The first time I visited Santorini, Greece, it became my life mission to shoot a Santorini wedding or elopement, because the island is a wedding photographer’s dream. I was in awe of the caldera, the blue domes and white buildings, and the breathtaking views from every corner of the island; not to mention, the incredible weather, people, and food that go along with it.

Less than a year after visiting for the first time, I started daydreaming about hosting an international retreat for wedding photographers. That’s when the Something New Retreat was born. When it came time to plan my first one, Santorini was the easy choice for a location.

I had so much fun planning this shoot and learned so much

Fast forward to August; after sliding into Malaz’s DMs on Instagram during my search for a couple to model for one of the styled shoots on my retreat, we had hopped on a video call to go over all the details. I remember thinking after we hung up “wow, I ABSOLUTELY lucked out with these two being game to fly to Santorini to model for this.” And boy was I right. They are so unbelievably kind (to each other and everyone around them), thoughtful, and have the most genuine smiles + laughs, which of course made photographing them a dream.

Santorini, I’ll forever be in love with you. If you’re looking to plan an elopement or wedding on the island, I’ve got a vast list of resources after planning three shoots on the island and from doing extensive research on the areas that photos are allowed!

Retreat: Something New Retreat
Retreat Host: @marissakellyphotography
Planner: Bespoke Weddings Santorini
Venue: Imer Villas
Florals: Red Box Days
Hair and Makeup: @juliarta.santo
Dress: Bella Bleub Bridall
Party Dress Designer: Made With Love
Tux: Friar Tux
Rentals: Maison Trilogie + @spark_events_rentals + Weddings and Whimsy
Lighting: @idea.candles
Invitation Suite: Bek Custom Designs