Dalyan Bungalow - Mugla, Turkey Elopement Photo Story Award

The bride and groom focus as the shaman begins their riverfront wedding ceremony

An Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Image by the Water | The bride and groom focus solely on one another

The bride and groom focus solely on one another as the shaman begins their riverfront wedding ceremony. The trellis, crafted from two re-purposed doors and adorned with greenery to add a natural feel, seemed to symbolize the fact that the couple would soon be walking into the next chapter of their lives — the home that they will make together.

After meeting in America and enjoying a whirlwind romance, Ulas and Ruth knew that they wanted to travel to Ulas' homeland for their wedding. They planned a utopian wedding ceremony on the shores of the river in Dalyan, Muğla in Turkey. With a shaman as their officiant and Ruth donning a whimsical gown, the wedding appeared as if it was torn out of the pages of a fairy tale storybook. 

Dalyankoy, Mugla, Turkey Outdoor Wedding pic of bride holding hands with her best friend on the aisle at ceremony

Dalyan Bungalow & Restaurant Wedding Venue | The bride is about to walk her down the aisle

Ruth holds hands with her best friend, who is about to walk her down the aisle. The appreciative look that is on Ruth's face says more than words ever could about this incredible gesture.

Wedding Venue Image from Mugla, Turkey of shaman perforing a ceremony for the couple

Wedding photos at Dalyan Bungalow & Restaurant | The bride and groom embrace their friend

The bride and groom embrace their friend, a shaman who performed their wedding ceremony for them.

Dalyan Wedding and Event Venue Image of Jewish glass breaking tradition at outdoor ceremony

Dalyan Wedding & Event Venue Image | a touch of tradition to their wedding day

Adding a touch of tradition to their wedding day, the groom smashes a wine glass as a nod to their Jewish heritage as his bride celebrates their marriage.

Photo from a Mugla Wedding of bride running down the aisle in order to meet the groom

Photography of Mugla for Weddings | The bride playfully runs down the aisle in order to meet the groom

Ruth playfully runs down the aisle in order to meet Ulas in their rooms. According to Jewish tradition, newlywed couples must spend the first 8 minutes of their marriage alone in their rooms together.

Photo from Wedding Venue in Fethiye, Mugla, Turkey of reception outside with drinks and hugs

Photography from a Wedding Venue in Fethiye, Mugla, Turkey | The wedding reception was outside

As the wedding reception begins at the Dalyan Bungalow, the bride welcomes a friend with a hug while another guest celebrates the occasion with a drink.

Fethiye Wedding Photo of bride as she watches friends dance at reception venue

Mugla Fethiye Wedding Photography | The brides wedding gown is cascading around her

Ruth, with her wedding gown cascading around her as she relaxes during the reception, responds with a dazzled look as her friend shows off her dance moves.

Mugla BW Wedding Reception Party Pic of best man pouring drinks into mouth

Wedding Photograhy in Turkey | The wedding celebration waned into the twilight hours

As the wedding celebration waned into the twilight hours, the best man takes the party to the next level by pouring a drink straight into the mouth of the groom's brother. 

Ancient City Kaunos Wedding Couple Portrait in Dalyan of bride and groom posing and romantic

Wedding Photographer in Mugla | Bride and groom are surrounded by the sand colored stones

Surrounded by the sand-colored stones at the Ancient City of Kaunos, the bride and groom pose for a romantic and intimate portrait together. The stones of the city, while worn and weathered, have stood the test of time — the perfect symbol for a marriage that is blossoming from a strong foundation.