Rob and Lauren Blog

So waaaaaaay back in May we spent a week with Jennette and Reilly and their friends and family for their destination wedding in Mexico at the El Dorado Royale Resort. We were so thrilled that Jennette and Reilly brought us for the full week, instead of just a couple days, because we were able to get a million amazing shots! So many, in fact, that we are going to have to separate this post into 5 parts. 5 whole awesome parts! So sit back, enjoy some amazing Mexican photos, and keep coming back for more!

We’re going to start things off with some incredible details of the resort. This was the very first time we had been to an all-inclusive, not to mention a gourmet all-inclusive! For such big food lovers as us, this was true paradise :)

First off, gotta get those passports out again! These bad boys sure are getting filled up quick!

We were in love with the bright, clean colours of the resort. This is a detail from the gazebo that Jennette and Reilly got married at!

Palm trees and bright, white, gorgeous architecture. Nothing is better than that.

These nice little huts were all along the beach so you could relax in the shade. We would use one of these on the wedding day, so just wait for that post!

Gorgeous fruit.

And check out this fishy! How cute is he????

Amazing shot of someone parasailing over the bright, blue ocean.

Just in case lazing around all day was too much work, they had golf carts to shuttle you around the resort. I’m totally digging this motion blur shot Rob took while we were riding along. Doesn’t it look like too much fun!

This was the wedding chapel, which Jennette and Reilly didn’t use, but it sure looked cool!

Uno cerveza por favour!

This sauce was like, CRAZY hot. And this coming from someone who just spent 2 months in India. Those Mexicans know their spice!

We got a chance to work on some landscape shots, done with a bit of HDR going on. I think they were pretty sweet!

And some wonderful wind gave us this great shot of the gazebo at sunset.

Um, YUM! Look at those nachos? Rob and I totally took advantage of the free room service 24/7 (we quickly became known as the kings of room service). We probably ordered nachos like 10 times, quite often around 2 AM. I really miss that about Mexico….

And the tasty drinks weren’t too shabby either :)

Our room was absolutely gorgeous, and decked out with fresh flowers.

Resorts are so funky. This huge chess set was just one of so many activities to take part in. We didn’t actually play the giant chess, but we did ping-pong it up! We’re so cool.

One of the main pools, complete with swim up bar. For the whole week we were there we only went in the water once, and at this exact pool. We were just too busy taking photos and eating nachos :)

Bird in a tree! Score!

And how killer does this mask look? Mexico is so awesome.

And this concludes our first Mexico post! Coming up tomorrow: crazy guys in Mexican wrestling masks, goofy pictures of Rob & Lauren, and Jennette and Reilly’s Playa Del Carmen E-Session! Woot!

Tons o’ love,
Lauren :)

P.S. Make sure to leave us some comment love!

So want to know a shocking detail? I’m not so good at math. I try to use my “I don’t need to be good at math. I’m an artist” excuse, but really, nothing can excuse how dense I can be at times.

Here I am, with just under 200 photos from Mexico (yes, there really are that many. I told you we took like a million killer shots!). And I wanted to do a 5 parter. So, I figure I just post 20 shots per day. Yes, in my brain I thought 5×20 = 200.

Right on, Lauren. Right on.

Anyway, today you are going to get quite a few more shots than I planned, but they are still going to bring the funk. Plus there are even more shots of us! I bet you are so excited for that ;)

Let’s get down to it.

I promised you there would be guys in Mexican wrestling (aka. lucha libre) masks. And I shall deliver.

Shall I elaborate? On one of the very first days in Mexico, Jennette and Reilly arranged a casual get together at one of the many bars on the resort. Reilly’s boys figured they should get into the spirit, and came all decked out and ready to party. It certainly was a hilarious night!

Isn’t this shot the best ever? Even though he must wear a mask, she still loves him ;)

Reilly had to jump in for a shot. I love the energy guys can bring to a photo!

