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

Parin + Shiragi | Arizona Indian Wedding | Day 3

The third day of a traditional indian wedding is the most epic and anticipated day! (to see Day One and Day Two go here and here) For our bride and groom, the day started early in the hills of Tucson, Arizona. The girls and guys were getting ready in their separate suits at Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resorts where we found them buzzing around sorting ALL the details and grand ensemble that goes into an indian bride and groom’s wedding wardrobe. We grabbed a few details, navigated some drama, flexed the timeline and brushed off the stress. It was time to get married…

/ VENDORS //

Venue: Westward Look Wydnham Resort Tucson // Photography: Laura K Moore Photography // Videography: Fine Art Productions // Event Design & Decor: MM Celebrations LLC // Grah Shanti, Mehendi, and Garba Hair and Makeup: Blushed by Ish // Wedding Hair and Makeup: Makiaj Beauty // Wedding and Grah Shanti Outfit: Ekaya  // Reception Outfit: Shyamal and Bhumika // Garba Outfit: Swati Manish // Parfum: Valentino // Shoes: “a random stall in india” // Reception Flats: Keds // Rangoli & Other Design Details: Nisha Tailor Interior Designer // Tesla: Turo // Famous Singer & Band: Bhavin Shastri & Group // Famous Flutist- Anis Chandani // Famous Female Vocalist: Dhara Shah // Famous male singer- Dharmesh Chauhan

BARAAT

The groom and his family came riding in on a horse-drawn carriage with his entire family dancing around like crazy in zealous Baraat fashion. Parin made his way to the entrance of the wedding venue and met the Mother of the Bride who applied tilak and performs aarti to rid him of any evil eyes cast upon him. He then waited under the Mandap for Shiragi to exchange garlands—a lively, fun moment followed by a sudden whooping and hollering. “We got them! we got them” was heard from a cluster of bridesmaids. You’ll see below just WHAT extent the bridesmaids were willing to go to steal the groom’s shoes…

CEREMONY

The actual wedding ceremony is serious, respectful and attended by all. While the groom waited to see as his bride approached, Iwas taken off guard when i noticed dad’s first look of his daughter. Shiragi and Santosh had an incredibly sweet bond and the presentation of the bride was super emotional for everybody in the room. When the curtain covering Parin was dropped, he choked up and the rest of the ceremony was filled with tears and laughter all mixed together.

VIDAI

The Vidai is a goodbye ceremony of the bride bidding farewell to her family and leaving of her maternal home. It was emphasized that “this was going to be super emotional” as it is considered one of the most sentimental outbursts. Santosh was the last in line to hug his daughter. The tradition is for brother and cousins of the Bride help push the vehicle as an indication of their acceptance of the couple’s new life together and adventure forward. The female friends and relatives of the bride playfully stand in front of the car to “keep them from leaving.” All the symbolism was rich and constantly honoring the family and the life being left behind and the joy they anticipated forward. It was crazy beautiful.

RECEPTION

The ceremony was followed by family portraits, then a private lunch and then PREP time for the grand finale — the reception. Set at the Tucson Convention Center, the design and catering team did a phenomenal job serving and keeping the flow of event moving and engaging. With fog machines, light up drums, lazer shows and a massive light-up dance floor…it was an experience for everybody. Bride & groom surprised people with a zealous dance performance but Santosh raise the glass and the bar when the finale included a burst of sparks and fire machines heralded the new life and adventure.

What a privilege to be invited into this crazy intense celebration. Shiragi & Parin, we will FOREVER be greatfull and honored that you and your families trusted the LKM team to come be part of your wedding celebration! What a treasure and highlight of our year! We are excited to see you guys again in July in Chicago!

// BRIDE’S REVIEW //

“Photographers hold tremendously unique roles within a wedding. Typically, they do not personally know anyone on either side, but are still responsible for capturing the most precious moments of two people’s lives. Laura and her team broke this stigma. During our wedding, not only did the LKM team do a fantastic job with their photography, they were family. And when we say “family”, we truly mean some of the most important people at our wedding.

