One of the qualities that inspired Gabriel Mauser to propose to girlfriend, Bonnie Lowery was the way in which she always reminded and encouraged him to value his relationship with his family. “She has helped me strengthen that aspect of my life,” he explains, “And that’s something I decided I wanted around forever.”

It’s no surprise, then, that family played a central role in the couple’s autumn nuptials, beginning with the selection of a venue that offered plenty of luxurious accommodations and an excellent culinary selection. “Because both families were from out of town and would have to travel, we knew the people willing to make the trip were those who were absolutely excited to celebrate with us,” shares Gabriel. “We wanted nothing more than to make the day a special celebration and for them to have a wonderful time.”

The wedding respected the customs of a traditional Jewish service starting with a ketubah signing in the early afternoon, where the bride and groom had the pleasure of seeing one another for the first time. “Gabriel was very emotional,” beams Bonnie. “I will never forget the look on his face.”

The outdoor ceremony took place against a Moroccan-style triumphal arch on the vast lawn of the lavish hotel, guided by the family rabbi and cantor. The couple exchanged vows beneath a gorgeous chuppah overflowing with snowy floral and natural greenery. Large umbrellas shaded guests from direct sunlight, while romantic arrangements of bright white orchids stood tall from bases set on either side of the aisleway.

Bonnie wore a strapless gown with a sweetheart neckline and beautifully scalloped accents. In her hands, she carried a dreamy bouquet of sweet gardenias in honor of the groom’s late birth mother. Bridal party members looked lovely, each wearing a dress chosen to best represent their distinct style.

Gabriel wore a handsome tuxedo; a bow tie once owned by his grandfather completed the look. These small gestures, unifying the family’s past with its present, evoked intense emotions for all involved, including the groom’s father. “One of the moments I will never forget was when I saw my dad during the ceremony with tears of happiness in his eyes,” says Gabriel. “He later told me he was thinking about how much he loved me and how proud he was of me.”

Even the reception décor was an amalgamation of the two relations, blending modern sophistication with a rustic, yet classic atheistic. Centerpieces featured breathtaking white orchids set amongst natural woods, branches, and greenery. Mirrored tabletops, candlelight, and metallic charger plates completed the chic design.

Because the events of the day began in the early afternoon, guests were treated to two dinners: a sit-down feast earlier in the evening and a buffet-style supper a few hours later. In addition to a delicious wedding cake, a candy and dessert bar appeased sweet-tooth cravings.  As a nod to the groom’s Mexican heritage, traditional wedding treats were also offered. Following dinner, a festive party kept guests on their feet until the clock struck midnight. “Once the music started, people cut loose,” says Gabriel. “I don’t think anything could have topped that.”

In the end, the couple attributes the success of their wedding to the fact that they kept their families close to their hearts when organizing the event, and advise other couples to do the same. “Remember that a wedding is not only for the bride and groom,” says Gabriel. “Your parents have been planning this a lot longer than you and have been waiting for the chance to celebrate with their friends and loved ones too!”  Indeed, it truly was a magical day no one present will soon forget!