The Big Day -- Wedding Day

I had 1 HUGE life-changing day in 2019, November 15th -- my aortic root replacement surgery. Then I had 1 HUGE life-changing day in 2020, January 19th -- my wedding day! (Yes, I am already legally married BUT this was the big day)

Thanks to my amazing husband, my family & friends, the Marfan Foundation & my amazing medical team I was healthy enough to not only have my wedding but dance at my wedding only 2 short months after having open-heart surgery.

I was frightened to see how my stamina would do during my wedding but nothing was stopping me from doing all I could to have the day of my dreams. AND I DID AMAZING, if I do say so myself. I lasted ALL day in my spectacular wedding gown, but boy was it heavy! I didnt change outfits until the after-party! I even lasted until my after-party in my Louboutins, shocker right?!

I was overwhelmed with love and emotion. How was it that 2 short months before I was lying on a bed in the operating room with a broken in half chest and heart surgery. But there it was, my miracle. Walking down the aisle was one of the best and proudest moments of my life. SO many people there havent seen me after my surgery so it was a moment I will never forget how amazing the atmosphere in that room was. I was proud of myself, proud of my husband & DAMN PROUD OF MY SCAR.

I know I was scared about how I would look in my dress with my big scar down my chest but let me tell you I am so proud of where I am, how I look & what my scar looks like. Anyone who is self-conscious about their scars or their bodies, take a look in the mirror and tell yourself you are a damn warrior. It took me some time to do that but I am in a place in my life where I am proud of who I am and what I have been through. And I honestly wouldn't be the person I am today if I didnt go through what I have in my life.

Now a little about my wedding :) I had the most amazing Martiliana Bridal Dress, Louboutin shoes (gift from my hubby), brand new diamond earrings (wedding gift from my hubby!), a diamond necklace passed down from my mom, gold bangles from my mother-in-law and amazingly beautiful hair & makeup. Our wedding was at The Palace at Somerset Park, which is a magical place to host a wedding. The location, staff, food, atmosphere & every little detail was amazing. Our florist, A Touch of Elegance, made an amazing backdrop for our ceremony, amazing arrangements and the 3 different types of centerpieces were works of art. Our band, The Infernos, made the night, hands down, brought the house DOWN! We had an amazing photographer & videographer.

We had a poker chip themed guest book (tribute to my amazing professional poker playing husband), a bar sign recognizing our amazing dog son, Coby, a photobooth, a professional cigar roller, & delicious food & drinks.

Here are some sneak peek photos from our amazing photographer, Jane Martinez.