“From Day 1 (and even before the festivities started) Laura and her team showed a supreme interest in (our) wedding. Their excitement and passion only heightened enthusiasm for our special weekend. With every click and with every scream for joy, this wedding hands down would not have been as successful without the LKM photographers. The positivity of the team, the willingness to go above and beyond, and the ability to accommodate all sorts of crazy requests demonstrated professionalism and expertise. Although this was LKM’s first Hindu wedding, they did not show any semblance of confusion and it felt like they had done this type of event a thousand times before…Everyone in both our families has been to hundreds of Hindu weddings in the past, but we can guarantee that no one has ever experienced anything like with Laura and her team. The photographers infused energy, laughter, and vibrancy into every guest. Their aura and presence changed any mood for the better. And do not get us started on the quality of the photos. They are absolutely gorgeous! They embody the true spirit and capture every timeless moment of the weekend. Thank you so much to Laura and her team of excellent photographers for making a huge impact on our wedding! We would highly recommend the LKM team to anyone looking for photographers who genuinely care about their clients and who have the absolute best personalities!” ~ Shiragi, Bride

Amir Thakkar from Fine Art Productions shared this lovely video from their wedding weekend! Enjoy!

Parin + Shiragi | Arizona Indian Wedding | Day 2

The groom arrived mid-morning on Day 2 of Parin & Shiragi’s wedding. (See DAY 1 here) and the atmosphere was ripe and welcoming. Shiragi, by tradition, was hid by the brothers and men closest to her pretended to keep her and make it rough to get to her. I legitimately teared up when they finally hugged. 24 hours of pre-celebrating without him had made everybody so eager for his arrival and for them to finally be together.

Now that both families were together, the time melded together into the flurry of family laughter, reunions, everybody wanted a picture with a loved one ALL the time. it was awesome. Pulling away to get a few quick portraits with the bride and groom became less about what time it was and more about how sneaky we could be. It became a game…lots of intuitive eye contact with Shiragi and Parin and keeping a pulse on family. We also had to be fast both because relatives would start hunting us down AND because it was the first triple digit day in the desert and we were SWEATING bullets.

GROOM’S PITHI

As Parin and his family collected onto the terrace of Westward Look, the music and dancing began and ushered everybody into an energetic and playful Pithi ceremony while they blessed and prayed and laughed over Parin. Best moment was when aunts got fiesty and demanded he strip down and the haldi got crazy. Mom and dad got flanked too. It was fantastic.

RAAS GARBA

There was an interlude in the afternoon for reprieve, showers and primping for the Raas Garba (i.e. the coolest, loudest, most vibrant dance party you’ll ever go to). Once refreshed and ready, we grabbed some moments alone with the couple for a few sunshine desert portraits…and of course a cohort of friends insisted on coming to cat call and join in :)

There is a an indian art form called rangoli where a relative or loved one created an intricate pattern drawn by hand an then filled with powdered rice, flower petals, chalk powder and coloured sand. It’s a form of blessing and expression of celebration. A close relative of the bride and groom was interior designer, Nisha Tailor Interior Designer, who lovingly shared her heart and her art in these designs all over Westward Look’s property. Her particularly eye-catching peacock piece was center stage in the massive ballroom for the Raas Garba.

During cocktail hour and through the evening, our photography team took turns running an open air personalized photo booth. It was a fantastic way to be part of the welcoming experience for guests. We got to meet each couple, take more portraits, connect personally and were welcomed warmly.

MM Celebrations LLC was ON FIRE all weekend long. The event design and planning company from New Jersey had driven in a massive UHAUL cross-country packed with all the treasures to transform each ceremony into an explosion of festivity. Raas Garba was said to be a crowning jewel of color and dancing for the weekend so we came with energy drinks, extra manpower and eye wide open. Santosh flew a band of famous musicians from India for the weekend and they treated guests with lively music until midnight. Sticks were passed out as part of the traditional dance, Dandiya Raas, and EVERYBODY got in on it — old and young — men and women. The energy (and sweat) and fun in that room took “how to celebrate” to a whole new level. Here is a little youtube clip of the BEGINNING of their 45 minute Raas where two circles are formed and start with a first dance of bride and groom. If you can imagine all 400+ guests ending up in that room, dancing in circles faster and faster for 45 minutes.

Midnight came quickly and the party did not peter.

