I was our pleasure to capture the wedding of Sherlyn & Raphael. The pair are truly one of the kindest couples we have met. Rafael is super outgoing and makes everyone smile; and Sherlyn's heart is clearly large and full of love. Their wedding was loaded with traditions and family heirlooms which made every part of their intimate ceremony personal!

Sherlyn wore a simple, elegant white dress with beaded accents, and added a pop of teal in her hair and on her feet. We loved seeing her cute teal shoes peak out from under her dress. The final piece to her wedding day ensemble was her hand-made bouquet. Her bouquet was unique and sentimental made of brooches from a long line of women in her family including her mother, aunts, stepmother, grandmother, and great grandmother.

Standing beside them during the ceremony were Sherlyn daughter and Rafael’s best friend; and the officiant was Sherlyn's dad. We always loves ceremonies where the officiant is an important person to the couple, it makes the ceremony even more memorable.  The couple married in front of the big cross at Serra Cross Park in Ventura. Guests sat in chairs adorned with decorative cans and flowers. In yet another special touch the cans were actually coin banks from Sherlyn's grandfather.

After saying their vows and kissing for the first time as Mr and Mrs, Sherlyn and Rafael “Jumped the Broom”. This is a traditional act where newlyweds hold hands and jump over a broom to seal the union. The broom has different meanings in several cultures. In Christian ceremonies, the broom handle represents God, the straw bristles signify the couple’s families, and a ribbon around the broom symbolizers the ties that bind the couple. The broom Sherlyn and Rafael used is a family heirloom having been used by generations, before becoming the symbol of union for Sherlyn and Rafael.

All Because He Asked live streamed the the ceremony allowing their friends and family to take part. Next year the couple plans to celebrate in person with all their loved ones!

Sherlyn and Rafael met at a friend’s 30th birthday party. Who actually introduced the pair is up for friendly debate, but we think everyone involved in making this alignment should take credit for the happy outcome! Sherlyn and Rafael make a lovely pair and are complete with Sherlyn's daughter standing by their side. We wish them a long and happy life together!