Honeymooners- Part 1

While I was busy planning a wedding, he was busy planning a honeymoon trip. As we both are quite busy traveling during the year, we thought we'd do something to make it extra special- a suprise! Ricardo was able to keep the secret all the way up to our 2nd flight and then it was revealed- 2 wonderful weeks in New Zealand and Fiji!

It all began in an RV! 8 days driving the North and South Island, starting in Auckland. We had plenty of room to sleep, eat, shower (though we stayed "mostly" in camping areas and were able to use their facilities).

first stop Rotorua to see the volcanic fault line- bubbling mud and active geisers.


our plan was to cross to the south island straight away, the weather would say otherwise. due to strong winds the ferries were canceled, and though a big hiccup in our travel plans (new flights, return the RV to a new location.... a few good things came from this- 1) we were able to see Auckland in the daytime from a beautiful lookout, 2) we were able to visit a nearby wine village of Martinborough, 3) we had a day/night to relax a bit and 4) when we finally made the ferry- the weather was incredible- sunny and blue skies and by far the most amazing ferry ride you would ever imagine- rolling hills, green mountains- everything you think of NZ!

here is a view from the ferry across Cook Strait.

on the drive to Christchurch we stopped to see the Seals sunbathing along the coast.

and an impromptu stop to take a whale watching flight. we were clearly on our honeymoon! =)

we drive alot on this trip. and while we spent quite alot of time in the RV, the sights we passed were unbelievable. the scenery continued to change and change. here we were toward the southern tip of NZ, almost to Milford Sound when we passed a lake reflecting the mountain.


Milford Sound- Fjordland National Park- where we took a cruise to the Tasman Sea


The following day we took a bus to the park, boat across the lake, bus thru the mountains and then arrived at Doubtful Sound. One of our most favorite parts of the trip. Surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, the boat cut off the engine, everyone was silent for a few minutes and it was one of the most peaceful moments I can recall.


we then began our track back stopping at the Petrified forest, Waterfalls and several look out spots along the way.

A great start to a new life together. Next Stop- Fiji.

We do!

Thru the eyes of many, this is our wedding story. Thanks to my hand full of photographers who help us relive this special day. (Christy, Linda, Henrik, Rod, Natalia, Padre Jose and Neil)

April 23, 2011
Liberty House Restaurant, Jersey City, NJ
After a long rainy morning, the rain dries up and Ricardo and I meet for pictures. No nerves once we were together. It's all finally come into place!

We are soon joined by both of our familes to begin the celebration. And I must say, despite from different worlds, speaking 2 different languages, it was a perfect match.

Instead of a guest book, we decided to map out the places we've traveled to together and have our guest leave us postcards.

While I'm waiting in the bridal suite, the most beautiful flowers arrived from my friend Katia from Russia. My PMI colleagues, that I do consulting work with, sent flowers as well. Such a special treat. Shereen, coming all the way from Egypt, was by my side thru everything!

Jack, Lynn and Lee, my 2nd family, were such a special part of this event and helped make everything turn out as amazing as I could have ever imagined.

Mom, Dad and I were quite relaxed before the ceremony.

My little flower girl kept us entertained- here she was showing how you turn into a princess if you turn around and touch the mirror.

and as the ceremony begins, the sweetest picture is captured.

I love this image as we start the walk down the aisle.

We were so happy. I mean so happy.

We had a duet for the cocktail hour. The girl on harmonica came for free! As the musicians were leaving, they didn't say "congratulations"- they said "the little girl has a very special talent, i hope they pursue that". She had more charisma that night then I've ever seen before.

and soon after I walked down the aisle, the sun came out! We were able to enjoy the music and most amazing appetizers overlooking New York City. Here we are with a few of our guest.

my UT gals and their hubbies.

the Engberg family from Sweden.

this is one of my favorite pictures with some of our friends who came from Spain.

Henrik and Shereen helped out with so much this week, relaxing me was amongst the top!

Silvia and Jesus came from Spain the night before for less than 48hrs- it meant the world!

An amazing night time view with all my aunts, uncles and cousins. How lucky we are!

Ani and Addie became best friends.

Christy! oh Christy! My "honorary" matron of honor. She and Javi gave amazing speeches (even with only 2 days notice) Que se besen!

Our cake from the cake boss. I forgot to warn Ricardo about the cake feeding tradition!

our first dance to "Perfect Day" by Lou Reed.

and the Father-Daughter dance to "My Girl"- Somebody hasn't lost their touch.....

Ricardo and his mom joining in!

and finishing off the song with "my little flower girl"

a lovely view of Liberty House at night.

and after a long night of dancing, the after party continues..... I love this picture for so many reasons. The group of friends sat around the fire pits, talking, laughing, enjoy a few of the stock-pile of beverages. I'm sporting my yellow "after party" all-stars. In the background you have Ricardo trying out a "version" of "Hey Jude" and Oscar some tunes that kept us entertained for a while. Paco is nicely relaxing to the left of Mackenzie (who I'm trying not to lean against her broken arm (that occured 2 nights prior). All my friends, all his friends- finally together for 1 night. And maybe the only time this will ever happen. It's just a bunch of good friends enjoying the evening together. And that's what it was all about.

And so in the end, we live happily ever after.....

Almost time!

Breakfast with the girls, manicures and pedicures, mimosas at the W and that's just the morning! What a great way to start of the day with some of my absolute closest friends! Silvia arrived the night before from Spain, Shereen a few days earlier from Egypt, Nashville, Atlanta, LA and Philly represented as well! Love these ladies!

then it was time to get ready!

Mom and Lynn spent the whole morning doing the centerpieces and my bouquet (which turned out gorgeous!!), then joined for the finishing touches.

It's showtime!

Pre Wedding Events- Johnny Rockets!

Not your traditional rehearsal dinner... but an American classic! We just love Johnny Rockets- a favorite from our Hoboken days. So why not bring all cultures together to enjoy a nice burger and chili cheese fries =). The night was wonderful. Good food with great people!