UNM Alumni Chapel Wedding- Michael and Anjelica
I had the pleasure of serving as both a bridesmaid and photographer at Anjelica and Michael Shumway's recent UNM Alumni Chapel Wedding. In full disclosure, I have known Anjelica since she was a little girl. That being said, it was a blessing to not only be part of this sweet couple's wedding, but to capture it for them as well.
Meet the Couple
Michael and Anjelica met while attending high school, and began as friends. Shortly after graduation, Michael left for boot camp and the Army. Despite the distance, Michael and Anjelica kept in touch. While Michael's time was spent learning a new job, Anjelica's was involved in the care of her daughter and attending school at the University of New Mexico. About a year ago, Michael asked Anjelica's mother for permission to marry her, before proposing to her himself. Anjelica said yes.
The Wedding Ceremony
This sweet couple was married at the UNM Alumni Chapel on September 27, 2014. I was proud to serve as a bridesmaid at their wedding. I would also like to say a special thank-you to my second shooter Kristan Fischer-Kennedy. While I was performing my duties as a bridesmaid, she graciously stepped in and photographed the ceremony and the formal photos of the bridal party as well as the whole wedding party. Thanks Kristan!
The Official Portraits
After the ceremony, we stepped outside the chapel to take some more photos
The Reception
Anjelica and Michael hosted their reception at Special Occasions Rental in Belen, New Mexico. Anjelica's mother- Pam- provided the catering. Homemade enchiladas, beans, rice, and an assortment of fruit and veggie trays were the fare for the event.
Alonzo Garcia of NM Affordable DJ Service provided the music and sound for the event. He did an excellent job! The wedding cake was provided by ABC Bakery in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the mini cupcake and marshmallow centerpieces were created by Teri's Sweet Garden in Los Lunas, New Mexico.
The bride and groom opened the dancing with their first dance.
This was shortly followed by the Mother/Son dance. Michael chose to dance with his mom first, but-as they had agreed to- finished the dance with a close friend and influence in his life.
Anjelica shared a Mother/Daughter dance with her mom that was filled with both tears and laughter. It was a special moment indeed.
Before we all knew it, it was time to toss the garter and bouquet.
And then time to cut the cake. Michael wore most of his first piece thanks to Anjelica's good aim!
Soon after, the reception was over, and the bride and groom headed off to their honeymoon before heading home to Michael's base in Washington. Congratulations guys! I love all three of you, and it was a blessing to serve as your photographer and bridesmaid! I wish you the best of luck and a happy marriage.
Update 8/10/2023:
Unfortunately, Michael and Anjelica did end up getting divorced.
I did learn a few more lessons from this wedding! Such as, it’s not a good idea to be both a bridesmaid and the photographer! I asked a friend- whom I thought knew how to use a DSLR- to help photograph the ceremony, but said friend actually didn’t, so those photos aren’t the best. Again, another lesson learned- double check the people I ask to shoot with and for me!
The UNM Alumni Chapel in Albuquerque, New Mexico is still one of my favorite wedding venues- especially since my husband and I got married there! It brings back a lot of really precious memories when I get to photograph a wedding there.