A stark contrast to the towering skyscrapers and busy streets of Chicago, just two hours north, a few miles shy of the Wisconsin border, lies an open expanse of rolling hills and greenery as far as the eye can see. Blooming apple trees and soft breezes greet your sun-kissed skin. Orchard Ridge Farms has "spring wedding" written all over it. 

And honestly, Alfredo and Mariezel couldn't have asked for a better day.

These two have quite the love story—something plenty of the guests may have been inclined to call a "love 'mystery.'" Keeping their relationship under wraps for the better part of three years, the two made the big announcement to friends, family, and colleagues just five months before the wedding. Five months! But if there was ever anyone who could pull it off, as you can clearly see below, it was Mariezel. 

Congratulations once again, lovebirds! 

While every waking day is certainly a gift, there are some that just end up being routine, humdrum, forgettable. 

It's life. 

But then come days we simply can't forget. Like for instance, the day you meet your future spouse. Which, in my case, was the very same afternoon I met Deanne, not ever dreaming that 14 years later I'd be shooting her wedding!

It was our family's biennial furlough to the Philippines in the summer of 2000, and we'd been invited for lunch at a family friend's home. Also visiting from Illinois were Deanne's family. All I remember was the incredible mango crema de fruta and the girls outnumbering my brother and I 6 to 2.  In the years since, our paths have crossed a handful of times in various continents and states, no one remembering that day more vividly than me.

It was truly an honor and privilege getting to be a part of Deanne and Andrew's special day. They're two of the most down-to-earth, giving, and talented people you'll ever meet. They've been together nearly as  long as the time since that fateful afternoon, and the love they have for each other and the close family ties they've made were clearly evident throughout their beautiful December wedding.

Here's to more unforgettable days ahead, Andrew and Deanne!