Brittany and Mathew’s Iberostar Playa Mita wedding had everything couples imagine when they think about getting married on the Riviera Nayarit coast: a relaxed beach setting, warm evening light and a group of family and friends who were there to celebrate. I photographed six hours of their day, from getting ready to the first part of the reception, and they added a trash the dress session a few days later.
If you are planning a wedding in Punta Mita, here is how their day came together and a few things I learned photographing it.
Why Brittany and Mathew Chose Iberostar Playa Mita
Iberostar Playa Mita sits on a quiet stretch of beach about 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta airport. It has wide sand, tropical gardens and plenty of space, so the ceremony, portraits and reception can all happen without leaving the resort.
For Brittany and Mathew that meant their guests could stay on property, enjoy the beach during the week and walk to every part of the wedding. If you want to know more about the venue itself, I put together a full Iberostar Playa Mita wedding photographer guide with the best photo spots and timing tips.
Getting Ready and the Ceremony
The day started in their rooms with the details: the dress, the rings, the invitations and the small things that will mean more with time. Rooms with good window light make a big difference here, so it is worth asking for one when you book.
The ceremony took place by the ocean in the late afternoon. Planning it around the sunset time gave us soft light for the vows and enough time afterward for family photos before the colors started to change.
Sunset Portraits on the Beach
After the family photos, Brittany and Mathew stepped away with me for about 30 minutes of couple portraits. The beach at Iberostar Playa Mita faces west, so the last hour of light is perfect. We walked along the sand, I gave them a few simple prompts and most of the time they were just talking and laughing together.
If sunset portraits are important to you, building them into your Puerto Vallarta wedding timeline is the best way to make sure they happen without rushing.
A Trash the Dress Session in Riviera Nayarit
A couple of days after the wedding, we met again for a trash the dress session. With the stress of the wedding day behind them, they could relax, walk into the water and enjoy the photos completely. It is one of my favorite add-ons for destination weddings, and you can read more about why a trash the dress photoshoot is worth it.
Planning Your Own Punta Mita Wedding
Every wedding is different, and coverage should fit your plans instead of the other way around. Brittany and Mathew chose six hours plus a separate session, which gave them the full story without paying for time they did not need. You can compare options in my wedding photography packages in Puerto Vallarta.
If you are planning a wedding at Iberostar Playa Mita or anywhere in Punta Mita, I would love to hear about it. I can help with your timeline, portrait locations and local vendor recommendations.
