Cinthia and Arny contacted us regarding photography for their July wedding. Even though the wedding was only three months out fortunately we were available; so was the videographer All Because He Asked who happens to be one of the best and also my husband (I know I might sound biased, but check out his work it speaks for itself, https://allbecauseheasked.com/).

What Cynthia and Arny made happen in such a short time proves that not every wedding needs a full year of planning so long as you have a little bit of luck, flexibility and hard work. They chose to have their wedding on a weekday at the Falkner Winery in Temecula, which gave them lots of options. The property is gorgeous and the wine was flowing!

This was me and Deanne’s first time shooting a big Mexican wedding complete with lots of traditions, including one we found particularly special—a Lasso ceremony. Lasso (sometimes called, “lazo”) or rope is placed around the bride and groom’s shoulders (groom’s shoulder’s first) in the form of an “8” (the infinity symbol) – after they have exchanged their vows – to symbolize their everlasting union.

A Mariachi band got everyone on the dance floor!  The lead singer had the whole group form a circle, and guests showed off their individual dance skills. My favorite was watching all the men at the reception raise the groom above their heads, floating him above the dance floor.  Cinthia told me traditionally the men strip the groom of his clothes and then toss him while the bride watches. Arny was able to hang onto his attire, but we all had a laugh watching the men try.

If their wedding is any indication, then Cynthia and Arny have a lot of laughs and happy times ahead of them. Cinthia’s smile and laughter never let up during the wedding, and Arny seemed to have her in his arms the whole time. Arny was ever so chivalrous carrying his new wife through the vineyards to avoid getting prickly shrubs on her dress and shoes. She was such a trooper tromping though the vineyard so I could get the best wedding shots.

One of my favorite moments of the evening was their first dance. The two had clearly practiced and choreographed an amazing dance, which they did with grace and perfection.

I am so grateful to have been a part of Cinthia and Arny’s special day. They are clearly soulmates.

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