It was a warm, mid-summer day along the California Central Coast; Alma and Carlos had just said their “I do’s” at Our Lady Help of Christians Church and they looked the most happiest I had ever seen them (and they are two of the most joyful people I have ever met!) The bridal party was getting angsty to head inside to the AC-cooled hall, at the Watsonville Heritage Hall, where the party guests awaited their grand entrance. I watched as Carlos kept attending to his new bride, to ensure she was comfortable in the hot weather. Alma graciously smiled back at him and then at me to let me know she was ready for her next photo. The look that Alma and Carlos had throughout their entire day is still unforgettable to me.

We started our day at Alma’s family’s home, where she wanted to get ready with only her mother and sister (MOH) present. It was calm, Alma was calm. No nerves, only happiness radiating from her.

Alma, like many women, has a strong love for shoes! So of course, Carlos bought Alma her wedding day shoes and left a little surprise for her underneath them:

Over at their hotel, Carlos got ready with his entire groomsmen party and his father joined them to share in all the fun!

Alma had her own gift for her husband-to-be:

Alma happily awaits her grand entry outside of Our Lady Help of Christians Church with her father and bridal party. Still calm and excited to see her soon to be husband for the first time.

Carlos’s nephew was their ring bearer and I gotta say, he’s probably one of the cutest I have seen!

They had been waiting all day for this kiss, how happy do these two look as Mr. & Mrs. Lechuga?

After the church mass, we headed over to their venue at Heritage Hall at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds. We found this secluded area behind all of the rec halls.

Thank you to MOH Liz for helping me with the veil shot!

Is there ever a dry eye during the father and daughter dance?

I don’t think its a real party if there isn’t a mariachi … or cake!

Congrats again, Mr, & Mrs. Lechuga!

Thank you top my second shooter, Miguel Vernis!

Church: Our Lady Help of Christians Catholic Church in Watsonville, CA

Venue: Heritage Hall in Watsonville, CA

Wedding Planning & Decor: Oscar Rocha

HMUA: @makeupby_lalalu

Bouquet: Florista Blooms

Cake: @clairisfondantboutique

Shoes: Steve Madden