Capturing the magical wedding of Reilly and Mike on the Disney Wish was nothing short of a dream. As an avid fan of both Disney and cruises, the combination of these two elements couldn’t be more perfect. I had always known that the Disney Wish, the newest addition to the Disney Cruise Line (DCL), would debut in 2022, and photographing weddings aboard this ship had been a distant dream of mine. But when Reilly and Mike contacted me, that dream became a reality. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

The couple’s wedding was set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Grand Hall on the Disney Wish. DCL fans already knew this atrium, renamed the “Grand Hall” because of its grandeur, would be nothing short of spectacular. With its Cinderella-themed design, it was the perfect place to capture the enchantment of a Disney fairy tale wedding. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Reilly and Mike’s wedding photos were among the very first ever taken aboard the Disney Wish, making their photos even more special. As the fifth ship in the DCL fleet, it marked a new chapter in the cruise line’s history, and I was thrilled to be a part of it. The couple’s wedding weekend was an unforgettable celebration of love, family, and friendship, and the memories created aboard the ship and at Walt Disney World will last a lifetime. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Choosing a Disney Cruise Line Wedding

Reilly and Mike wanted their wedding to be a memorable, multi-day event that their guests would talk about for years. The couple wanted to replicate that magic for their own wedding, with a celebration that would leave lasting impressions. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Mike’s family had extensive experience with cruising, while Reilly had long loved Disney, having visited Disney parks across the globe, including those in France, Hong Kong, and Florida. She had even visited Walt Disney World during high school to see her cousin, who was there on a college program. Though neither had been on a Disney Cruise before, they decided that the Disney Wish would be the perfect place to say “I do.”

The Grand Hall, with its dazzling design and stunning views, was the ideal setting for their vows. Reilly had seen my photos of Brittany and Josh’s wedding on Castaway Cay a few years earlier, and when she saw my bright, colorful style, she knew I was the photographer she was looking for.

Reilly also had a clear vision for the length of her wedding weekend, saying she wanted it to last as long as possible so that it would never have to end. While the cruise came to a close when the ship docked back in Port Canaveral, Florida, the memories they created during their time at Walt Disney World and on the Disney Wish will stay with them forever. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

The Decision to Bring a Photographer

One of the most special aspects of Reilly and Mike’s wedding was the decision to extend their wedding celebration over several days. As a destination wedding, it gave them the chance to immerse themselves in a magical, multi-day experience. They knew that having their own photographer to document the entire weekend was the best way to capture every moment. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Their Disney Wish wedding photos span the entire three-night cruise, with images taken from the moment they boarded the ship to the final moments before disembarkation. This included Friday evening, when the ship first set sail from Port Canaveral and guests reunited after traveling from all over the country. The coverage also included the wedding day itself, which took place on the second day of the cruise, when the ship docked at Nassau. I was there every step of the way, capturing the joy and love of the day.

The couple’s wedding day included everything from the intimate moments as Reilly and Mike got ready in their stateroom to beautiful images of them with their wedding party around the ship. They even had some pictures taken at dinner in the 1923 dining room, where Reilly and Mike were still in their wedding attire, with Reilly wearing her veil and the couple sharing a special moment with their guests. It was fun for the other passengers to witness such a beautiful bride, and I’m sure it was a treat for everyone in the restaurant that evening. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Getting Ready and the Ceremony

Reilly got ready in her spacious concierge-level stateroom on Deck 13 with the help of her two best friends. The room was the perfect place to step into her gown and prepare for the big day. After some final touches to her hair and makeup, Reilly visited Untangled Salon to check in on some of the special women in her life, including her mother, mother-in-law, sister, and sister-in-law, who were all having their hair and makeup done.

Meanwhile, Mike was getting a trim at Hook’s Barbery, with his groomsmen by his side. His support crew helped him prepare for his first look with Reilly. The couple’s first look on Deck 5, with the iconic chandelier and its “Wishing Star” hanging overhead, was absolutely magical. After their first look, we were joined by Reilly’s niece, Ellie, who was positively glowing with excitement to see her aunt in her wedding dress. Her pure joy was contagious, and it added an extra touch of sweetness to the day. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

When it came time for the ceremony, Reilly made a grand entrance down the staircase of the Grand Hall. She walked down from Deck 5, met her father on Deck 4, and then continued to Deck 3, where Mike waited eagerly. The ceremony concluded with a beautiful rose petal toss, a perfect moment to celebrate the couple’s new life together. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

Wedding Party Aboard the Ship

One of the standout features of any Disney Cruise Line wedding is the opportunity to capture unforgettable wedding photos against the backdrop of the ship’s extraordinary settings. For me, the Disney Wish was a new experience, as I had sailed on every Disney Cruise Line ship except for the Disney Fantasy. The Disney Wish had only recently made its debut, just a few months prior to Reilly and Mike’s wedding, making it a fresh adventure for most guests onboard. Stunning Disney Wish Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line

As soon as my husband Dan (who also served as my assistant for the wedding) and I boarded the Disney Wish, we dove straight into our mission: to find the most stunning photo spots. One of my initial concerns, based on my research, was that there seemed to be limited indoor locations for photos.

