Real Bride: Ashley

Jan 12, 2018
4 min read

Ashley and her (now) husband Michael had an absolutely stunning destination wedding in Punta Cana. You have to check out the absolutely AMAZING photos of them IN THE OCEAN in their wedding clothes! Trust me, you don't want to miss this wedding!

Your name: Ashley

Partner’s name: Michael

Wedding date: April 29, 2017

City, State: From Long Island, NY, Married in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Tell us more about you!

How long have you been together?

5 Years

How did he propose? (Or how did you propose!)

I was running a half marathon in Asheville, North Carolina at the Biltmore Estate with my friend. We were down in NC visiting my parents who had relocated there from NY. Mike drove overnight 12 hours with his Mom and surprised me at the finish line.

What was your favorite part of the wedding?

Mikes Vows. He doesn’t cry much, but got choked up saying them. I also loved doing a first look with my Dad.

What went wrong with your wedding?

It rained! It was raining all morning, and cleared up for just enough time for our ceremony. It rained again that night so our outdoor reception got moved indoors. It’s ok though, in Dominican Republic they say if it rains on your wedding day, that means lots of babies!

Did you find any tricks to save you money?

I cut out a lot of decorations that I felt nobody would remember. I used the bridesmaid bouquets as centerpieces during the reception along with some cheap candles. I focused more on experiences for the guests. Since it was a destination wedding, I wanted to make sure the guests were really enjoying their vacation. We had a big welcome dinner, and my husband and I hosted an excursion for all the guests.

If you could go back and redo it, would you change anything; and if so, what would you change?

Make sure my hair and makeup was done first. I went last after all my bridesmaids, and of course was rushed. Also, I really wanted an unplugged ceremony, and our pastor did not make the announcement. If this is something that’s important to you, make sure everyone knows!

Do you have any advice for new brides?

Honestly, it’s JUST a party! When it’s over, it’s over.. and it does happen fast! Have fun with it. It’s you and your future husband’s day. Remember, if something goes wrong, it’s not the end of the world. Go into your marriage with positive vibes. Also, don’t do any fad diets right before your wedding (or ever really.) Give yourself plenty of time to get yourself in the best shape physically and mentally for your big day. Check out the 21 Day Reset for brides to get on the right track.

Did you over-plan or under-plan, or was it just right?

I was very go with the flow when it came to our wedding. Having a destination wedding was super easy to plan, I just put a lot of trust in my wedding coordinator. It all turned out great and we really got to enjoy our day.

Did any of your vendors knock your socks off?

Our photographer, Vaughn Barry Photography, not only captured great pictures but fit so naturally into our party. Our guests loved him and he went above and beyond to make us feel comfortable. It really shows in the pictures! Also, the resort we got married at, Majestic Colonial Punta Cana, really knows what they’re doing when it comes to weddings. They took great care of us all week, and our wedding coordinator, Flor, was simply amazing.

Did any of your vendors disappoint?

No!

What was one (or more!) special element in your wedding that isn’t in most?

My husband is a pro fighter, so our introduction into the reception

was done like a fight intro. It was really fun! A bridesmaid and groomsman switched outfits, another couple came in with boxing gloves on, everyone had fun with it. We also had my husband’s friend sing our first dance song live. That was a really special moment.

What do you wish you’d spent more on (whether you were able to or not)? We had a cigar roller, but I probably would’ve added more entertainment for the guests. Those are the things people remember.

Where do you feel like you could have saved money or overspent? We made welcome bags for everyone. I think we could’ve cut a few things out of those, however we had Tumblers made for everyone and they

came in handy at the all inclusive resort!

How many guests did you invite vs how many RSVP’ed vs how many actually came? Around 100 invited , 55 RSVP and 55 came. A little different with destination weddings.

Wedding Venue: Majestic Colonial Resort, Punta Cana- Garden Gazebo and Ballroom

Caterer: Majestic Colonial

Photographer: Vaughn Barry Photography

Videographer: Cores Films

Planner: Flor Mendez

DJ/Band: DJ Mania

Dress Designer: Essense of Australia

Bridal Salon: Wedding Inspirations, Asheville, NC

Bridesmaids’ Dress Designer: DC Dresses on Etsy

Menswear: Macy’s

Officiant: Rick York

Florist: Majestic Colonial