Scott + Melanie | Bright & Cheerful | Desert Engagement Session

To love or have loved, that is enough. Ask nothing further. There is no other pearl to be found in the dark folds of life. ~ Victor Hugo, Les Misérables

These two just announced that they are havin’ their first little one in Janaury! What a treasure these two were to work with in the last couple years. Summer shooting has taken a pause the last couple months but their sunrise engagement pictures get me eager to open back up. I never got around to sharing their session so here are a few golden highlights. :)

I have never laughed so hard during an engagement session

Jonathan + Krystal were one of our spring weddings that got detoured by the Covid19. As they have had to make some incredibly hard choices their grace and value in the things that are most important have been loud and real. As they have maneuvered the change of plans, these images from their engagement session have seemed to take on more profound value. I am often surprised by how sweet and special engagement pictures become AFTER the wedding. They can quickly be a side thought or some special non-essential icing to the wedding process—but the civilian-clad, real-world, this-is-how-i-look-without-a-white-dress-and-laughing-hard images are the stuff of Gold. I truly don’t think i’ve laughed as much as i did with these two during an engagement session. The sun rose with fierce golden flare only rivaled by their intrinisc eagerness to be real and authentic.

They say as much in their review and it’s sessions like these that remind me that relationship and being real both in front and behind the camera are essential to survival. We love you guys and support you during these crazy times. I hope these images are fierce, potent trreasures for years to come

Session feedback from the bride & groom:

• Q. What was the the 'look' or 'vibe' that you wanted to nail with your engagement session?

  A. Romantic and fun!

• Q. What were you most nervous about leading up to the shoot? What do you care about the most?

  A. We weren't all too nervous about the shoot itself - maybe intrigued at how our perceived awkward selves would look on camera - but Krystal was worried she wouldn't wake up on time since it was a sunrise shoot. We cared most about the three of us connecting - having a good time, getting good direction, and also getting a variety of shots. Also, lighting!

• Q. What were your favorite moments during your shoot? Things that made you laugh or were just plain memorable?

  A. Honestly, we think everything made us laugh. We are gigantic goofs. If we had to highlight some moments though, we'd say: the moment you asked us to make a really ugly face at the same time = GOLD. We also felt you were 100% yourself, genuinely enjoyed what you were doing, and genuinely wanted to capture us well.

• Q. What was most memorable about your session with LKM?

  A. Grabbing breakfast together at Prep & Pastry and getting to know one another better.

• Q. If you have seen pictures, what do you think? Which are your top favorites?!

  A. BEAUTIFUL. The way you captured the light, highlighted the beauty of where we were, the way you captured our silliness. Krystal's favorites: the close-up of us walking hand in hand with the sunbeam coming through on the right hand side of the shot, Jon's solo shot where he's laughing with a crinkled nose. Jon's favorites: all the candid shots, especially where Krystal is bursting in laugher!

• Q. If you were to share your experience with another couple interested in hiring LKM, what would you say?

  A. Come with a sense of humor and flexibility! No doubt LKM could have directed us step-by-step, but her Goldilocks approach allowed us to be playful with our shoot and feel free to improvise.

• Q. How could we have made your experience even better?!

  A. We loved everything about the shoot itself, we truly had a blast. The gallery perusing experience was wonderful and user-friendly. Thank you so much for this gift!

Real words from the real couple:

WE IMPLORE YOU to book Laura K. Moore for all your love-capturing needs! She encouraged our goofiness, took time to get to know us after our session, and has supported us in this time of unprecedented uncertainty. Not to mention she’s just a wildly talented photographer :) Thank you, Laura, for making us feel cute and beautifully telling our story!

What a joy you guys were to shoot and capture and get to know! I look forward to your future and the many memories and chapters that are ready for you to unfold! Blessings friends! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this precious season (though hiccupy) of your lives :D // Laura

Ryen + Kaitlyn | Stardance | Tucson, AZ

I'm so overwhelmed with happiness that we had Laura as our wedding photographer, that I'm writing this review having not even seen our photos yet (our wedding was just last night). From our (earrrrrly) morning start, to our sparkling ending, Laura & Makayla made our day nothing short of MAGICAL. Of all the wonderful aspects of working with the Laura, because there are many, the most meaningful to me is that she truly cares about her clients. She takes the time to learn all about you-your concerns, your quirks, and the things that are most precious an important to you on your day. And when you meet her you can feel the passion she has for her work radiating off her. She was able to manage our large group with ease and a with a genuine smile that never left her face. Both Laura and Makayla are bubbly and fun and shared in the joy and the craziness of the day right along with us, even out on the dance floor! We've spent a lot of time making the rounds today saying our 'thank-yous' and 'goodbyes' to our guests, and I am not kidding when I say nearly every single one of them has mentioned how incredible and fun these ladies were to work with. To hear this from our guests makes me certain that Laura and Makayla were able to capture the most authentic emotions of the wedding, and we are beyond thrilled to relive the magic of the night over and over again through the photos. We feel truly blessed to have worked with Laura, we would recommend her a million times over. ~ Kaitlyn, Bride (day after the wedding)

Ryen & Kaitlyn were such a treat to serve as their wedding photographers. Their trust and prioritized storytelling let us hunker into the hybrid of editorial and journalism. Both leaned into both the downtimes and the on-times and by the end of the evening were feeling the FULLNESS of family and party and romance and ALL. THE. THINGS. Here are a few highlights of their wedding day!

