Its a Hawaiian Japanese tradition to fold 1,001 origami cranes before your wedding day to bring longevity and good luck. Eddie and Andrea had their paper cranes displayed not only in a beautiful shadowbox, but as part of their attire. He wore a gold crane necklace and she, a pair of brilliant blue folded paper cranes as earrings. The Matsushima family honored their connections, their heritage, and their love for one another unmistakably throughout the day as they welcomed Andrea to the family. When Eddie's grandmother kicked off the dance with a special hula, there wasn't a dry eye amongst the Matsushima siblings. This day was so special to witness.
It started as a bright August afternoon. A few days after their fourth dating anniversary. Four years of loving each other; of supporting each others' dreams; travelling around the country as Eddie pursues his professional hockey career; making long distance work; visiting family; getting real with each other; and, of course, a very important trip to visit his roots in Hawaii and put a ring on her finger.
So here they stood, with four years of history together, exchanging personal vows to one another, committing to choose each other, support each others' dreams, and be a team for the rest of their lives. Andrea choking up at the first sentence, not once but twice - the first time during their first look, and the second during their ceremony.
Their warm, sunny afternoon ceremony in the gardens turned into the party of a lifetime. Eddie DJs professionally, and thus no one was surprised by the fantastic energy and popping dancefloor (that likely carried on long after I packed up my gear). What an honor to witness this day!
Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs. Matsushima!
Days like this wouldn't be possible without the wonderful vendors that make them happen -
Venue: Mystical Rose Gardens
Cater: Gastrotruck
Hair + Makeup: Northern Style Co - Brielle