If you're dreaming of a destination wedding that combines tropical vibes, ocean breezes, and unforgettable moments with your closest friends and family, look no further than Aruba. I recently had the pleasure of photographing Alex and Jason's vibrant and love-filled wedding at Passions on the Beach, and let me tell you—it was a celebration for the books!
From intimate family moments to wild dance parties under the stars, their wedding perfectly captured what it means to celebrate love in paradise. Let me take you through their incredible wedding weekend and inspire you to consider Aruba for your own destination wedding.
Day One: Kicking Off the Wedding Weekend with Family and Friends
Alex and Jason knew they wanted more than just a single day to celebrate their love. They wanted a weekend packed with laughter, memories, and meaningful moments. So, when their closest friends and family flew to Aruba, the festivities began immediately.
Our first day started with a laid-back afternoon at their gorgeous Airbnb, where everyone gathered for a swim. The poolside vibes were relaxed and fun, with tropical drinks in hand and music playing in the background. The poolside vibes were relaxed and fun, with tropical drinks in hand and music playing in the background as Alex and Jason's closest friends enjoyed the afternoon. Later, we all headed to a local restaurant for drinks and dinner to officially kick off the weekend. This is where I met Alex's warm and welcoming Russian family, and I was able to connect with them on another level—sharing jokes and stories in Russian, which made capturing those candid moments even more special. This intimate gathering was filled with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and the unmistakable excitement of the big day ahead.
The Big Day: Getting Ready with a View
The wedding day began with an energy that was both calm and electric. Alex and Jason chose to get ready at their Airbnb, surrounded by their closest friends. Alex, downstairs, was pampered by the talented team at Hair and Makeup Aruba, who gave her a stunning yet natural look perfect for a beach wedding.
Meanwhile, Jason and his friends kept the mood light in another section of the house, joking around and helping each other get dressed. I took this time to capture some breathtaking detail shots—from the elegant simplicity of Alex's dress to the beachy accents around the house. And let me tell you, it was sooo windy! I had to get creative to capture Alex's dress without it blowing away!
A First Look to Remember
Alex and Jason opted for a first look on the rooftop of their Airbnb—a moment that was as intimate as it was picturesque. They stood back to back, anticipation buzzing in the air. When they turned to see each other for the first time, it was pure magic. They immediately started playfully teasing each other with lighthearted jabs and jokes, perfectly reflecting their fun-loving bond. Yet, beneath the humor, there was a sweetness in the way they looked at each other that spoke volumes.
The rooftop setting gave us stunning views of the island, and the breeze added a whimsical touch to their portraits. These moments were effortlessly fun and set the tone for the rest of the day.
Saying "I Do" Beneath the Fofoti Tree
The ceremony was held near the iconic Fofoti tree, offering panoramic views of the sparkling Caribbean waters and sailboats drifting by. The setting was straight out of a postcard. Alex and Jason exchanged vows surrounded by their closest friends and family, with the sound of waves gently crashing in the background.
Their medium-sized wedding felt incredibly intimate, with every guest deeply connected to the couple. It was a heartfelt ceremony, filled with meaningful words, laughter, and joyful moments.
A Reception Full of Love and Laughter at Passions on the Beach
The reception at Passions on the Beach was an absolute dream. The evening was filled with heartfelt toasts and hilarious stories—each one reminding everyone how deeply Alex and Jason's loved ones cared for them. The bond between every guest was so strong, making the celebration even more special.
After a delicious dinner, the dance floor came alive. Everyone let loose, dancing barefoot in the sand and on the Passions on the Beach dancefloor with drinks in hand. One of my favorite moments was when Alex and Jason cut their incredible sandcastle-inspired cake, crafted by the amazing Cesar Cakes. It was not only a stunning cake but also a perfect fit for their beach-themed celebration.
Later in the evening, the guys gathered for a classic cigar session—the ultimate "dudes being dudes" moment. We got some incredible shots of them laughing and enjoying each other's company. Not to be outdone, Alex had a wild idea and declared, "Screw it, I’m going to trash the dress!" She and Jason ran straight into the ocean, and soon after, their friends joined them. It was the perfect, carefree ending to a magical night.
Why a Destination Wedding May Be the Right Choice for You
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but destination weddings offer something uniquely special. Here's why you should consider saying "I do" in paradise:
- Built-in Intimacy: Destination weddings naturally create a more intimate guest list, ensuring you're surrounded by the people who matter most.
- Extended Celebration: Why limit your wedding to one day? Make it a weekend (or longer) filled with fun activities, bonding, and unforgettable memories.
- Breathtaking Backdrops: Whether it's Aruba's crystal-clear waters or lush landscapes, destination weddings provide stunning natural scenery that elevates every photo and moment.
- Less Stress: Many resorts and venues offer all-inclusive wedding packages that take the stress out of planning.
- Adventure: Starting your marriage with an adventure sets the tone for a lifetime of exciting experiences together.
Curious about how to plan your own destination wedding? Check out this helpful guide on Aruba Wedding Legalities to get started!
Ready to Capture Your Destination Wedding?
Alex and Jason's Aruba wedding was more than just a celebration—it was an experience filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. If you're dreaming of a destination wedding that captures the essence of who you are as a couple, I'd love to help bring that vision to life.
As a Seattle wedding photographer with a passion for capturing destination weddings, I know how to tell your story in a way that's authentic, beautiful, and true to you. Whether you're tying the knot on a sun-drenched beach or a misty mountain in the Pacific Northwest, I'm here to make sure every moment is unforgettable.
Let's start planning your perfect day. Reach out here to inquire about destination wedding photography!