Rob wanted to do a fun little shot of Jennette and Reilly outside on the sand. This is what we got, which I think is pretty awesome! It may not mean anything, but it looks pretty cool :)

At the get-together Jennette handed out these amazing OOT bags (OOT = Out Of Town, for those of you not up on the wedding lingo) filled with all sorts of goodies for the guests. The best part was that her mom actually made them all by hand! They even had little zippered pockets for your room key and whatnot. It was so easy to pick out all of our group, because of the bright orange bags! I totally love that they added some Pepto Bismal too. ALWAYS important for those out of country trips :)

And I also promised some goofy photos of us. Well here they are. As we walked around the resort doing some location scouting we thought we would have a little fun with it. Here Rob told me to stand in a manner that mimicked the trees.

He didn’t think I did a good enough job, so he had to get in there and show me how it was done.

Hey look! It’s Lauren!

And, oh look there! It’s Rob!

After all these photos we’ve shown you, you must be dying to know who this elusive couple is! Here’s your chance! Now one night we thought it would be cool to head into Playa Del Carmen and do a little photo shoot with J&R, as they will henceforth be known. Not only was it nightime, but it was also super hot and muggy. Double the challenge! But I think we were able to pull out some pretty cool shots.

“Borrowing” a couch for a shot. The people inside the store just sat there looking at us funny. Ah, the awkwardness of shooting in public!

These two are so ridiculously cute together. It’s kind of unfair :)

Neat little shot by Rob.

Had to make sure of the crazy weird light installation we found!

We like shots of people’s feet. It’s weird, and Reilly was like “Rob, what are you taking a picture of???”. But that’s ok, I think it’s a pretty cute shot :)

And one last one with those lights. Such a sweet photo, these two are awesome.

I’m gonna come at you with some more photos now, so get ready. Here are a few more details of the pretty, pretty El Dorado Royale. Rob found this weird little thing on the beach, and loved it! We had hoped to do some cool ring shots on it, but it got washed away :( We used it for some other shots though…which you will see in mere moments!

I loved the flowers in Mexico. So exotic!

And we got a couple of really cool night time shots of the resort. This was actually taken on the top of one of the buildings. We went up to the top level, saw a service ladder had been left out, so Rob climbed up while I passed up the camera and tripod. I stood guard, and Rob took some sweet shots. Yeah, I know what you’re thinking. We’re pretty much ninjas.

What a neat shot of the pool, with those lovely little beds all lit up.

The palm trees had lights on them at night, and it was such a magical scene.

And now, unfortunately, you are going to have to sit through more photos of us…..Wait, what am I talking about. YOU LOVE IT!

Rob is pretty awesome.

He’s also pretty hardcore. See that burn on his arm? That bad boy was from cheese. Yes, CHEESE. Rob has a cheese BURN. Fondue is, like, an extreme sport.

I can’t even tell you how many times I just finished writing this beast out, just to have it washed away. This is the ONLY shot we got, before it disappeared forever. You better like it.

Then we had a night off so we decided to do some “glamour shots” of each other. You might recognize some of these as they grace our killer header bar. Here’s me, looking totally spy-ish.

And Rob, looking like a total stud. Isn’t he hot???

He also loved that weird sea coral thing so much that he wanted some shots with it. This one is just the epitome of coolness.

I love how incredibly weird and amazing this shot is at the same time.

Rob = Cute.

Lauren = Quirky.

Together = World Domination.

And then Rob did what all boys are compelled to do. He threw rocks into the ocean, then started to hit them with a stick. When he saw the shots, he remarked on his “good form”.

Ok, so enough shots of us. Tomorrow you get to rock out to some shots of something we like to call “Trash the Invite”, as well as some drop-dead gorgeous shots of Jennette.

Lauren :)

Here we go, we’re rolling along with these awesome photos. I think today I just might give you a little something more…like maybe….some wedding day photos! Right on! Let’s go! Follow me!!!!!

Love this shot of a couple of resort workers working on one of the gazebos. Random, sure, but still cool

Before the wedding Jennette told me she wanted some cool shots of her invitation. And when she handed it over to me, she told me not to worry if we “trashed it”. Well, the little wheels started turning in our heads and we thought, “Let’s do a trash the dress session, but with the invitation!!!”. Anything to amuse ourselves :) I present to you: Trash the Invite!

