Madalyn and Steve’s wedding was nothing short of timeless elegance. Their wedding ceremony was held at the Tucson Arizona Temple, where the majesty of this building never ceases to amaze me. The blue dome and white exterior pop beautifully against the desert landscape. Family and friends welcomed the newlyweds as they exited the temple with excited cheers and hugs. With the hot summer temperatures, Madalyn and Steve chose to have their reception at the Highlands at Dove Mountain. This is one of my favorite venues in Tucson! The picturesque views of the city are absolutely breathtaking! Blush pinks, calming whites, soft greens, and touches of gold comprised the color palette Madalyn chose for her wedding. These colors coupled with luxurious draping and sparkling chandeliers adorning the ballroom, let the beauty of the venue shine!

I have known Madalyn’s family for several years, and it was such an honor to capture her and Steve’s big day! I had so many favorite moments, but I will share two. One was when I was watching Madalyn’s Dad carry her gorgeous train around so that it wouldn’t get dirty as we moved from location to location for photos. My heart melted as I watched this dedicated father caring for and serving his little girl as he had for so many years, knowing that his role as the “man in her life” was changing. I couldn’t help but get a little emotional thinking of my own boys and how much joy there must be for a parent on a wedding day, but also a little heartache knowing that child that you have nurtured and loved, is beginning their own family and you aren’t going to be a part of every moment like you had been. It was such a humbling moment for me. I also loved Steve dancing with his Mom! He surprised us all as he lifted her up and glided with her around the dance floor. It was such a fun moment to watch. Immediately after their dance, Madalyn, Steve, and his Mom huddled together sharing a heartwarming embrace. Watching these two women who will always love Steve the most, drawn together was so sweet to witness. The entire day, I was so overwhelmed by all the love that surrounds Madalyn and Steve!

I am so thrilled for these two! They are this incredible power couple that are going to do amazing things! During couples portraits I was able to see the playful side of their relationship. I was dying as Maddie sang all the lyrics to “Baby got Back”!  We all had a good laugh as she impressed us all with her musical talents! The chemistry that these two share is perfection! Between the laughs, adoring looks, and sweet kisses, I was in wedding photographer heaven! I could have photographed them all day!

After portraits, the rest of the evening was filled with dancing, laughter, and delicious food! Claudette and her team pulled out all the stops creating a decadent buffet line. Smoked salmon, shrimp cocktail served in ice blocks, chicken skewers paired with sweet sauces, along with a gorgeous charcuterie board filled with seasonal meats, cheeses, nuts, and fruit were a crowd-pleasing success! The evening wouldn’t be complete without some sugary goodness to satisfy Madalyn’s sweet tooth 🙂 Family favorite cookies, See’s chocolates, creme brulee ( my favorite- yes, it was delicious!), popcorn, pots de creme, and many other treats were the perfect ending to a day full of sweet moments!

Thank you so much Madalyn and Steve for inviting me to capture your special day! I absolutely adored spending time with you both and I am looking forward to seeing where your journey together takes you!

XOXO Melissa

Vendors

Reception Venue: Highlands at Dove Mountain

Wedding Coordinator: Claudette Halpern

Invitations: Katie Steck

DJ: Carl Thurber

Hair: Megan Asay

Flowers: Highlands at Dove Mountain

Cake: Village Bakehouse