Bride Darien herself described the overall concept of her and Sean's wedding in Dominican Republic as "Love and fun." It's difficult to disagree! The colorful and passionate celebration of love was filled with only positive emotions and was accompanied by the couple's closest people, who were able to be by their side on this magical day. Read how the couple's destination wedding went below and enjoy the beautiful photos taken by our member Jake Anderson.
Tell us a little about yourselves. How did you meet? What do you do for a living? What are your hobbies?
Our love story is definitely not the most typical one. Sean and I have known each other for 7 years before officially dating. My brother in law actually introduced us, and though according to Sean it was “love at first sight” it took me seven years to catch on. Once we started dating, it was over. We both knew from the first date that we would not just be “boyfriend and girlfriend.” And even though it took 7 years to actually start dating it only took us 11 months to get engaged!
Can you share your engagement story?
Sean proposed at the botanical gardens in Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Room. We waited two days to tell anyone. I wanted us to have this special moment just the two of us. Then two days later at a family holiday, we surprised our families together.
Did you have any pre-wedding events, like a rehearsal dinner or bridal shower?
Leading up to the wedding we did not have any events. But during our weekend we have a rehearsal dinner and “Welcome Drinks” party. For our friends and family we rented pickle ball courts and Sean had a golf outing with 40 people! Friday night we had a beach party and then Saturday was the wedding!
Where was your wedding? Why did you choose this venue?
Our wedding was in Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic. My family has been going there since I was little and it has always been a special place. My family friend actually reminded me that when I was 11 I told her that “I am going to get married here.”
What was the concept behind your wedding and how did you find your inspiration?
Love and fun! Since our friend and family were traveling near and far for us we wanted to show everyone the best time. Having three events made everyone come together and since they were all different from each other, everyone had a unique shared experience.
How long did it take to plan your wedding? Did you encounter any challenges during the planning process?
We were planning our wedding for over a year with Claire Duran and her team. They were truly extraordinary. There were no challenges other than my family continuing to be notoriously late and disorganized!
How many guests did you have? And what was the seating arrangement at the wedding like?
We had 210 guests! We only had seating for the actual wedding! That made it easier!
Tell us about your outfits. How many different styles have you tried?
For the rehearsal dinner, which was 35 people, I wore a red Oscar de la Renta dress and everyone other than my mom wore all white. Then I changed into a more comfortable slip dress from Sleeper. For the “boho” beach party, I requested that my guests wear “Boho Chic" outfits, don’t worry I provided a mood board just in case anyone was unsure what that meant. Wade Hallock made my second two piece set and it was a major hit. For my wedding, my dress I wore down the aisle, which was Vera Wang, was not fitted until two days before my wedding! It was simple and elegant. Wade Hallock made my second dress and I truly felt like a princess in it. For my “after party” dress, I wore the Bronx and Banco dress with these chunky Mach & Mach heels. I loved the last look so much!
What was your first dance song? Did you choreograph or improvise?
Improvised our dance moves! My twin sister Kelsey sang our first dance song which was 'We Don't Have to Take our Clothes Off' by Ella Eyre.
Did you have any special performances or entertainment?
For the “boho” beach party, we had a local band perform for the first half and then switched to our amazing DJ Vikas, who had everyone up and dancing all night.
What was the most memorable moment from your wedding day?
Sean’s Vows! They were so special and described our relationship to a tee.
Are there any vendors that you would like to tell us a little more about?
Jake Anderson and his team! He is truly the most amazing photographer and I have recommended him to everyone. He is so kind and understanding and completely understood what I was envisioning for my wedding photos. I really wanted to feel like the photos were organic and not posed. He exceeded every expectation I had. Whenever I look back, I feel like I am still there. Claire Duran Events, my wedding planner, was outrageously creative and despite our many ideas, made everything come to life. Claire, Rafael, Maja, and the rest of the team were the most amazing to work with. Vikas, our DJ knew how to create a mood. Everyone was dancing all night! There were so many amazing vendors my party planner selected. The food, decor, videographer, flowers and each element was done to perfection!
Did you have any special or unique elements (such as a signature cocktail or a fragrance) at your wedding?
Our beach party was overall a unique event. We had fire dancers, cigar makers, and fireworks!
Did you make a gift for guests, and what was it? What did you give each other as a gift?
Yes! Everyone received a “Welcome Bag” included was your weekend essentials with local cookies and chips. We also made hats that said “Darien Sean,” taking design inspiration from our favorite hat from Pasquale Jones. It also happens to be the restaurant where we had our first date!
What gift from guests do you remember the most?
It was the most special gift for everyone to travel to be there to celebrate Sean and I!
What advice would you give to couples who are currently planning their wedding?
It's all going to work out!!
What helped you cope with the anxiety before the wedding?
Knowing I was doing all of this to marry my Sean!
Venue: @casadecampodr
Photographer: @jakeandersonphoto
Wedding Planner: @claireduranweddingsandevents
Florals: @nab.rd
MUA: @yarimrtz_
Dress: @verawangbride
DJ: @vikassapra
