Michael and Elena were married in Phoenix this December.  It was a beautiful trip for John and I.  The resort where they were married was the Phoenix Marriott Tempa at the Buttes.    Phoenix did not disappoint. It was warm and sunny and so different than the snowy winter engagement we did for Mike and Elena here in Cleveland last year!

But to the beginning of this beautiful union first!   In May of 2014, Elena had moved to Westlake after college.  When Mike and Elena first met, they realized that Elena’s roommate also worked at the Cleveland Clinic like Mike. This meant that Elena’s roommate could do a little investigating.  Once he passed with flying colors, it was safe to go on their first date! From the beginning there was a special connection between the two of them.  From volunteering to drive her to Pittsburgh for her CPA exam, wait all day for her and then spend the weekend with her and her friends in the South Side, to taking her on a trip to Lima, Peru.  Of course, what better thing to do than to propose in such a beautiful location?!!  On top of Machu Picchu, Mike asked Elena to spend the rest of her life with him. Through happy tears, Elena of course said yes!  Their only regret was not taking me, their photographer, to capture it all.  Just kidding….;)

The wedding was held outside below a huge rock and framed by colorful flowers.  Photographing around the resort, among the cactus and and sand was fun and unique for us! Their first look was so sweet and I love the lil tears that we captured.  Following the wedding was the reception in the Marriott’s grand ballroom.  The reception had a beautiful outdoor patio with Christmas lights and heaters (if needed) and then the ballroom was filled with matching Christmas balls and sparkly decorations on all the tables. It was just a touch of Christmas without all the red and green colors!  Oh my goodness what a fun reception it was!  So much dancing and laughing that we didn’t want it to end! But on the bright side of things,  we knew the next day was going to be awesome!!

Sunday began with a private breakfast at the hilltop restaurant at the resort.  Then several car loads of wedding guest/family headed to Sedona to capture some epic wedding pictures of this sweet couple! Be sure to view these pictures below the reception shots! Love a bride that isn’t’ afraid to get her dress just a little dirty!  Mike and Elena were up for anything!!!  Thank you so much for entrusting us with this amazing weekend with the two of you! We loved working and photographing you and your family and friends!!! Congratulations!

Venue-Phoenix Marriott Tempa at the Buttes

Florist-Lena Inzunza

Bakery-Sugarlips

DJ-Got You Covered

Next day…private breakfast for family and then off to Sedona!  So beautiful!