I love that I got another chance to shoot another Shadow Lake Ranch Wedding this year!! Jeff and Rocio’s wedding has been something I’ve been looking forward to all season!! I loved shooting with them during their engagement session, and I just knew their wedding was going to be stunning! And really, who can go wrong with a sweet couple, a mariachi band, and tacos!!!

These two were married by Jeff’s dad and it was short and sweet, and absolutely perfect. They took part in their sand ceremony while Jeff’s sister read something the couple wrote together:

“We are not a couple because of, or in spite, of our race or ethnicity. We are with each other because of the individuals we are and the love we share. Race and culture play a big part of our identity and life, but what makes us appreciate each other is how we as individuals integrate our experiences, think about things, and react to situations. We both believe that our relationship is more interesting than any previous, and part of our reason is our differing races. We have learned a lot about diversity from one another. While we have learned more about the cultures each one of us is from, we have also found that our relationship has made us more understanding is how individuals from all cultures vary in amazing ways. We have chose to share what we have learned from our interracial relationship with family and friends in hopes spreading, understanding, and promoting acceptance in diversity. The two of us have been open and honest about race and it’s impacts on our relationship and on society as a whole from the beginning, and we will continue to do so, even if the conversation gets tough. All in all, we know we are in an awesome relationship and we wouldn’t trade it for anyting.”

I love the openness and communication between these two, and their families, and it was amazing to watch the two of them, as well as their families join together in celebration of such an important day! I know that these two are going to do big things!

Jeff and Rocio! Thank you SO much for the sweetest necklace, for allowing me to document the beginning of your story, and letting me share such an important day with you! I can’t wait to see what you guys do next-but you probably should stay in Mattawa! Love you guys!

Shadow Lake Ranch Wedding Vendors

Venue: Shadow Lake Ranch

Bride’s dress: Rebecca Ingram

from Amy’s Bridal Boutique

Groom and groomsmen attire: Men’s wearhouse

Bridal Bouquet: Twigs and Petals

DJ: Dj Alan

Caterer: Zenen’s Tacos

Favors: Wedding Fans

Invitations: Shutterfly

HMUA: HL Hair Studio

Mariachi: Los Trovadores

Bartenders: BarTab LLC

Jewelry (necklace and earrings): Weisfield Jewelers

Shoes: Macy’s

Perfume: Macy’s Sephora