blue Caribbean beaches, jungle greens, shrimp tacos, Mezcal, and a celebration of D & N’s love.

I’ve had the pleasure of knowing D for the past 4 or 5 years now, ever since she modeled for me while I was interning at a photography company. This was the start of years of photo work together—D and I hit it off so well that whenever she wanted photos she would reach out, and I would happily agree (she is not only beautiful inside, but model gorgeous out, and always a fun time!) This was in my editorial portrait era so we did a couple of those and at this time, D was single and I remember her talking about how she hasn’t found her right match just yet. Next was a cute picnic session for her best friends birthday (this time the updates included stories about a boy…N had entered the picture). D & N had met at work and hit it off—suddenly D was no longer inquiring about portrait sessions, but couples sessions for their Christmas card (including her two cats as well, of course). Another year or so later — I was photographing their engagement session at the top of Smith Tower in Seattle, and just a few months after that—found myself flying to Tulum to document their freaking wedding!!!

the welcome party & mehndi— HOTEL PANAMERA

the welcome party was hosted at Hotel Panamera along the beach in Tulum. With D being Indian and N being American, they wanted to make sure to incorporate elements of both cultures' wedding traditions into their celebrations. The guests were all encouraged to wear traditional Indian wedding attire, making the dance floor a swirling sea of vibrant color and ornate beading and embroidery. D wore the traditional bridal red (and looked amazing doing so) and they had a table full of bangles, bracelets, and bindis as party favors. This being a Mehndi ceremony, they had Loto Mehndi come and draw henna designs on anyone who wanted them. Family and friends laughed, chatted, and admired each others' outfits while getting works of art drawn on their hands and sipping smoky Mezcalitas (a Tulum staple). The decor -- artfully done by House of Tales -- included bright oranges, yellows, and soft pinks which perfectly complemented the cool blues and greens of the jungle foliage and Caribbean sea and sky, while blending perfectly with the vibrant outfits worn by guests.

getting ready, friends, and family—

bride and groom—

my favorite part of the evening - the DANCES. the bridal parties as well as the bride's family all prepared and performed dances for each other. it was so fun, and the guys had me absolutely dying.

next were speeches, which always get me. I WILL 9/10 times be crying behind my camera. these are always one of my highlights of wedding days and I always feel so honored to hear these stories and memories so full of love.

and finally, everyone finished the night with a whole lot of dancing. oceanside, dancing in the sand under a disco ball being cooled off by the perfect ocean breeze with everyone you love most. what could possibly be better?

altogether the night was a perfect fusion of cultures, surrounded by the best company and the best views you could dream up. but, like all good things, the night eventually had to come to an end so everyone could rest up for the wedding the next day (hydration and vitamin IV's at the ready the next morning).

stay tuned to see and hear about the following day, the star of the show!! a new bombshell has entered the villa and her name is Kima Tulum (the most gorgeous venue ever). okay thank you for reading and looking! so much love! thank you for letting me do what i love!

anna <3

D & N Tulum DESTINATION WEDDING — THE WELCOME PARTY