Real Wedding: Ana & Emmanuel

Where it all started

Montreal natives, Ana and Emmanuel, first laid eyes on each other at a dance club and instantly felt sparks. Ana gathered the courage to make the first move, asking Emmanuel on a date to the best pizza place in the city where the two bonded over a slice.

Three years of dating flew by before Ana embarked on a student exchange in Spain. She told Emmanuel that if their relationship could withstand being apart for six months, it would last forever. Despite the distance, their love deepened and Emmanuel realized he couldn’t spend another day without her. Without hesitation, he boarded a flight to Spain and popped the question at a gorgeous church in Barcelona. Of course, she said ‘sí’!

Planning the wedding

After getting engaged abroad, the pair knew right away that they wanted to have a destination wedding and continue their travelling love story. The happy couple chose to celebrate in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. It held sentimental value as it was Ana’s birth country and offered a beautiful backdrop for their big day.

Day details

On August 18th, Ana and Emmanuel started their forever in paradise on the white-sand shores at Royalton Punta Cana Resort and Casino in the presence of 31 of their dearest family and friends. They held a vibrant ceremony under a flowy beach gazebo accompanied by swaying palm trees and sparkling seas, in what felt to Ana like a scene out of a movie.

During the ceremony, Emmanuel’s father recited a prayer and the couple felt an outpour of emotion from their loved ones. This magical moment was followed by a semi-private dinner at the resort's Italian restaurant and a night of dancing at the disco.

Wedding day wear

Ana’s dress: 9201 Gown by Allure Bridal

Ana’s shoes: Noblez sandals

Ana’s accessories: Swarovski bracelet, necklace, earrings, tiara and veil

Emmanuel’s attire: Beige suit by Lief Horsens Denmark

Emmanuel’s accessories: Bulova watch

Wedding bands: LSM Bijouterie & Lavigueur

The bridesmaids wore: Azazie dresses in assorted pastel colours

The groomsmen wore: White shirt and beige pants, paired with a beige bowtie and suspenders

Small details

Flowers: Royalton Punta Cana

Hair and Makeup: Royal Spa at Royalton Punta Cana

Photographer: Mario Ptasik and Fernanda Rocha

Stationary and invitations: Olivia Sroka

First dance: Perfect – Ed Sheeran ft. Beyoncé

Favours: VIP catamaran ride

On-site wedding coordinator: Charo Perozo

Tips for future couples

“Don’t forget to smile for the photos! The day will go by so fast and things may not go exactly as you planned, but your wedding will be beautiful regardless, so just go with the flow.”