Real Bride Maria Alejandra in Sunn by Mira Zwillinger at her Santo Domingo Country Club Wedding

Tell us your love story. How did you meet, and how did you get to the proposal?

We met through mutual friends several years ago, and Raul Alfonso would always ask me out, but I kept turning him down. When I finally said yes to our first date, that’s when I realized he was the man God had prepared for me. We dated for two years and then got engaged.

When you started planning your wedding, what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?

The wedding absolutely exceeded all my expectations. Everything was so beautiful, and it was exactly what I had asked my planners for — or even better.

What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include, or not include, in the wedding?

We wanted the wedding to be intimate, with close friends and family who we knew would truly be happy for us. We wanted it to feel like one big party where everyone was happy and enjoying every second.

How did you decide on the location?

It was easy. Raul, my husband, is a member of Santo Domingo Country Club, and because of the facilities, the great food, and the excellent service, we knew from the beginning that it would be there.

Let’s talk dress! Give us all the details.

I had a clear idea of what I wanted, but as often happens, I ended up with something completely different. Originally, I wanted to buy an off-the-shoulder dress from the April 2026 collection. I kept saying that THAT was my dress. In the end, because of budget reasons and poor service at the store where they had it, I went to you, and Alana — who is truly a wonderful person — found me my wedding dress. I don’t regret that decision at all.

How did your family, friends, and loved ones play into your wedding planning and wedding day?

I planned my wedding myself. My mom gave me the budget, and then my planners and I put everything together.

What’s one specific memory from your wedding day that you don’t think you’ll ever forget?

Honestly, there were so many moments, but the first one that comes to mind is when we read our vows privately.

How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?

I trusted my stylists completely.

Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?

Makeup: Erika de la Oz Weddings
Hair: Elvira Sepúlveda
Planner: Duet RD
Video: 24P Studio
Photos: ArtHouse

Where did you go on your honeymoon, and what was the best part?

We did a pre-honeymoon at Cayo Levantado Resort, since in October we’re going to Paris to see Celine Dion, God willing. The best part of the pre-honeymoon was the beach, the food, and the excellent company of my husband.