Ours is a story of a special friendship that turned into love.
Chris and I met in the year 2000 when he began working the same place as I, in the Phoenix Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center. Over the years, our friendship developed over work outings and conversations we had to get through those long nights of working night shift. I eventually promoted to supervisor and at one time, began directly supervising Chris. He and I had a lot of fun talking about life, love, and our annoyances of the job.
In the year 2005, my husband, Lonny, passed away suddenly and tragically. One of the first phone calls I received while following the ambulance was from Chris. He expressed heartfelt concern and well wishes for both of us. Over the next 6 months, Chris was one of my best supporters when I needed an ear in the middle of the night. He even forced me to go out one night saying I needed to get out of the house. Finally, in May of 2006, we had our first real date. He took me out for sushi and saki.
Over the next two years, we took things slowly partly because we had to and partly because it was a good idea. We both knew early on though, that this was the real deal. We went on many trips, were introduced to each others family and friends, and began the art of discovering who each other really was. Thankfully, families and friends gave approval and we found that we had found a life partner in one another.
There was never an official proposal. We always just knew, but it was cemented over a tearful (me) conversation one afternoon. Scared that all the waiting would jeopardize Chris' desires for our relationship, I gave him a chance to part ways. Instead, he took my hand and told me that all he had ever wanted was a good lady and a good marriage and that I had treated him better than anyone ever had. He wasn't going anywhere. The deal was sealed and several months later over a text messaging session, we agreed to go pick out my engagement ring. Now.....let the happy ever after begin!!
Our wedding vision is one of old world Mexico. Think lots of candles, rustic accents, tree lanterns, brightly colored flowers - all embellished by freshly cut citrus. Our colors are rich hues of red, orange, yellow and green.
Our bridesmaids will wear bordeaux colored dresses, carry brightly colored bouquets, and wear flowers in their hair. Our groomsmen will wear black tuxes with ties to match our bridesmaids.
Chris will be wearing a black tux accented with a white tie (for now). Debbie will be escorted by her cowboy clad dad, Curt, and will be wearing a chapel length strapless gown accented by a fingertip mantilla veil. Debbie will also be wearing flowers in her hair and carry a larger bouquet to to match her bridesmaid's flowers.
The ceremony will be officiated by Fr. Carl Carlozzi, the Phoenix Fire Department Chaplain and Spanish guitar will be played thoughout the entired ceremony by Miguel de Maria.
