French Riviera Beach Wedding - Gabrielle and Ryan
Set against the stunning backdrop of Villa Djunah in Antibes, this intimate gathering of just 35 close family members and friends was filled with love, laughter, and the breathtaking beauty of nature. Every moment felt special, and as a photographer, my goal was to create timeless memories with my true-to-colour, natural documentary style, ensuring the couple could relive each candid interaction and heartfelt embrace for years to come.
The ceremony took place on the serene beach of Villa Djunah, a perfect blend of privacy and elegance. With the sparkling Mediterranean on one side and the timeless beauty of the Esterel mountains on the other, the setting was nothing short of magical. Les Fleurs d'Aqui had adorned the venue with lush floral décor, adding a soft, romantic touch that perfectly complemented the natural environment. The stunning floral arch stood as a focal point, framing Gabrielle and Ryan as they said their I Do with the vast, calm sea behind them.
Gabrielle, in her effortlessly elegant gown, and Ryan, beaming by her side, chose to exchange their vows privately as the sun slowly set behind the mountains. This quiet, emotional moment felt like the heart of the entire day. The orange hues of the sky reflected off the water, casting a warm glow on the couple, making it a dream to capture. These intimate photos show the raw emotion of the moment—the love, joy, and peace as they took their vows, just the two of them, with nature as their witness.
As Gabrielle and Ryan rejoined their guests after the private vow exchange, the sky had turned a brilliant shade of orange, creating a perfect backdrop for the cocktail hour. The couple mingled with their loved ones, sharing drinks and laughter under the dimming light of the sunset. This golden hour offered the perfect conditions to capture more candid moments, each one bathed in the soft, natural light that photographers live for. I focused on the interactions between family members and friends—the heartfelt embraces, the joy in their eyes, and the relaxed conversations that made this wedding feel even more intimate.
Once the sun had set and cocktail hour drew to a close, the celebration continued across the road at Villa Djunah. The transformation from a serene beachside ceremony to a lively evening reception was seamless. With the moon rising overhead, the party kicked off with dancing, laughter, and celebration that lasted well into the night.
The intimacy of the guest list meant I could focus on each of their closest friends and family, capturing the pure joy of the occasion. There were plenty of candid moments—from couples enjoying the music, toasts being shared, and of course, plenty of fun on the dance floor. The natural interactions between the guests made for some of my favorite shots—authentic moments of love and connection, from the joyous first dance to the spontaneous laughter and fun that followed.
Gabrielle and Ryan’s wedding was a true reflection of who they are as a couple—intimate, heartfelt, and full of genuine love. Being able to photograph their day in such a stunning location as Antibes, with its sunsets and sea views, was an experience I won’t soon forget. The combination of beautiful natural scenery, thoughtful details, and close-knit family and friends made this wedding truly one of a kind.
I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of their celebration, capturing moments that are as timeless as their love.
If you are looking for a wedding photographer in the South of France, do not hesitate to get in touch.
