Dreamy Destination Wedding at Sandals Ochi Resort, Jamaica
As an Atlanta-based destination wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing moments in some of the most beautiful locations across the globe. Yet, there’s something distinctively festive about Jamaica—its vibrant culture, breathtaking beaches, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people make it a perfect backdrop for saying "I do." Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph Bryana and Chris’ wedding at the stunning Sandals Ochi Resort in Jamaica, and I’m excited to share their story with you.
Intimate and Idyllic: The Perfect Setting
Bryana and Chris envisioned an intimate, fun, and unforgettable wedding experience. They invited a small group of close friends and family to join them in Jamaica so they could celebrate their way, surrounded by their nearest and dearest.
The Welcome Party
The festivities kicked off with a welcome party dinner. Held under the starry Jamaican sky and string lights, the evening was filled with laughter, delicious food, and anticipation for the day to come. It was a beautiful way for guests to mingle and settle into the relaxed, beachy wedding weekend vibe. (Of course, there were some sweet, tear-inducing toasts, too.)
Perks of Booking an All-Inclusive Resort
for Your Destination Wedding
Sandals Ochi Resort, nestled in the heart of Ocho Rios, served as the perfect venue for their destination wedding. Known for its lush greenery and stunning beachfront, Sandals Ochi offers a picturesque setting that seems straight out of a travel magazine. The resort’s all-inclusive service meant that Bryana, Chris, and their guests could enjoy unlimited gourmet dining, premium drinks, and exciting activities, all without the stress of managing dozens of details or eyeing the budget.
One of the biggest advantages of hosting a wedding at an all-inclusive resort like Sandals Ochi is the seamless blend of celebration and vacation. Throughout the weekend, Bryana, Chris, and their guests enjoyed quality time together lounging on the beach, relaxing by the pool, and exploring the beautiful surroundings before and after their wedding. The multi-day wedding celebration made room for creating lasting memories together beyond the ceremony and reception.
Plus, when you book your stay at an all-inclusive, you can allot more of your budget to activities and experiences. Spend a day shopping in town and sightseeing, book a sunset dinner cruise, or book a horseback excursion. There's room to do things you'd never consider with a more traditional wedding. You can also turn your wedding weekend into an extended honeymoon, which omits some of the extra planning and travel arrangements.
After all the time spent planning and looking forward to your wedding day, the day itself seems to go by in the blink of an eye. A destination wedding helps make it last just a bit longer, and an all-inclusive venue makes that time even better!
Why You Should Hire a Destination Wedding Photographer
Sure, you could go with the photographer that comes with your wedding package, but they typically don’t take time to get to know each couple, and they’re limited by time and other package restrictions.
Capturing a destination wedding requires a unique blend of skills. As a photographer specializing in these events, I understand the nuances that come with shooting in diverse locales, dealing with travel logistics, and making the most of the destination. For Bryana and Chris’ wedding, familiarity with the changing light conditions, the best scenic spots around Sandals Ochi, and the ability to capture vibrant, story-telling images were all crucial. Plus, I could be there with them all weekend, documenting everything from the welcome party and getting ready to cake cutting and a spontaneous jump into the pool at the end of the night—I’m here for all of it so your memories never fade.
Choosing a photographer with destination wedding experience ensures that every moment, from the intricate details of the wedding decor to the spontaneous joy of a beachside celebration, is immortalized. More than just taking photos, it’s about encapsulating the destination's essence, the experience, and the day's emotions.
A Weekend to Remember at Sandals Ochi Resort, Jamaica
Bryana and Chris’ wedding was a beautiful testament to their love, enhanced by the stunning backdrop of Sandals Ochi Resort. The joy, intimacy, and beauty of their celebration were a pleasure to capture. Each photograph taken not only reflected the day’s extraordinary moments but also the breathtaking beauty of Jamaica.
To Bryana, Chris, and all the wonderful guests who made this wedding a delightful experience to shoot — thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. Here’s to many more years of happiness and adventure!
Considering a Destination Wedding?
For couples considering a destination wedding, consider it an opportunity to create a unique, unforgettable experience that includes all your loved ones who come to celebrate your union. When you find that perfect venue that aligns with your vision and a photographer who can bring that vision to life, your wedding will be nothing short of spectacular.
Ready to Capture Your Love Story Abroad?
If you’re planning a destination wedding, whether on the sandy shores of Jamaica or elsewhere, I’d love to help you capture every beautiful moment. Let’s make your wedding a day to remember and a weekend (or week!) to cherish forever.
