A Santa Rosa Wedding Honors Heritage and Cultural Traditions

Angelina and Josue Lagunas shared a yearslong journey to the altar. The couple grew up together in Windsor and were high school classmates — but it wasn’t until Josue reached out during the pandemic in 2020 that their connection deepened.

“The timing wasn’t right when we first met,” Josue says. “Each time we reconnected, we were more defined. By the time we got together, we were the best versions of ourselves. Everything aligned.”

Angelina, an events manager at the Montage Healdsburg resort, and Josue, a senior clerk in Marin County who issues marriage licenses and officiates civil ceremonies, brought plenty of wedding expertise to the table. Their wedding was held in May at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country in Santa Rosa.

Josue and Angelina Lagunas at their wedding in Santa Rosa. (Erin Perkins)

With their shared roots in Sonoma County, the couple wanted to create a celebration that honored their heritage and cultural traditions. The menu was a specific focus, with appetizers inspired by Angelina’s Filipino roots and a family-style Mexican feast in tribute to Josue, with ceviche, rice, beans and handmade tortillas.

During the meal, guests took in a traditional mariachi performance, a gift to the couple from Angelina’s brother. “A lot of the family was surprised,” says Angelina. They originally wanted to book a smaller band, but when they weren’t available, they ended up with a 12-piece band, including a harp player.

Mariachi Barragan played during the dinner hour. (Erin Perkins)

Dancing was another key element of the day, just as important to the couple as the food and location. “We love to dance and throw a good party,” says Angelina.

The couple opted for a much larger dance floor than usual to accommodate a night of celebrating together. They danced until the early hours of the morning. “I’m so glad we got the bigger dance floor, because it was packed the whole time,” says Angelina.