This wedding was beautiful and personal and so fun - their ceremony was BILINGUAL! I’ll be honest I tried to pretend like I could follow along and knew some of what was being said in Spanish throughout those parts of the ceremony but really only picked up on some words: “esposa,” “esposo,” “amor,” “matrimonio,” “Maria” “iglasia” that’s about it. But the emotion was the same! Guests, like me who we getting a lesson in Spanish, could feel the love and deep emotions these two have for each other.

I started my day photographing Ken at a family member’s house. His admittedly nervous energy was adorable to me! He was anxious and anticipating seeing Erika at the altar! When I got to the house where Erika was getting ready the vibe was energetic and excited - the girls were having fun getting ready and being together. They had some amazing details I was excited to photograph, including her Nina shoes, a DIY ring box and jewelry and perfume. The bride was getting her hair done by her personal stylist, Zach, and it was fun to get some images of the getting ready process!

We went to the church and finally the couple got to see each other at the altar. Ken was stoically smiling at he watched his bride come down the aisle with her dad. The church was packed and they only had eyes for each other! As I mentioned, the service was bilingual so both families could participate in the service. Some wedding ceremony traditions from Erika’s Mexican heritage were part of the ceremony and I loved seeing those honored. My favorite one was when they were lassoed together. It was so symbolic and visual - totally my thing!

After they exchanged I dos and hugged their friends and family we did some family portraits in the beautiful fall colors. The images are beautiful and also deceptive - IT WAS COLD! There were lots of huddles of people very dressed up and people whipped jackets and coats on and off quickly to participate in the photos. I was also able to use the space around the church for a few portraits of just Erika and Ken. We went to the reception and took photos of the wedding party before heading into celebrate.

The reception was beautifully decorated with pinks and whites and greens. It was elegant and modern. The couple was surprised with the appearance of a mariachi band. I have to say that is one of my most favorite wedding day entertainment pieces I’ve ever seen at at wedding! (and I see about 50 each year!)

Congrats you too!

VENDORS:

Dress: Wedding Shoppe

Groom’s Attire: Wedding Shoppe

Shoes: Nina

Hair: Zach Raph Hair

Ceremony: St. Nicholas Catholic Church

Reception: Chaska Event Center

Catering: Crooked Pint

Cake: Hyvee

Florals: bride’s aunt

Entertainment: Mariachi band: family friends