- 4 min read

Destination Wedding at Vidanta | Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico

Ashley & Elder

A Destination Wedding to Remember

Ashley and Elder could have never guessed a blind date more than 8 years ago, would lead to an amazing destination wedding in Mexico. I was honored to be selected to be their destination wedding photographer. As soon as I met them, I felt like we would make a great team!

The two decided on a destination wedding in Mexico after being tipped off to an incredible resort by Ashley's parents. It wasn't long before the couple hopped a plane to Puerto Vallarta to check it out and begin planning for the wedding.

When the day of the wedding came we feared there may be thunder storms but the day was absolutely beautiful! However, with temperatures being in the low 90's with high humidity those of us from Oregon were feeling the heat for sure. But I slapped on my sunscreen, grabbed a bottle of water and was ready to go! Today would be a fun one for sure and I was feeling inspired.

The cologne above (right) photographed in Ashley's Father's hands, is the exact same bottle of cologne he wore on his wedding day to her mother. He brought again to wear today as he watches Ashley get married. He shared the story with me just before he helped Elder with the final adjustments on his suite. It is a sweet moment to watch. One I know Ashley will be happy to be able to see later. That's one wonderful thing about getting ready photos, your future spouse will get to see special moments from the day, some involving their own family, that they weren't physically a part of.

The couple said "I do" surrounded by palm trees inside of the resorts Havana Moon Beach. Ashley's father walked her down the isle and her brother acted as ring bearer.

The wedding and reception were held in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico at the the River Maya. The River Maya is just one of six lavish resorts at the amazing and expansive Vidanta. The 300 acre property is also home to many restaurants and entertainment. In fact, they are currently building a Cirque du Soleil Theme Park.

When the couple returned from taking photos Ashley joined her Dad on the dance floor. Next up was Elder for their first dance as Husband and Wife. The sunset behind them over the Bahía de Banderas, as they danced to the song her parents did on their wedding day.

Watching these two together made me think back about how much they have probably shared in the last 8+ years. I remember them telling me the story about how they met. Ashley and Elder said it was a weird twist of fate. Ashley was asking her friend “hey does that guys your dating have any friends?” not moments later should that friends phone ring, with her date asking, "hey, do you have any friend?". Soon Ashley and Elder found themselves on a double date at Spirit Mountain Casino. They spent the day getting to know each other over the penny slots.

I was lucky enough to meet these two at the Portland Bridal Show. It is always great to get the opportunity to talk to people in person. After the wedding I asked Ashley and Elder if they would share a few mores about their experience working with me as their destination wedding photographer, this is what they had to say:

" I met Cambrae at the Portland bridal show and from that moment on, she was incredible to work with. I had no idea how to plan a wedding but she was one of the main key person to help my big day become a reality. When we first got together, she asks questions that I never thought about and really got to know who we are/what we like. She WANTED to know our preferences and was a pleasure to work with. Cambrae is professional but to this day I feel I could call her my friend because of the amazing work she does and the care she had for my entire wedding party. On my wedding day, Cambrae actually took over where needed, making my wedding feel flawless. She is more then just a photographer, if you are looking for someone, she is the only person I'd recommend!"

After the wedding Ashley and Elder ordered a beautiful set of personalized thank you cards on luxurious linen paper. They choose there favorite images from the wedding and added a personalized greeting thanking all their guests for their gifts, travel and support. What a perfect way to share your images and say thank you.