THE YBARRA'S 20TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY...
Date of Marriage: 11-08-97

As my wife and I give thanks to our dear Lord for blessing us with another year to share together, I'd like to reflect upon the most cherished memories that are etched in our hearts from our recent celebration that occurred on Saturday, November 4th.

The theme was inspired by the movie "Titanic." My wife's all time favorite! Given that the movie is also celebrating its 20th year since its release, I thought it would be befitting to coordinate the event as a result of this coincidental fact. I used the movie's love story storyline as my focus. In the movie, Rose clung to the immense love that she had for Jack despite his demise. And so has this undying devotion been true for my wife and I. 20 years of ups and downs, highs and lows. Through the bad and the good, our deep love for each other has stayed afloat. A lifelong commitment that can only stem from the values that our parents have instilled and the guidance of our God. And for this we are deeply grateful. Just as we are equally appreciative to all who shared this most memorable evening with us. tea length wedding dresses

White, black, cherry red and gold were the colors that anchored the event. All of which were inspired by the exterior colors of the grand ship worldly known as the "Titanic." Just like the Titanic, which was known for its elegance and grandeur, The Old Church Winery proved to be the perfect venue due to the exposed beam 20 foot ceiling and its mix of rustic, industrial, yet elegant architectural elements. Crystal chandeliers, satin tuxedo black covered tables* with a nautical inspired, cherry red magnolia flower embellished lantern centerpiece were seen throughout the room. A lifesize ship's wheel, a brass ship barometer, a Victorian era silverplated tea/coffee set were a few of the many props that were used. Let's not forget a model replica of the ship that was prominently displayed at the bride's and groom's white tulle skirted table.

The guests were greeted with the echoes of a violin and cello being played in the distance. A gentleman and lady duet from the reputable Viol Consort String Ensemble . This same musical assemblage lead the procession and recession segments of the renewal of vows ceremony. Pastor Loui Canchola from BT Church did the honor of officiating. The couple's godchildren, Jacqueline. M. Mata and Carlos A. Gonzalez, lead the procession. The groom welcomed his beautiful bride at the altar wearing a traditional black tuxedo by Van Heusen. The lovely bride walked the red carpet wearing a pair of rhinestone encrusted shoes by Vince Camuto's "Imagine" collection and a vintage inspired, high-low tulle damask ivory satin gown by high end designer Adrianna Papell. Rhinestone studded elbow length ivory satin gloves were worn to frame the custom made, pearl accented bride's bouquet. Finally, a breathtaking official 20th Century Fox "Heart of the Ocean" replica necklace completed her wardrobe ensemble.

The renewal of vows ceremony commenced with an attention grabbing message based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, "Love is patient, love is kind." Pastor Loui spoke with conviction and eloquence which brought the bride and groom, plus many of those in attendance to tears. Although there wasn't a traditional exchange of rings per se, the bride was nevertheless surprised with a rare, antique, heirloom worthy diamond/ruby Edwardian 14K white gold ring made by Ostby and Barton, the foremost house of jewelry makers of the early 1900s whose founder, Engelhart Cornelius Ostby, parished aboard the Titanic's maiden voyage on the ill-fated night of April 14, 1912. Before the conclusion of the ceremony, the anniversary couple was serenaded by a very talented father and daughter trio (Mr. Ruben Nava ~Guitar, Genesis Keren Nava (America's Got Talent) ~Vocals & Faith Nava~Violin) who performed a mesmerizing rendition of "My Heart Will Go On."

The religious ceremony was followed by a theater setting, captivating 30-minute video showing of the couple's original wedding ceremony that occurred on November 8, 1997. This moving presentation was followed by a sit down dinner made by Chef Roberto Ravelo of Cornerstone Catering . On the menu was an impressive two course meal presentation that consisted of a Continental salad with roasted jalapeno ranch dressing/raspberry vinigrette and Florentine grilled chicken breast with a white wine spinach cream sauce topped with cherry tomato crudo, complemented by red skin mashed potatoes, a seasonal vegetable medley and a freshly made wheat dinner roll. To drink was a choice of peach iced tea or water. Dinner entertainment was provided by the Viol Consort String Ensemble who performed an assembly of Titanic movie inspired music.

As a prelude to the "first dance," the wedded couple changed into "party" dress attire. The grand re-entry by the bride and groom was acknowledged by a standing ovation. The groom wore a velvet, cherry red colored tuxedo smoking jacket with black satin lapels by Bar III. The bride wore a couture label, black knit/taffeta short flared skirt dress with rhinestone encrusted peek a boo shoulder sleeves by Adrianna Papell and black rhinestone, closed toe high heel shoes by Badgley Mischka. The couple's first dance music choice was "Endless Love" by Shania Twain and Lionel Richie. This solo act led into the dance music segment of the program which was meticulously directed by Aaron Olvera (aka "DJ Grizwalll"). The guests had a choice of entertaining themselves by dancing or taking turns using the "selfie station" which included 'Titanic' era inspired photo props, including the "Heart of the Ocean" necklace.

The dance portion was briefly interrupted for the cake cutting by the bride and groom. A 3 tier, awe-inspiring ivory colored buttercream cake dressed with black 2" satin borders and a cherry red single magnolia flower made by Luly's Cakes & Coffee Shop was the focus. The highlight of the cake presentation was a custom made 6" black acrylic silhouette personalized "Mario and Mary~I'm Flying" cake topper.

Amid the celebration, there were several "behind the scenes" photo journal capturing activities which deserve recognition. One of which was the skilled photography by Mari Lorenzon of Casa Lorenzon Photography and the other was the video production of Houston based celebrity video director Arcadio Narvaez (aka "Midnight"~Midnight Productions).

The evening wouldn't be complete without a tribute and toast. A tribute honoring the couple's parents was showcased by the performance of Jarochos del Valle . A talented trio from Veracruz, Mexico who played the harp, vihuela and jarana while they sang songs dedicated to the couple's parents. As the night progressed and the people continued to dance, a supplement toast presentation by the "wedded" couple ensued. The subject of the "toast" was to give thanks to life. To give thanks to God for the blessings that He bestows. This salutation was immediately followed by a live performance of a Mariachi quartet. The "Originales del Valle" serenaded the anniversary couple with Spanish songs of love and devotion.

And just when one thought the anniversary celebration was over, the grand finale was the reveal of the "Regalo de Sorpresa." The groom surprised his bride with a stunning, late 19th century 14K white gold Victorian inspired diamond encrusted watch made by the prestigious and renowned Swiss watch maker named Mathey-Tissot. The face of the watch has 20 diamonds. One for each year of marriage.

As we continue our voyage as husband and wife, we will not digress from having faith in our Lord. We will resume our commitment to love, honor and cherish each other. We will strive to "make each day count!"

*Reception decor provided by PS Party Rentals .

Laura Robles Luly Macias

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