It was a gorgeous, warm September afternoon in Corpus Christi, a coastal Texas city with all the beachy vibes one could want. The skies were clear, the weather was absolutely perfect—warm but not too hot, with just the right amount of breeze—and the vibes? Immaculate.
I met Helen and Mike through a mutual friend, Kressyn, who recommended me when she found out Helen was looking for a photographer. And I am so grateful that she did. Not only did I get the incredible opportunity to shoot a beach wedding (I need more of those, please and thank you!), but I also met and befriended two beautiful, down-to-earth souls who were clearly meant for each other.
Their wedding took place at Lively Beach, a stunning modern resort condominium nestled along the coastline—literally just a five-minute walk down a private wooden boardwalk to a pristine, soft, white sand beach. The accommodations were top-tier, and upon arrival, we were treated to a nightly "happy hour" featuring live music and complimentary wine for resort guests. It was such a fun and inviting way to bring people together! That said, the mosquitoes? Ruthless. If you ever visit in the summer, pack all the bug spray you can.
The morning of the wedding, Helen got ready surrounded by her closest people—her mother, the mother of the bride (MOTB), and her best friend. When she stepped into her dress (which was STUNNING—minimalist, scooped neckline, effortlessly elegant, and so perfect for the beach), her mom couldn’t hold back the tears. And honestly, who could blame her? Her baby girl was marrying the love of her life—the kind of love every mother hopes their daughter finds. They shared such a sweet moment, hugging and wiping away happy tears.
After the ceremony, we immediately made our way to the beach, and let me tell you—I could barely contain my excitement. This beach was a dream. With clear skies and golden hour light drenching everything in warmth, we captured some of the most stunning, cinematic images. Shooting in the water with the sunset behind us? Unreal. And Helen and Mike made my job too easy. Their chemistry was undeniable, their connection effortless. Honestly, I feel guilty charging for moments like these when they require so little direction—it’s just them, completely in love.
Back at the resort, the party was in full swing. The food? Delicious. The dessert table? Adorable. And the vibes? Unmatched. Helen’s attention to detail was chef’s kiss, and everyone was soaking in the easygoing, joyful atmosphere.
Then came the toasts—tender, emotional, and yep, I teared up too. When it was time for the cake cutting, everything started smoothly… until a chunk of cake ended up inside Helen’s dress. Without hesitation, I jokingly told Mike, "Go on in there!" And he did! Cue the laughter, the chaos, and one of my favorite spontaneous moments of the night—Mike motorboating Helen to retrieve the rogue cake. 🤣 These in-the-moment shots? Absolute gold.
But the best part? The grand exit.
Helen and Mike didn't just leave their reception—they jumped into the pool in full wedding attire. And omgggg, this absolutely made my year. It was my first time capturing a couple doing something like this, and I need more of it in my life. They are the definition of free-spirited, and it was the perfect way to end a wedding that was nothing short of unforgettable.
Helen & Mike, thank you for trusting me with your day. It was an honor, a joy, and an experience I’ll cherish forever. Cheers to you both! 💛
The ceremony itself was breathtaking. Set against vast sunflower fields in the marshlands of the resort, Helen and Mike exchanged vows in the most heartfelt way. The second Helen appeared, Mike’s emotions took over—tears, smiles, all of it—and she mirrored his reaction as she walked down the aisle. They laughed through the ceremony, thanks in part to Mike’s brother, who officiated with just the right mix of humor and sincerity. Everything felt so effortless, so full of love.
The morning of the wedding, Helen got ready surrounded by her closest people—her mother, the mother of the bride (MOTB), and her best friend. When she stepped into her dress (which was STUNNING—minimalist, scooped neckline, effortlessly elegant, and so perfect for the beach), her mom couldn’t hold back the tears. And honestly, who could blame her? Her baby girl was marrying the love of her life—the kind of love every mother hopes their daughter finds. They shared such a sweet moment, hugging and wiping away happy tears.
