Alexa and Will hired us to capture their special day, and man, it was a real hoot! They were like, “Hey, we want you to document our big day for a full 12 hours,” and we were like, “You got it!” So, in the dead of winter, right in the heart of January, we all packed our gear and headed down to Excellence Playa Mujeres in Cancun.
The vibe was all chill as the bride and groom got ready for the big show. Alexa was glowing, and Will looked like he just won the lottery. They had us snapping away as they prepped themselves to perfection. I mean, these two were seriously on fire.
Then, when the sun started to set, we all gathered on the beach for this intimate ceremony. Waves crashing, sun setting, and love was definitely in the air. It was straight out of a romance movie. The smiles, the tears, the “I dos” – it was all there, and we captured every moment.
After the beach shindig, it was time to boogie. The reception and dancing went down at the Convention Center terrace, right there at the resort. Let me tell you, folks, it was a party for the ages. The newlyweds, their friends, and family all got their groove on, and we didn’t miss a beat.
So, without further ado, we’re stoked to share the cream of the crop from that day. These photos are the real deal, folks. They capture the love, the laughter, and the memories that Alexa and Will created on their special day. Enjoy!
If you’re looking for stunning editorial-style photos for your Cancun wedding, click here to see more of our work and get inspired for your big day!
Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Excellence Playa Mujeres?
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 stunningly designed with a mix of modern luxury and tropical vibes. I know exactly where to take you for the most sophisticated backdrops. Whether it’s the iconic Stone Gazebo, the winding lazy river and lush gardens, or the pristine white sands of Playa Mujeres (which is often more private than the Hotel Zone), 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 Excellence 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 in the suite 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 logistics for photos on the property?
Although Excellence Playa Mujeres is more walkable than some mega-resorts, moving between locations in wedding attire in the heat can still be tiring. I prioritize your comfort by planning a route that flows naturally. My logistical experience here allows us to move between the beach ceremony area, the tropical palms, and the elegant staircases efficiently, maximizing your time celebrating with guests while I still capture those cinematic portraits.
When is the best time for wedding photos in Playa Mujeres?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean. 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 Excellence Playa Mujeres?
It is important to remember that on the Playa Mujeres peninsula, the sun rises over the ocean and sets over the wetlands and lagoon side. I will schedule our couple’s session to capture the stunning soft light of the “Golden Hour” on the beach, but if you truly want the sun coming up directly over the water, I might suggest a “First Look” session at sunrise on the resort’s iconic wooden pier. For the evening, I will position you to catch the beautiful pastel colors filling the sky behind the modern resort architecture.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the things I love about this resort is its sophisticated contemporary design. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best indoor locations, such as the Great Hall with its dramatic chandelier and grand staircase, the library area, or the covered terraces that offer natural light without the rain. These backup spots ensure I can keep your gallery elegant and varied regardless of the weather.
Is Excellence Playa Mujeres suitable for large weddings?
Absolutely. While Excellence is famous for romantic intimacy, they have ample space for larger celebrations, including a spacious ballroom and expansive beach areas. I am well-versed in navigating these events, understanding how to manage the flow of guests moving from the Stone Gazebo to the cocktail hour, and how to capture the energy of a crowded reception on the terrace while maintaining that luxurious, adults-only vibe in your imagery.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Because the resort is a top-tier luxury destination, the main pool and central plaza can be active. However, I know several secluded garden areas near the spa, the quiet stretches of the boardwalk near the wetlands, and the far end of the beach that offer much more privacy. 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 an Excellence Playa Mujeres wedding?
Although the property is more walkable than some mega-resorts, the winding paths and lazy rivers mean traversing from the Excellence Club suites to the ceremony site takes time. I highly recommend a second shooter for this reason. While I am with the bride, my second photographer can cover the groom getting ready in a separate building. Working with a team ensures that we don’t miss a single candid moment while navigating the beautiful, winding grounds.