After 10 years together, Paola and James traveled along with their most beloved family members all the way from Brooklyn to the Dominican Republic. They said their “I do’s” during their beachfront ceremony at Dreams Onyx Punta Cana. The swaying palm trees and soft Caribbean sand set the scene for their wedding. Their love story was founded throughout the years by mutual and unconditional support. This was deeply evident throughout their wedding day throughout the calmest and most exciting moments. It was a celebration that perfectly combined the party, and an authentic declaration of love; we feel very fortunate to have been able to capture every detail of this event.
A love story that started at the gym
We asked Paola and James how they met, and their love story began in a way that neither of them expected. It all started at the gym; James would use any pretext to go and greet her. After many encounters, he finally mustered up the courage to properly introduce himself. He even signed her up for a session so he’d have an excuse to see her again. The smile she gives every time this story comes up has already become a family legend. Since then, they have been “training partners,” and just three days before traveling to the Dominican Republic, they quietly celebrated ten years together. When the time came to get married, they wanted a setting as warm and unforgettable as their own story. It was at this point they found Dreams Onyx.
Getting ready at Dreams Onyx
The morning was full of anticipation and good company. Paola prepared surrounded by her bridesmaids. They were all wearing matching satin. Her mother and her closest friends helped her with putting on her beaded off-the-shoulder gown and a pearl-dotted veil. A few rooms away, James shared laughter and the occasional clumsy moment as he put on his cufflinks with his best man. Then came the quieter moments: a daughter adjusting her father’s tie, a lingering hug, and a deep breath before everything began.
A beach ceremony, set to the perfect soundtrack
The music set the rhythm of the ceremony. James made his entrance to “Lover Boy” by DJ Sav. The bridal party appeared to Selena’s “Dreaming of You.” Paola walked down the aisle on her father’s arm as an emotional version of “Yellow” performed by Lachuné played. With the Atlantic stretching out behind them and palm trees above their heads, they exchanged their vows. In the presence of all the people who had supported them from the beginning they made their union official and toasted with champagne.
Golden-hour portraits by the water
After the ceremony, we took the newlyweds aside for a few minutes by the sea. Forehead to forehead, a dipping kiss as the waves broke and the pearl-adorned veil swayed in the ocean breeze. James’s soft mint-green suit and Paola’s radiant gown was made for that stretch of beach. The natural way they leaned into each other said everything about ten years of friendship turning into a “forever.”
A reception lit up by sparklers
Once it got dark, the celebration was filled with electrifying energy. Their first dance transpired over a backlit dance floor and was surrounded by cold-spark fountains going off. With family and friends forming a circle around them, they cut a three-tier cake decorated with flowers by the pool. Then, the dance floor filled with people who kept dancing late into the Punta Cana night. By the end, Paola was holding a glass, James had taken off his jacket, and both were still absorbed in each other amid the crowd.
Planning your own Dreams Onyx wedding?
HDC Photo has over 20 years photographing and recording destination weddings along the coast of Punta Cana. In Paola and James’ case, we took both photos and videos so they could relive every single moment of their special day. If you dream of a beach wedding at Dreams Onyx, or anywhere else in Punta Cana, we would love to hear your story and help you tell it. Contact HDC Photo to start planning.
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