The best of both worlds
It’s been a while since I’ve written a blog post. Some of you might know, I am currently active duty in the military. As of the last few months I am getting medically separated, which has been a really mixed bag of emotions for me. I knew it was the best option, but I’ve been a lot more sad about it than I thought I would be. On top of that I have had toooonnnnns of appointments to get everything checked out before Im officially out.
So, while Ive been in a rut about that, Ive also been super inspired. And this Riverside, CA wedding was a huge inspiration for me. Y&C have been together for 9 years before getting married. That’s like 3x how long Ive been with my husband, which I think is really cool.
At first the couple just wanted a super intimate, close family only wedding. But they’ve been together so long all their loved ones were so excited and wanted to come to their wedding. So, to make it all happen they decided to split their wedding into a two day event. The first day was the family only ceremony and then on the weekend they had a huge backyard party for their reception. Such a cool idea.
Thursday we spent the morning getting ready with Yessy, her mom, sister, and her soon to be husband’s sister. AP Beauty did their hair and makeup (and did an amazing job) while we all chilled before the ceremony. It was really laid back and sweet.
Once Y&C were both ready we did the first look at the Mission Inn Hotel in Riverside. I’m not sure if you guys have seen it there, but its stunning. Coincidentally this was my second time in riverside, and my second time taking photos here. Then it was off to the chapel.
This is the first chapel I have taken photos at, and luckily it wasn’t strict like churches are with their photography rules. There were cute rooms for the bride and groom to chill out in for a few minutes before the ceremony started, so I could bop all around getting photos of the outside and details inside. The ceremony was really quick, but so sweet! You could just see how happy the couple and their family was for them to be married.
After, we did some bridal party photos, and family photos and then wrapped it up for the day. Y&C took this time for themselves and went out to dinner just the two of them. I’ve never heard of a couple doing this on their wedding, but I really loved this idea. Sometimes weddings are so chaotic, so to take some time back for yourself just sounds so nice.
Thennnnn Saturday we partied! Yessy had told me it was a little backyard thing, so I drove up there expecting just that…No! She planned everything! There was a beautiful tent set up matching her florals, People already cooking on the grills, a whole bar set up, AND an assortment of cakes. It was awesome! People started trickling in, and by time dinner was over everyone was ready to dance! It was such a fun environment to be in. Im pretty sure I was walking around cheesing the whole night.
After spending two days with Yessy and Chris I really felt like I was part of their group. Like, I could see why everyone was so excited for them to get married. Talking and hanging out with them both individually and together, I really just got a sense of how amazing they both are and what a beautiful couple they make together. And, damn! After 9 years, Im sure this marriage is one that’s going to last.
I’m super happy for you both and I wish you marital bliss