A DIY Akumal Wedding on Half Moon Bay, Full of Family Love

They reached out the day before the wedding

S+K wanted something very low-key, just close family and friends on the beach, and a short ceremony in a place that already meant something to them. Their family has been coming to Akumal for years, and Half Moon Bay is home.

In true DIY wedding style, the bride’s sisters were originally on photo duty. They then realised the bride had a Pinterest, and started to doubt the almighty power of the iPhone. Dad swooped in and hired me for an hour of wedding photography, 24 hours before the ceremony. And while I don’t generally offer one-hour coverage, for an intimate, last-minute celebration, literally a five-minute drive from my house, I’m more than happy to oblige.

One hour of wedding photography – fully present

Honestly S+K’s Half Moon Bay wedding is a testament to how much love and beauty can be squeezed into a short space of time when you keep it super simple. It’s hard to believe I have so many wonderful images in such a short space of time. The fact that everyone there was – cliché as it sounds – fully present, makes all the difference.

A five-minute ceremony, happy tears and hugs, followed by relaxed pictures on the beach. The trick was simply allowing a tiny fraction of extra time for the couple, family and guests to show how much they love each other – and that’s when the images I love unfolded in front of me.

Cheeky Custom Tattoos and On-Trend Corset Bridal Separates

And while the celebration was simple, there were plenty of thoughtful and fun details to be found. While the handfasting was a lovely ceremony addition, they got me with the custom tattoos. Yes, every single guest was wearing custom temporary tats made from goofy childhood pics of the bride and groom. The silliness of the idea was matched only by the guests’ creativity in placement — I loved it.

Another detail that won my heart was the bride’s take on the 2026 corset bridal trend. She found the perfect way to style it for a casual, barefoot beach wedding, choosing separates: a square-necked cream corset top with a simple bow and a matching maxi skirt. Quiet bridal chic, and a beach-appropriate take on a classic silhouette, perfect for Half Moon Bay, Akumal.

The cherry on the cake for me was that I also shot a roll of film. I love the nostalgia it brings, and it’s so suited to these intimate, heartfelt celebrations.

I am very biased — Akumal is my home — but I find Akumal weddings truly special. If you’re planning a last-minute or intimate wedding in Akumal, don’t hesitate to reach out.