// VENDORS //

Venue: Stardance Event Center // Event Coordinator: Kelly Abbot (Stardance Director) // Photographer: Laura K Moore Photography // Florist: Alexis Grace Florals // MUAH: Heather Van Houten // Gown: Maya’s Palace // Bride’s Shoes: Lane Boots // Bridesmaid Dresses: Amazon // Bridesmaid Gifts: Mod Party // Groomsmen Gifts: In God We Must // Caterer: Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market // Cake: Village Bakehouse // Cake Stand: Blooming Happy // Signage: Hadley Designs // Custom Bourbon Barrel Guest Book: Whiskey Made // Custom bridal hanger: Distinctive Designs // Custom Cornhole Boards: Yard Games // Local Wine: Elgin Wines

Ryen & Kaitlyn nailed some really neat personal details in their gifts for their wedding party. With robes and boots and sweet customized cuff links, the classy approach to western was delightfully consistent.

The MOST exciting thing for us is being able to share the happiness of our special day with our family and friends. Our top priorities when trying to find the right photographer to tell our story is finding one that captures the small details, the candid moments and the raw feelings and emotions of the day. To have the uniqueness of our love as a couple, but also the special relationships with our loved ones come through in the photos, so they bring us right back to the moment every time we look at them! - Bride & Groom (from their initial inquiry)

after a genuinely fun and meaningful time with friends anticipating the ceremony, it was time to walk the aisle. the ceremony was precious and simple. The backdrop glowed with the setting sun and immediately pictures with family followed.

bridesmaid and groomsmen portraits were so fun with champaign and sunflares. the girls glowed and let down their hair for some special celebratory fun

Q. What is the most important thing to you when it comes to wedding photography? What kind of images/style are you most excited about?

A. Most excited about capturing the candid moments with us and our loved ones, and with our friends enjoying themselves at the reception

Thank you so much for trusting us with your wedding day Ryen & Kaitlyn! What a treasure this day was! You did a wonderful pulling together the details and merging class with western and treating your guests ALL as they were the ones being honored! Blessings!! | LKM

// VENDORS //

Venue: Stardance Event Center // Event Coordinator: Kelly Abbot (Stardance Director) // Photographer: Laura K Moore Photography // Florist: Alexis Grace Florals // MUAH: Heather Van Houten // Gown: Maya’s Palace // Bride’s Shoes: Lane Boots // Bridesmaid Dresses: Amazon // Bridesmaid Gifts: Mod Party // Groomsmen Gifts: In God We Must // Caterer: Johnny Gibson’s Downtown Market // Cake: Village Bakehouse // Cake Stand: Blooming Happy // Signage: Hadley Designs // Custom Bourbon Barrel Guest Book: Whiskey Made // Custom bridal hanger: Distinctive Designs // Custom Cornhole Boards: Yard Games // Local Wine: Elgin Wines

Michael + Juliana | Mt Lemmon Mountain Wedding | Tucson, Arizona

When Michael reached out with his unconventional wedding idea up on Mt Lemmon staged on Inspiration Ridge — a special spot for them—we were eager to say yes. There were few frills or extra details for this one. I listened to their priorities and heard their deep desire for simplicity. I knew the spot they loved up on Mt. Lemmon and that killer view and we decided to “hook em up” and create a customized “elopement-kinda” storytelling photography package of sorts. Below are our favorite highlights! (Oh and fun note—> their wedding was also featured over on Zion Bride yesterday! So fun to see the unconventional ideas of simplicity resonate and shared with other adventurers!)

// VENDORS //

Venue: Inspiration Ridge on Mt. Lemmon // Floral Designer: Posh Petals // MUAH: I Do Hair & MakeUp Artistry (Raemie Makeup) // Dress: J Bridal Boutique // Officiant: Catalina Foothills Church

Prep time was at Loews Ventana Canyon and all guests had been given an arrival time “or forever hold their peace.” Without phone reception, it was a bit of a ‘hail mary’ move but Micahel + Juliana were resolved and confidant that everything would be fine and if anything — they were gettin’ married and that was the point. Nerves aside — most guests arrived in time and were set and ready on Inspiration Ridge. Bubbles were staged, ring bearers were strapped, flower girls were gilded, high heels were removed (they had been warned) and Michael’s face— OH MY WORD—when he saw her for the first time….

