Mexican, Wedding, San Antonio, TX, 1992

After their the nuptials at Mission San Jose, Ruth and Yndalecio (Indy) are going to a small reception for 25 guests in his backyard. Music will be provided on a radio. They will eat sandwiches, potato salad, raw vegetables with dip, and drink beer and red punch. An aunt has baked and decorated a three-tiered wedding cake, and Indy's sister will photograph the event.

Katrina Thomas's notes: Mexican Americans make up more than half the Hispanic/Latino population residing throughout the US but are concentrated in the Southwest. I go to San Mexican Americans make up more than half the Hispanic/Latino population residing throughout the US but are concentrated in the Southwest. I go to San Antonio to document nuptial rites and receptions in a locality where I think they may be most authentic. The distinctive sound of these weddings is that of hired street bands, mariachis which include violins and trumpets, other wind instruments, and singing. During the nuptials, the bridal attendants, considered godparents, madrinas and padrinos, have special roles and carry specific items. These include the laso, a rope that is placed around the couple when they repeat their vows; arrhea/arras, 13 coins presented by the bridegroom to the bride, making her mistress of his worldly goods; the bride's flowers for the Virgin Mary and perhaps a kneeling pillow, a prayer book, a guest book, wine glasses for toasting the newlyweds, and favors to be given to guests. There may be a madrina de velacion, to whom the bride will turn for guidance throughout her married life, and usually a flower girl and ring bearer dressed as miniature versions of the bride and groom.