There are weddings—and then there are unforgettable experiences. Chandler and Max’s wedding at the Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort was exactly that: a perfect blend of elegance, emotion, and celebration in paradise.

Planned to perfection by Amare Weddings Aruba, led by the incredibly talented Nicole, this destination wedding brought together over 80 of their closest family and friends to witness love unfold on the shores of Aruba. As a destination wedding photographer, it was an honor to document every intentional moment, from laughter-filled getting-ready photos to emotional first looks and a vibrant dance floor celebration.

Getting Ready Moments: From Beers to Champagne

The day began with Max’s getting ready session, where I focused on capturing the fine details: his polished shoes, timeless watch, elegant wedding bands, and custom suit. In one of my favorite sequences, Max’s father helped him into his suit while the father of the bride and best man shared beers in celebration. These candid, behind-the-scenes moments always set the tone for the day ahead.

Next, we moved to the Presidential Suite at the Hyatt Regency Aruba, where Chandler was surrounded by her closest friends. Her bridal details were beautifully curated: the invitation suite, florals, and her wedding dress—which I displayed against the suite’s stunning floor-to-ceiling window. One highlight? The bridesmaids gathered in bed, champagne in hand, celebrating their bride with laughter and love. Chandler’s mom helped her into her dress, creating another intimate, tear-filled memory.

An Emotional Double First Look

We staged the Father-Daughter First Look just outside the ballroom staircase at the Hyatt. Chandler descended the stairs while her dad waited below with his back turned. When he turned around to see his daughter in her gown for the first time, there wasn’t a dry eye in sight.

Immediately after, we moved into the lush garden space of the Hyatt Regency Resort Aruba for the First Look between Chandler and Max. That moment—raw, genuine, and full of tears—was one of the most heartfelt I’ve ever photographed. We followed this with stunning bride and groom portraits, making the most of Aruba’s soft golden light.

The Ceremony: Intimate, Elegant, and Elevated

Set against the backdrop of the Caribbean Sea, the ceremony was beautifully decorated by Perfect Team Event Planner. Guests gathered in an elegantly arranged garden setting, featuring wooden chairs and soft rose accents. A drone flew overhead capturing aerial shots of the ceremony and, after Chandler and Max said “I do,” we gathered all 80+ guests for a group drone photo—a fun and meaningful memory that showcased the joy of the entire wedding party.

Cocktail Hour on the Lawn + A Cigar Moment to Remember

As the sun began to set, the guests transitioned to the Hyatt Regency’s lawn area for cocktail hour and the reception. I captured stunning detail shots of the rustic wooden chairs, romantic roses on the tables, and even a cozy cigar lounge where Chandler’s 99-year-old grandfather enjoyed a celebratory smoke—an unforgettable image in itself.

The bride and groom stole a few moments away for sunset portraits, and those golden-hour images are some of my favorites from the day—romantic, dreamy, and so full of emotion.

Reception Under the Stars: Speeches, Dances, and Celebration

With string lights twinkling above, Chandler and Max made their grand entrance onto the lawn. Their first dance was followed by a touching father-daughter dance and an emotional mother-son moment.

Between courses, heartfelt speeches were shared by the best man, maid of honor (who also happens to be Chandler’s sister), and Chandler’s father. These speeches had the whole crowd laughing and tearing up—exactly the kind of real, unscripted moments I love to capture.

Then came the party—and they danced the night away under the stars, closing out a perfect destination wedding in Aruba.

Vendor Dream Team

• Venue: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort
• Wedding Planner: Amare Weddings Aruba – Nicole
• Decoration & Floral Design: Perfect Team Event Planner
• Photography: Steven de Cuba – Aruba Wedding Photographer

Planning Your Wedding at the Hyatt Regency Aruba?

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Aruba, the Hyatt Regency Resort offers a breathtaking setting, versatile event spaces, and five-star service. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or an intimate affair, I’d love to help you tell your story through timeless, elegant imagery.

Contact me today to learn more about wedding photography in Aruba or to inquire about my availability.