I'm very goofy and she is more serious so hopefully you can capture some of those moments of my goofiness and her serious looks she gives me while she tries to hold back a smile :p - Michael, groom

As guests made their way to the cupcake picnic, M + J lingered on the ridge for a sweet series of cuddles and epic valley-backed breath-taking portraits :)

After portraits the newlyweds made their way to the guests and casually shared in treats and hugs and more casual family portraits.

REVIEW FROM THE BRIDE:

LKM is so much fun to work with, she takes the time to listen and really cares, it is so obvious. It felt like a best friend was shooting our wedding with how much she cared and how excited she was. I’ve never been comfortable having my picture taken and was nervous for our engagement shoot. Right away I could tell how much she cared, her excitement and fun personality put me at ease right away- I felt like I’ve know her for years! For our engagement and our wedding she went completely above and beyond our expectations, not to mention everyone at our wedding was asking about our photographer because they wanted to use her! Our photos are so unique and something we will treasure forever, I could not imagine our wedding without her. ~ Juliana, Bride

Michael & Juliana, being part of this slice of your adventurous spirit was a treat and an inspiration to us. Thank you for including us and letting us trapse and laugh and love and be so thrillingly authentic and unconventional :) We will be in touch! | LKM & CO

// VENDORS //

Venue: Inspiration Ridge on Mt. Lemmon // Floral Designer: Posh Petals // MUAH: I Do Hair & MakeUp Artistry (Raemie Makeup) // Dress: J Bridal Boutique // Officiant: Catalina Foothills Church

Honey Bee State Park | Lace & Saguaros | Tucson Engagement Session

Sometimes sunlight just says, “yo—i get you. i got you. here let me lay down this syrupy honey goodness while you shoot.” Plus Casey & Katlyn were great at simply loving eachother…okay actually CASEY gave me a run for my money and insisted I NOT give him cheesy directions or do funny stuff. I looked at him and said, “dude….just love her. and if THAT feels weird laugh and it will LOOK affectionate whether you like it or not.” It was a quick mini session and we lingered for a little traipsing around in our completely inappropriately clad feet for desert treading.

But this photo location is actually called Honey Bee State Park and considering how delightfully golden the sunsets are as they dip over the little mini valley — i say it is adequately named.

Desert Engagement Session | Palo Verde Trees + Prickly Pears w/ a Splash of Wine

Krista & Spencer flew in from San Francisco for the weekend to get their Tucson desert fix, visit their wedding venue at La Mariposa Resort and grab a few lovely sunbeam embraces during their engagement session in northeast Tucson. We had a few wardrobe changes and Sulamita Pacifica, a local event stylist, offered to contribute a few elements and the couple agreed. Enjoy the picnic in the desert. And to see Spencer + Krista's wedding highlights, go HERE!

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Tim + Jenna | Deserty Lovin' and a Fiesty Dancer | Tanque Verde Guest Ranch Engagement Session

Tim & Jenna were from Tucson but lived in Phoenix and were getting married in Cancun. They had seen some of our wedding pictures styled by Margarita Potts via her instagram feed with her team at I Do Hair & Makeup Artistry and reached out for prices and a quote for the whole shibang: storytelling in Tucson and following them to Cancun.....we coulnd't say "yes please" fast enough. :) 

Jenna cared most about being natural, clean light, real emotion and bright colors. She liked light and liked wine and she knew how to strut some heals like a gazelle across the jagged rocks of the Sonoran desert (hats off lady). Tim...well, he was skeptical. An email following the session read, "Tim just told me...wow! that was actually kind of fun and way better than i expected." (*laughing*... #nailed it. I'll go for "kinda fun" from any tough cookie who'd rather be chill than posed or passed off as a schmuck. I get you sir. I don't want you lookin' schmuckly either.) 

So they drove to Tucson, grabbed a room at Tanque Verde Guest Ranch and I met them there to talk wedding details, frolick about in the desert, drink some wine, navigate a few sweetheart moments, get them comfortable with my style -- expressing their affection-- (not difficult) and got to know each other. Here are a few highlights! :)

(P.S. we are sharing highlights from their destination wedding in Cancun tomorrow on the blog! Stop back by!)

Arizona Inn Modern Wedding Inspiration | 5 Ways to Bring in Class, Color and Life to your Arizona Wedding

This wedding styled shoot was a dream to shoot at Tucson's ever-loved wedding venue, Arizona Inn.  Our goal was to nail a look and pallet that strayed from the neutral typical desert tones and REALLY put COLOR on display!  We had promised wedding blogs SWOONED and AISLE SOCIETY that we would hold off on releasing this highlight reel until they featured the shoot! (shout out to the publishers for being so gracious and complimentary. they also provide some near wedding inspiration in case you need some help!)

