Quincey and Stuart pulled out all the stops for their unforgettable wedding at Sandos Playacar in Playa del Carmen this past November, and we were there to capture every moment! The day kicked off with Stuart getting ready in his suite, surrounded by his groomsmen in the lush garden area. The vibe? Pure camaraderie and laughter, with some seriously stylish shots amidst the greenery.
Meanwhile, Quincey was having the time of her life getting ready with her bridesmaids in her room. Think champagne popping, laughter echoing through the room, and the kind of energy that screams “let’s do this!” The bridal suite buzzed with excitement, and the photos turned out as lively and joyful as the moment itself.
The ceremony? A stunning beachfront affair, where the gentle sound of waves set the perfect backdrop for Quincey and Stuart’s “I dos.”
After the heartfelt vows, guests were treated to cocktails in the garden area, surrounded by tropical foliage that gave the whole event a cozy, intimate feel. The reception kept the party going in the same garden spot, complete with an open-air dance floor where everyone let loose.
From the first look to the final dance, Quincey and Stuart’s wedding was filled with joy, love, and the kind of moments that make us love what we do. Scroll through to catch some of the highlights from their day – you’ll feel the magic that made this wedding one for the books.
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Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Sandos Playacar?
Yes! You are absolutely welcome to bring me in as an outside vendor. The resort does require an outside vendor fee, but if you book me as a guest for a minimum of 3 nights, that fee is usually waived. I highly recommend hiring a dedicated photographer because I am already familiar with the specific vendor policies here and know how to navigate the resort’s logistics to ensure a seamless experience on your big day.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the resort?
The resort is uniquely laid out—stretching from the quiet Hacienda section to the lively Beach area—but I know exactly where to take you for the most stunning backdrops. Whether it’s the lush tropical greenery along the winding paths, the expansive white sands that Playacar is famous for (the widest in the region), or the charming colonial-style architecture near the main plaza, I know where the hidden gems are. This ensures we get a huge variety of looks without wasting your precious time wandering the property.
Does the resort package include photography services?
While some Sandos packages include basic photography, it is often limited regarding hours and image count. My clients usually prefer hiring me independently to ensure full-day coverage—capturing everything from your getting-ready moments to the late-night reception party. When you work with me, I guarantee a consistent artistic style and a personal connection that goes far beyond the standard resort offerings.
How do we handle transportation for photos on such a large property?
Because Sandos Playacar is a long property, walking from the lobby to the ocean in wedding attire can be exhausting. I prioritize your comfort by coordinating golf cart transportation with the concierge ahead of time. My logistical experience here allows us to zip between the garden gazebo and the secluded beach spots quickly, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos in Playa del Carmen?
Lighting is everything in the Riviera Maya. The mid-day sun can be incredibly harsh, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. I will help you build your wedding timeline to take full advantage of this soft light, ensuring your oceanfront photos look dreamy rather than overexposed, while perfectly timing the transition from your ceremony to the reception.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Sandos Playacar?
It is important to remember that on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, the sun rises over the ocean and sets over the jungle side. I will schedule our couple’s session to capture the stunning soft light of the “Golden Hour” on the expansive white sands, but if you truly want the sun coming up directly over the water, I might suggest a “First Look” session at sunrise. For the evening, I will position you to catch the beautiful pastel colors filling the sky behind the palm trees and resort gardens.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the things I love about this resort is its charming Hacienda-style architecture. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best indoor locations, such as the colorful covered walkways in the Hacienda section, the spacious lobbies, or the covered areas around the Gran Plaza that offer natural light without the rain. These backup spots ensure I can keep your gallery vibrant and varied regardless of the weather.
Is Sandos Playacar suitable for large weddings?
Absolutely. Sandos Playacar boasts one of the widest and most expansive stretches of beach in Playa del Carmen, making it perfect for large ceremonies and receptions directly on the sand without feeling crowded. I am well-versed in managing larger groups in this setting, understanding how to utilize the vast shoreline for wide-angle shots and how to navigate the reception areas to capture every toast and dance move perfectly.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Because the resort is a popular family vacation spot, the main pools and the beach club can be energetic. However, I know several secluded spots, particularly within the lush gardens of the Hacienda section or the quieter pathways near the Select Club adults-only area. As your photographer, I scout these secluded locations beforehand to ensure your intimate first look remains private and free of bystanders in the background.
Do we need a second shooter for a Sandos Playacar wedding?
Given the layout of the property—which is quite long and often requires a shuttle to get from the Hacienda rooms near the lobby down to the ceremony sites on the beach—I highly recommend a second shooter. While I am with the bride, my second photographer can cover the groom getting ready in a different section or manage the logistics of the ceremony setup. Working with a team ensures that we don’t miss a single moment while navigating between the lobby area and the oceanfront.