You say fate? Stars? Perhaps an ancient Mayan goddess… Wherever it all began, Michelle & Brett’s sacred union on the magical island of Cozumel, Mexico, would become not only a start of a golden chapter in their lives, but a trip that would solidify lifelong friendships … a trip on which I would also find my love.
I met Brett on a set of a food tv series, where he was handing a camera and I – stills. I knew we were kindred spirits, as he flipped through his iPhone photo library, showing me images of his gorgeous fiery-redhead fiancee in latex outfits. Mere hours later, we all dined together in a cozy downtown restaurant. That was it. I knew then these two would always hold a special place in my heart, no matter where our lives would take us. Documenting their love on their wedding and honeymoon at Villa Rosemar in Cozumel, Mexico was an incredible gift that I will always cherish.
The date was set for March 21st, the spring equinox – and the meeting of the forces of winter and summer. This day has special significance, as Michelle was born on the winter solstice, and Brett on the summer solstice. ‘It felt like the natural thing to do,’ they said. The clouds grew heavy and the winds strengthened, as if anticipating a cathartic climax of their beach ceremony. Everyone buzzed around the beautiful villa we called home for the week of their wedding, setting up torches on the beach, setting candles, and getting dressed in white. Tension and excitement began rolling into one, as I creeped around with my faithful lens.
It was perfect.
P.S.
The warmest ‘thank you’ to Tina & her husband of Beachhouse Hostel Cozumel for all their help with wedding preparations… And the talented Ove, a Norwegian guitarist who set the mood so beautifully.
My love also goes out to my Mexican family…
Ben Kuhn – you got them married!! Your love for your family and your wunderkind hands… blow my mind. Yeah, ya’ll know what I’m talking about.
Katarina Kuhn – you will always be a Greek goddess to me. The most amazing mother, friend, lover, and storyteller… (I will never get that story of you diving in warm Mediterranean waters out of my head).
Tony (the Mexican) Mazzuca – you are a rock. I’m blessed to call you a friend and my hookah-partner-in-crime. You make me laugh and cry happy tears. You are forever my King of the Bongo!
Julia Mazzuca – I may someday attempt to pull off wearing sexy white shorts the way you have. Damn, you are a powerful woman and you make my heart beat faster.
Chris & Kristine – loved hanging out with you guys so much… It would not have been the same without you.
Jen Crane – thank you for being the wickedest, most understanding, and most outrageously fun non-roommate EVER! I look forward to letting you drive my buggy into the ocean one day.
Ashley Tallas – I don’t think I’ve ever seen you without a smile on your face. You are an unapologetic life force lady.
Todd & Wendy – your friendship and love for each other means the world. I love how Wendy always finds a way to sit on Todd’s lap… and how they find their way through the craziest of obstacles.
Jonathan Joffe – your humour and easy-going nature can catch few off guard! You are a blast and I loved hanging out with you.
Rob Michaud – you made my heart sink and head spin out of control the very moment I saw you. Thank you for being the best night-time-ocean-swim-guard … and for so many other things of which only the sparks in my eyes can speak. I love you. Even though you won the tan-off.
And lastly, Scorpion in our Living Room – I’m sorry we killed you. But you were scary and almost gave Katarina & Brett a mini-heart attack. Rest in peace.
And I love that you love it, and love that you found love. LOVE LOVE LOVE, all around. It is all you need. <3
by Katya Nova
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