A Destination Wedding in Paradise: Ryan & Thomas at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba

Click Play to Experience the Film | Cover by Alex C Tenser Photography

There’s something magical about filming a wedding in paradise, and Ryan and Thomas’s day at the world-class Ritz-Carlton Aruba was unforgettable in every way. As a filmmaker, there’s nothing I cherish more than capturing two people in love, surrounded by beauty, joy, and the people who matter most.

Having known Ryan for many years—and having filmed his sister Lindsey’s wedding to Fabio over a decade ago—it was incredibly meaningful to be invited back into this beautiful family’s lives. It was such a joy to see Lindsey and Fabio again, a couple I adored filming, and to now document another chapter for the people who’ve made me feel so appreciated over the years.

The entire weekend was a dream. Susanna Wu, the phenomenal planner at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba, helped orchestrate a flawless event from start to finish. BEE4 Consultancy & Events transformed the already stunning setting into something truly magical. And working alongside Demian Gibbs Photography, a talented husband-and-wife team local to Aruba, was such a pleasure. Demian and his wife were not only incredibly skilled but also warm, welcoming, and just wonderful people to spend the day with. I truly hope our paths cross again at another destination wedding on the island.

Having Ryan’s parents there added so much warmth and heart to the experience. At the rehearsal dinner the night before, Ryan’s father delivered one of the most touching speeches I’ve ever heard—honest, emotional, and deeply personal. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room.

Then, on the wedding night, Erica—Thomas’s sister—stood up and delivered a stunning speech that left the entire wedding moved. She spoke with love, admiration, and grace, and honored the memory of Thomas’s late mother, who may not have been physically present but was very much a part of the day. It was one of those emotional high points that reminded me of the deep meaning weddings hold—not just as events, but as timeless expressions of love, family, and connection.

And the celebration itself? Absolutely electric. From heartfelt toasts to a wild, high-energy dance floor (yes, Fabio, you’ll notice, is one of the many shirtless men in that epic dance sequence), the joy was nonstop and contagious. To top it off, I even spotted a few past clients of mine in the crowd—couples I had filmed many years ago. After more than 15 years of doing this, those moments are such a fun surprise and remind me of just how small and connected this world can be.

Lastly, I have to give a huge shout-out to my main man LeSean Rowe, who joined me as my second camera on this adventure. LeSean did a fantastic job capturing all the magic of the day and was such an important part of this experience. I couldn’t have done it without him.

One of Ryan and Tom’s dear friends said something at the rehearsal dinner that really stuck with me: “Never stop being you.” That sentiment couldn’t be more fitting for these two. Their authenticity, joy, and connection lit up every moment—and I hope this film preserves that forever.

Vendor Love

• Venue: The Ritz-Carlton Aruba
  Planner: Susanna Wu (Ritz-Carlton Aruba)
  Photography: Demian Gibbs Photography
  Decor: BEE4 Consultancy & Events
  DJ: Our Wedding DJ

Explore the Demian Gibbs Photography

To the amazing vendors, the entire team at the Ritz-Carlton Aruba, and especially to Ryan and Tom—thank you for letting me tell this story. I can’t wait to share my next film with you all.