Celebrating Love: Yanina & Lee's Dream Wedding in Oaxaca (photographers’ perspective)
Here is a photo story of the most cherished moments between Yanina & Lee in Hotel Quinta Real (Oaxaca, Mexico), which we were fortunate to capture as their wedding photographers.
Yanina and Lee's wedding day had finally arrived, and the excitement in the air was palpable. As Yanina and her bridesmaids gathered in their bridal suite at Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca, there was a sense of calm and joy as we prepared for the big day. Yanina's hair was elegantly styled and her make-up was perfect, while her bridesmaids helped her into her stunning wedding dress. Meanwhile, Lee and his groomsmen were getting ready in their own suite, putting on their suits and ties as we joked and laughed, enjoying the anticipation of what was to come. The energy was electric as everyone prepared for the ceremony, eager to see Yanina and Lee finally tie the knot.
During their wedding in Oaxaca, Mexico, the couple participated in a traditional Calenda, a parade of music and dance that winds through the streets of the city. We all felt as though we were in a dream as we danced through Oaxaca's historic center, surrounded by stunning colonial architecture and the cheers of the couple’s friends and family.
Yanina wore a beautiful white dress that flowed as she danced, while Lee wore a sharp suit that complemented her dress perfectly. They swayed to the music, lost in love, surrounded by the beauty and history of Oaxaca. Dancing through the streets, they felt connected to each other and the city. A perfect start to the new chapter of their lives, a moment of pure magic.
The joy on their faces was contagious, and everyone around them could feel the love and energy in the air. It was a moment to remember - a moment of pure happiness and celebration.
For Yanina and Lee, their dance in the Calenda was more than just a first dance. It was a symbol of their love and a reflection of the vibrant and rich culture of Oaxaca. It was a moment they will never forget, a moment that will always remind them of the joy and love they shared on their wedding day.
“What I remember most are the faces of happiness of our families and the big smiles of everyone who shared with us the most important day of our lives. It was a day full of joy and a lot of love.”
The decision on the wedding venue (Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca) also had its “why”:
“What we loved most about our wedding was the Calenda through the center of Oaxaca. It was an incredible experience to dance through the historic center surrounded by our friends and the wonderful architecture. It’s something we had never seen anywhere else and it impressed all of our guests.”
Capturing the Special Moments During a Zapotec Wedding
During the Zapotec ceremony, Yanina and Lee had an experience they will treasure for a lifetime. The ceremony was full of emotional moments that made their big day even more special.
As Yanina walked down the aisle, Lee could not hold back his tears as he played the drum. It was a beautiful sight to see him play the drum with such passion and love, and it was a moment that Yanina will never forget.
But it wasn't all tears during the ceremony. There were also moments of laughter as they played the bird-shaped flute. This symbolized the importance of good communication in their marriage. It was a light-hearted moment that brought joy and happiness to everyone in the room.
As their wedding photographers, we were privileged to capture these beautiful moments on camera. Yanina and Lee's love for each other was evident throughout the ceremony, and it was truly an honor to be a part of their special day.
Toasting to Love
As they entered the reception, we greeted them with cheers and applause from their friends and family. The reception hall had been beautifully decorated with flowers and candles, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
The couple had carefully chosen their music playlist for the reception to ensure everyone had a great time. The dance floor was packed as guests enjoyed the lively music and celebrated the couple's union.
One of the highlights of the reception was the couple's first dance as husband and wife. They swayed to a romantic tune, lost in their world as their loved ones looked on with admiration
As the night wore on, the celebration continued with more dancing, laughter, and memories. It was truly a magical evening that we will always remember.
The reception was the perfect end to a perfect day, and the couple couldn't have been happier with how everything turned out.
Yanina and Lee’s wedding was a perfect representation of their love for each other, their families, and the unique traditions of Oaxaca. We wish you guys a lifetime of happiness and love and are grateful to have been a part of your wedding day.
How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue in Oaxaca
Oaxaca has become a popular destination for weddings, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. It's no wonder that many couples choose it as the perfect place to say "I do". However, with so many options available, choosing a wedding venue in Oaxaca City can be overwhelming.
Know your wedding style: Before choosing a wedding venue, you need to know your wedding style. Do you want a traditional or contemporary wedding? Will it be an indoor or outdoor wedding? Knowing your style will help you narrow down your options and find the perfect venue that matches your vision.
Consider the weather: The weather in Oaxaca can be unpredictable, so it's important to choose a venue that can cope with different weather conditions. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, make sure you have a backup plan in case it rains.
Location, location, location: Choosing a wedding venue in Oaxaca means you'll have a number of beautiful locations to choose from. Consider a venue that's easily accessible for you and your guests, and preferably close to attractions that they can enjoy before or after the wedding.
Capacity: The number of guests you're expecting will determine the capacity of the venue you choose. Make sure that the venue you choose can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
Look at reviews and ratings (and obviously, check the photos): All the best wedding venues in Oaxaca have obviously already been photographed by the best wedding photographers. Research the venues you're interested in and look at their reviews, ratings, and photos (use Pinterest, too). This will give you an idea of the venue's strengths and weaknesses and help you make an informed decision.
Consider the amenities and services offered: Look for a wedding venue in Oaxaca that offers the amenities and services you need for your big day. This may include catering, accommodation, decoration, and photography services.
Choosing a wedding venue in Oaxaca can be a daunting task, but I’m sure you’ll make an informed and balanced decision and choose the perfect venue for your big day. Remember to take your time, do your research, and enjoy the process of planning your dream wedding in this beautiful city.
“The advice we would give to future couples is to choose for their big event the months with less rain, as this will limit you when it comes to taking a more varied photo session. We almost had to cancel the Calenda because of the heavy storm! Another recommendation is to hire a company that can help you with wedding planning since they are experienced in handling unexpected situations and can ensure that everything runs smoothly.”
Planning a wedding celebration in the beautiful city of Oaxaca is an exciting experience, and I couldn’t help but mention that finding the right photographer to capture all those special moments is as essential and important as any other part of it. At the end of the day, those are your wedding memories that you will value and share with your closest ones for many years. Take your time and let your eyes do the judging.
Let's capture your wedding day!
Are you planning a destination wedding in Mexico, looking for a photographer, have questions, or would like to see more ideas and inspiration? Check out my portfolio or send me a note for more references and wedding packages:
Thank you to the team that made it possible:
Wedding planner: Lucy Ferreira
Venue: Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca
DJ: DJ Luiggi One
Photo: Alex Krotkov
Video: Making Memories
Assistant photog: Sasha Krotkova
Wedding of Yanina and Lee in Hotel Quinta Real Oaxaca - Gallery:
