Naima and Harun’s wedding away was a fusion of time-honored traditions from their Bangladeshi and Somali backgrounds and the elegance of oceanfront luxury. Paradisus Palma Real Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic played host to the whole shindig, offering everything the couple and their guests could’ve wanted!

The Dallas Meet-Cute!

The couple’s story began with a serendipitous encounter during “a spontaneous Sunday night in Dallas”. Naima was with her sister, and Harun was with his friends. They quickly realized their connection was built on shared principles. As Naima shared, “We really bonded over our shared views on family and culture.”

The timing was challenging, as Naima was preparing to move out of town. However, they stayed in touch, navigating a long-distance relationship for five years, making their relationship thrive despite the distance.

A Birthday Proposal to Remember!

Harun chose his birthday to propose, organizing what Naima thought was simply a dinner and a celebration with friends. Instead, he proposed on the rooftop of their Airbnb, which featured views of downtown Dallas. Immediately following the proposal, their family and friends joined them to share in the joy of the moment.

Why the Dominican Republic?

They selected the Dominican Republic for their wedding for its rich culture, easy access, and gorgeous tropical setting. Once the location was set, they were “inspired by the natural, earthy colors and textures and the traditions from our own cultures.”

Traditions and Personal Touches

The fusion of Bangladeshi and Somali cultures was visible in every detail, including their ceremonial outfits. However, Naima’s favorite culturally-inspired detail was deeply rooted in her family history: “My dupatta (veil) was custom-made in Bangladesh and was inspired by my mom’s bridal dupatta!” For Harun, that special element was a piece of jewelry: “My favorite detail was a gold chain I received from Naima’s grandmother a few days before the wedding.”

The aesthetic transitioned beautifully throughout the day. Their fusion wedding in the Dominican Republic ceremony featured neutral tones, a blend of ivory florals, woven lanterns, and a grand stage, perfectly merging structure, sand, and sky. The reception, in contrast, was held in a dramatic ballroom setting, rich with deep red florals, romantic lighting, and the glow of candles.

Their favorite special moment was the emotional yet celebratory end to their reception. As Harun shared, “Our favorite was our reception exit — we started with the bidaai (emotional exit) where the bride bids ‘farewell’ to her family as symbolically leaving her parental home, and then exited with the groom’s side following us out of the hall with dancing and cheers.”

Top Tip for Destination Planning

When asked for the single best piece of advice for other couples planning a destination wedding, the answer was unanimous and emphatic: “Hire a full-service planner! Specifically, SB Events Co.! This was by FAR the best decision we made.” They emphasized that securing a great planner allows the couple to focus on the experience.

Vendor: Planning & Stationery: SB Events Co.; Photography: Ushna Khan; Venue, Catering, & Entertainment: Paradisus Palma Real Resort; Florals: Mercaflor; Catering: Pranama; Videography: Memories Films; DJs: DJ Prashant & Empire Entertainment; MC: Taran Singh; Lighting: JSAV; Décor: Alkifiesta; Officiant/Priest: Shahid Haque; Travel: Destination Pick; Beauty: Ms. Painted Lady & Styling Trio; Henna: Shantall Alam; Bridal Attire: Tilfi, KYNAH, Panache by Sharmeen & Seema Gujral