A year and a half for his visa to get approved!  Yep.  That’s how long Merissa waited for her love to fly over from Germany.  I know her pain.  My husband  being Australian struggled through our American system for over a year as well before he finally got his visa approved.  We dated long distance more than we dated in the same city!  Oh man.  I remember that like it was yesterday.  I  think you develop a deep relationship given that 98% of your relationship is conversation via email, letters, pictures and calls.  Ralph and Merissa met in Germany during her visit with her sister who was living out there for a year for her husbands job.  They had a short and sweet ceremony in Ben Lomond with seven of Merissa’s family members present.  Her friend came to support her getting ready efforts and help coordinate- great help!  While Merissa ran late (as many brides do) we were still able to spend time doing couple’s portraits and bridal portraits of her in her vintage gown she found second hand.  She looked so elegant and lovely.

Merissa slipped into a little polka-dot dress before they all headed out to lunch at Chaminade to celebrate.