Yessenia and Ruben have been together for years, and decided that it was time to make it official. They have a gorgeous family, and have been through things that no couple should have to go through. Yessenia and Ruben have not only lived through a really tragic situation, they have thrived. When we shot their engagement session last month, I loved watching them together. Their connection is definitely one we could feel in the photos, even if they were a little shy in front of the camera. Their oldest son captured my heart immediately. He is so laid back and relaxed. Maybe it’s my bias because of my own son, but he is just too sweet and was so excited for the wedding! Their daughter has a TON of personality in such a small package. When she wants something you definitely know what she wants. And when she doesn’t want something, you can tell without her saying a word!

Usually when we shoot a wedding we can drive home at night and think of a few words to describe that particular wedding. Romantic, sweet, traditional, different… there are so many descriptive words that fit. This wedding would fit into several categories. Yes, it was fun. Yes, it was emotional. But the word that comes to mind more than anything when I think about Yessenia and Ruben’s wedding day is FAMILY. They were surrounded by the people they loved, and that loved them. Their family members looked at them with admiration and love. The children were so happy, the grandparents danced, and we were completely surrounded by family.

This is Part 1 of Yessenia and Ruben’s wedding day. Part 2, with the ceremony and reception, will come shortly.

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It cracks me up to see the difference between the girls and guys on the big day. The guys’ getting ready consists of a quick haircut, playing football, and hanging out. Ladies, can you imagine a little football in between hair and makeup?

I love love LOVE me some patent leather. Patent leather Converse? Yes please!

The girls have a lot more to do before the wedding. Hair, makeup, gown, and double that for the little ones! (Minus the makeup of course!)

Yessenia’s gown was from Alfred Angelo, and was absolutely beautiful. I LOVED the ruffles on the bottom, and the detail on top! She opted for feathers instead of flowers, and the colors were gorgeous!

A few of our weddings lately have involved children, and it makes me smile to see things like this. The “mommy” never turns off for good moms… even on their wedding day, when the day is supposed to be completely about them!

Absolutely stunning!

The bridal party was so supportive and sweet, they welcomed me right into the before-wedding-chaos!

Mommy and daughter… beautiful!

Check out that handsome young man!

The groomsmen cracked us up. Usually guys don’t really get CLOSE when they’re taking pictures. Tom is the same way… it’s a guy thing. Us chicks will get super close and snuggle for a photo, and the guys always have to keep that manly distance. When we kept asking these guys to get closer they had an inside joke and they would start laughing. We didn’t get it but at one point Tom told me “you probably don’t want to know.” I left it at that! Don’t they look awesome? I love men in tuxes!

Part 2 will be coming shortly. Tears, laughs, hugs, and some awesome dancing!