Mary + Hugo

Mary and Hugo started out as coworkers. Hugo knew it was love at first sight and never gave up on pursuing Mary—even after she made it clear that she wasn’t interested. As time went by, however, Mary developed feelings for Hugo, and they fell into a relationship. One day, Hugo surprised her with a proposal at a pond in Oregon. Now totally hooked, Mary said yes.  

I was recommended to Mary by my best friend’s twin sister, Manny, whose wedding I had photographed just a few weeks prior. Before I knew it, I was on a plane to California to capture what would be my first out-of-state wedding.  

Everyone got ready together at Hugo’s parent’s house and then headed over to a Hispanic, Christian church called La Iglesia En El Camino. The ceremony was an intimate affair with just the couple’s nearest and dearest present, including their sweet baby daughter, Izzy.

A teary-eyed Hugo gazed at his beautiful bride as she walked down the aisle to greet him. Mary, who is Chinese, learned how to say her vows in Spanish, which meant a lot to Hugo’s family. Now, man and wife, the beaming pair headed outside to be whisked away to the reception. 

In stark contrast to the ceremony, the reception was huge. A Mexican food truck served up tacos, burritos, and other delicious foods while guests dined, danced, and mingled late into the night in a room lit up by multicolored lights. 

I’m so glad I got to capture Mary and Hugo’s special day. May their great love only grow stronger as the years go by.

Vendors: Dress @davidsbridal • Tuxedo @menswearhouse • Venue @lieecvn • Hair @hairbydani8 • Makeup @lixxettxmua • Photobooth @boothlife1975