When I tell you this celebration at Secrets Royal Beach in the Dominican Republic was an absolute dream… I mean it with my whole heart. These days together on the beach, soaking up the magical moments with the McKays were some of my favorite days yet as a St. Louis wedding photographer.
Riley and Morgan wanted to plan a tropical island getaway for their wedding celebration. They chose this beautiful resort for the backdrop, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. They invited their closest friends and family to come spend the week with them in this restful, stunning location while they ushered in the next season of their lives together. It was everything a laid-back, authentic-moment-oriented couple could dream of.
We started off their photography coverage with a sunset shoot on the beach with just the bride & groom, the night before the big day. The wind was a paid actor, and the golden hour lighting was nothing short of magnetic. These two were giving ‘cinematic love affair vibes’ in their neutral beachy outfits as we ran and played in the shoreline. And as a documentary focused photographer, I was here for it.
The next morning we all woke up at Secrets Royal Beach resort, and got the party started!
Riley got ready with all her bridesmaids in their suite, and their reaction to seeing her in her dress was SO fun. The girlhood in the room was palpable, and I just love those moments of feminine joy on a wedding day. Afterward, Riley met with Morgan on the lawn at the resort, for a first look.
Her off-the-shoulder wrap around dress, complimented with simple & elevated jewelry was every inch the quintessential timeless bride. Morgan’s emotional reaction spoke volumes to the authentic respect and admiration these two have for each other. He absolutely loved seeing his girl in her bride era.
But this wasn’t the first time he’d seen her as a bride! These two had eloped a year prior in St. Louis, and decided to wait until the timing was right for their Dominican Republic Destination wedding. I love when my couples follow the path and timeline that is right for them, and let their story unfold.
After the bride and groom’s first look on the lawn, it was time for the ceremony.
Secrets Royal Beach set up the most gorgeous outdoor ceremony for them. There was a draped arch with white roses, which punctuated the tropical beauty around them. My favorite moment was Morgan watched Riley walk down the aisle. His emotion was so honest and deep. You could just feel their love as they said “I Do”. It was a meaningful and relaxed ceremony. And, it was in the middle of the resort, so some of the hotel guests wandered to their balcony just to witness the moment quietly. The whole thing just felt so… real. And that vibe was just a dream to capture.
But after the quiet, meaningful moment? The party began! And boy, do Morgan and Riley know how to throw a party! And their friends showed up well bells on to participate! The dancing was wild, and the toasts were really special and sentimental. It was the perfect ending to the perfect week in paradise. Riley changed into a reception mini dress with an oversized bow, and danced the night away with her friends & family.
This wonderful day at Secrets Royal Beach was a perfect example of why I’m a destination wedding photographer. The authentic, deep and real moments were the focus on this day… and I loved every second.
Congratulations, Mr. And Mrs. McKay!
