Photo: Kai Villanueva
But one moment in particular, which Banuelos orchestrated, really stuck with Arriola.
“As a surprise, Akela got me a sign for the front seat on the aisle to remember my late father,” he tells PEOPLE of their big day. “It meant so much to me that she knew how badly I wanted him to be there.”
Kai Villanueva
The Jan. 6 wedding day was made up of unique touches just like that, as the couple — who initially met over Instagram DMs and now reside in Frisco, TX — made their bond more than just IG official this time around.
After the reception came a cocktail hour, featuring three appropriately named drinks — “The Paul,” “The Akela,” and “The Pugs.” Then the newlyweds and their guests enjoyed a sit down dinner, dancing and late-night snacks.
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Banuelos, who described the reception as a “dream,” tells PEOPLE that she really “loved it all,” adding “this was just as I had imagined it. Our vows were emotional, the weather was perfect, I don’t think I could ask for anything more.”
At one point, Arriola’s grandmother, Janice, even said a blessing before dinner.
While any of that could lead to some strong emotions, seeing his wife in her dress on their special day stood out to Arriola.
“We did our first look off the bluff before the ceremony. And I told everyone with me I wasn’t going to cry when I turned around to see her. I cried … I definitely cried,” he said. “It was magical. I married my best friend and the person who makes me a better man. I’m such a lucky man.”
“I’m just ready to start our married life together,” Arriola, who heads to Dallas to start training this week, added.
The couple plans to enjoy their honeymoon during Arriola’s off-season, as the season for FC Dallas kicks off on Feb. 25 in a match against Minnesota, and will run until at least October.
source: people.com
