Alison & Joey’s Soulful Wedding at San José Lavista

Regina Malo
Jul 30
2 min read

There are weddings that stay with me long after I put my camera down, and Alison & Joey’s weekend at San José Lavista is one I’ll always hold close.

From the welcome party the night before, I could already feel the energy: warm, joyful, full of anticipation. Their friends and family had traveled from all over to be there, and the love surrounding them was undeniable. It wasn’t just a celebration, it was the coming together of two cultures. Alison is from Querétaro and Joey from New Orleans, and every detail was thoughtfully chosen to reflect that beautiful blend.

Romantic destination wedding at San José Lavista in San Miguel de Allende with a Galia Lahav gown, cathedral ceremony, sunset cocktail hour, and heartfelt moments captured by Regina Malo.

The next day began quietly, with soft light pouring into the getting-ready suites. Alison slipped into her Galia Lahav dress and Badgley Mischka heels, her hair styled in soft waves, eyes glowing with a minimal yet elegant touch of makeup. Laughter echoed between rooms. There was this calm in the air, like she was fully present, soaking in each second.

Their first look was one of my favorite parts of the day. The nerves melted away the second they saw each other. It was just the two of them, breathing together, holding on. It’s always such an emotional moment, and theirs was no exception.

The ceremony, designed so thoughtfully by planner Lucero Álvarez, took place at the iconic Parroquia in San Miguel de Allende, Alison’s lifelong dream. Walking into the church with her blusher on and the town square watching felt like a scene straight out of a movie. After saying "I do," they stepped out into a glowing sunset, greeted by mariachi music and the cheers of onlookers — a moment Alison described as the most breathtaking of all.

Guests made their way to San José Lavista for cocktail hour, where the golden hour bathed the vineyard in light. Then came the surprise: a traditional New Orleans second line leading guests from cocktail hour to the reception, quite possibly a first for San Miguel. The night unfolded with heartfelt toasts, nonstop dancing, and Alison & Joey sharing their first dance surrounded by the people who love them most.

From the heartfelt traditions to the cinematic moments, their wedding was a true celebration of love, culture, and joy .