In honor of Cinco de Mayo and their approaching one year anniversary, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to show Matt and Julie’s beautiful destination wedding last May in Playa del Carmen, Mexico! Matt and Julie live in Maine, but wanted to celebrate their love in their favorite place surrounded by their people. Julie has been visiting Mexico since she was young and wanted to honor those experiences by making Matt part of those traditions. Matt used to work with my husband, Ben, and asked if I would be interested in joining them south of the border to help tell their love story. Um, yes, obviously! Almost a year ago, Ben and I hopped on a plane with them and headed to the Panama Jack Resort. We joined Matt, Julie, and their amazing family and friends for a long weekend full of sunshine, love, and maybe more than a few poolside cocktails.

Matt and Julie opted to do a quick first look before their seaside ceremony on a sunny HOT and sunny afternoon. These two were so nervous and it was absolutely an honor to be able to capture them seeing each other in their wedding attire. Despite feeling so sweaty and sunburnt, these two owned that day and had such a blast. Their ceremony was absolutely perfect full of laughter, jokes, and just a few tears.

Their reception was perfect and laid back. Matt and Julie wanted to make sure the food was inspired by local flavors including some amazing salsas, guacamole, and a complete taco bar. (If you know me, I could live on tacos for the rest of my life) We were able to sneak away before the sun went down and catch some of the storm rolling in. The wind was literally my BFF that evening as it caught Julie’s dress in the most glorious way (see below) and made for the perfect end to their portraits. These two danced the night away with their friends and family breaking it down. Thank you, Matt and Julie, for letting me capture your most perfect day and letting us celebrate with you!