Day 3 coming soon :)

// VENDORS //

Venue: Westward Look Wydnham Resort Tucson // Photography: Laura K Moore Photography // Videography: Fine Art Productions // Event Design & Decor: MM Celebrations LLC // Grah Shanti, Mehendi, and Garba Hair and Makeup: Blushed by Ish // Wedding Hair and Makeup: Makiaj Beauty // Wedding and Grah Shanti Outfit: Ekaya  // Reception Outfit: Shyamal and Bhumika // Garba Outfit: Swati Manish // Parfum: Valentino // Shoes: “a random stall in india” // Reception Flats: Keds // Rangoli & Other Design Details: Nisha Tailor Interior Designer // Tesla: Turo // Famous Singer & Band: Bhavin Shastri & Group // Famous Flutist- Anis Chandani // Famous Female Vocalist: Dhara Shah // Famous male singer- Dharmesh Chauhan

Mountain Indian Wedding Ceremony in the Woods | Mt Lemmon, AZ | Arizona Elopement Photography

This intimate mountain ceremony wrecked me a little bit. At the risk of being dramatic, I truly left this time with the moreno and narichanias moved and inspired to re-assess what i loved most about weddings.

My most favorite thing of Aalap & Paula's intimate indian-american wedding was their deep desire to honor their family and keep things simple but deeply personal. Family stepped up and took the admonishment seriously--each member came prepared with thoughts and encouragement that they shared with tears and memories during their hour long ceremony together. Brother's played guitar, parents gave their blessing, sisters affirmed and the couple beamed with a sense of "wow, this is more special than i realized." They had a few cultural nods included the Saptapadi  - the point in the ceremony where the couple conducts seven rounds of the Holy Fire, which is considered a witness to the vows they make to each other.  As the afternoon wrapped up and we took a few sweetheart images with the newlyweds they shed their shoes, spun in the leaves and twigs and the breezy motion of nature. 

Real Review From the Clients:

"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for providing your art and lending your vision to our celebration. We loved spending those moments with you and could not have asked for a better photographer. We did get a chance to see all of the photographs, and they are absolutely wonderful. You perfectly captured the beauty and unique craziness of the night!"

Oh sweet friends, you two are incredibly beautiful people. it was such a joy and honor to be part of your intimate wedding ceremony and listen to the sweet affirmation and bond you have with your loved ones! Blessings! | LKM & CO

JW Marriott Starr Pass | Mihai + Chan | An "Energy-meets-Elegance" Formal Affair

This Tucson Wedding at JW Marriot Starr Pass was full of energy and elegance--a combination that takes the finess and grace of a good planner and family lover. :) Mihai and Chan were a joy to work with this past year. When they originally inquired, they said they wanted their day to be formal and elegant while also being fun..."we want fun with plenty of food and drinks and lots of memories that you can help us capture forever! While we are excited for a few fine art portraits of ourselves, wedding party, and family - we also really look forward to action shots of moments!" 

Behold a merge of fun and formal below -- a mixture of moments and elegant sunbeamy editorial splashes that make us swoon. :)

// VENDORS //

Wedding Venue: JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa // Wedding Dress: Gigi Bridal Boutique // Flower Girl Dresses: Dillards // Groom's Tux: Indochino // MUAH: Margarita Godiva // Florist: Country Couture Flowers // DJ: Fantastic Five Entertainment // Videographer: Gavyn Gates // Officiant: Haig Huynh // Bride's Shoes: DSW // Groom's Shoes: Magnanni // Gifts: Mignon and Mignon // Veil: Bridals by Teri // Suspenders: Little Lovies Bowtique // Bridal Sash: EYMbellish Designs // Groom's band: Peacefield Titanium // Bride's Wedding Band: Sea Babe Jewelry // Cake Topper: Artifice Producciones // Wedding Burro: Walking M Farms

Mihai & Chan were eager for their first look...they knew that "all the people" were going to be a lot to manage for the day so these fleeting precious "alone moments" were some of the most anticipated....and probably, hind-sight, some of our most favorite :)

Thank you so much for inviting us into this season of wedding planning and celebrating Mihai & Chan! It was an honor to be part of your wedding day & season!! | LKM & CO

Also, sweet treat! Check out their wedding video by Gavyn Gates Cinematography! 

