Sisters Share Results After Visiting the Same Photo Booth Every Year to Document Their Relationship (Exclusive)

Sisters’ Annual Photo Booth Tradition Showcases Enduring Bond Throughout the Years

Two sisters, Melissa De La Cruz and Aitza Yanelisse, have transformed a spontaneous photo booth session into a heartfelt annual tradition that beautifully captures the evolution of their sisterly bond. The journey began in 2021 when the siblings impulsively decided to take photos at a local mall photo booth. Little did they know that this impromptu moment would blossom into a cherished tradition that would stand the test of time.

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, De La Cruz shared, “We kind of were just at the mall one day, and we decided to do a photo booth… The following year, we were looking at the old photo booth and were like, ‘We should probably do it again to see how we have changed in a year.’” Year after year, the sisters faithfully return to the same photo booth, not only capturing their physical transformations but also symbolising the deepening of their sisterly connection.

Despite a significant six-year age gap between them, the sisters have found that this annual tradition has played a pivotal role in bringing them closer together. Yanelisse reflected on their evolving relationship, stating, “Growing up, we weren’t that close, but when we got older, we started to see each other as friends. I think this tradition has made us closer. I feel like after the photo booth picture, we really grew as sisters.”

Looking back at their progression through the years, both sisters expressed deep emotional connections to their tradition. De La Cruz shared her feelings, “It makes me really emotional because it makes me feel very grateful to have this relationship with her.” Yanelisse added, “I also think it has shown our progress over the years. It gives a glimpse of how we felt throughout that entire year.”

One of the most touching aspects of their annual tradition is the hugging photo, which holds special significance for De La Cruz, whose love language is physical touch. She explained, “I love doing the hug because it’s like my one time a year that I get to hug her, and she’s okay with it.” This simple yet profound gesture encapsulates the depth of their sisterly bond.

Since sharing their story on TikTok, the sisters’ tradition has resonated with many who have been inspired to create their own meaningful traditions with their loved ones. The heartwarming response from viewers underscores the universal appeal of celebrating and documenting the special relationships in our lives. Yanelisse aptly described their tradition as a “red string theory,” symbolising an unbreakable bond that always brings them back to each other.

As De La Cruz and Yanelisse look towards the future, they remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving this beloved tradition, regardless of where life may lead them. Their annual pilgrimage to the same mall photo booth serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of family and the beauty of shared memories. The sisters are hopeful that this tradition will continue for years to come, serving as a nostalgic anchor that keeps them connected to each other and their shared journey.

In a world filled with constant change and uncertainty, the timeless ritual of the sisters’ annual photo booth captures a rare and precious essence of enduring love and sisterhood. Their story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that simple traditions can have in strengthening relationships and fostering lasting connections.