I might have to recommend all my couples get married at all inclusive resorts. It’s as fantastic as it sounds.

When I shot their downtown Austin engagement, I already knew these two would keep things interesting. We took a break and grabbed a drink at the bar in the W Hotel Austin. If I’m going to be shooting around my town, I will never say no to a little extra fun *(as long as I have a babysitter).

We then planned and chatted over the months leading to the big day and I was already ready to pack my bag. Then they mentioned that Dave should absolutely come with me on the trip to Mexico (especially since they already had the room there for me) and again, we said yes! Dave and I have always had a need for adventure so this fit in perfectly.

If you’re having a destination wedding, take a few ideas from this bride. Shelly created such unique gifts by putting in a lot of thought and personalization. Liquid IV packs, a mini pharmacy selection, sunscreen, and makeup remover wipes were all next to our initialed Yeti cups inside our custom beach bag!

Everyone was ready to get the weekend going… and yes, I went swimming in our giant Jacuzzi tub.

If you choose an all inclusive resort for your wedding, your family and guests literally have zero planning to do to have an amazing time. The rooftop pool at the Beach Palace was so relaxing, and if you wanted to go downstairs and walk out to the beach you could do that, too. We went for both. And tried absolutely ALL of the food at the hotel.

You can tell I was there to work hard, right?

Then came their family and friends dinner. Just look at those custom drink tags on the welcome drinks! Let me just remind everyone how wonderful it is to pick a wedding venue that has a great plan for moving things inside in case of rain. Everyone got to enjoy the outdoor terrace for the beginning of the party, then they moved everything inside (even the Photo Booth backdrop) for them when the rain came to try to threaten their good time.

Can you tell it worked? These guests look like they are having no fun at all.

There were toasts, stories, lots of laughs and a few happy tears. Tequila shots were handed out in these beautiful shot glasses that everyone got to keep… just one more thoughtful touch.

Now for the wedding day! If you don’t already know, if you have anyone needing hair and makeup done on your big day, you’ll be starting quite a few hours before ceremony time. Please plan on having food delivered and plenty of water to stay hydrated. This is one more area that the resort came in handy. Huge areas to get everyone all dolled up, and food being delivered to keep everyone full and happy!

The champagne started popping and I took both wedding parties up for some rooftop photos in the glorious wind. Give me all the weather changes, it keeps all my skies looking incredibly unique and I’m here for it.

Everyone was able to grab what they needed at the resort bar or restaurants and bring it right up to the ceremony. This is one time where I feel like photos don’t even do it justice. There are 360 views of the water from the roof and the guests couldn’t help but wander to the edges for photos.

Shelly & James chose to write their own vows, which I am always a fan of, and they did not disappoint. I get that vows are just between the two of you, but every person you invite to your wedding is there to help you remember your promises to each other. And that is one more thing I love that about weddings.

Look at this sunset… Can’t get much dreamier than being above the horizon for your portraits!

Last but not least, the reception. Not every wedding can start off with a sparkler entrance and sparklers for the first dance… but wouldn’t it be cool if they did?

And add all this confetti, too, please.

Hopefully you zoomed in and caught all the unique details. The Photo Booth with the draping glittery backdrop, the custom wedding logo on the wall, the GLOWING dance floor, and the fog machine are just a small look at what made this wedding one to use for inspiration.

Hope you guys loved it as much as we did! Huge thanks to my parents for watching Connor so we didn’t have to stress at all. Follow along for more weddings and behind the scenes!

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Wedding Venue: The All Inclusive Beach Palace Resort