Since meeting our friend Francisco in our apartement back in Bratislava, Slovakia, he was very passionate about our project and promised to help us by any means. Not even a year later, here we are with him on a wedding in Ovalle, Chile. :)
The day was November 14, 2015, of our first South American wedding - the day was beautiful and sunny, and we couldn't wait to meet the bride and groom - María and Michael. We have waited almost a year for this moment to happen and it was here. How is it going to be?
The wedding was located in a nice ranch near Ovalle, and the timing was perfect, too - just before the sunset was about to begin. The tone of the wedding was set in subtle shades of violet, pink and white.
Before the ceremony, the groom with his and bride's family welcomed guests at the entrance.
People shook hands upon arrival, below the beautiful tree decorated with bottles with small flowers in them. Rose petals where prepared for guests at the entrance.
María is from Chile and Michael is from Denmark, but their story began in London, where they met and - as in a true love story, they fell in love almost instantly. Well, not very much later, here we are at their wedding. :)
Michael was patiently waiting for María :)
And there she comes - beautiful and excited :)
Just a few minutes before the sunset, the ceremony began.
People waiting for "that" moment.
The priest showing to all guests the most importing document, the one confirming their marriage.
Are they going to kiss? :)
A chaotic, but beautiful moment :)
After the ceremony, everybody was congratulating the newlyweds. People were hugging, smiling, kissing, all during the sunset and below the beautifully decorated tree. :)
The reception was only a short walk away, in a big, somewhat not that interesting building from the outside. But what was inside - we just stopped and stared in awe. Inside, there were dozens of chandeliers, tens or maybe even hundreds of gold decorations hanging from the roof and bouquets of roses on the main table.
We were literaly struck by awe when walking in. I mean, look at it!
Bride and groom arrived a little bit later, when everybody was seated.
After a short while, the man (and woman) of the hour arrived :) Their dear friend had a beautiful speech about them, their love and a story about how they met. We tried to understand as much as possible, with our slowly improving Spanish :)
And of course, the first dance. Everybody was watching, as they were quite good dancers :)
With one of the best band from Chile taking care of the music, people danced and danced. Moderator of the evening was also taking care they are not stopping, dancing with them and entertained them. For a while, the stage changed to a summer party. People of Chile definitely know how to have some fun. :)
This is what I call "Wedding party" :)
We were expecting some tradions - and they did not fail to show them to us :) This one might be a bit international, but it's no less important and fun. The bouquet and garter toss was extremely popular here.
Before the garter toss, various men exchanged on the stage, showing off their dancing skills. :)
After the program, María was dancing with her father. We were very touched by this moment, you can see it on their faces happiness and love.
Thank you, María and Michael, for showing us your hospitality and for having a chance to experience your most beautiful day with you. We will never forget your beautiful day :)
Also, we would like to express our gratitude to Francisco, who got in touch with María and is the main person responsible, that we are showing these photos to you now. Thank you for your extreme hospitality, your whole family and that you welcomed us as if we were your family. You will be always in our hearts. :)