Some love stories begin in a coffee shop. Others begin with childhood friends reconnecting years later.
Monica and Eric’s story started in a much more modern way—with a dating app and one very important question:
“What’s your favorite Beatles song?”
From that single conversation grew a relationship built on laughter, shared passions, unwavering support, and the realization that sometimes the very best love stories happen exactly when they’re meant to.
As a Lubbock wedding photographer, getting to capture weddings like theirs reminds me that every couple has a story worth celebrating.
A Love Story Written in Perfect Timing
Monica and Eric will happily tell you their story doesn’t have the “traditional” beginning they once imagined.
If they could have written the script years ago, maybe they would have met in their twenties.
Instead, God had another plan.
They found each other in their forties, bringing with them years of life experience, gratitude, and a deeper appreciation for the love they were building together. Their relationship quickly became about more than just the two of them—it became about creating a beautiful family alongside Jack.
Today, Eric, Monica (“Momo”), and Jack are a family of three whose love is rooted in friendship, patience, and choosing each other every single day.
A Wedding That Perfectly Reflected Who They Are
If you asked Monica and Eric to describe the vibe of their wedding, they probably wouldn’t use the typical wedding buzzwords.
Instead, they’d say:
- Nostalgic
- Family-oriented
- A little 90s
- A little 2000s
- Just the right amount of elder emo
Honestly…it suited them perfectly.
Nothing about their wedding felt like they were trying to fit someone else’s expectations. Every detail reflected who they are as a couple.
Why They Chose Eberley Brooks Events
Finding the right venue wasn’t exactly easy.
Living in West Texas often meant touring venues with rustic décor, cowboy hats, and boots everywhere—but that simply wasn’t them.
They were looking for timeless elegance.
The moment they stepped inside Eberley Brooks Events in Lubbock, they knew they had found it.
The classic white chapel offered everything they had envisioned, while the beautiful courtyard created the perfect space for guests to enjoy outdoor lawn games between the ceremony and reception.
It simply felt right.
Every Vendor Was Chosen with Intention
One of my favorite parts of hearing a couple’s story is learning how every vendor becomes part of the experience.
Rick Zapata, their DJ, wasn’t someone they randomly found online.
They met him while singing karaoke at one of their favorite local spots. Between karaoke songs, he’d play iconic 80s and 90s music videos—instantly winning them over. As fans of his band, The West Texicans, they already knew he understood how to keep every generation entertained.
Their caterer, La Manzanita, came highly recommended by the local community. Great communication, incredible food, and a business that gives back—it checked every box.
Shades of Pink with Beautiful Meaning
Their wedding colors were every shade of pink—but not simply because it looked pretty.
Pink has always been Monica’s favorite color, a sweet reminder of her grandmother, who lovingly grew daisies in her yard while Monica was growing up.
Eric also chose to wear a pink tie in honor of his mother’s victory over breast cancer.
Sometimes the simplest details carry the biggest stories.
Sentimental Details That Made the Day So Special
Monica and Eric filled their wedding with meaningful moments.
Daisies appeared throughout the day as a tribute to Monica’s grandmother and the memories she cherishes of spending time in her garden.
During the ceremony, Monica carried one of her grandmother’s handkerchiefs—a quiet reminder that love never truly leaves us.
Walking down the aisle was another lifelong dream fulfilled.
As Canon in D Major played, Monica walked toward Eric accompanied by the same piece of music her mother, an organist and pianist, had played for her throughout childhood.
It was one of those full-circle moments that made the day incredibly emotional.
And then there were the shoes.
Rather than traditional dress shoes, Eric and Jack wore classic old-school Vans.
After Eric proposed during a performance by their favorite local emo cover band, it only felt right to embrace a little nostalgia from the beginning of their story all the way to the wedding day.
A Couple Who Loves Doing Life Together
One thing that became obvious spending time with Monica and Eric is that they genuinely enjoy each other’s company.
Whether they’re:
- Singing karaoke
- Dominating music bingo
- Cheering on the Texas Tech Red Raiders
- Playing disc golf
- Grilling dinner together
- Hunting for treasures at garage sales
- Spending afternoons swimming
- Visiting arcades
- Enjoying family picnics
- Or simply having DVD movie nights with Jack
They’ve built a relationship around friendship.
Those ordinary moments are what make their love extraordinary.
Why They Chose Kirsten Prater Photography
One of the sweetest compliments they shared was about their search for a photographer.
After spending countless hours researching photographers throughout West Texas, they still hadn’t found the perfect fit.
Until they came across my work.
They loved the bright color, crisp clarity, and timeless editing style—but what truly sealed the deal was meeting in person at a bridal expo.
Hearing them say they chose me because they felt I was kind, genuine, and passionate honestly means more than they probably realize.
It’s always my goal that couples feel comfortable, cared for, and completely themselves in front of my camera.
Congratulations, Monica & Eric
Your wedding wasn’t about following trends.
It wasn’t rustic.
It wasn’t overly traditional.
It was unapologetically you.
It celebrated family, honored loved ones who shaped your lives, embraced your shared love for music, and reminded everyone in attendance that the best love stories don’t always begin when we expect them to.
Sometimes they begin with a dating app…
A Beatles question…
And God’s perfect timing.
Thank you both for trusting me to capture one of the most meaningful days of your lives. It was an absolute honor to document every laugh, every tear, and every beautiful moment.
I wish your family a lifetime filled with karaoke nights, Red Raider victories, old-school Vans, daisies, and a love that continues to grow stronger with every passing year.
Looking for a Lubbock Wedding Photographer?
If you’re planning your wedding at Eberley Brooks Events or anywhere in West Texas and are looking for bright, colorful, timeless wedding photography that tells your story authentically, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s capture your story together.
Vendors
Venue: Eberley Brooks
Hair & Makeup: Crown & Co
Wedding Dress: David’s Bridal
Suit: Men’s Warehouse
Caterer: La Manzanita
DJ: Rick Zapata
Photo Booth: Lifestyle Memories
Bartender: K&K Bartending
Ice Cream Cart: Sweet Southern Scoops
