A New Sister

Last month was a whirlwind of non-stop events! We had wedding showers, Easter, my husbands 10 year reunion [eek], and then the wedding!  This past weekend we drove up to L.A. to celebrate with my brother Matthew, as he married his dream girl! It marked the last of a string of busy weekends for the Bradford family!  I feel like I can finally relax again {as much as a person caring for a toddler and an infant can that is}.  

Such a handsome Groom :-)

The celebration began with a beautiful Catholic ceremony in the church.  I really loved the seriousness and reverence with which they approached the holy covenant of marriage.  Our society has totally forgotten how sacred and holy marriage is supposed to be. It is just that; a holy pledge, or covenant between a man and a woman, in the presence of Almighty God. 

After the Mass, we drove to Camarillo to the beautiful Maravilla Gardens, where they renewed their vows in front of their friends and family. Jack and his cousin Jonathan were the ring bearers and Olivia and Bella were flower girls! They were so adorable and they did a great job walking down the "island" 

[as Jack called it.] 

Walking down the "Island"

the wedding party

Jack wore a truly vintage jonjon that my brother [the groom] wore for a portrait when he was Jack's age. So precious and sentimental!

One of my favorite parts of the night was the speech Mara's father gave about giving away his baby girl. Sean and I are only beginning to understand what being the parents of a girl means. Sean was especially moved, imagining the day {a long, long time from now} when he would give his baby girl away.  Looking at this tiny, beautiful little baby, it is hard to imagine that day. 

 I did snap a few shots of his first dance with his baby girl. She already has him wrapped around her little finger.  He adores her.

It was a beautiful wedding and we are so excited and blessed to welcome Mara into our family!  She's so sweet and will make perfect wife for my big brother! It was so much fun, and so special to celebrate such an amazing, beautiful couple! 

Congratulations Matty & Mara!