However, I was pleasantly surprised by the hidden gems I found, which reminded me of my knack for discovering the perfect photography locations, no matter the space. With Disney Cruise Line’s meticulous design on the Wish, it was a breeze to locate magnificent indoor areas that kept the bride and groom cool, especially while docked in the warmth of Nassau.

Of course, we couldn’t resist stepping outdoors for a few quick shots by the iconic Mickey Mouse-shaped stack, a hallmark of Disney Cruise Line. I’m so grateful that the clouds cooperated with us that day, creating perfect lighting for these outdoor images. The Mickey Mouse stack, with its bold and unmistakable colors, perfectly captured the essence of the cruise line’s magic.

Capturing Precious Moments Aboard the Disney Wish

Some of the most memorable images captured by Mikkel Paige Photography include the bride and groom gazing at each other on the Grand Hall stairs, their joy and love clearly radiating. Other stunning moments include the bride walking down the stairs, the couple sharing a loving kiss in The Bayou, and their smiles as they posed by the Cinderella mosaic.

As we walked through The Rose bar, we captured more intimate moments between the couple, with the lush interior adding a rich, cozy ambiance. The grand staircase in the ship’s atrium also provided the perfect backdrop for a group photo with the wedding party, including bridesmaids, groomsmen, and the newlyweds.

Some other unforgettable moments were shot against the backdrop of Disney’s iconic Mickey Mouse stack, with bridesmaids and groomsmen posing in front of the colorful stack for timeless photos. These playful shots balanced out the more formal, sophisticated portraits, showcasing the fun and whimsical nature of Disney weddings.

The Bayou: The Perfect Wedding Reception Venue

The reception took place in The Bayou, an incredibly fitting choice for Reilly and Mike’s celebration. This venue was adorned with lush Southern foliage, including magnolia flowers, leafy greenery, and elements reminiscent of Spanish Moss, which is often seen cascading from the majestic Southern Oak trees. The combination of the enchanting décor and the lively atmosphere made it the perfect setting for their wedding celebration.

The Bayou’s southern charm was further enhanced by delicious hors d’oeuvres served to guests during the reception, offering a taste of the region’s flavors and adding to the celebratory ambiance.

A huge thank you to Reilly and Mike for making me and my husband feel so welcome throughout the entire weekend. Dan truly went above and beyond as my assistant, helping ensure every detail was captured beautifully, including the post-wedding session at Castaway Cay. It was an honor to be a part of their special day, not just as a photographer, but as a friend, celebrating their love alongside all of their family and friends.

Cheers to Reilly and Mike! I’m grateful to have been part of your incredible journey.

capture your Disney Cruise Line wedding, feel free to reach out!

For additional Disney wedding inspiration, check out:

• Disney Dream Wedding Photos on Disney Cruise Line
  
• Disney Wish Bayou Wedding
  
• Walt Disney World Wedding Photos at the Grand Floridian, Disney Wedding Pavilion, and Contemporary
  
• Best Wedding Venues in Orlando

Conclusion

The conclusion to a collection of stunning Disney Wish wedding photos on Disney Cruise Line would likely highlight the magic and charm of tying the knot in such a unique and enchanting setting. A Disney Cruise Line wedding offers an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of the ocean, elegant venues, and personalized touches that make every couple’s special day feel like a fairy tale come true.

Whether on the deck under a setting sun or in one of the ship’s elegant ballrooms, the photos captured during these weddings evoke timeless memories filled with joy, love, and Disney magic. For couples looking for a destination wedding with a dash of Disney magic, Disney Wish offers an unparalleled experience that blends romance, luxury, and adventure in one unforgettable package.

FAQs

What makes Disney Wish wedding photos unique?

Disney Wish wedding photos capture the magic of the ship’s stunning venues, from elegant ballrooms to breathtaking ocean views, creating unforgettable moments.

Can I customize my Disney Wish wedding photos? 

Yes, couples can work with professional photographers to personalize their photo sessions, adding themes, props, and special moments tailored to their dream wedding.

What locations on the Disney Wish are ideal for wedding photos?

 Popular spots include the stunning atrium, deck with ocean vistas, and the elegant dining rooms, each offering unique backdrops for perfect wedding photos.

How can I book a Disney Wish wedding photo package?

Couples can book photo packages through Disney Cruise Line’s wedding coordinator, who will guide them through available options and pricing for wedding photography.

Are there any special photo opportunities on Disney Wish cruises?

Yes, Disney Wish offers themed photoshoots with Disney characters, customized backdrops, and intimate moments captured around the ship for a magical experience.