Aimee and Erik's day was like a dream, beginning to end. Although simple in essence, a micro-wedding has all the same logistical challenges that a conventional big wedding has. This time, it was only for a tiny group of people, in smaller locations.
Getting Ready and First Look Session at El San Juan Resort
One of the couple's wedding-day priorities was photography, so their wedding day timeline was optimized for that purpose. My day started at Aimee's villa at El San Juan Resort. This was my first time visiting the resort after being closed for renovations, so I was pretty excited we would be doing a lot of portraits there.
Aimee's bridal look was everything. She looked stunning in her big, gorgeous dress, and the bouquet Maribel from Ribel+Co crafted for her was like from out of a magazine. After Aimee was ready, we quickly visited Erik's suite for his preparation before moving outdoors for their first look or reveal.
Having never even seen them before, I was getting to know Aimee & Erik on-camera, basically. I'd already decided they were pretty lovely and charming individuals. Still, the minute they joined each other on their reveal, their amazing personalities (and their smiles) multiplied times a thousand: they are a perfect match! After their exciting first look, we moved onto other shaded areas of the resort to get some wedding portraits and video footage before we moved on to their ceremony. I love this photo set!
Wedding Ceremony at El Morro Fortress
We made our way to one of the most iconic places in Puerto Rico, Castillo San Felipe del Morro in Old San Juan. This 16th Century landmark is property of the National Parks Service. Although it's mainly a tourist attraction, you can get a permit to host your event inside.
Aimee & Erik didn't have a particular setup or anything. They wanted this moment of their love story to join the countless memories that live between these walls. After the beautiful ceremony finished, we did family portraits. Then the family left for the reception, while we took some more newlywed photos. I love, love LOVE this set of pictures, Aimee and Erik look like a royal couple, and so in love.
Newlywed Photos at Condado Vanderbilt and Reception at Ola Beachfront Bistro
Then, we departed for our final stop of the day: Condado Vanderbilt Hotel. While Aimee and Erik enjoyed some one-on-one time with their guests, we quickly went into the Ola restaurant to photograph all details and decor before everyone went in. Then, we snatched the newlyweds for a few portraits around the hotel while their guests were settling in their seats.
The last moments of my shift were spent photographing candid toasts being made by Aimee and Erik's loved ones. The intimate and informal vibe of this event made everyone confident of holding a glass up and sharing some words of affirmation for the newlyweds. A perfect day, beginning to end if you ask me.
xo,
Cami
Puerto Rico Wedding Vendors for This Event
Wedding Photography: Weddings by Camille Fontanez
Getting Ready Venue: El San Juan Resort
Ceremony Venue: Castillo San Felipe del Morro
Reception Venue: Ola Ocean Front Bistro at Condado Vanderbilt Hotel
Wedding Cinema: Zura Films
Florist: Ribel+Co by Maribel Ramirez
Make-up & Style: Nicole Rodz
Bridal Look: Viero Bridal Las Vegas, Christian Louboutin
Officiant: Pablo Aymat, Ministros de Bodas Puerto Rico
Wedding Cake: Delighted by Yare
