Friday, May 23, 2008

Costa Rica Wedding - Hilton Papagayo

Oh what a glorious day this was! I woke up to the chirping of birds at my window, iguanas and crabs walking around my patio and beautiful Hibiscus flowers blooming everywhere you looked! Costa Rica and the Hilton were an amazing backdrop for this beautiful wedding. Noelle started the morning at the spa for hair and makeup. The dressing area had the most beautiful light cascading through it and I was anxiously waiting for the last bit of makeup to be done so I could steal the bride and get these wonderful ethereal shots. She's makes cotton waffle ribbed robes look hot! And that's not easy!






We also had to get in some guy time ofcourse. Even though this day is all about the bride...we do have to give a little camera love to the men too. I thought this was the most adorable shot of David and his son, Devin.



The ceremony was short, sweet and oh so lovely! The aisles were lined with tiki torches and the seats were adorned with pink ribbon and delicate tropical flowers. The bride and groom both made a special committment to their children during the ceremony that was very sweet too.



And of course - no latin ceremony is complete without some sort of live musicians! The guitar players had arrived late for the ceremony that day and I almost had to have Brian, my boyfriend, play for the ceremony. The hotel staff were tracking down a guitar for him but then the musicians arrived just in time. That would have been an interesting twist!



After this shot we ditched the wedding party at the bar and headed off with the bride and groom for some steamy shots! I was a bit jealous though...sitting at the bar with a few dacquiries sounded really good at that moment - did I mention Costa Rica is a tad bit humid!



and on to the steamy shots! Here are a few of my favorites from the evening. Noelle and David really worked it for my lens!









This last shot is oh so sweet! Little did we know - there was a skunk like creature waiting to make his grand entrance in the middle of our shoot. I don't think I've ran any faster than I did when that creature came running into the lobby. It was like a cross between a skunk and a squirrel - I really don't know what it was! I must have looked rediculous jumping onto the lobby chairs!



Aside from our skunk encounter - the day went beautifully. Noelle and David - I can't thank you enough for including me in your celebration. I have really enjoyed getting to know you and your wonderful family over the past week and can't wait to reveal all of the images from the days.
After returning to California - I shot Noelle and David's Italian themed reception. I've got more great images of the couple from that so stay tuned!
Many thanks to Brynn, of Tropical Occasions, who was Noelle's wedding coordinator in Costa Rica. If any brides are thinking of getting married in Costa Rica - Brynn is a great resource. She moved to Costa Rica from the US 2 years ago and loves planning these destination weddings. Fabulous job Brynn!


2 comments:

Unknown said...

Beautiful work Carmen. I love them and I can't wait to see more!

mackyton said...

Now days it is must to have a photographer and a photo shoot for your wedding day. It is sort of a trend in today’s world. I even attend a wedding photography exhibition in one of the wedding venues recently and I was so much lured by the talent.