When we last saw Matin and Kenia, we were in Old Town Sacramento, and they were trying to imagine how their wedding day would be. With only months until their big day, they were finishing the final touches and deciding the few last things, all the while building the excitement!
They will have to imagine no more, because their day has arrived, and in just a couple hours, they will be saying their vows before friends and family and saying the words that will unite them forever as husband and wife!
Before we do that though, let's check out Kenia's beautiful dress from the House of Wu. Her mother, sisters, nieces, and friends were all nearby to be sure the bride to be had everything she needed and to help her in her final moments of getting ready.
Kenia was radiant as she stepped into her dress, and mom could not have sounded more filled with pride and excitement for her daughter as they prayed together and tried to hold back tears through their words of thankfulness that Kenia had found the love of her life.
In just the other room, Matin had just arrived and was getting out the last minute jitters with his groomsmen.
But it wasn't time just yet! As guests were starting to arrive as well, and finding their seats, Kenia's dad had a few words he wanted to share with his daughter before walking her down the aisle. He could not have prepared himself for the grand reveal, as he was nervous just before entering the room to see his little girl all dressed up as a bride on just the other side of the door.
And then it was Matin's turn. As much as he and Kenia wanted to see each other, they had promised to only tease each other with no peeking just before going down the aisle. Seemed like Kenia definitely tried to peek though!!!
With time running out, and the seats filling up, the officiant was signaling that it was time to begin. Kenia and Matin parted ways once again, but this time would be the last time that they parted as boyfriend and girlfriend.
As the music began, Matin was escorted by his sister. Kenia's Godparents continued the procession bearing gifts and honoring tradition couple by couple. The Bible was presented, as well as Candles, Pillows, Silver Coins, and a Unity Lasso. With the ring bearer already having made an appearance with one of the couples, the rest of the bridal party followed.
The Maid of Honor along with the Best Man, the bridesmaids and groomsmen, and finally the flower girls all made their way down the aisle. As everybody stood to their feet, and Matin kept his eyes glued to the end of the aisle, Kenia emerged to awes, claps, and smiles. She and her dad slowly walked toward her groom for all to see. Matin lovingly took his bride by the hands and happily accepted this treasured gift bestowed by his now father-in-law.
Couple by couple, the pair was presented with gifts and honored with tradition. They were connected with the unity lasso, presented with pillows and coins, and joined two flames together to make one, all to signify their commitment to one another and remind each other that they would now be one force together, and no longer alone.
They exchanged vows and rings, and finally-the moment came for Matin to kiss his bride! They were now husband and wife!!!
And just like that, the ceremony was over! As guests made their way inside to begin celebrating, family was excited to congratulate the newlyweds, and of course take a picture with the lovely couple.
And we can't forget about the bridal party!
The reception was filled with tons of delicious food served buffet style, and the party kicked off with live music and dancing. Lots of dancing!!!
The night finished with toasts to the newlyweds, cake cutting, and of course more dancing! Including a special dance for Matin and Kenia, followed by an emotional dance shared by father and daughter. The night was perfect.
So after having met Kenia and Matin only a few months back, here we are now. Two souls that have become one, and could not look have looked happier as they fell even more in love at The Falls in Elk Grove-a place they will add to their map of adventures, and forever remember that once upon a time-it was here that they said "I do!"
Congratulations to such a beautiful couple! Their love story is one for the books, and we wish them the best as they begin a new chapter together!