When Joanna and Brandon decided to elope, they envisioned an intimate day alone—a Caribbean fairytale for two. Surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Villa Montana Beach Resort, their elopement embodied everything they love: simplicity, warmth, and each other. Villa Montana offers an idyllic setting with pristine beaches, tropical greenery, and all-inclusive elopement packages for couples dreaming of a Puerto Rico elopement.

Meeting at the altar: Beachside Gazebo in Villa Montaña Beach Resort Elopement Ceremony

Opting to forgo a First Look session, Joanna and Brandon chose to meet at the altar, embracing the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time on their wedding day. It was a magical, heartwarming moment as their eyes met amidst the soft rustle of palm trees and the distant waves. There was no audience but the lush tropical surroundings, adding serene intimacy to their elopement ceremony. Their decision to elope at Villa Montaña Beach Resort allowed them the privacy and peace they wanted, capturing the essence of a Puerto Rico elopement wedding—the two deeply connected in a place that felt like a dream.

As a photographer, my approach to capturing these moments involves guiding my couples toward a natural rhythm, blending gentle posing with prompts to help them stay in the moment. For Joanna and Brandon, it was easy to find that flow. Their chemistry was palpable, a quiet complicity that allowed them to be fully present with each other.

They laughed, held hands, and shared quiet conversations, their personalities complementing one another in every glance and gesture. Brandon's outgoing nature brought a sense of ease, while Joanna's calm presence grounded the day in a heartfelt connection.

Polaroid Wedding Photogaphy

Instant Polaroid photographs were a sweet touch to their day, which I carried around to help them capture memories in real-time. For Joanna, who has a passion for photography, these little snapshots created a tangible keepsake—a reminder of their wedding day's fleeting but beautiful moments.

It was a joy to contribute to her collection of instant memories, each polaroid adding a layer of nostalgia and joy to their Villa Montaña Beach Resort elopement.

A Private Elopement Dinner by the Sea

After their ceremony, Joanna and Brandon enjoyed a quiet dinner by the ocean, a meal shared just between them in the soft glow of twilight. I respectfully gave them space, letting them savor the intimacy of the moment without the presence of a camera.

From a distance, I watched as they shared laughter and conversation, toasting to the start of their married life. Their Puerto Rico elopement at Villa Montaña was capped off with this private dinner by the sea, an experience made even more memorable by the resort's offerings, from décor to dinner, making it feel like an all-inclusive escape.

The Art of Timing and Light: Planning an Elopement Timeline

Planning a perfect timeline is essential for outdoor weddings in Puerto Rico, especially when working with natural light. Sunset time holds special significance for me as their photographer, allowing us to make the most of that golden glow that brings out the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Every corner of Villa Montaña Beach Resort provided an ideal backdrop as we moved wherever the light felt just right. This attention to timing and lighting made the day seamless and captured the essence of a Puerto Rico elopement wedding at one of the island's most picturesque locations.

Words of Advice for Future Elopers

My best advice as a seasoned wedding and elopement photographer would be to plan a timeline, pick the right time and date for an outdoor elopement in Puerto Rico, and get great vendors on your team. Choosing venues like Villa Montaña Beach Resort that offer all-inclusive elopement packages with officiants, dinner, décor, and sometimes even cake—a perfect option for couples dreaming of a stress-free, memorable elopement.

For those wondering how much it costs to elope in Puerto Rico, all-inclusive packages like these can provide a clearer understanding of budgeting for a day that reflects the couple's style.

Joanna and Brandon's elopement was a testament to simplicity and connection, showing that the most memorable weddings celebrate love in its purest form. It was a joy to witness and capture their day, knowing that these images will forever hold the beauty of their connection and the magic of Puerto Rico.

xo,

Cami