heidi & stephen: springtime in the desert

Springtime in Arizona was the perfect backdrop for Heidi and Stephen’s wedding at Mountain Shadows Resort. With pastel colors like sage green, pale pink, and soft orange, their day celebrated the beauty of spring in the desert.

BEFORE THE CEREMONY: MIMOSAS, MAKEUP, & MEMORIES

Mimosas in hand, loving the suite's stunning view, and dancing to their favorite music, Heidi and her wedding party enjoyed every moment of getting ready together. Something Beautiful Styles created a soft glam look for Heidi with shimmering eyeshadow and a natural lip. Her hair was styled in simple curls, keeping the focus on her dress.

Although the bridesmaids all wore the same beautiful sage green color, Heidi allowed them full flexibility in choosing their specific style. With a large wedding party of 12 bridesmaids, it was great to see all the different dress styles and how they complemented each person perfectly.

PRO TIP: Be sure to give your wedding party specific guidelines for their outfits, beyond just their dress. Having consistent shoe color, nail color, and makeup styles really helps make the photos look polished and the entire group more seamless.

After hair and makeup, Heidi’s bridesmaids stepped outside to prepare for a special first look while Heidi got into her wedding dress with help from her mom. The dress had a lace bodice that balanced sophistication and a hint of modern flair. Her bridesmaids’ reactions during the first look were full of joy and emotion, a sweet moment that’s becoming a popular tradition.

Heidi then shared a private first look with Stephen, who couldn’t hold back his tears. Seeing each other before the ceremony gave them a chance to relax and enjoy a quiet moment together.

Although it used to be taboo to see your partner before the ceremony, more and more couples have opted for a first look to allow for a private intimate moment together away from the crowd.

PRO TIP: If you are getting married at a public venue like a resort, be sure to have someone "standing guard" during your first look. Nothing ruins the moment more than seeing Nosey Nellys poking their faces between the bushes.

THE CEREMONY: A DESERT DREAM COME TRUE

As guests entered the ceremony space, they were welcomed with the beautiful acoustic sounds of the The Encore Quartet which continued throughout the ceremony, adding an elevated and sophisticated touch that prerecorded tracks just cannot replicate.

With the mountains and cacti acting as a scenic desert backdrop, the pastel bouquets and asymmetrical floral arch added the perfect touch of softness.

Filled with smiles and happy tears, no one could have envisioned a more beautiful ceremony, ending with a picture-perfect dip and kiss that had everyone cheering

PRO TIP: During the rehearsal, be sure to remind your officiant to step off to the side during the first kiss so that they are not awkwardly in between you in the photos.

COCKTAIL HOUR: BITES & BURROS

During cocktail hour, guests enjoyed appetizers like petite grilled cheese with tomato soup sips and goat cheese tarts with chives and peppered jam. Staying authentic to the Phoenix landscape, the bar also served desert-inspired cocktails, including prickly pear margaritas, which is the staple cactus in Arizona. Cave Creek Beer Burro added a fun and local touch, acting as the most precious bartender you could ever imagine. These adorable donkeys come adorned with flowers and saddle bags filled with drinks, bringing a unique and playful element, making for unforgettable photos and tons of guest interaction.

THE RECEPTION: MOUNTAIN VIEWS FROM THE TERRACE

After cocktail hour, guests were directed to the terrace where they marveled at an even more incredible view of the mountains.

The table designs featured pastel flowers and colorful fruit accents. The centerpieces added a fresh and whimsical vibe, providing a soft balance to the desert landscape. Pink candles added warmth to the tables, creating a welcoming vibe. Contrary to the typical sea of all white and silver expected at resort weddings, we continued with the small touches of added color and texture in the glassware, candles, flatware, and charger plates.

PRO TIP: Never let your ceremony flowers go to waste! Let them have more than 30 minutes to shine by repurposing them for your reception! Use your aisle arrangements to adorn your sweetheart table and even ask your venue or florist if they would be able to move your arch to act as a backdrop.

After indulging in a menu of black truffle-herb chicken, filet of beef, and lemon herb crusted sea bass; guests forced room for dessert once their eyes caught the mountain of options. Not wanting to choose between a traditional cake and a dessert bar, we chose to offer both, giving guests plenty to choose from! Working with A Bakeshop, Heidi and Stephen opted for a two-tier lemon raspberry cutting cake alongside a plethora of mini treats including lemon bars, salted caramel cheesecakes, banana cream pies, cannolis, and tiramisu parfaits. And, of course, a wedding in the Phoenix desert would not be complete without cactus shaped cookies!

THE AFTER PARTY: a reception so good, it deserves an encore

All Pro DJ kept the dance floor lively throughout the night. After an amazing reception filled with heartwarming toasts, an iconic bouquet toss, and unforgettable dance moves, the reception ended with a grand exit and another perfectly executed dip and kiss. But the night wasn't over yet! For those wanting to keep the party going, an after-party was hosted in the resort's ballroom featuring live music from Lucky Devils Band, a photo booth, and an iconic dress change from the bride.

PRO TIP: When planning your grand exit, always check with your venue to see if they have any restrictions. Not every venue allows sparklers which are a very popular choice, so consider alternates like ribbon wands, glow sticks, or bubbles.

Heidi and Stephen’s wedding showed how personal touches and thoughtful details can make a wedding memorable. The guest experience was considered in every detail. Their day was filled with meaningful moments, fun surprises, and a whole lot of love.

WRITTEN BY: Krystal Gardenia, Gardenia Weddings

@gardeniaweddings