Once you look to your love and listen to yourself, weddings really are whatever you want them to be. That's the secret Alessandra and Ray discovered and it allowed them to have the wedding of their dreams.

Alessandra is a bit camera shy, but a lover of art. She actually made the shawl that she wore!  Ray is a true lover of the outdoors golfing every weekend and spending as much time in the open air as possible. Together they are this amazing force of love and happiness.

Alessandra and Ray have been coming to Yosemite every year to enjoy the outdoors, so for them it was almost understood that they would marry here. Embracing their heritage, Dr. Judy DeRosa held a Native American bonding ceremony on the banks of Merced River. I have never been a part of a bonding ceremony before, so the traditions were new to me. One thing I did learn very quickly is that Ray has a tradition of smiling and laughter. Throughout the entire ceremony (and day) he couldn't take his eyes off of his bride.

Once the ceremony was over, Alessandra and Ray visited with their family sharing embraces.   After a while Alessandra, Ray and I traveled around Yosemite Valley for a while taking in the springtime. The dogwoods had just started to bloom, the waterfalls were flowing, and the weather was perfect. Whenever we got in and out of the car, Ray was always there to make sure the door was opened for Alessandra as he helped her in - how cool is that?

After our tour through the park, Alessandra and Ray came back to their reception site, aka their camping site surrounded by their friends and family. The iPod was cranked up with Stairway to Heaven as they shared their first dance as husband and wife in the open air. Alessandra's sister made the wedding cake, a cake that a squirrel wanted to claim as his own.

Just before I left them for the day, Ray pulled me aside and told me he had a surprise for his wife. While Alessandra was visiting with family he stepped into the RV and pulled out a beautiful painting done by Judy to remember their marriage by. Alessandra was in tears as Judy described the painting the its symbolism for their lives.

I feel really lucky to be able to share in days like this. It's great to see such a unique a unique understanding of what a wedding celebration is. Alessandra and Ray are still in Yosemite as I write this, they will be their for three days after their wedding, enjoying the start of their new life together. I can't wait to hear where your travels take you, make sure and keep me posted!

Officiant and artist: Dr. Judy DeRosa