The lush surroundings, terracotta architecture, and panoramic views make it perfect for small and intimate destination weddings.

Ana and Gus planned a three-hour celebration that reflected what mattered most to them: being present with the people they love. It was simple, beautiful, and completely stress-free.

Getting Ready at Hacienda Azucena

My day started in Gus’s suite, where he was struggling with his tie — a skill I still haven’t mastered myself. We both laughed about it before I went upstairs to greet Ana. In her room, there was another kind of challenge: the zipper on her dress refused to move. I dropped my cameras for a second to help her mom and sister, who were feeling the pre-ceremony nerves. Sometimes, all we need is to pause, breathe, and try again.

Once Ana was ready, I took a few portraits by the window. Her dress was light and effortless, perfect for a tropical wedding in Puerto Rico. Then it was time for the First Look, one of my favorite parts of any wedding day.

First Look and Rainforest Wedding Ceremony

The moment Ana and Gus saw each other, everything else faded away. The joy, the spark, the way they looked at one another — it all came together so naturally. Photographing them was effortless because their connection didn’t need any direction.

We did most of their portraits before the ceremony to make sure they could spend every moment afterward with their loved ones. The ceremony took place on the hacienda’s open terrace, surrounded by tropical trees and soft mountain air. It was intimate and personal, filled with happy tears and laughter echoing through the hills of Río Grande.

A Celebration with Mariachi Music and Heart

After the ceremony, we gathered for family portraits before heading to the reception area, where the sound of a mariachi band welcomed everyone. The performance honored Ana’s Mexican roots, and seeing her face light up as the first notes played was one of my favorite memories of the day.

As the sun dipped behind the mountains, the hacienda glowed with warm light and joy. It was one of those evenings that felt unhurried and full of meaning — the perfect ending to a short but unforgettable Hacienda Azucena wedding.

Why I Love Photographing at Hacienda Azucena

Every time I photograph at Hacienda Azucena Puerto Rico, I’m reminded why it’s such a special place for couples who love nature and tranquility. The views, the privacy, and the intimate atmosphere make it ideal for small rainforest weddings in Puerto Rico. The golden light hits the hills in a way that turns every portrait into something timeless.

Ana and Gus, I left your wedding with sore cheeks from smiling so much. I hope you always lead with the same tenderness and joy you showed that day.