// VENDORS //

Wedding Venue: JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa // Wedding Dress: Gigi Bridal Boutique // Flower Girl Dresses: Dillards // Groom's Tux: Indochino // MUAH: Margarita Godiva // Florist: Country Couture Flowers // DJ: Fantastic Five Entertainment // Videographer: Gavyn Gates // Officiant: Haig Huynh // Bride's Shoes: DSW // Groom's Shoes: Magnanni // Gifts: Mignon and Mignon // Veil: Bridals by Teri // Suspenders: Little Lovies Bowtique // Bridal Sash: EYMbellish Designs // Groom's band: Peacefield Titanium // Bride's Wedding Band: Sea Babe Jewelry // Cake Topper: Artifice Producciones // Wedding Burro: Walking M Farms

Last Stand Ranch | A Relaxed Country Wedding | Sonoita, Arizona

He, a former border patrol officer and she, a firefighter--both Aaron & Brittany were no-nonsense kind of quiet people who kept things simple and casual and low-key. When we arrived the girls were getting the last few touches taken care of by the MUAH finesse of I do Hair and Makeup Team from Tucson. The sun was bright and the wind was legit so we braced / paced ourselves hoping it would let up. Brittany was incredibly composed and as soon as she saw Aaron, both seemed to be able to breath. There were little nods to their special favorites throughout the day. Country and equestrian nuances, wide open plains, outdoor games, a wildflower-laced bouquet and a personalized burlap handkerchief for Shelby, the Dog of Honor. Here are a few highlights from their day!

VENDORS

Venue: Last Stand Guest Ranch // Photography: Laura K Moore Photography // Videography: Max Cunningham // Wedding Gown: Davids Bridal // Bride and Groom's Boots: Boot Barn // Hair & Makeup: I Do Hair & Makeup Artistry // Flowers: Country Couture Flowers // Catering: Rusty Truck BBQ // Beers on Tap: Sentinel Peak Brewery // Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes // DJ: Retro Radio DJ 

The Last Stand Ranch was perfect staging grounds for their country / western wedding. There were wide open plains with whispy clouds and bloomin' desert flowers. Family ebbed and flowed amid their wedding day responsibilities and the first look was staged up above the hubbub overlooking the property. Wedding party soon joined the fun and the prelude was in full swing.

A few choice details brought in personal elements that were particularly special to the bride--her father's handmade wooden arbor with a few western additives gilded with fresh flowers from Country Couture Flowers were a particular centerpiece. Also, last minute Brittany was brave enough to enter the ceremony riding her horse Gus--an added detail that kept Aaron on his toes despite his fiance's equine proficiency.  The ceremony was short but that kiss was legit and moved straight down the aisle and into a precious sunset portrait time. The breathing space was welcome and Aaron and Brittany seemed to breath and enjoy eachother while getting ready for the remainder of the two-steppin'/barnyard evening of celebration.

Saguaro Buttes Peach & Peonies | Alex + Kirstie's Spring Garden Wedding | Tucson, Arizona

We have wrapped up our Spring Weddings for 2017! Spring in the desert has us breathless each and every season. It's just so stinkin' perfect. Kirstie had wonderful aesthetic taste and Alex's vision for their wedding day was a treat to develop.

We were going for was a great outdoor party. Neither one of us wanted the proceedings to be too formal, and we wanted to focus on making it a fun night to remember! Of course, the original, half-joke half-serious theme we tossed around was “beer garden,” which I think captures the atmosphere we wanted to create – laid back and lighthearted. - Alex

 Their fresh garden wedding was complete with bright pops of peach, subtle sage, modern understated design at one of Tucson's hidden gems of a wedding venue. The staging provided a modest, classy garden pallet that was free and lively -- matched only by the bride and groom's effervescent enthusiasm and sincere joy in each other, family and freinds! Mollee Fitzgerald with POM Events nailed the look with the help of flower director Katie Mclain and her florist team at Posh Petals. Saguaro Buttes was a perfect backdrop for the fresh, relaxed but classy vibe -- a venue tucked away on the east side of Tucson; a hidden oasis set in the middle of a mesquite grove and up against the Rincon Mountains. 

