Love After the Storm: The Story of Heather & Joe

Some love stories begin with laughter, others are born from healing. Heather and Joe’s began in the quiet aftermath of life’s greatest losses. Two souls who had walked through fire, only to find each other on the other side.

It wasn’t until years later, after heartbreak had reshaped their lives, that they finally met. In 2015, Joe returned to New York after the passing of his first wife. What was meant to be a visit became a new beginning. That’s when he met Heather, not just an old classmate, but the woman who would one day become his home.

Eight long years passed. The kind of years filled with rebuilding, rediscovery, quiet joys, shared strength. When the time finally felt right, they chose something bold, beautiful, free, Costa Rica.

How I met the couple

Heather found me through my sister, a connection through Keller Williams Real Estate, where they worked together. After one heartfelt conversation, we both knew this wasn’t just a wedding booking, it was meant to be. She needed a photographer as well, so I didn’t hesitate to call Rachael (Aurora Photography), my trusted creative partner of over a decade. The dream team was heading to paradise.

Costa Rica! Wild, lush, impossibly alive. A land where the rainforest hums with secrets, where emerald jungles meet sapphire seas, where every breeze feels like a whisper from the earth itself. We arrived at Dreams Las Mareas, an all-inclusive resort tucked between golden sands, swaying palms. The scent of saltwater mingled with tropical blooms, every path led to beauty.

Our first night was, the Rendezvous Party felt like a prelude to the magic, with cocktails in hand, love in the air. 

Then came the wedding day.

Their ceremony unfolded beneath the Royal Palm Tree Terrace, a setting so breathtaking it felt like a painting. The palms stood tall like guardians, the ocean just beyond whispering its blessings. As Heather walked down the aisle, time seemed to still, Joe’s eyes glistening, her dress catching the light like water.

After vows that brought tears, smiles, guests gathered for cocktails, stories, basking in golden light. The reception took place in the Lobby Garden, a hidden jewel surrounded by lush greenery, glowing string lights, the kind of energy you can’t script. It felt enchanted, like we had all wandered into a tropical dream, were being asked to stay, just a little longer.

As the sun began its descent, we stole the couple away for a sunset shoot. The sky turned molten gold, then blush pink, then deep sapphire. The shots we captured weren’t just images, they were echoes of a love that had waited a lifetime to bloom.

This trip was a dream for us too.

At DVH Weddings, we travel to tell stories like these, real, raw, radiant. Stories of resilience, reunion, second chances that turn into forever. Costa Rica gave us the perfect canvas, but it was Heather, Joe who gave it its soul.

To Heather, Joe, your beautiful family, thank you for letting us walk beside you on this chapter of your journey. Your love is proof that even after life’s darkest moments, light can find a way in. Sometimes, it brings palm trees, ocean waves, fireworks with it.

Here’s to new beginnings, tropical sunsets, love that never gives up!

Planning a destination wedding or looking for someone to capture your love story with heart, soul, cinematic magic?

Let’s make something unforgettable together.

Reach out to DVH Weddings, your story deserves to be told beautifully.

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