Weddings
Bruiloft bij Strandclub Witsand: De Strandbruiloft van Shaira & Nicklas
Some weddings carry a certain magic—an atmosphere that lingers, filled with love, warmth, and unforgettable moments. Shaira and Nicklas' wedding at Strandclub Witsand in Noordwijk was one of those days. From heartfelt vows on the beach to golden-hour portraits in the dunes, their wedding was a celebration of love in the purest form. I had the privilege of capturing their special day, but our journey together started months before…
A Special Connection in Mallorca
I first met Shaira and Nicklas by chance in Mallorca, where we happened to be at the same time. We shared a coffee in the charming village of Petra, chatting about their wedding plans and life in general. Later that day, I went on a bike ride with Nicklas, an experience that immediately created a bond. These little moments are what make my job as a wedding photographer so special. Building a connection before the big day allows me to capture the most authentic moments.
The Perfect Venue: Strandclub Witsand
Nestled on the shores of Noordwijk, Strandclub Witsand is a true hidden gem. The combination of soft sand underfoot, the calming sound of waves, and the breathtaking ocean view makes it a dream venue for a beach wedding. The venue itself exudes warmth and elegance, with light wooden tones, an open fireplace, and large doors opening directly onto the beach.
For their wedding decor, Shaira and Nicklas opted for a boho-inspired aesthetic—earthy tones, delicate floral arrangements, and lots of greenery. The styling blended beautifully with the natural beach setting, creating an effortlessly romantic atmosphere.
The Ceremony: A Moment to Remember
As the guests gathered on the beach, Nicklas stood waiting. His tailored suit from Birkhoven gave him a sophisticated yet relaxed look, though his anticipation was evident—completely understandable for such a life-changing moment.
And then, she arrived. Shaira walked down the sandy aisle with her father, looking radiant in her flowing Malee Bridal gown. The soft sea breeze lifted the edges of her dress, and her beautifully styled hair, done by Maureen from BrightUpp salon, framed her beaming smile. It was a sight to behold—nervous excitement mixed with pure joy.
Their ceremony was led by a close friend, adding an intimate and personal touch. There was laughter, a few tears, and finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for—the exchange of rings and their first kiss as husband and wife. The cheers of their loved ones, combined with the gentle sound of the waves, made for a truly unforgettable scene.
A Heartfelt Reception
After the ceremony, we moved inside the beautifully styled reception area of Strandclub Witsand. Shaira and Nicklas kicked things off with a short but touching speech, expressing their gratitude to their guests. It was clear how much love surrounded them.
Then came one of my favorite parts of any wedding—the congratulations. These unscripted moments of hugs, smiles, and joyful tears are so special to capture. After this warm exchange, the couple cut their stunning wedding cake, crafted by Patisserie Soetenso in Leiden. A moment of shared sweetness, both literally and figuratively.
A Romantic Beach Photoshoot
In the afternoon, we set out for a beach photoshoot. The weather was perfect—partly cloudy skies provided soft, diffused light, ideal for capturing the beauty of the Noordwijk coastline.
Shaira and Nicklas strolled along the water’s edge, hand in hand, occasionally stopping to steal glances at each other. No forced poses, just pure, natural moments. These are the kinds of memories I love to document—the quiet in-between moments that truly tell a love story.
Dinner, Speeches, and Festivities
As evening set in, the celebrations continued with a delightful dinner prepared by Strandclub Witsand’s catering team. The menu was a perfect balance of refined flavors and comforting dishes, enjoyed in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.
Throughout the meal, heartfelt speeches were given by family and friends—some humorous, some deeply touching, but all filled with love. Laughter and happy tears filled the room, and between courses, wedding games kept the energy lively and fun.
Sunset Magic in the Dunes
Just before the sun dipped below the horizon, we ventured into the dunes for one final photoshoot. The golden-hour light bathed everything in a warm glow, creating a magical setting for their portraits. Getting married at sunset in Noordwijk is truly something special—the light, the landscape, and the serenity of the moment make for breathtaking images.
As Shaira and Nicklas stood hand in hand, looking out at the endless horizon, I knew this was a moment they would cherish forever. And that’s exactly what I aim to capture—not just pictures, but timeless memories.
Thank you Shaira & Nicklas
I am grateful that I was able to be part of this special day and capture the love between Shaira and Nicklas. Their trust and openness allowed me to tell their story in an authentic way. I wish them a life full of love and happiness.
Tips for a Perfect Beach Wedding
Are you dreaming of a beach wedding? Here are a few tips to ensure your day runs smoothly:
- Prepare for the wind: Beach settings can be breezy, so secure decorations well and consider a wind-friendly hairstyle.
- Choose lightweight attire: A flowy dress and minimal layers will keep you comfortable and elegant.
- Check local permits: Many beaches require special permissions for ceremonies, so plan ahead.
- Provide comfortable seating: Opt for sturdy chairs that won’t sink into the sand.
- Plan the timing carefully: A sunset ceremony offers the best lighting and a romantic atmosphere.
- Keep guests comfortable: Offer shaded areas and refreshing drinks on warm days.
- Have a backup plan: Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so an indoor option is always a good idea.