This desert wedding was one I have been looking forward to for years. I have watched their journey and strength together almost like its a chick flick. I love them so much and was so very honored to shoot their desert wedding. Below is their story told by Alyssa so you can see a bit of why this couple is so amazing.

“Michael and I met 6 1/2 years ago, working at a burger restaurant together. When we met I could immediately tell mike was a great guy. The kind that was genuine, funny, and sweet.

The first time we spent time together was when a mutual friend invited us to both go to Disneyland. We quickly realized we had a lot in common and eventually started spending more time together. We had so much in common, to the point where mike had to ask if I was just agreeing with everything he said. I can honestly say I wasn’t. I wasn’t trying to impress anyone, even if I had developed feelings for Michael.

Fast forward a year and Mike had decided to move to northern CA, to be treated at Stanford hospital. He had brain cancer, and the doctors in Southern CA weren’t as knowledgeable. Quickly after Mike left I realized I could not handle our relationship long distance. I needed to be by his side for the battle ahead of him.

After I moved to San Jose to be with Mike everything got much harder. The surgeon had decided Mike needed a second awake brain surgery, radiation, and chemo. I can remember the day of his surgery like it was yesterday. I waited 6.5 agonizing hours (full of worry) while Mike was in surgery.

When Mike was rolled out of the O.R. my life changed forever. He came out smiling and calling my name. That moment everything stood still, as tears were rushing down my face. That moment was when I realized, that Mike & I could get through anything for the rest of our lives. As long as we were always together.

Our wedding day has finally arrived after 6 and a half years together. These years have been the hardest, but also the best years of our lives. I wouldn’t trade a single tear, sleepless night, or fear. For all that pain has also brought me you. You are my best friend, partner, and soul mate. The one who makes me laugh a million times a day. The kind of person who lifts me up when I am down, and can also be silly when I take life to serious.

I will forever be thankful for the day we met. Who would have thought he would be my first love and my last love (even though I knew he was the one since our very 1st date). ”