An Intimate Destination Wedding at Secrets Royal Beach | Rheanna & Max | Punta Cana Wedding Photographer
Some love stories are written across a lifetime—and Rheanna and Max’s wedding day felt like the perfect chapter in a journey that began so many years ago. As high school sweethearts who first met in the fifth grade, their connection runs deep, rooted in friendship, love, and years of shared memories. It was a true honor to capture their breathtaking destination wedding at Secrets Royal Beach in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, surrounded by just 30 of their closest family and friends.
As a destination wedding photographer, moments like these are what I live for: small, heartfelt gatherings where every detail is meaningful, and every smile carries the weight of history.
A Day Filled With Meaningful Details
The wedding day began with Rheanna and Max getting ready separately, surrounded by their loved ones. The warm, humid Punta Cana air set the tone for a tropical celebration, and the excitement was unmistakable. Before the ceremony, the couple shared an emotional first look, exchanging personal vows in a quiet, private moment—a memory they’ll cherish forever.
Rheanna carried a bouquet that was much more than just beautiful florals. Tucked within it was a charm in honor of a close friend who had passed away—an incredibly touching tribute to ensure that her spirit was present on this important day.
Adding even more emotion to the morning, Rheanna’s mother gifted her a stunning pair of stud earrings to wear, a precious keepsake and a reminder of family bonds as she stepped into this next chapter of life.
Their intimate ceremony, officiated by Rheanna’s cousin, reflected the closeness of their circle. Every word spoken felt deeply personal, set against the backdrop of Secrets Royal Beach’s lush landscapes.
Weather Changes, Unshakable Joy
While the original plan was to celebrate outdoors under the tropical sky, Mother Nature had other ideas. A powerful thunder and lightning storm rolled in, prompting a quick relocation of the reception to indoor spaces within the resort.
But in true Rheanna and Max fashion, nothing could dampen the joy of the day. Guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour, followed by heartfelt speeches delivered in the main hotel cocktail lounge. Laughter, tears, and toasts filled the room with an overwhelming sense of love and support.
Later, we transitioned to a more private space for a cozy dinner reception. The evening featured an energetic dance floor, a festive shot tray making its way around to guests, and a celebration that truly felt like home—despite being thousands of miles away. Every moment was full of life, laughter, and love, ending with everyone dancing the night away under the warm Dominican skies.
Why I Love Capturing Destination Weddings Like This
Photographing Rheanna and Max’s wedding reminded me exactly why I love being a destination wedding photographer. These smaller, more intimate weddings allow the couple’s story to truly shine through—every detail, every relationship, every tear and laugh. Whether it’s a grand ballroom celebration or a heartfelt beach ceremony in Punta Cana, my approach always remains the same: capture the atmosphere, the emotion, and the authentic, once-in-a-lifetime moments you’ll want to relive forever.
Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana provided the perfect romantic backdrop, blending tropical beauty with the luxurious, intimate feeling Rheanna and Max envisioned for their wedding day.
VENDORS:
Photographer: AES Photography @aes.photography.mi
Venue: Secrets Royal Beach, Punta Cana, DR @secretsroyalbeach
Dress: True Society Grand Rapids @truesociety_grandrapids
Suit: Jos. A. Bank @josabank
Hair: Leah Nicole Bridal @leahnicolebridal
Florist & Rentals: Secrets Royal Beach, CR Flowers @secretsroyalbeach @CRflowers10
