A Beautiful 35th Anniversary: Alan and Bridget’s Heartfelt Re-Proposal and Vow Renewal at Punta Sur on Isla Mujeres

For many couples, the journey of love spans decades, and Alan and Bridget’s story is no exception. Their 35th wedding anniversary marked a special moment, one that Alan had been planning for some time. When he first proposed to Bridget, it wasn’t exactly the most romantic setting. Alan, then in the Army, popped the question at a party in front of his platoon, with a few beers involved. Bridget, being the understanding partner she is, didn’t mind, but Alan always thought it was time to give her the proposal she truly deserved.

After raising four children and living through so many beautiful moments together, Alan’s love for Bridget had only deepened. Even after 35 years, his affection for her was just as strong as when he first asked for her hand in marriage. That’s when he decided it was time for a re-proposal—a moment to show Bridget how much she meant to him.

Alan reached out to me, asking if I would photograph this special occasion. He shared how he wanted to make things right and create a moment that would reflect their enduring love. As we discussed the idea, we quickly realized that a vow renewal would make the day even more special. Alan was thrilled with the idea, and the plan began to take shape.

On the day of the celebration, Alan gave Bridget a beautiful anniversary band to symbolize their 35 years of marriage. But this time, there was something extra. Unlike their first engagement, where Alan hadn’t gotten down on one knee, he did so this time, making the moment even more heartfelt. Bridget’s reaction was everything Alan had hoped for—pure joy, love, and surprise. It was a beautiful start to what would become an unforgettable day.

After the re-proposal, we made our way to the stunning cliffs of Punta Sur for a photo session. The breathtaking scenery provided the perfect backdrop for capturing the love and connection between the couple. As we took photos, I couldn’t help but think about the years of memories they had built together and how their bond had only grown stronger over time.

But the surprises didn’t end there. After about an hour of photos, we made our way to a more secluded area of the park, where their spiritual officiant, Sabina, was waiting. Alan revealed the next surprise to Bridget: they would be renewing their vows. Bridget was completely taken off guard, and her face lit up with surprise and love. It was a deeply emotional moment.

Sabina presented Bridget with a bouquet of pale pink and white flowers—just like the ones she had carried at their wedding 35 years ago. As Sabina spoke words of love and commitment, drawn from the beautiful sentiments Alan had shared, the ceremony felt even more personal and meaningful. It was a touching moment, and as a photographer, it was an honor to capture such an intimate and beautiful experience.

In the end, this anniversary wasn’t just about the re-proposal and vow renewal. It was a testament to the enduring love that Alan and Bridget share, a love that has only grown deeper with each passing year. Their journey together is a reminder that true love only gets stronger with time. Capturing this incredible moment was a privilege, and it reaffirmed why I do what I do—to document the beautiful, lasting moments of love that define our lives. Here's to Alan and Bridget—may their love continue to shine brightly for many more years to come!