Luiza came to see me for the first time about a year before her wedding. We had an instant connection and were both super excited about having the opportunity to work together. Then a week went by and I didn’t hear from her. Then another week went by. I was sad because I really thought she wanted us to be her photographers! I sent an email and didn’t hear back for a little bit. Then finally it came… Luiza sent me a message that said she was definitely hopeful that she’d get to have Paul and I at the wedding, but she had to convince her dad that photography was worth the investment.
Time went by and I still waited. Poor girl kept checking in on her dad looking for a decision, but he still wasn’t convinced. Luiza later told me she didn’t want to pressure him at all because she was so grateful for all he and her mom were doing for their wedding. But when he showed her other websites of photographers who charged less, she did her best to talk with him about the differences and why we were worth it. But she never pushed him. Again, time went by, then I got the phonecall. Luiza’s father called me and essentially said, “My daughter is in love with you and your photography. But why are you worth it?!” We talked about experience, equipment, insurance, quality of products, etc. I was nervous, but very confident in our value. By the end of the conversation, Mr. Bretas said he knew why Luiza loved us so much and he’d be honored to have us be a part of their wedding. Whew!
Luiza and Haby were married at the Baughman Center in Gainesville, Florida. Before the ceremony, the couple decided to do a first look at the Hilton Hotel where the wedding party was getting ready. We revealed the couple to each other under the beautiful oak tree outside the hotel. I was stunned when Haby, a paratrooper in the United States Army, was brought to tears upon seeing his gorgeous bride!
Luiza was worried about pictures because it was a late ceremony. We knew it would be dark by the time we started taking pictures outside the Baughman Center. I assured her that we had the right kind of equipment to shoot beautiful images at night. She and Haby were thrilled with how they turned out and were even glad they decided on an evening ceremony because they loved the romantic look of the pictures. It’s a different look, but it was perfect for their style.
This incredible four tier cake was designed by Olive You. It was a chocolate & red velvet cake that was TO DIE FOR! The couple actually cut the cake with Haby’s army officer’s saber. Awesome! The reception was held at Ember’s Restaurant. It was an exquisite location and the food was amazing. I highly recommend!
This incredible wedding was planned by MasterPiece Weddings. Owner, Melissa DiStefano did an amazing job perfecting every last detail throughout the entire day. Not to mention she handles an army saber quite well. LOVE HER!
At the end of the night, Mr. Bretas grabbed my hand and kissed my cheek and thanked us for being a part of this special day. I’ve truly never been so honored because I know how much Luiza hoped for us and pushed (without pushing) for us. It’s clear to me why Luiza and Haby make such a perfect match. Haby’s career in the military takes him far away for long periods of time. Luiza’s patient and delicate disposition shows support and respect and I’m sure she and Haby will make a precious life together!
Other vendors include The Flower Shop, Jay’s Entertainment, Zola Keller and Courtney at The Strand.