ABBY + RUBEN / THE PAVILION

The last wedding of 2019 was a whirlwind of snow, laughter, and tremendous amounts of love. Abby and Ruben exchanged vows in snowstorm in Lake Elmo, which also happened to be the same day as Abby’s late-father’s birthday. Their day was filed with so many sentimental moments like that, including Abby’s personalized shoes, her ring purchased in Mexico by her husband, speeches in both English and Spanish, blending their cultures and heritage – all of it was so beautiful. Abby and Ruben were able to celebrate with not only their loved ones, but their two children, solidifying their family of four with a sealed kiss at the end of their ceremony. 

During Abby’s speech, she talked about how persistently she left hints for Ruben before he finally asked her out at their mutual place of work – he was the cook, she was the server. They quickly realized that they were made for one another, and Ruben proposed one day at their home by having their daughter bring her the ring (I mean, come on! Cue the tears!). When we met for the first time, Abby stressed the importance of family on their special day, along with wanting to capture all the in-between moments. When asked what three words she would use to describe their wedding, Abby said: 1. finally (due to wanting to get married earlier, but they were gifted their second son and postponed til after his birth), laid-back, and family. Abby said that Ruben calls her “his locoa, it’s kind of our thing”, and I feel like that perfectly encompasses how even though life might not go “exactly” the way you always want it to go, it’s a beautiful, crazy ride, and the unexpected moments just make life that much sweeter. 

Venue: The Pavilion at Lake Elmo 
Wedding Planner: Amber 
Ceremony Officiant: Abby’s aunt, Mary 
MUA/Hair: Lisa Reinhardt Makeup & Hair Artistry 
Spray Tan: Dee’s Spray Tan 
Florist: Stephanie Neiger Floral Designs 
Limo/Transportation: Rent My Party Bus 
Bakery: Thirsty Whale Bakery 
DJ: Bellagala 
Photo Booth: Complete Weddings & Events 
Second Photographer: Ash Jane Photography