Today I married a beautiful couple who emigrated to the United States from Mexico.  Like many in Albuquerque, they had their wedding ceremony and reception in the bride’s mother’s backyard. 

It’s an honor to take part in a ceremony hosted by family members.  The handmade cakes were decorated with delicate fresh flowers, the yard was strung with hundreds of strings of twinkling lights, lace was draped over chairs and ribbons and flowers added to the festive air. The bride wore a white lace dress that was tasteful yet very sexy, and the groom wore a lavender shirt with his tux and a deep purple tie.  Vibrant, passionate and beautiful – just like them. Forty guests and a dozen children running around the yard made the party a pleasure.

After the ceremony was over, a family friend stood up and spoke in Spanish, praying over the couple with a traditional Catholic blessing.  It was a very moving ceremony and I was honored to have been a part of their special day.