If there was one word to describe Phi & Eric’s wedding in Cartagena, it’d be “fun”. They invited over 90 of their closest friends & family to join them in the place they fell in love years ago. The colors of the walled city are a direct reflection of their vibrant love of life and for one another. The wedding day began at Casa Pombo (built in 1533!) and ended at the fabulous Bastion Luxury Hotel as people danced+danced+danced. At the very end of this post, you’ll see the full version of their wedding film from NazFilms…it’s a little long but it’s pretty much amazing.
As you enter Casa Pombo, your jaw & the temperature drops. Originally, built by the aristocracy on the most valued piece of land, it serves as an oasis from the heat & noise. It truly is a sanctuary. The center is a luxurious water courtyard that joins the various wings of the building.
As a tribute to her Vietnamese heritage, Phi & Eric had a tea ceremony with immediate family prior to the main one shortly after. One of the things I absolutely loved about Phi was how contagious her laugh was…she made you feel happy just to be around her.
The bracelet that Eric is holding was given to him by Phi’s grandmother long before they were engaged. She “knew” they would be married! He wore it that day in memory of her.
Look at that bead work! Gorgeous.
Every bridesmaid was asked to choose their own dress within the light pink palette Phi had chosen. I love how the detailing breaks up the color from being too monochromatic.
Pops of reds, oranges, and pinks were everywhere thanks to the bougainvillea. I wanted to take some home with us!
After the ceremony, Phi was planning on changing into this short sassy dress so she could really dance.
This was probably the most beautiful location I’ve photographed for a first look. The light in Casa Pombo was something you see in Renaissance paintings.
Tears in Eric’s eyes…it was perfect.
Phi made all of the dream catchers that hung throughout the courtyard and on the chuppah. It helped to add a sense of her bohemian style to the day.
Colombian dancers greeted guests with fans & programs as the entered.
The ceremony definitely wasn’t lacking emotions…tears were flowing.
Afterwards, we walked along the streets for a few more portraits…how could you not want to take advantage of the lights!?!
Below is one of my favorite shots.
Annnd here comes the party train! As guests left Casa Pombo, a drum band and dancers walked everyone to the reception. This was one of my all time favorite wedding memories…tough to photograph because I was carrying 50 pounds of equipment and shooting at the same time BUT I’d do it all again. So much fun!
During their killer first dance, fireworks went off! Full of surprises.