Um, this is just some water, but how amazing is it?

Aw, J+R 4—>

Rob showing the proof that we did indeed trash it.

We even threw it right in the water!

Then it was time for the rehearsal dinner. Reilly had spent the day out deep sea fishing. How big was that fish Reilly?

Just a simple, gorgeous shot of a pelican flying overhead at sunset.

While we were all waiting to head over to the restaurant for the dinner we decided to make use of the fantastic light. Jennette looked stunning, as always, so we just HAD to shoot. These are the results:

At the rehearsal dinner all the youngens decided to break out the tequila. Apparently you are supposed to put the empty glasses on your head. Who knew!

And hey, let’s just throw caution into the wind and start off the wedding day photos! We’re just crazy like that, aren’t we?? You never know what you’ll get on the Rob & Lauren Blog!

So to continue with the craziness, check out this crazy bunny made out of towels. Crazy!

And now to move away from the crazy, and towards the pretty. This was Jennette’s wedding clutch that her mom made for her out of excess material from the dress. How gorgeous is that?

Jennette and Reilly’s lovely little casita suite where the girls got ready in the morning. It was such a great place to spend a relaxing morning (yes, you heard that. Relaxing on a wedding day! It’s true!)

It sure made for some amazing dress shots.

Some veil detail, and some gorgeous light.

How cool are these rings? So unique!

Jennette getting her hair done.

How cool is this shot??? Jennette’s mom taking a quick little snap.

Haha, I love shots like this of the bridesmaids. When it comes to bridal hair, it’s always gets so crazy before it gets pretty.

We ran out to take some ring shots in the sand (don’t worry, we were INSANELY careful not to lose them :)

So many bridesmaids!!!! No wait, just one :)

Haha, more crazy hair!

The girls making sure they know which verse to read.

What a cool little shoe shot. Good choice on the shoes Jennette!

Lol, make sure that veil is on tight!

Now you might have been wondering how a wedding morning could be relaxing. Well, some cocktails beside the pool sure helps.

And a bit of relaxing on the outdoor bed adds to the atmosphere.

Jennette’s mom was really, really, really, really, really, hungry.

Don’t forgot to brush your teeth, Jennette!

I love make-up shots like this.

All the gals getting ready.

But what were the boys up to??? I’ll give you one guess….

Ooh! A little strong, Reilly?

Nothing like some Red Bull to get you pumped up about a wedding!

What an amazing gift Jennette gave to Reilly in the morning.

And now the girls are back at the pool, getting their feet wet. Seriously, why can’t all weddings be like this?? Lol, jokes of course, we love them all. But this was just too much fun.

And then a special delivery came in just for Jennette. A very special letter from Reilly.

It got the girls a little teary eyed.

While Reilly just hung out like a total stud.

I adore this shot of Jennette getting into the dress. Can’t you just feel the quiet anticipation?

Great angle on the buttoning-up.

Uh oh! Spill emergency! Thank goodness Rob had his Tide-To-Go pen on hand!

And then the boys walked it out to the ceremony.

Jennette was just brimming with excitement. What a fabulously adorable shot.

Just time for a quick portrait before it’s time to get married!

And let’s leave it there for today, shall we?

Wait, you want more?

Well, does this awesome video tickle your fancy?

Rob & Lauren Hang Photos from Robert Lim on Vimeo.

Yes.

There will be more videos to come in the future, as well as more shots from our studio, which is growing more awesome by the day!!!!

10 extra bonus points for whoever can guess what show we’re watching in the video. Leave your guess in the comments below!

More tomorrow friends, more tomorrow :)

Before we start, be a rockstar and answer this poll! Everyone who does get 1 bonus point a piece (and you better do it, because Leslie is already at 10)

Now, moving along.

These photos are 1337. That’s all I have to say. Let’s go.

Flat out one of the most gorgeous wedding locations we’ve seen.

All the details were just beautiful. These flowers were so simple and elegant.

