Modern Desert Wedding at The Paseo

Those who know Connor and Jess will tell you that they couldn't have met at a more perfect time! The couple met at a bar in Scottsdale through mutual friends. They were out celebrating St. Patrick's Day and Jess' birthday, and Connor happened to be in town for the San Francisco Giants’ Spring Training. It was his last night off before leaving for the season, and, thanks to a good friend, he was invited to join the celebration. Connor noticed Jess right away and immediately set out to get to know her. He pulled off all the smooth moves that night, complimenting Jess' eyes, getting her food and drinks, and even offering her his sweatshirt for the chilly Arizona evening. Jess was on guard, but Connor's charms eventually won her over, and she agreed to go out on a date. The rest, as they say, is history!

After a baseball injury ended his career, Connor returned to Arizona to be with Jess and see where their relationship would take them. It didn't take him long to figure out what he wanted. As they were walking home from dinner about two months into their relationship, Connor looked over at Jess and said, "I'm going to marry you one day." Jess, though taken aback by his certainty, secretly hoped that he would never change his mind. He never did and a year and a half later, at Jess’s family’s lakehouse in Wisconsin, Connor dropped to one knee and popped the question. Surrounded by both of their families the couple celebrated their engagement with a sunset boat ride around the lake and lots of champagne and cake! It was the perfect proposal!

Jess and Connor planned a modern desert wedding at The Paseo wedding venue in Apache Junction, Arizona. They envisioned a romantic and charming outdoor wedding ceremony with the gorgeous desert landscape in the background, followed by a massive dance party with an open bar and good music, and they got exactly that!

Jess wore an elegant sequin gown by Made with Love Bridal (one of my favorite designers), which was a perfect match for their wedding day theme. She shared a sweet first look with her father followed by a first look with Connor. During their first look, Jess and Connor also exchanged personal vows. This is one of my favorite wedding traditions because it is such an intimate and special time for the couple before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. They exchanged vows in front of family and friends at the foot of the desert mountains before slipping away for some sunset couple photos. Afterward, they rejoined their guests for a fun reception celebration before wrapping up the evening with a private last dance and flower petal send-off.

Jess and Connor were one of the sweetest couples I've ever photographed, and their desert wedding was one I'll never forget! Jess and Connor, your love is so evident to those around you, and you have a special gift for making everyone feel loved and welcomed. Thank you for allowing me to photograph your wedding, and I wish you many years of happiness and love!