DESIREE + MIGUEL
Magical Backyard Wedding in Riverside, California
Church Location: Holy Name of Jesus (Redlands)
Portrait Location: Prospect Park, Redlands, CA
Reception Venue (Backyard): Riverside, CA
Date: 05.29.2021
Wedding Photographer & Videographer: Mike Federis Photography
Make Up Artist: Callie Allen Makeup
Hair Stylist: Bonitas By Sarita
Tacos: Tacos Delitas
Event Decoration: Glitz N Glam Occasions
Cake: Cheesecakes by Rosie
DJ: AJ
Desiree & Miguel are one of most understanding and loving couples I’ve ever met. From the time we first met in person for their engagement session, I could instantly recognize their sincere love for each other. Desiree has a bubbly and charismatic personality, while Miguel is loving family man and a bit of a joker sometimes, which makes for a perfect match!
Desiree & Miguel’s wedding day went as smooth as a wedding could go. Desiree & Miguel’s goal was to have a small and intimate wedding with their closest friends and family. Their wedding party only consisted of 2 groomsmen and 2 bridesmaids, and around 70 guests.
Their wedding day started off at the Holy Name of Jesus Christ Catholic Church in Redlands. Father Gino Galley officiated their wedding and he was one of the most enthusiastic and vocal priests I’ve ever seen. Father Gino was extremely engaging and it was amazing capturing his emotions on film and video. The ceremony was full of emotions. One of the most important moments I love capturing is the reaction of the groom while the bride walks down the aisle with her father. This moment is so defining, this time is what we refer to as the “first look” since this is the first time the groom will see his bride during the wedding day. Miguel’s reaction was so special, the moment the church doors opened and Desiree walked down the aisle; Miguel instantly broke into tears and smiles.
After the wedding, we headed out to Prospect Park in Redlands with their bridal party to do some formal portraits. Prospect Park is my go to park for large group photos especially during mid-day when the sun is harsh. The park has plenty of tall and large trees which provide ample shade for your clients and makes for even lighting for photos. One of the best spot for bridal party photos is right next to the parking area at the top. This area is surrounded by trees and has a tall wall of bamboo trees. Also great for portrait photos!
After we finished at Prospect Park, we headed out to the reception, which was hosted by Desiree’s Dad. The backyard was massive and could easily host more than 100 guests. The wedding details and decor was provided by Glitz N Glam Occasions. The tables were beautify lined with pearl linen and seated 8 guests. They also provided tents which provided the needed shade from the summer heat. Overall, the decor and styling fit the theme and vibe of Desiree & Miguel’s wedding.
Backyard weddings are definitly a challenging event to plan, but Desiree & Miguel did an amazing job coordinating and hiring the right vendors. All the vendors, guests, and family were so great to work with. Thank you again Desiree & Miguel for trusting me to capture you special day. It is a wedding that I will always have a special place in my heart and I’m so grateful that you guys have become great friends of mine!
Here’s what Desiree & Miguel had to say about their wedding:
What were your top 3 photos from the wedding gallery?
What was the biggest surprise of the day?
The biggest surprise of the day was the Violet flowers my brother got for us to present to the Blessed Mother. I had asked my brother to purchase the flowers last minute as a favor because we didn't have time to do it. Violet is the name of my grandmother who passed in 2011. She and my grandfather raised my two brothers and I. She was extremely special to all of us. My brother didn't even realize he picked out Violet flowers. I really believe my grandma used those flowers to let us know she was with us and that she also blesses our marriage. It was such a beautiful surprise.
What was your most anticipated part of the day?
The food and the vows.
What ended up being your favorite part of the day?
When our priest announced us as Mr. and Mrs. Lopez.
What were some of your favorite wedding details?
The Sweetheart table and our wedding favors. The decor over all was everything and more than we ever dreamed of.
Describe the venue and why did you choose it?
The venue was hosted in my dads back yard. It was beautiful, intimate and cost effective.
How did you feel after the day ended?
Exhausted and euphoric.
What did you like most about working with our Team?
Everything! The team guided us effortlessly. The team made us feel so comfortable and we never felt rushed.
What are you looking forward to the most as a married couple?
We are looking forward to growing our family and growing in love.
What advice would you give to future couples for their wedding?
Set boundaries and pray together
