This day–carmen + stephen’s wedding day–was a long time coming. One she had dreamt about since childhood and one she and Stephen had been planning for months. It was a day centered on the goodness of God’s grace and his divine providence in their lives. And it was a celebration of two families joining together as one. It was made evident through all the hugs, tears, toasts and prayers of blessing that this couple was loved and deeply blessed by the family and friends who came as witnesses on this happy occasion. And that’s what it was. A happy day. And without further ado, I give you Carmen + Stephen’s wedding editorial.

We began at Carmen’s home where she and all the ladies in her family were preparing for the big day. There were quite a few women running about, but in midst of all the madness Carmen was as radiant and excited as ever.

Carmen’s sweet lil’ boy Cameron was quite the stud in his tux. I love this series of him getting dressed…

The moments right after they saw each other for the first time on the day they would say “I do.”

We laughed a lot that day. A lot. Sigh.

And while they laughed quite a bit, they also brought the heat too. Carmen, you are fabulous and Stephen, you are one lucky man!

Stephen forged through the weeds for this shot, and I think it was well worth it.

After we frolicked through a meadow, we headed over to the grounds of the San Luis Rey Mission and had ourselves a grand ol’ time. I loooove this shot of Carmen on the right. Gorgeous.

Cacti + an old stone wall? Um, yes please.

And a few shots with the intimate bridal party…

And now it’s time for the nuptials at Calvary Chapel Oceanside…

I love this moment where they brought Cameron on stage and prayed over him as husband and wife. I’m pretty sure I was crying perched behind the christmas tree. It happens.

After the ceremony, they humored me and let me shoot through the christmas tree some more. And it produced one of my favorite images from the day…

Carmen + Stephen, thank you for allowing me to tell this chapter of your story. Blessings on your new life together….

To view more images from their wedding day, check out the slideshow here.