Our personal favorite part of the whole day was how each little section of the day was filled with authentic joy. Alex and Kirstie just make each other laugh and love and their friends were so excited for them! And their unabashed joy in each other--Alex's face and embrace during the first look nearly made me lose it, ceremony vows were both witty and sincere and moving, portraits with family were hilarious, sunset sweetheart time was jaw-dropping gorgeous and the party down in the twinkle-light gilded garden was sheer fun! Here are a few highlights and Kirstie & Alex's review at the end :)

VENDOR TEAM

Venue: Saguaro Buttes // Wedding Planner & Day of Coordinator: P.O.M Events // Photography: Laura K Moore Photography // Videography: Black Sheep Filmworks // Make-Up & Hair: I Do Hair & Makeup // Dress: Lulus Bridal Boutique // Bridesmaid Dresses: J. Crew // Shoes:  // Bridal Party Gifts: Anthropologie // Food: Edge Catering // Cake: Sugar Song // String Musicians: Aracelli Strings LLC 

Alex's reaction during their first look was, hands down, my favorite part of the day...he just melted into her with awe and joy and held her so hard. We were able to capture nearly ALL the fun and classy portraits with wedding party and family before the wedding. The couple were eager to just have natural and authentic time enjoying their family and capturing images that were casual but classy and beautiful and REAL. 

The couple wrote vows for each other that had people laughing and crying equally hard.

After the ceremony we were able to slip away for some golden hour sunset portraits and breathing space. This time is our most favorite time of the day... the light was lovely, the weather was perfect, vows had been made and the party awaited...

and then the party.... SO much laughter and fun!  

Our experience with Laura was absolutely fantastic. From start to finish, I felt like we were in the best hands possible. It was great to know we didn’t have to worry about pictures, or our photographer understanding us – LKM just got what we were trying to accomplish, and helped us make the most out of our vision! I felt like there were many times LKM knew what we wanted more than we did, and it really helped to have LKM share her experience from other weddings to help us make the most of our photos. I am SO SO SO SO SO happy with how the photos turn out – I must look at them at least once a month, and they capture all the moments that are so important to me.If you want a photographer you can trust to capture your image, vision, and hopes for your wedding day… look no further than Laura K Moore Photography! - Official Review from Alex & Kirstie

Oh! Here is the highlight cinematography reel by Black Sheep Filmworks! Enjoy! 

More from the couple:

A. why did you choose LKM as your photographer? Were you pleased? What were your highlights?

After reviewing many, many photographers, we knew we had to have LKM as our wedding photographer. Her pictures are magical and we didn't want anything less than the best for our wedding. OF COURSE we were pleased - our pictures are amazing and we will cherish them forever. The highlights? The first look and the pictures of everyone dancing!

B. What did you envision your wedding being prior to planning?

​Alex and I wanted our wedding to feel like a funky backyard party. We are really into visiting different breweries and hanging out outside and we didn't want it to feel like a formal, ballroom type of event. We mostly just wanted everyone to be able to kick back and have some fun with us. 

C. What was your color palette and your style vision? ​

Alex and I are both from Tucson, AZ and since we moved to Texas, we have both developed an even deeper love for our hometown. Tucson is such a special place, for many reasons, and we both miss the desert so much. We wanted a rustic feel for our wedding with lots of neutral colors that you pick up in the Tucson landscape – succulents and all.

D. What unique elements or DIY details did you include?

​My cousin's husband created a logo for our wedding that we had printed on pint glasses and gave those to guests as our wedding favors. We also purchased a really nice piece of wood to use as our cake stand and eventually want our logo etched into the cake stand to hang in our home. 

E. What was your favorite moment? 

Every moment of that day was so special so this is a tough question to answer. I think my favorite was walking down the aisle to Alex. After not seeing him all day (except for the first look - another favorite moment!), walking down the aisle to him felt like walking home. Finally getting to say our vows, exchange rings and kiss as husband and wife was a moment I'll never forget. (This is supposed to be sappy, right?)

F. Your favorite crafted detail? ​

My lumberjack of a husband built the bar for the reception, so I’d say that was my favorite crafted detail. He’s rad. 