Just waiting for the ceremony to start.

Walking down the aisle.

Like I said, just a stunning wedding location.

The ceremony was filled with lots of laughs.

And even a few emotional tears.

How fantastic is this? The first kiss. And check out the bridesmaid’s reaction on the left. SO happy!

And my view of the first kiss.

Married!

The girls were all so gorgeous. And also some of the most kind and supportive bridesmaids I’ve seen. Jennette is one of those rare and fantastic brides who spend their wedding day thinking of others and trying to make sure everyone else is taken care of. Her awesome bridesmaids kept reminding her that this was HER day, and to enjoy it!

The whole bridal party was just so fun to work with.

Reilly looks pretty pleased to be surrounded by such gorgeous girls, eh?

And the guys had a bit of fun themselves.

The whole awesome party.

How ridiculously cute is this shot??

Like I mentioned previously, these two are the cutest together. Ever.

Exhibit A.

And Exhibit B. It’s interesting how I’ve gravitated towards black and white photos for this post! I just love how it shows all the joy and fun these guys were having together.

Like I said. Fun.

We had to make use of that fantastic chapel.

And a classic, picture of two ridiculously good lookin’ people.

Haha, how funny is this? J&R walking towards their reception, passing by some sunbathers! Only in Mexico!

The reception was all kinds of awesome. When this is the first thing you see when you walk in, you know it’s going to be a par-tay!

Um, ok. So I love dessert….

And a BBQ buffet! How perfect!

Their reception was right beside one of the pools. They had these gorgeous little lights floating in the pool, it was so beautiful.

The sunset over the reception.

And inside there were lots of laughs going on.

Telling a funny little story about Jennette. I love funny speeches!

I told you it was a par-tay.

Best. Tequila. Reaction. Shot. Ever.

What a cute little first dance.

And the father-daughter dance was just so touching.

I absolutely LOVE when brides and grooms take the time to have more than just one dance together.

Ok so let me just say: You can tell they’re from Calgary :)

Haha, Reilly seemed to get a lot of strong drinks on this trip!

And then, of course, look into the glass to see what on earth that was!

The Mexican version of cutting the cake. Verdict? Awesome.

Candy spill!!! Some of it was actually really weird. Like, chili flavoured lolipops.

Strange things happen in Mexico.

Rock on, Jennette!! Rock on!

And how amazing is this? Jennette and her mom hopped into the pool to start dancing…

Then the WHOLE group hopped in. It was just an amazing sight. Honestly, if anyone is considering a destination wedding, I can’t recommend it enough. The sense of connection and intimacy with all their friends and family was wonderful, and I know everyone there had a fabulous experience. It was an honor to be a part of it all.

And of course, what is a par-tay without some vodka Red Bulls? No par-tay at all! LINE EM UP!

Up next, the much anticipated Trash The Dress shoot!

Until then, I really hope you guys enjoy!

Lauren :)

So here we are. We finally made it to the long anticipated Trash The Dress session of Jennette and Reilly. We all gave ourselves the day after the wedding to rest and recouperate. Then, on the morning that Rob and I flew back to Edmonton we got up at sunrise to start the shooting. Believe me when I say that we REALLY aren’t morning people. We are generally up around 10:00AM. So to get up at 5:00AM was tough, but if there was anyone we’d do it for, it would definitely be J&R. They are just so gosh-darned awesome.

I won’t say much as these photos do the talking. But basically a TTD session is just a time when we don’t worry whether or not the dress gets dirty (in this case it actually got cleaner. Go figure!), and just take whatever shots we want. We don’t set out to deliberately trash the dress, we just want to shoot with total freedom.

For the record, this is a great way to get some wedding photos even a few years after your wedding! And Edmonton has a ton of opportunity, even though there’s no sand :)

Here are those photos I mentioned. Put on your seatbelt because these ones will take you on quite the ride!

And a few cool behind the scenes shots of us!

And so ends our photos from Mexico! I hope you guys enjoyed them, and are ready to get on to more and more awesomeness with us!

Lauren :)