San Juan set the stage for one of 2025’s most talked-about society celebrations as Thomas J. Henry and Dr. Elena Alvarez-Westwood marked their engagement with a spectacular evening at the iconic Fairmont El San Juan Hotel. Drawing hundreds of guests to Puerto Rico’s Isla Verde, the event unfolded as an elegant fusion of high society, cultural pride, and fashion-forward flair.
From the moment guests arrived at the historic oceanfront property, it was clear this would be no ordinary engagement celebration. An outdoor performance by the Earth Harp—its dramatic strings suspended across the hotel’s entrance—created an arresting first impression, enhanced by projected visuals across the building’s façade. Inside, a lavish cocktail reception transformed the hotel’s legendary lobby, where sculptural ice installations shimmered alongside live music by 35 musicians from the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra. Classic compositions were reinterpreted with a Latin rhythm, setting a tone that was refined yet celebratory. In a thoughtful touch, the couple requested an “unplugged” experience, encouraging guests to be fully present for the evening’s moments.
The night reached a thrilling crescendo with surprise performances by Marc Anthony and Ricky Martin, transforming the engagement fête into what felt like an intimate, invitation-only concert. Their performances energized the room, sending guests to their feet and blurring the line between society gathering and global-scale entertainment.
As the music gave way to the night sky, an outdoor drone show illuminated the Caribbean air above Isla Verde, choreographed to music and culminating in a full fireworks display that drew applause from across the resort. The moment segued seamlessly into a birthday celebration honoring Dr. Alvarez-Westwood, adding another layer of warmth to the evening’s grandeur.
Late into the night, DJs took over, with a final performance by Robby Elias of Miami carrying the celebration into the early hours. Guests flowed effortlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces, enjoying signature cocktails, late-night bites, and views of palm-lined pools and shoreline.
Fashion played a central role throughout the evening. Dr. Alvarez-Westwood wore custom looks by Parisian couturier Zuhair Murad, alongside a design by Puerto Rican talent Gustavo Arango. Her hair was styled by Eddy Scudo, with makeup by Hung Vanngo. As guests departed, they were sent home with bottles of Don Q Gran Reserva Añejo Rum from Ponce and artisanal chocolates from Montadero—elegant parting gifts from a night that balanced society tradition with modern spectacle.
