Janelle & Jason’s Playful Beach Wedding at Marriott Stellaris Aruba
Wedding Date: February 28, 2025
Location: Beach Ceremony + Reception at the Adult Pool – Marriott Stellaris Aruba
Let’s talk about first dates, beers, and barefoot love on the beach
If you had to describe Janelle and Jason’s wedding day in two words, it would be this: natural joy. I’m talking barefoot in the sand, beers with the boys, sunshine kisses, and a dance party under the stars — all happening at one of the best Aruba beach wedding venues: the Marriott Stellaris.
You know what’s wild? Their first date was also on a beach. And now here they were, years later, saying “I do” on the very same kind of sand, just with a few more chairs, champagne, and a killer sunset. And yes, it was epic.
(PS: Thinking about a beach ceremony? Grab my free Wedding Timeline Guide to help you plan the perfect day around golden hour magic!)
Getting Ready: Beers, Best Friends & Big Laughs
We kicked off the day with Jason and his groomsmen, hanging out, suiting up, and doing what guys do best — cracking open a few cold ones and hyping up the groom with a good ol’ beer cheers in the lobby of the Marriott Stellaris.
Meanwhile, in the bridal suite, Janelle was the picture of calm excitement, surrounded by her mom, her closest friends, and the mother of the groom. There were laughs, tears (the happy kind!), and a ton of hairspray in the air. Classic.
First Look in the Garden — and Oh, Was It Worth It
Now listen — if you’re not sure whether to do a first look, let me tell you: this one was pure magic. Janelle and Jason saw each other for the first time in the lush garden at the Marriott Stellaris, and yep… cue the tears, the giggles, the “WOW, you look insane!” energy.
Thinking about doing a first look but still on the fence? I break it all down here in this blog post: Should You Do a First Look on Your Wedding Day?
Ceremony & Sunset Vibes on the Beach
The ceremony? Right on the sand.
The ocean breeze? Chef’s kiss.
The moment Janelle walked down the aisle with that Aruba sunlight glowing behind her? Unforgettable.
There’s something so raw and real about a beach wedding in Aruba. The sound of the waves, the laughter of your favorite people, and that “we’re really doing this” kind of energy? It’s unmatched.
We stayed on the beach after the ceremony for the cocktail hour (yes please, mojitos), and then took advantage of the golden hour for their sunset portraits. Let me just say: Aruba knows how to show off.
Party Time: Reception at the Adult Pool
When I say this crew knew how to throw a party… I mean dance-floor-on-fire, shots-passed-on-trays, “this is the best night of my life” kind of party.
The reception at the adult pool of the Marriott Stellaris Aruba was the perfect mix of elegance and energy. Think string lights, tropical cocktails, and the kind of dance moves you only break out when you’re officially married and barefoot in paradise.
From Snowmobiles to Sand
Here’s what makes Janelle and Jason so special: their love story started snowmobiling on their first date (seriously cool), and somehow ended with warm sand under their feet and the stars above.
Their wedding was a reflection of everything they are: playful, natural, deeply connected, and surrounded by love.
If you’re dreaming of your own destination wedding in Aruba, let this be your sign: You can have the beach, the party, the love story — and photos to remember it all.
Ready to start planning? I’m just a message away!
Planning Your Aruba Wedding?
Don’t forget to grab my Free Wedding Timeline Guide — it’s packed with real examples and tips to help you plan your ceremony, portraits, and reception around the best light and logistics (so you can stress less and dance more).
