© Victor Rodriguez

I want to share one of my favorite missions in a wedding day.

After arriving at the getting ready locations, I have to separate myself from my beloved wife while she directs herself to the bride’s chambers and I go to the groom’s suite. This suite houses where the groom will get ready with his best guy friends (and some groomswomen) where they exchange laughs, inside jokes, food, drinks music and maybe even the game of the day is on the screen. At times there is a tear or two shed for those who are no longer present.

This suite becomes something special–it’s the room where for the last time he’ll step out as a single bachelor in the direction towards his fiancé, his soon-to-be-wife.

Well, I don’t want to detract too much from the topic. It’s just as I arrive at the suite, after greeting the groom and introducing myself to the rest, I ask him for his suit, shoes, accessories (tie, handkerchief, watch, belt, cufflinks) and of course anything else that might be special for him. Sometimes these details could be pieces that have been passed down generations, and they have been given to them on their special day.

Although the suite could be very busy, I try to take my time capturing these details with much respect since every piece has a story. My camera, natural light, and the place’s elements formulate my attack plan. My respect and admiration for shooting each detail go above and beyond our shot list, it stems from our clients’ sense of value for each piece (many of which are irreplaceable).

I understand it well since on my wedding day, my grandmother Abuelita Tini gifted me with a watch. It’s gold, antique, with an “Omega” class but above anything else it belonged to my late grandfather Victor. I grew up next to him in my beautiful Guatemala, and after just arriving in this country, he passed away. I always remember him, and I carry him in my heart, and for me, it’s an honor to be able to be in possession of something that was his for many years. Some day I hope to continue the tradition and pass it down to one of my children on their wedding day.

 

Comments

comments