It finally came! The day I have personally anticipated since my cousin first walked through the front door of my apartment saying, "This is 'California'. He's just a friend from work." I didn't know much about him yet. I didn't even know his real name. But I knew they were meant to be together.

In just one night I could see the way he looked at her. The way she lit up whenever he returned to her side. The way he anticipated her every move... and begrudgingly left the party without her when I insisted she stay behind for a cousin-only sleepover. Their first official date wasn't until 2 months later, but I feigned girly surprise when she "revealed" to me that they finally went out for a pre-meditated dinner for two ;)

As for their destined big day, every last impecable detail was imagined, created, and coordinated by the bride herself - and with remarkably calm elegance at that. From their white-washed wonder of a venue, iCi Restaurant in Forte Greene Brooklyn, to the champagne inspiration all around (the girl loves her bubbly... I can attest to that!), the day was light, bright, and so incredibly happy. Thirty Five of their closest friends and family lept at the opportunity to fly from all corners of the world and lend a hand in any way they could to create a celebration of their love that would be just as warm and festive as they are.

And I had the joy and honor of being one of them. Attending as both guest and photographer, it was amazing to be a part of this special day and be by their sides every step of the way.

This is the story of a fun-loving girl from Escanaba, Michigan and a super super sweet boy from Brazil, fated to cross stars in New York, one of the biggest cities in the world...