Whitney and Manolo’s wedding last month was beautiful and long awaited. But it technically wasn’t their first… Last March, in the midst of planning a September 2013 wedding, Manolo received word that his work permit wouldn’t be renewed and was to leave the country for Mexico immediately. Through disappointed tears we heard the news, and then Whitney and Manolo announced that their lawyer had advised they get married. As soon as possible. To say good bye to their wedding plans, say some rushed I do’s, and then say good bye to each other for an unknown length of time. They would apply for Manolo’s permanent residency through spousal sponsorship and pray he’d back in a few months. Ideas were brainstormed for this turn of events. Not wanting to cheapen their wedding or rush their marriage, they decided to have a quiet ceremony with a few family members and close friends, sign the papers, but still live as though engaged. They would be married in the eyes of Canada but once Manolo returned, they would resume their wedding plans – their real wedding plans. In a matter of days, we pulled together a sweet and simple “wedding”, wanting to make it special but not too special ;) That was to be saved for the real deal. There was sadness surrounding the situation but on this day, the presence of God was there in full force and replaced the sadness with joy and beauty. For some reason, Whitney and Manolo’s relationship has never quite gone according to their plan, but knowing God’s hands are upon it is really all that matters. This wedding was announced at last month’s wedding so I’m excited I get to now share these photos…have a look and then take a peek at their full wedding photos, taken by Joe and Patience, here! Whitney’s childhood best friend flew in last minute to be there for her…and it was her parents who opened up their gorgeous home for the wedding. It was perfect!
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