Favian & Araceli
Araceli and Favian were married in their backyard in Tracy, and honestly… it was perfect. No pretense, no huge venue, no rushing around. Just the people they love, a warm breeze, and a yard glowing with sunset.
The first thing I noticed was the color. Her bridesmaids stood in every shade of soft pastels and bright garden tones, like a living bouquet around her. Her veil was edged in traditional Mexican lace, delicate and meaningful, and his boutonnière held a photo of his mother — a quiet way of keeping her close. Their wedding felt like this beautiful blend of cultures: a little French softness in the florals and pastels, a little Mexican warmth in the lace and details. It all just worked.
We only had two hours, which sounds impossible on paper. But somehow it all fell into place. Getting ready moments, ceremony, family photos, full bridal party portraits, a whole table-by-table sweep of the reception and nearly forty minutes of couples’ portraits — all of it happened naturally. Their yard had this gorgeous, soft light that made every corner photogenic in its own way, so we didn’t waste a second hunting for “the perfect spot.” It was all perfect.
Their portraits are some of my favorites I’ve made this year — classic ones for their families, soft romantic ones for them, and a few of those modern candid-feeling ones that everyone loves. They slipped easily between laughter and tenderness, and the glow of the sun did the rest.
It was intimate, relaxed, heartfelt — the kind of wedding that reminds you that meaningful doesn’t have to be big. Sometimes the most beautiful days happen right at home, surrounded by the people who’ve been there all along.
