Shannon & Matt’s Destination Wedding // EXCELLENCE RESORT Punta Cana

I had the pleasure of photographing Matt’s surprise proposal on Nantucket almost two years ago. Matt went all out ~ a candlelit sunset dinner on the beach in front of the Summer House, roses lining the path and the best part, getting down on one knee and asking Shannon to be his wife. You can imagine how excited I was when they asked Jon and I to photograph their destination wedding in Punta Cana! We dropped Willow off in Maryland with my parents and jumped on a plane headed for the Dominican to start the wedding weekend. We arrived to the gorgeous Excellence Resort greeted with a glass of champagne and an escort to our room. We were so excited that we couldn’t rest so we grabbed our gear and headed out to take some pictures. We were in paradise! We took some time to explore the resort, the beach and the ceremony location and of course enjoy the view. We had just missed the windy weather. It was calm and the sky was blue.

The next night was the welcome party at the Cascade Pool. There was a cigar roller, a live band, amazing food being cooked on location and plenty of pinà coladas! It was a really special time where stories were shared by friends and family, speeches were made by Matt and Shannon’s fathers and to cap off the night there was a fire show on the beach. It was the perfect way to kick off the weekend!

We woke up on Saturday morning to a clear and sunny day. After a visit to the spa, Jon headed to where Matt and his guys were getting ready and I headed to the bridal suite with Shannon and the girls. This was no rushed wedding. We were on island time and it was so refreshing! After the getting ready photos, we headed out for the first look. Jon and I had searched for the perfect spot the day before and we decided on a secluded path surrounded by palm trees and the perfect amount of light. It was such a beautiful moment when Matt turned around to see his stunning bride for the first time. He was speechless as he wiped away happy tears.

The wedding was on the beach with cocktail hour to follow and the reception was also on the beach under the palm trees. Matt and Shannon danced the night away with 75 of their closest friends and family. It was an absolutely epic day from start to finish! We were so incredibly honored to be a part of their incredible wedding weekend. Matt and Shannon are one of the sweetest couples we’ve ever met. They were always making sure everyone had what they needed. They are so in love and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for them! Cheers to Matt & Shannon!

Venue: Excellence Resorts Punta Cana // Wedding Dress: Pronovias // Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Monique Lhuillier // Groom’s Suit: Calvin Klein // Groomsmen’s Suits: Calvin Klein // Florals and Design: Excellence