Golden Light and Euphoric Nights in the Colonial Zone | Dominican Republic LGBT Wedding Photographer
An intimate celebration of freedom, Caribbean textures, and love at Kimpton Las Mercedes. Braulio and Mauricio.
There are afternoons in the Colonial Zone where the light seems to stand still. That dense, warm golden hour filtering through the historic streets was the starting point for Braulio and Mauricio’s bachelor party celebration. As a Dominican Republic & Punta Cana Wedding Photographer, I have documented many stories, but few with such a gradual transition: from a nostalgic sunset shot on 35mm film to the raw, unfiltered euphoria of a night that delved into the shadows.
Team/Vendors:
Venue: Kimpton Las Mercedes
Decor & Planning: Braulio Segura Events & Planning, Media Naranja Eventos, MS Events by Mirta Sánchez
Photo: Adolfo Florentino Photography
Video: Yairon De la Cruz
Flowers: Bloom Store
Desserts: Little Desserts, La Artesanal
Wines: Finca Buenaventura
Tequila: Tequila Cascada
Entretaiment: Divernights
Sound: GB Sounds
Photobooth: FLIPEA
The Details and Decor at Larimar, Kimpton Las Mercedes
The chosen venue was the Larimar bar, located within the stunning architecture of Kimpton Las Mercedes. The atmosphere was a perfect blend of contemporary design and Caribbean freshness. The walls, lined with geometric zigzag patterns, and the organic textures of wicker created a warm and elevated vibe.
As a photographer, my eye is always looking for contrasts. The visual curation of the event was impeccable: deep, tropical green foliage served as a base for bursts of color with red and white anthuriums. As natural light faded, the venue's lighting took over, giving the desserts—carefully garnished with raspberries and blackberries—an almost cinematic look. Every texture, every shadow, contributed to that editorial and luxurious aesthetic inspired in the Mexican tradition of Dias de los Muertos.
The Couple's Arrival and the Warmth of Their Community
Braulio and Mauricio didn't arrive to fulfill a protocol; they arrived to just be themselves. They were welcomed by an intimate group of friends and colleagues from the wedding industry in Dominican Republic who filled the space with genuine embraces and loud laughter.
I dedicated myself to observing. Documenting on film forces you to be intentional, to wait for the exact moment. I captured them greeting their people, toasting with green cocktails under the dim light, and simply inhabiting their celebration. We gave them the space to breathe, and in return, they gave us honest images.
The Party, the Mariachi, and the Elevator
The theme of the night took a spectacular turn inspired by Mexican culture. A performer beautifully characterized as a Dia de Los Muertos and a Catrina and traditional mariachi band elevated the energy of the room. The visual transition I mentioned earlier reached its peak here. In the midst of the darkness, illuminated by flashes of direct light that accentuate that documentary and nostalgic look, the party exploded.
There was one specific moment that defines why I do this. While the mariachi played, Braulio and Mauricio shared a dance. Amidst the music and the noise, I saw a tear fall from Braulio's eye. It was a fragile, beautiful, and deeply human instant. That is what I seek to preserve. The night closed in the most genuine way possible: escaping the noise. The final photos in the hotel elevator, holding hands, with spicy and knowing looks, are the exact reflection of two people feeling free and present.
Note for Same-Sex Couples Getting Married in the Dominican Republic
Planning a destination wedding in Dominican Republic or a wedding in Punta Cana is a dream for many, but I know firsthand that as an LGBTQ+ couple, researching vendors in a foreign country can be intimidating. I am a member of the LGBTQ+ community myself and I know exactly what it feels like to hesitate before holding the hand of the person you love in public. I understand the fear, the uncertainty, and the overwhelming desire to just find a safe space where you can celebrate your love without limits.
Whether you are looking for an LGBT Wedding Dominican Republic experience in a historic colonial setting or searching for a Punta Cana LGBT Wedding Photographer for a beach side celebration, my camera is a safe space. You don't have to perform for me. You just have to exist, love loudly, and trust that your story will be documented with empathy and art.
If this way of seeing photography resonates with you and you want me to document your story with this level of intimacy and art direction, let's talk. I would love to hear what you are dreaming of for your day. Connect with me here.