Wedding Spotlight: Sarah and Brett Destination Wedding at Hard Rock Hotel Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Will: Why did you choose a destination wedding?

The Thompson’s: It wasn’t in our original “plan”, but after attending a close friend’s destination wedding and experiencing how much time everyone got to spend together over a few days instead of a few chaotic hours, it was something we definitely wanted to look further into. Then we saw the value in it, as well. We were referred to DWE and they made it seem really feasible and fun!

Will: How many attendees did you have? 
What kind of experience did you envision your guests having?

The Thompson’s: We would up having just about 60 total. Pre-all-the-things-of-2020 and 2021, we had planned for over 150. But truly, the smaller number made for a more intimate time with people we love “most”. We envisioned everyone having a wonderful vacation, with or without kids (all chose without. haha), topped off with some beautiful and fun wedding events.

Will: What was one part of planning your wedding that you knew you couldn’t have done alone?
How did having a Destination Wedding Specialist help with that?

The Thompson’s: Ummm, hello, all of it. From narrowing down location options to coordinating and herding a bunch of inquisitive and sometimes anxious guests through the travel process, to fighting for me when unforeseen hurdles arose – I was very grateful for Will & Nikki throughout the entire process.

Will: What piece of advice would you give to couples who are just starting the planning process?

The Thompson’s: Get with a planner/specialist who knows the area and has established relationships with the venue. And have a glass of wine during your planning meetings.

Will: What’s one “extra” you’re super glad you splurged on?  
What surprised you the most about your wedding?

The Thompson’s: I flew out a photographer whose work and vibe I fell in love with during the aforementioned friend’s destination wedding. I splurged on bringing them from Mexico to the DR and I don’t regret it at all. What surprised me was how once the weekend events started, all my stress left my body and I had an amazing time.

Will: If you could choose three words to describe your wedding, what would they be?

The Thompson’s: Long-awaited (we’ll count that as 1 word); exhale; sweaty (we danced A LOT)

Will: What is your favorite memory from your big day?

The Thompson’s: My ceremony. My 3-year-old daughter also losing all her rehearsal-day fears of walking as the flower girl (can’t wait to see the video!), and the candid moments she stood with us at the altar as my brother delivered an incredible ceremony as our officiant. Couldn’t have asked for more.

Bridal Boutique
Brides Dress: Lighthouse Bridal (Special Shoutout to Megan!)
Brides Maid’s Dresses: Reformation
Flower Girl’s Dress: CutiedressDesign on Etsy

First Song
“Conversations in the Dark” by John Legend (David Harry dance remix)

A Note from Will: Planning this gorgeous Destination Wedding in Punta Cana with the Thompson’s was an absolute pleasure. This was a true testament to perseverance and flexibility as this beautiful couple was truly tested during the height of the pandemic. In the end, they got to celebrate along with 60 of their closest friends and family in what turned out to be a truly majestic ceremony. Congratulations to Sarah and Brett on a beautiful ceremony.