Maribel + Justin's Handmade California Wedding | Hacienda de las Flores Wedding Photographer

Justin and Maribel met in high school at our church's youth group. They dated for four years and finally tied the knot on June 8th at the Hacienda de las Flores in Moraga, California! Justin works in air transportation with the Air Force and Maribel is a site director at the Leaven Tutoring Center. Maribel and Justin decided to do a "First Look". It is an intimate moment before the wedding where the bride and groom get to see each other. I know it's tradition to wait until she walks down the aisle, but you wouldn't believe how beautiful it is to see each other privately first with no one around and how many nerves are calmed. It also gave us the opportunity to take all of our pictures beforehand, so as not to cut into the reception time later in the day. (If you are a bride, I highly recommend doing a first look!) You will also see a guy in a red t-shirt jump in during the ceremony. Justin's groomsmen had a hilarious skit where they acted like they forgot the rings. And be sure to take note of all of Maribel's hard work (along with her wonderful bridesmaids). There are so many hand crafted details, including her headband, bouquet, the boutinere's and all their reception details. I was so honored when they asked me to photograph their wedding. I loved seeing all of our church family gather and witness the wonderful commitment they were making to each other and to God.Maribel and Justin, if there is any wedding advice I can give you, it is this: Always make God your first priority in marriage and stay in the Word daily. Marriage is a beautiful gift and when it's foundation is built on something solid, you can stand in confidence, regardless of what life throws your way. I am so incredibly happy for you both! Congrats, friends!!!!!!!! A special thanks to Rachel Wurzbach Photography for assisting me during the ceremony and to my husband for assisting me during the first look and groomsmen shots!