So here is one of the most amazing pallets of color, textures, gown and southwestern uniqueness that we have ever shot in Tucson! Here are a few key wedding planning notes to pocket if you adore class, color and a fresh spin on a desert wedding...

5 WAYS TO BRING IN CLASS, COLOR AND LIFE TO YOUR ARIZONA WEDDING...

(1) YOUR PLANNER SHOULD BE A MAGICIAN. Or something close.... With the coordinating prowess of Meagan with Meagan Crain Event Planning, we found ourselves navigating details and elements that were delicious. Meagan orchestrated the entire vibe of the shoot and pulled together a team of wonder-people. She particularly was keen on bringing elements that offered nods to southwest culture (i.e. cigars and tequila toasts instead of traditional champagne and flute glasses). RECAP NOTE: If style and vision for aesthetic are important to you...hire a planner who has a vision and the tenacity to pull the necessary strings and make things happen!

(2) PLANTS. COLORS. COPPER. OH MY. When Jara of Urban Stems showed up with a TRUCK LOAD of punchy pink floral with bougainvillea, peonies, ranunculus, garden roses and pops of delicate air plants accented with copper touches (i.e. Arizona's state metal) we stopped in our tracks and jaws gaped open! Brie Dumais Designs nailed these original wood invitations and water color design accents that brought a super fresh but textile element.  In case you are looking for a graphic and paper designer for your wedding invitations, programs, signage, LIFE in general, Brie is the SHIZ. RECAP NOTE: Think outside of the box and pay attention to the native plant life as well as the colors and textures of the venue.

(3) BE PAMPERED. BE BOLD. BE TAKEN CARE OF AND WHERE IT WELL... MUAH team at Heather Van Houten along with the incredible gown ( ***drool***) by Tucson's stellar bridal gown shop J Bridal created this understated-yet-drool-worthy bridal look. Red lips plus a stark white hourglass gown with intricate lace and framed with poppy peonies... 

(4) SET A STAGE AND PICK AN ACCENT. Setting the stage for a dinner party is one thing. Doing so with cohesive elements that compliment the setting and the vibe and care for details is another. Meagan chose cobalt blue to be the accent that freckled our punchy pinks and native sage colors. Frostings & Ultrapom were both wonderful companies who hooked us up with design elements for staging! They provide rental elements like furniture and seating to further execute a "look" that is refined and swoon-worthy. Sweet Creations laced a classic white tiered cake with gold flecks and eucalyptus details! 

(5) LOVE EACH OTHER WITH ALL THAT IS IN YOU. Granted this was a styled shoot, but our models were married in real life and it made the ebb and flow of this whole styled shoot incredible. Dudes, be strong. Girls, stand tall and breath with poise. Love and be loved. Look, laugh, pause...and love some more. All of it. Be as free as the burst of light from behind the alter below and the dancing petals thrown by people who love you. LEAN INTO your wedding day with as much eager joy as you can muster....and then let others help you muster even more. :) 

Does this inspire you? Share and leave some love below? Compliment the vendors noted below for the work and art they produce...they are worthy of applause! :) | LKM

// VENDOR LIST //

Flowers: Urban Stems // Hair & Makeup: Heather Van Houten // Wedding Gown: J.Bridal Boutique (designer Wtoo) // Bridesmaid Gown: BHLDN // Suits: Brooks Brothers // Paper Products  / Invites: Brie Dumais Designs // Cake: Sweet Creations // Planning & Design: Meagan Crain Event Planning & Design // Furniture: Frostings Event Design & Rentals // Misc. Rentals: Ultrapom

Spring in the Desert | A Glowy Engagement Session at Douglas Springs Trailhead | Tucson, AZ

The desert comes alive in April and when Delaney specifically said she wanted COLOR... i knew we had to plan their engagement pictures in the Tucson spring season. 

Our main focus in their engagement session was to simply get acquainted with each other and comfortable in front of my camera.  We dodged the gnats and aimed to learn posture and posing...posing that begs romance NOT awkwardness (can i get an amen?) 

An airman and blonde bombshell in the middle of a springtime desert....Delaney and Rickey's engagement session was as bright and easy as their laughter. Such a joy to get to know them, attempt some romance, capture a little bit of flirt and joy and frankly...Ricky, your fear of being awkward is SHOT DOWN mister. Frankly, your strength and tenderness with Delaney was effortless and I am over the moon with the way you leaned in and loved each other. Thanks for letting me get up and personal with you guys and capture some of the special. - LKM