An Intimate Embassy Suites Dorado Wedding: Frank & Amanda’s Love Story in Puerto Rico

Tim Blackford delivering another heartfelt ceremony in Dorado, Puerto Rico.

     When I first heard from Frank, I knew this was going to be special. He reached out thanks to a referral from one of Puerto Rico’s best wedding officiants — and a dear friend of mine — Tim Blackford. Tim and I have a long history working together on destination weddings in Puerto Rico. He officiates 90% of my weddings, and because he knows my style so well, he always keeps things flowing in a way that’s perfect for beautiful photography.

     Frank is originally from Connecticut, and like many couples who fall in love with the island, he chose Puerto Rico for his destination wedding — specifically the Embassy Suites in Dorado, an accessible and family-oriented hotel with a nearby stretch of beach that feels like a hidden Caribbean escape. But despite the resort amenities, Frank wanted something intimate — just 20 guests — the kind of personal celebration you can feel.

The preface from the groom’s point of view.

     During our virtual meeting — where we finally put a face to the name — he told me the story of his fiancée, Amanda, a McDonald’s area director who stole his heart over a simple breakfast stop. One morning, one McMuffin… and boom — love at first sight. From that moment on, they were inseparable. The kind of love story you could make a movie about.

     I checked my calendar, saw that I was available, and immediately sent a wedding photography proposal that covered all the essentials for a four-hour Puerto Rico elopement-style wedding. It was a no-brainer for him, and we were off to the races.

Girls just wanna have fun!

     The day began with wedding detail photos and a quick visit to each of their getting-ready rooms. That’s always one of my favorite parts — nerves, laughter, and those candid pre-ceremony moments that later become priceless memories.

     Soon, we headed to the beach for the big moment. Tim arrived in a crisp white blazer with pink undertones, matching the couple’s chosen color palette. Had I known their outfit plan, I would’ve joined the theme — instead I showed up rocking my brand-new gray Zara suit, still looking sharp!

Luxury wedding details at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Dorado, Puerto Rico

     The ceremony was emotional, heartfelt, and full of joy. After their first kiss, we flowed straight into bride and groom portraits at the beach. There were lush tropical plants and golden sunlight — the perfect recipe for romantic wedding photography in Puerto Rico. The weather blessed us with a stunning Caribbean day, and you’d never know this was technically a short wedding… it was packed with love.

     The wedding reception at Embassy Suites Dorado took place in a private gazebo by the pool — cozy, charming, and perfect for their small group. I arrived early to capture the décor, refresh with a sip of water, and connect with the DJ.

The perfect setting: Embassy Suites Dorado’s intimate seaside ceremony space.

     When Amanda and Frank made their entrance holding hands, the cheers from their closest people said everything. These two don’t just love each other — they have fun together. Every chance I had, I whisked them away for short creative moments, including pretending they were dropping the hottest rap album of 2025. Their chemistry? Unreal. The camera adored them.

     And then came the speeches — emotional, raw, tear-filled. Even with only twenty people, it felt like a full-scale traditional wedding. The love in that room was overflowing.

Butterflies.

     What I loved most? This intimate event still had all the magic, meaning, and joy of the biggest wedding day. I left feeling full — heart full, SD cards full — knowing I had captured something unforgettable.

     For couples planning a small destination wedding in Puerto Rico, Frank and Amanda’s celebration is proof that four hours is more than enough to create a lifetime’s worth of memories. Whether you want something laid-back by the beach or a luxurious multi-day event, Puerto Rico is the perfect place to say “I do.”

She can’t wait for forever.

Candid moments that show just how inseparable these two really are.