City: Cartagena Colombia, Reception: El Marques Hotel Boutique, Dress: Maggie Sottero Designs, Hair and Makeup: Portada Peluqueria Suit: Oscar Hunt Flowers: Floristeria al ala. DJ, Lights and Styling: Musique for everybody Cartagena. Palenqueras: CY Tambo Africa
The wedding of Michael and Camila took place in Cartagena Colombia in August 2017. Camila is originally from Colombia however now permanently lives in Sydney Australia with Michael, so there was no option but to wed in the beautiful Caribbean city of Cartagena. Cartagena is one of the first Spanish settlements in Colombia and is located on the Caribbean coast. The city is absolutely amazing, in the old city which is the main tourist destination they have preserved all the old houses in their original Spanish architecture and colors.
The Entire wedding was held in the El Marques Boutique Hotel which is situated in the walls of the old city right next to Plaza Santo Domingo. Where to start with this amazing boutique hotel, as soon as you walk through the huge centuries old doors your taken back in time. The hotel is a combination of the original Spanish architecture and fixtures with modernized rooms to make it look and feel super elegant. The rustic looking walls, furniture and antiques that fill the rooms really make for a unique atmosphere to hold a wedding.
The day stared with our groom Michael in the Bridal suite. I love the size and opulence of this suite, one thing I loved was the massive feature wall of clocks which I knew straight away I had to use in a shot. After getting some great shots of Michael as he prepared for the big day we walked around the grounds of the hotel to get a few more photos on the hotel grounds.
From here it was off to Camila who was preparing with her parents and bridesmaids. Before she put on her dress she wanted some Boudoir photos in one of the hotel rooms, so we found a quiet place and took the two stunning images you see below. Once she was ready we took some more window light portraits before heading down to the wine cellar for the ceremony.
The ceremony was held in the hotels century old underground wine cellar. It was decorated with up lightening, flowers and candles. The ceremony was a full mass followed by the wedding vows which flowed seamlessly.
After the ceremony we were left to explore the old city in our very own horse and carriage and take the formal wedding photos. We went to the city walls and then through the colorful streets which just need to be seen to be believed. After we finished with photos it was time to meet the Palenqueras and musicians in the plaza before dancing down the street to the Hotel. As an Australian the experience of dancing down the streets of Colombia with these amazing dancers on a wedding day was something I will never forget. The beating drums, the lively atmosphere and the way public on the street who were joining in on the party was phenomenal.
Now it was time to enjoy my very first Cartagena wedding reception. Firstly the food at the El Marques was some of the finest food I have ever eaten, it was absolutely delicious I’d go back just for the food. Although it did rain for a short time it cleared up for La Hora Loca at which time the Palenqueras returned but this time in colorful dresses unlike the white that they wore while dancing down the street.
From here everybody got loose, had a little Agulia and Aguardiente and the night kicked onto the wee hours of the night. I hope you enjoy my photographic journey of Michael and Camilla’s wedding as much as I do and if you’re getting married in Cartagena please don’t hesitate to contact me as I’d love to shoot more weddings in Colombia!
