“To be fully seen by somebody and be loved anyhow–this is a human offering that can border on miraculous.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

Kaitlyn and Luis met in high school. And this might be the most complicated part of their story because who among us is the same as we were in high school? You think you’re an adult, yet you have so much more growth (often painful) and life lessons ahead of you. Yet despite this, Kaitlyn and Luis triumphed. And you know why they triumphed? Sure, love plays a part in it. But more than that, hard. work. 

These two watched each other go through so many firsts. They went through deep struggles together of finding out who they were and who they wanted to be, and if they wanted to face these things together for the rest of their lives. And I think Luis and Kaitlyn both talked about this in their vows, that they sometimes saw the worst sides of each other during that growth period, and yet they both chose to move forward in love despite this. So really that’s what marriage is isn’t it? A triumph.

And that’s why there were so many happy tears shed by both on their special day. Because they knew the mountains they had already climbed over the last five years. And although there is always work ahead for all of us, they could stare firmly into the future holding hands knowing the best years are yet to come.

This is why Luis’ proposal to Kaitlyn was so special. Because he laid rose petals and candles along a path to a book with all their “firsts” in it. The very last page was blank and said, “my first and last wedding.”

And I have to add that their love is so genuine. There is power in it.

And so, their wedding day at the Monte Cristo Ballroom in Everett, Washington, was everything it should be. Beautiful interior with a rose petal lined path to the alter with crystal chandelier overhead, two cakes, endless drinks and food, and most importantly, their closest family and friends.

I also need to really pay special homage to Kaitlyn’s dress because the long sleeve, lace, see through back was everything. Just pure perfection.

So enjoy all their gorgeousness and emotion below! And Kaitlyn and Luis, I’m so happy to have met you and captured your special day. Thank you for entrusting such important memories to me <3