Charisse + Cortez | Reem Acra Wedding from Knapp Photography

This light and feminine sheath Reem Acra wedding gown called Narcissus was the perfect showcase for Charisse + Cortez’ modern beach front wedding in Cabrera, Dominican Republic.  I love how the couple paired pops of red and crisp white decor against the breathtaking view of the Atlantic ocean.  Other beautiful touches, incorporating an African tradition of Jumping the Broom at the end of the ceremony or the couple’s Vera Wang inspired wedding cake.  In the words of today’s featured bride, “Simple, chic and elegant.” Enjoy!

Charisse + Cortez | January 11, 2013 | Casa Kimball in Cabrera, Dominican Republic

The Ceremony
Simple, chic and elegant is how we would describe our wedding. It was an intimate affair for 40 people held at a modern designed villa paradise overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Everything from the floral arrangements, to the Vera Wang inspired cake, his Vera Wang tux and my Reem Acra Narcissus gown. It was a dream come true. The ceremony was held at the villa Casa Kimball at the edge of the villa property overlooking the ocean. There were silver Chiavari chairs with large rose balls hanging on the end, which lined the aisle. As a special touch, we had an African tradition of Jumping the Broom at the end of the ceremony prior to the recessional. The broom was custom made by the wedding planner. It was like being on the beach without the sand.

The Reception
The reception was very intimate and was held inside the villa. There were a dozen rose centerpieces with silver tablecloths and red napkins. There were menus in the napkins on the tables. There was open seating and place cards with each guest’s name and dinner request. The dance floor was on the other side of the villa by the entertainment room.

Charisse’ Dress Search
I did have a particular style in mind. I knew I wanted a sheath dress. I wanted the dress to be strapless and slightly flowing and light. I did not want anything tight or too heavy to wear. I did not buy my gown on first sight. I tried on several other gowns, but I kept coming back to the same one. After I finally tried on my gown, I knew I had my dress. My second dress was by Vera Wang. I did not want the bottom of my gown to get too messy or get snagged so I changed after the first dance.

How Charisse Felt in Her Wedding Dress

Elegant, Glamorous, Timeless. I felt like a queen in my dress. It was not overbearing or in the way…

Why Charisse Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I knew I was planning to sell my dress even before I picked it out. I knew I would never wear it again and I wanted to share it with someone that had the same vision.

Wedding Dress: Reem Acra “Narcissus” | Photography: Vanessa Knapp of Knapp Photography + Melissa Marte Photography | Ceremony + Reception Venue: Casa Kimball | Event Planning + Floral Design: Felicita Garcia (no website; she can be reached through Casa Kimball) | Cake: Dilaflor (no website, can be reached through the Event planner)