Vivid Florals, Rich Blend of Heritage in Vibrant Wedding Day at Desert Botanical Garden

Instead of viewing marriage as the beginning of their love story, high-school sweethearts Samuel and Brianna Aguiar saw it as a beautiful new chapter in an already rich, true and authentic partnership. In the 13 years since they met, the pair has shared countless milestones, from college to cross-country moves and more. Wanting a heartwarming symbol of the lives they had already blended together, the couple chose a design that reflected the joining of their heritages through the use of traditional Mexican details and classic American ceremonies. A grand arch of fuchsia bougainvillea perfectly complemented the desert landscape, and the flowers were also incorporated in romantic bouquets of ivory blooms and gold, peach and orange roses. Brianna stunned family and friends as she made her way down the aisle, donning a cathedral-length Mantilla veil that was hand made by Samuel’s aunt in Mexico. To top off the ceremony space, white papel picado banners hung over the seating and raised platform where the bride and groom said “I do,” a delicate harmony to the overall vibrant scene. The elegant design of the tablescapes allowed more personal touches, such as ceramic plates—hand-painted in a deep terra-cotta color to match the fall motif—and Talavera-painted tile table numbers to truly shine. Following the traditional American timeline of celebrations, Samuel and Brianna’s loved ones dined on classic Mexican dishes before dancing the night away to the music of Banda, Bachata and Mariachi, an exquisite experience filled with love, thought and culture.