Julie & Ben’s Intimate Palms Turks & Caicos Wedding

When you picture a destination wedding in Turks & Caicos, you might imagine a huge celebration with dozens of guests. But sometimes, the most meaningful weddings are the smallest ones with only the people who matter most. Julie and Ben’s wedding at The Palms was just that. A timeless, elegant day focused on family, tradition, and the simple beauty of saying “I do” by the sea.

Julie is the kind of bride who knows exactly what she wants: timeless details, a calm atmosphere, and her closest people by her side. Their entire guest list included just their parents and Julie’s best friend. That’s it. She honored tradition beautifully, with her “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” — sweet little touches woven into her look that made her feel connected to people who were important to her. This approach to their wedding exemplifies how intimate gatherings can often hold deeper significance, allowing couples to focus on what truly matters: love and commitment.

We started photography in Julie’s bridal suite. She was calm and joyful as she stepped forward in her gown. I made sure to capture all the little details: the dress, invitation, rings, the flowers and the special moments with her mom and dad. There’s something magical about the moments before the ceremony, filled with laughter, anticipation, and a few happy tears. Each detail added to the story of their day. Meanwhile, Ben got ready in a separate suite with his father. It felt like a wonderful bonding time for them. Ben and his dad shared a good whisky on the sofa, completely relaxed before everything began. It was a quiet and relaxed scene, showcasing the close-knit family ties in anticipation of the celebration ahead.

Julie and Ben chose to do a First Look on a beautiful balcony at The Palms, surrounded by florals and the resort’s beautiful coral stone architecture. This moment provided them with a private space to share their emotions before the ceremony. It was private, emotional, and gave them a chance to soak in the moment just the two of them. Seeing each other before the ceremony allowed them to calm their nerves and enjoy a quiet moment together. Afterward, we took pictures in the surrounding area, in the resort gardens and the ever-popular birdcage spot, capturing timeless portraits before heading down to the beach. The surroundings provided a stunning backdrop for their photos, enhancing the romantic atmosphere of their day.

Their ceremony was simple and sweet, set on the soft sand with the ocean as their backdrop. The couple exchanged vows which were sentimental and heartfelt whilst the breeze was a gentle reminder of the gorgeous beach environment we were in. Julie and Ben had arranged a special rope tying element to their ceremony where they both tied a knot in a rope, and when pulled from each end would meet and bind together. This was a unique addition to the ceremony and also serves a special keepsake of their wedding. After vows, we made time for romantic couple’s photos as the sun dipped low, turning the sky and sea into a painter’s palette of golds and pinks. The natural beauty of the setting sun added an extra layer of magic to their photos, capturing the essence of the moment perfectly. We ended the evening back on the sand with a champagne toast and cake cutting surrounded by family. This intimate celebration allowed them to fully enjoy each other’s company and the joy of their union. If you’re interested, 💌 Get in Touch to discuss your plans.

Julie and Ben knew exactly what they wanted when it came to their wedding images: something tangible they could enjoy every day, and something special to share with their parents.

They chose:

● A large unframed canvas of their favorite sunset portrait, a timeless piece to hang in their home.

● Three crystal blocks, each featuring different moments from the day, to cluster together and relive the magic.

● Photo books for both sets of parents, a thoughtful thank you for their support and love.

These choices not only commemorate their special day, but they also serve as a lasting reminder of the love and commitment they share.

💡 Tip: For small weddings, gifting your parents a custom photo book is a beautiful way to say thank you for all they’ve done. It’s a meaningful gesture that acknowledges their support and love throughout your journey as a couple. You can also explore Another related blog for more ideas and inspiration.