G. Tell us about your flowers, your gown, your favors, your cake, etc. 

Everything came together so beautifully. Posh Petals did an amazing job with the flowers – everything was just as I imagined, and I barely gave Katie any direction. I’m pretty useless when it comes to flowers, but she knew exactly what I had been describing and all of the colors and textures looked perfect. The floral arrangement that was placed on the ceremony arch was just as romantic as I had hoped. I purchased my gown from LuLu’s Bridal Boutique in Dallas and it was stunning. I keep trying to think of places I can wear it again. I felt amazing in my dress, and my flower crown from Posh Petals topped it all off. We wanted to play up the beer garden theme, so the pint glasses we handed out as our favors were perfect and I love that we were able to include a logo on them. I still dream about our wedding cake – it was that good. Lorie with Sugar Song Cakes did a delicious job. It was an orange blossom cake with lots of citrus fillings, honey basil citrus icing and buttercream frosting. Mollee with Peace of Mind Event Design and Waitstaff was a godsend. I didn’t have to worry about anything the day of the wedding and she pulled it all off without a hitch. 

H. What is one piece of advice that you could give brides-to-be?

The planning process is a necessary evil, but you’ll get through it. I was smiling like an idiot the entire day and couldn’t tell you a thing that went wrong. It was perfect, and yours will be too.  Oh yeah, and don’t skimp on the photographer and the videographer – they’re incredibly worth it.

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

Wyatt + Hilary | Spring Blush & Creme Wedding | Part 2

(To see PART ONE of Wyatt + Hilary's Arizona Wedding, Go HERE.)

I had heard from wedding coordinator, Meagan Crain of MC Events AZ, that the details and setting were gonna make our heart swoon a little bit. This is one of those weddings where I showed up to green rolling courtyard of Tucson's hidden wedding venue, La Mariposa, and had a sharp inhale. My eyes got wide. There were sparkly tableclothes set with wooden place settings and classy rustic carved numbers. Their wedding cake was paired with an anniversary cake for their grandparents--celebrating THEIR anniversary on the same day. 

Wyatt + Hilary were a gracious bride and groom. They were eager to get married and deferred so many timeline and organizational pieces so that we could really cover a plethora of moments and get such a wide, diverse story. Their first look moment made me cry. (oh the way they diffused and were so excited about eachother!) Their wedding party was jovial and attentive. Their family was so complimentary. Their friends were crazy. The food was delicious. The toasts were meaningful. And their dance floor rocked. -- Especially when you see what the bride tossed instead of a bouquet as a prank. So. Much. Fun.

Thank you so much for letting us be your storytelling, memory-keeping, sparkler-dodging wedding photographers Wyatt & Hilary! It was a joy to be part of this season with you two!

// VENDORS //

Wedding Coordinator: Meagan Crain of MC EVENTS AZ // Photographer: Laura K Moore Photography {LKM STUDIOS} // Ceremony Venue: Corpus Christi Catholic Church // Reception Venue: La Mariposa // Scottsdale Wedding Gown Boutique: Marie Gallery // Bridal Hair & Makeup: Gadabout // Bridesmaids Dress: J Crew // Flower Girl Dress: Nordstrom // Groomsmen Suits: Mens Warehouse // Cake: Cakes by Genevieve // Florist: Urban Stems Designs

Wyatt + Hilary | Spring Desert Wedding | Shades of Pink & Happy Part One

We are excited to share this desert spring wedding in the eastside foothills of Tucson Arizona. Blush and creme were soft against her satin and the polished aesthetic of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Huge peonies were graced with eucalytpus leaves and set against brick and blue skies and whispy clowds. It was a beautiful desert spring day and the shades of pink, class and happiness were rich and effortless.

Here are a few highlights! 

// VENDORS //

Wedding Coordinator: Meagan Crain of MC EVENTS AZ // Photographer: Laura K Moore Photography {LKM STUDIOS} // Ceremony Venue: Corpus Christi Catholic Church // Reception Venue: La Mariposa // Scottsdale Wedding Gown Boutique: Marie Gallery // Bridal Hair & Makeup: Gadabout // Bridesmaids Dress: J Crew // Flower Girl Dress: Nordstrom // Groomsmen Suits: Mens Warehouse // Cake: Cakes by Genevieve // Florist: Urban Stems Designs

More highlights coming soon! Tomorrow we will be sharing Part 2!