As Hillary walked over to the spa, clouds lurked above and the threat of rain became unwanted reality for her wedding. She had planned every little detail – confetti poppers at the ceremony, purple speciality cocktails, and sparklers in the evening, but she couldn’t plan the weather, so she simply willed the rain clouds to go away. Her bridesmaids assured her it was going to clear up because it was her wedding day. The universe was going to make it the best day ever. And just as Hillary slipped into her gorgeous lace gown, the sun peaked through the clouds. The day she planned was here.

Having written their own vows, Hillary and Jim wed on the gorgeous Punta Cana beach and they promised to love and cherish one another no matter what life brings their way. Jim vowed to always be Hillary’s firefighter, and she would always be his personal nurse. They promised to always give more. More love, more joy, and more happy days. Friends and family attested to their love all day love, and it was clear that their love story was the envy of those around them.

Hillary + Jim, I am at a loss. I cannot begin to sum up everything you are, the beauty of your day and energy of your wedding. I hope these photos document your love story and a gorgeous day in your lives just as you experienced it. Thank you for making me feel like a part of your families and including me in all the festivities of the wedding celebration. You are the best, and I am so lucky that I could tell your story. Much love and xo – Brittany

The morning began at the beautiful Dreams Resort Palm Beach in Punta Cana where Hillary and all her bridesmaids had their hair and makeup done to perfection.

So much pretty in these details, I could hardly stand it.

I just adored the little ring box that Hillary had for the ceremony. It was the perfect personal detail to photograph all of the rings in.

I love, love, love it when my brides agree to dress outside because the light is so pretty. Hillary is the BEST bride, so she happily agreed.

Hillary … I know I told you a million times on your wedding day, but you are STUNNING!

Hillary’s bridesmaids were the best! Not only are they are all gorgeous, they are so sweet and FUN!

The light …. was magical!

Jim and his groomsmen were tucked on the other side of the resort hanging out, so once I finished with the girls, I headed over to photograph them.

What a handsome bunch of guys, right? Jim’s groomsmen were the BEST. They listened, went along with my crazy ideas and they were extremely nice and helpful all day long. Thanks, guys!

Jim looked extra handsome in his suit.

The skies cleared up just in time for Hillary to walk down the aisle and have her Caribbean beach wedding.

Jim was delighted to stand by his beautiful bride.

Hillary and Jim wrote their own vows to each other, and they were beyond beautiful.

The first kiss! Such a perfect moment.

Sometimes the best, authentic photos are the ones that happen naturally … like this moment right after Hillary and Jim walked down the aisle as Mr. and Mrs.

Hillary and Jim’s crew was fantastic and so excited to celebrate Hillary and Jim.

The Dreams Resort Palm Beach has stunning grounds, but when I stumbled upon this natural park just down the beach, I knew it was going to make a great location.

Hillary and Jim gave me 100% creative control all day long which was amazing – especially because Punta Cana is crazy gorgeous. I could have photographed them here for hours.

I felt like we had our own little deserted island when we were shooting our bride and groom photos in this location.

Hillary’s aunts helped make the reception just perfect by setting up all of Hillary and Jim’s personal touches on the tables before guests arrived.

The first dance … always my favorite part of the day to photograph.

As the party got going, guests were treated to a hand-rolled cigar …. customized for Hillary and Jim.

These two have hearts of gold. They were so thankful and happy that so many of their friends and family made the trip to the Dominican Republic to celebrate their special day with them.

The reception was a complete celebration and everyone danced the beautiful night away underneath the stars.

Many thanks to this amazing creative team who brought this Punta Cana wedding together…

VENUE : dreams resort, palm beach, punta cana // BRIDE’S BRACELET : david tutera  // BRIDE’S SHOES : steve madden // BRIDE’S HAIR + MAKEUP: dreams resort, palm beach // FLORAL + CENTERPIECES: dreams resort, palm beach // PHOTOGRAPHY : brittany bekas photography