Maybe it was the intimacy of their day or the beauty that’s seen of the valley glowing for miles into the horizon. Either way, Ashlee and Alex’s elopement centered on their love for each other and having their family and friends there to celebrate this love. It was a simple, laid back vibe, but it was obvious how these two were meant for each other. Not only was their boho stylish elopement charming with the added bonus of the breathtaking setting, but it was inspiring to see yet another couple prevail through Covid-19.
A few simple, yet powerful words the bride and groom said, “Sacred, beautiful, majestic, emotional, loving, authentic, present.”
The proposal occurred on Easter Sunday, April 12th. Alex had unexpectedly received the engagement ring early. It was shipped overnight on Thursday, April 9th. He wasn’t expecting to receive it for another 2-3 months. Once he received it, he immediately felt this sense of wanting to do it on Easter (which was only 3 days away)- this was a surprise to hear because he is typically a huge planner that will think through things for a long time. It was Easter, and we had a small hike planned. I thought nothing of this because it is something we typically would do. That morning Alex went to my favorite coffee shop, Sunrise Coffee, and got me my favorite drink with a croissant. White Rock within the Willow Springs Loop outside of Red Rock is where it all happened! Alex had planned for a friend to capture the proposal moment, but he ended up being on the wrong trail, and we also got lost on the way back. So, the actual proposal turned into an intimate moment just between Alex and I. Something I will remember forever!
We always envisioned a small and intimate ceremony (ironic that we chose Seven Sisters after seven years of dating!?) This complemented our introverted natures without wanting to be in the spotlight. Also, we both love being outdoors. We immediately fell in love with the deep red hue of Valley of Fire. Finally, we wanted things to be simple and not overly complex with numerous moving parts. All of this came together brilliantly under the guidance of Elopement Las Vegas.
This was difficult given the COVID environment. However, we would continue to come back to the fundamental question, “What is authentic for us?” We had to be flexible as well. We would try one thing, but it would not be possible due to COVID. Ultimately, we would get an idea, and then come together to see if we could make it happen. It also helped that we honored a shorter engagement – 5 months – and knew it wanted to keep things simple. So, it kept our planning process straightforward.
As soon as we found out we got the permit at Valley of Fire, I immediately knew I wanted the theme to be boho chic! My dress is from ASOS, and not your typical wedding dress, but I knew it would pop next to the red rock! I also went with white cowboy boots to avoid heels out in the desert. This made my life so much easier! Once we figured out the theme, we knew we wanted Alex to go a different route than the typical tux as well. We decided on a bow tie and suspenders with desert boots! Overall, we wanted to straddle the line between being formal but also laid back!
Our first look offered an intimate moment in time away from the wedding party before the ceremony. As I started walking down the aisle with watery eyes, that in turn made Alex’ eyes swell up from the beginning of the ceremony, too. Pastor Scott sharing, “I want you two to be at your own wedding” as he started his message. The sharing of our personal vows that made us both emotional by wearing our hearts on our sleeve. Our first dance in which we both got lost in the moment for a brief time.
GO THROUGH ELOPEMENT OF LAS VEGAS! Seriously, this provided so much peace the day of the ceremony by knowing their masterful coordination. Please remember – it is YOUR day. So, plan a ceremony that is authentic for you as a couple and do not concern yourself with the expectations of those around you. To be present and not to worry about the small details. You are there to be married to the person you will get to do life with, and everyone is there to celebrate you two – that is what matters most. To not take ourselves too seriously and have fun!
Feel and Focus Photography captured the energy of the day and the sweet moments.
We have three different packages to choose from, please email us for a custom quote! We can’t wait to make your Las Vegas elopement dreams come true!