Excellence Punta Cana

Private Ceremony

Willow on Grand

Reception

Our Wedding

Bailey and Austin met while attending Wartburg College. Although they didn't start dating until early 2021. Bailey messaged Austin on Instagram while he was on vacation with friends in the Dominican Republic and the rest is history! At that point in her life, Bailey already had a special someone: her dog, Russell. Russell and Austin's relationship didn't start off easy: during Bailey and Austin's first date at her apartment, Russell spent the first hour barking at the guy who wanted to steal Bailey away from him. Russell also refused to let anyone sit on the couch next to Bailey....Russell just had to be in the middle! Austin knew that Bailey was the one after just a short time together, but it wasn't until February 9th, 2023 when they were vacationing down in Florida with Austin's parents that he got down on one knee on the beach at sunset! We're so excited to celebrate our love down in Punta Cana where our journey first began, and celebrate with our friends and family back home in Des Moines following.

Our Story

Photos

Austin still won't admit Colyn is his best friend. The doubt is why Colyn keeps coming back for more. 

Colyn Snyder

Bailey was forced to make her the maid of honor due to her having the same last name. 

Macie Camenisch

His heart is free...if he has the courage to follow it.

Michael Bohlke

Bailey met Cassie in college and she hasn't left her alone since. 

Cassie Rowell 

He requested we include his title so everyone knows he's an "esteemed colleague" of Austin's.

Dr. Matt Behrens, MD

She won't admit she's addicted to Mountain Dew. 

Chelsey Pyle

Long time friend of the groom: 25 years. More of a brother than a friend. Bama.

Kade Hanson

Technically a cousin, but more like a sister. 

Paige Muller

Anybody who has met Shane knows it's tough to describe him: Busch Lite connoisseur. Knuckle Puck expert. Hi, hi, hiya! You'll get it.

Shane Heller

Has always been there for the bride,  especially when she broke her arm. 

Ashley Davis

Supposed shoe-in for the next class of Top Gun, but failed his Navy entrance exam because he's afraid of water.

Russell

Wedding Party

Room/Suite Options available on the Excellence website below. Please note: we do have a group discounted rate! For pricing information and to book the rooms, please contact Rebecca Thomsen at rebecca@willowbranchtravel.com, or 515-491-6250. https://www.excellenceresorts.com/punta-cana/excellence-punta-cana

Recommended Packing List

PASSPORTSunscreenSwimsuitSunglassesToothbrush/ToothpasteDeodorantCocktail AttireShortsT-ShirtsCollared shirt (For gentlemen wishing to eat at the nicer restaurants)Dress Pants (For gentlemen wishing to eat at the French restaurant)Dresses/capri pants/skirts (For women wishing to eat at the nicer restaurants)

Punta Cana Travel

Punta Cana Q&A

The block rate is good for Friday and Saturday night, but staying both nights isn't necessary.

Hilton Des Moines Downtown

The block for this hotel is good for Friday and Saturday night, but booking both nights isn't necessary. Once our block of rooms is been filled, the normal rate for this hotel will go into effect (usually around $230/night). Cutoff to book rooms within the block is June 28, 2024. Copy and paste the below link into your URL to book rooms: https://www.marriott.com/event-reservations/reservation-link.mi?id=1708701973415&amp;key=GRP&amp;app=resvlink

Bailey & Austin

Bailey & Austin

B&A

Private Ceremony

Reception