Destination wedding in Punta Cana / Huracan wedding experience // Shena & Bennie

The decision to have a destination wedding in the Dominican Republic is about more than just the ceremony—it is about creating an experience.

Shena & Bennie saw it as an opportunity to gather their closest friends and family in a beautiful, tropical setting, where they could all escape the stresses of everyday life. They felt that the stunning beaches and warm, inviting atmosphere of the Dominican Republic would provide the perfect backdrop for a wedding that felt joyous and celebratory… and they weren’t wrong.

Additionally, they knew that a destination wedding would allow them and their guests to combine a special event with a much-needed vacation. Choosing the Dominican Republic also meant that their celebration would feel more like a shared adventure, with everyone able to explore a new place, enjoy the local culture, and spend quality time together in paradise.

Shena & Benny’s love story

“My husband and I first connected on the dating app Hinge, and it didn’t take long for us to realize there was something special between us. Within just two months of dating, we decided to make things official.

After two years of growing together, sharing adventures, and deepening our connection, my husband planned a proposal that was both romantic and unforgettable. On Valentine’s Day, he took me to the beautiful Salamander Resort, a luxurious and serene getaway that perfectly captured the elegance and intimacy of our relationship’ told us Shena.

Tell us about your wedding planning journey. How did you decide on tying the knot, especially here?

Our wedding planning journey was an intentional and thoughtful process. Initially, we had a small, intimate ceremony at the justice of the peace, where it was just the two of us. While that day was special, we knew we wanted to celebrate our marriage with our loved ones in a more significant way. That’s when we decided on a destination wedding, choosing the Dominican Republic over a local ceremony in Maryland.

Why did you choose Huracan Cafe for your celebration instead of having a wedding celebration in your resort?

We chose Huracan Cafe for our wedding because it offered the perfect combination of natural beauty, intimate atmosphere, and beachfront charm. The venue’s stunning ocean views and lush tropical surroundings created a romantic and relaxed ambiance, aligning with our vision of a memorable and picturesque celebration. Additionally, Huracan Cafe’s reputation for exceptional service, delicious food, and attention to detail assured us that our day would be both beautiful and stress-free. The mix of rustic elegance and coastal flair provided a unique backdrop that made our wedding stand out while allowing us and our guests to feel connected to the natural environment.

What was the theme of your wedding? We’re curious about the unique touches that made your day extra special.

Our wedding was unique because we chose a theme of neutral colors, which created an elegant and timeless atmosphere. Our family and wedding party all wore shades of cream, beige, taupe, allowing the natural beauty of the venue and our surroundings to shine. This choice gave the day a sophisticated and cohesive feel, with everyone blending seamlessly into the serene color palette. It was a modern yet classic approach that made the day feel both intimate and special, emphasizing a calm and harmonious celebration of our love.