Lance and Marcela - 8 years

Lance and Marcela Wed

March 16, 2002

     March 16, 2002 was a beautiful day for a wedding in Tecoman, Colima, Mexico. The day passed quickly as the bride prepared for the wedding event at 8 p.m. in a local Catholic church. Lance had last minute items to take care of, but was relaxed and ready for what was in store.
     The Sacrament of Matrimony was beautifully performed. The traditional Mexican wedding ceremony included the bride’s mother, Carmen, presenting Lance and Marcela with gold coins representing the hope that there would be prosperity in their lives. David and Karen draped a portion of Marcela’s veil over Lance’s shoulders and then looped the white lasso around them, lacing them together. The veil signified Marcela’s commitment to Lance’s welfare and the lasso represented Lance’s devotion to keeping their relationship strong.
     The choir from the University of Colima was present to sing several traditional wedding songs including “Ave Maria”.
     An abundance of Star Gazer Lillies, white roses and other white flowers lined the aisles as well as the front of the church.
     After the ceremony approximately 400 guests made their way to the reception which was held out of doors. The green lawn and tall coconut trees were lit with small lights and candles and decorated with flowers.
     As the couple made their entrance and greeted their guests, they then danced their first dance as man and wife… the song from “Pearl Harbor”. The music was provided throughout the evening and morning hours by “Eclipse” of Guadalajara.
     Lance and Marcela’s guests were served dinner with many toasts given for the happy couple. At 3:00 a.m. breakfast was served.
     It was 7:00 a.m. before Lance and Marcela left with the last of the family and guests.

Gifts

     It is the Mexican tradition that allows the bride and groom to open their many gifts the day after the wedding ceremony. At 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 17, the couple arrived at the bride’s mother’s home. With the Cardenas and Peterson families present, Lance and Marcela were presented with their wedding gifts. It was a full afternoon of many surprises!

I wrote this a week after our son, Lance, married Marcela. Eight years have produced a beautiful marriage and two wonderful children. Happy Anniversary, Lance and Marcela!