“The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That’s what I hope to give you forever.”— The Notebook

I could see the emotion in both Alex and Jacob as they prepared to get married. Both of them are quiet, thoughtful people, who are kind and radiate love for one another.  But neither of them needed to say anything for me to see the way their face lights up only in each other’s presence.

Jacob recounted to me how he took Alex to Estrella Star Tower to propose to her. It was a rainy February night (which in Arizona is especially rare!).  Since it was freezing and raining, no one else was there.  Although Alex was skeptical that they’d be seeing the comet Jacob kept going on about, Jacob insisted the weather would clear up.  As Alex put it, “by the time I was done complaining, I turned around and Jacob was already on his knees in a puddle.”  This both makes me laugh and smile!! Because love and relationships are so like this aren’t they?  So perfectly imperfect.

These two met in high school, and after five years together, tied the knot. They were surrounded by their siblings as they said I do in their church, Skyway, in Goodyear, Arizona.

After they dedicated their relationship to each other and to God, they took communion to seal their vows.  And one of my favorite parts of ceremonies, which Alex and Jacob’s families took part in, was to have Alex and Jacob’s Mother’s light the two candles together that Alex and Jacob would then use to light their unity candle.  Seeing two families commit to becoming one is so inspiring to me.

Then, Alex (and me!) got a special surprise gift when we arrived at Estrella Vista Reception Center! Jacob was very excited for this moment, and as we were taking bridal party and family portraits, in walks a Mariachi band!  Jacob’s mom had planned this surprise for Alex, knowing she loved Mariachi.  And I also have to thank Jacob’s mom because I got to be serenaded while we finished pictures! So I tried to control my dancing while we finished pictures 😉

There were so many special parts of the night. Jacob has 3 brothers, and Alex has 3 sisters, all of whom were in the bridal party.  After Jacob’s dance with his mom, his dad stepped onto the floor to give his son wisdom and to share a special moment together during a second song.  Before long, all the brothers were out on the floor with them hugging, praying, and wiping away tears. My heart was literally melting people. The love these two families share for their children is so wonderful to witness.

The toasts only made me reach for the kleenex again as Alex’s older sister gave an emotional speech about their sisterly love in both Spanish and English.  Then Jacob’s twin brother talked about Alex’s commitment that he learned from their father that you never quit, and you always persevere, which wonderful qualities Jacob brings to his marriage with Alex. But Jacob’s twin continued that he saw the way Alex completed Jacob and fulfilled him in ways that even his twin could never do. (Insert every heart emoji on the planet, am I right?)

Alex and Jacob, you are a gorgeous couple, not just on the outside, but on the inside. Your love radiates for all to see, and I am excited to see all you do together as you grow old together!