Ahhhh… this post brings me back to the glorious beaches of Mexico! Honestly, I am so darn lucky my job brings me the amazing places it does! If I weren’t a wedding photographer, I’m not sure that I ever would’ve had the pleasure to experience the gloriousness that is an all-inclusive resort. Before I actually went to one, I must admit, I was a bit of a travel snob. I preferred places more off the beaten path. However, I always try to keep an open mind! It may not be a cultural experience, but there is certainly something to be said about relaxing. Laying in the sun poolside or oceanside and listening to the ocean for hours. Dining leisurely (at 5 star restaurants, no less) without worry about where you’re dashing off to next. How often do we actually relax?! I’ve been to the Riviera Maya a few times now and each experience has been simply amazing. Like pinch-me-I-can’t-believe-I’m-here amazing.
When Sarah & Allen contacted me about shooting their destination wedding in Mexico, of course, I was elated! Right away I knew we were a perfect fit for each other. (Their blog post is coming very soon!!) Through Sarah, I was introduced to Diana, one of Sarah’s best friends, and a guest at the wedding. She wanted to capture a beach boudoir session in Mexico. Because of timing, we had to squeeze this session in early the morning after the wedding, before Diana headed back home to New York. Of course, there were torrential downpours (I didn’t find out May was borderline rainy season until the day I left for the wedding!), but we managed to sneak in a mini session by the pool and beach at our gorgeous resort, Grand Velas.
Diana, you are absolutely radiant! I was worried that Diana would be deterred by the rain; worried about her hair and makeup, but as you can see, Diana is a natural beauty and just rolled with the punches. She completely rocked the natural look and embraced the weather, wet hair and all. Thank you for the fun session!
For more information about boudoir sessions, please check out my Beauty & Boudoir website!

Emily Steffen - LAURA! These images are incredible…so fresh and so beautiful! :) The flowers, that wallpaper and your colors are just so appealing!!!!! :) I LOVE THIS! :)
A Styled Boudoir Shoot » Beauty & Boudoir by Laura Ivanova Photography - [...] Model: Sarah Vande Kamp Model: Nick from Ignite Models (not pictured in this post, see more images here) Lingerie: Room No. [...]
Jackie Reisenauer - Laura, you did such an amazing job with these. I want to dive in and live in this space. And Jesi (!!!) awesome styling!!! Thanks for including Munster Rose!
Anna Margaret - LOVE everything about these images… and swooning over the lovely wallpaper! So beautiful!
Liz Banfield - Gorgeous, Laura. What a light beautiful touch you have.
Helgi - This images are pure inocent, joy and love! You are the best ever!
Rozanne Z - Classy, chic & tastefully sexy!! Amazing job!!
Emily Koska - GORGEOUS!! Loooove the colors. Fabulous as always :)
Patricia @cichlee - Warmed me up. Exactly the kind of modern, sexy, cozy images that couples want. All the little light kisses make it extra sweet.
Lovely job all.