Colleen and Randy are one of those star-crossed couples that met years ago, went their separate ways, then found each other again at just the right time. Their love story seems kind of perfect actually, because as these two found their destination in each other, they set off on another journey, one that would take them to the white sand beaches of Punta Cana, ready to lean in to their infinity with one another in front of their closest family and friends.

These two knew from the start that they wanted to have a unique space for their wedding, and boy did they deliver. I swear, every bit of Punta Cana is picture perfect – like one of those places you dream about in the dead of winter. The water was the most beautiful aquamarine color, and the palm trees swayed softly in the tropical breeze as Colleen and Randy said I do under an arbor draped in gauzy white tulle.

Their 80-guest wedding was so intimate and full of emotional exchanges, and the way Randy looked at Colleen as she floated down the sand-specked aisle was right out of a movie. I find that Randy always looks at her this way – like he’s staring into his forever. The love they share illuminates even the darkest moments like a flickering light, and I just know that every second of their life together will be flecked with that once-in-a-lifetime kind of feeling.

Their formal photos under the shade of the tallest palm trees was something I will cherish forever, and the captures of them against an enormous pieces of driftwood are unreal. It almost feels like a metaphor, because even though they are so small against this monstrous pieces of wood, the way they look at each other completely takes over. It’s so special getting to photograph friends for this reason – you almost feel like no matter what you do, every image feels personal and incredible.

The cocktail and reception overlooked the resort with the most beautiful string lights adorning the space. It was like a postcard! By the end of the night, all the guys were dancing on the bar having the time of their lives, and you could physically feel the outpouring of love for both Colleen and Randy. It was such an incredible celebration, one that I will definitely hold close to my heart for years to come! Colleen and Randy even wound up singing at the top of their lungs to each other as everyone looked on, which, for a spur of the moment thing, was the highlight of everything. You could feel how in love they were, belting out the lyrics at the top of their lungs. It was so special and so amazing. Can you tell I loved this wedding, or what?

Colleen and Randy, you are two of my favorite people ever. Your zest for life and ability to make everyone laugh at literally everything is something I admire so much about you. We’ve become such great friends, and I feel so privileged to see you travel through the stages of life throughout the past few years. Together, you are an incredible force, and I am so lucky to have been able to photograph not only your gorgeous wedding, but your surprise proposal and every day lives, as well! Congratulations to both of you. I love you so much and I wish you a lifetime of happiness (and then some)!

 

 

XO Kaitlyn