I grew up in east Mesa, AZ. I remember every summer going to Saguaro Lake and going boating, jet skiing and generally enjoying the area. I never really looked at the beauty of the desert because it was so present in my life growing up. After I got into photography, I started looking at it more from an artist’s perspective- seeing the subtle and not so subtle colors of the desert and the beautiful light. The Salt River area is one of my favorites in the valley and I am blessed to live so close to stunning back drops. During my wedding venue search, I stumbled across a hidden gem tucked away near my childhood summer romping grounds- Saguaro Lake Ranch. I had been horse back riding right next to the venue a few times, but never knew they did weddings. The ranch is a historic cowboy ranch from the 1930’s when they were building the Steward Mountain Dam and is full of Arizona Western charm. It operates as a lodge and artist retreat with 20 casitas during the cool months- September/October through April or early May and a kayak launch point in the summer months because the Salt River flows right next to the property. Though I chose a different venue, it was a difficult decision because of it’s stunning beauty.
This styled wedding shoot was inspired by the natural beauty of the Arizona desert, Salt River and the Bulldog cliffs that serve as the venue’s ceremony backdrop, with soft sunset colors as the palette. We wanted to showcase the venue’s romantic, stunning natural beauty with elegant but simple place settings with pops of color throughout the shoot.
Vendors
A huge thank you to every vendor involved with this shoot. Each did an amazing job contributing their time and talent, and the shoot would not have been a success without them. Thank you all!
Venue: Sagauro Lake Guest Ranch venue coordinator: Liz | Coordination & Design: Karen of KDP Events | Florals: Garden Gate Florals | Cake: Ruze Cake House | Make up: Jennifer Nodine | Invitations & Menu: Sarah Waggoner | Menswear: Celebrity Tux & Tails | Dress: Jasmine Couture | Photography: Alyssa Campbell Photography
