Have you ever met a couple so much in love you could feel the sweetness of their relationship like it was a living, breathing thing? Virginia and Luis  are such a couple, and the wonderful and joyful emotions so evident during their Valley of Fire elopement had such an impact on us. The site they were married at is called simply, “The Cabins”. Surrounded by the most amazing red vistas, and nestled against the ancient rock formations, the cabins blend right into the deep red rocks. The cabins were built by the CCC in the 1930’s to provide shelter for the Civilian Conservation Corps, a program to help men get to work during the depression. They are sturdy, and built from the native rock and sandstone so available in this part of the Mojave Desert. Fiery red, they have stood the test of time, and have with stood the harsh weather and storms.  They are a fitting place for the beginnings of a new life together. Virginia and Luis’ amazing story fits well. They met in South America of all places, Luis a native South American, and Virginia, an American. As luck would have it, they were introduced at a party, and everyone was surprised at the speed their friendship grew, and then their courtship became like the desert whirlwinds. Sometimes loves blooms slowly, and takes its time, other times, there is a strong force that seems to be driving that relationship. This couple touched us deeply because their love was so strong, and had such sweetness and honesty in it, we were hardly able to not cry ourselves, watching that love just stream out of their faces. We were not alone, there were all kinds of tears, streaming down the faces of many present. You could just feel it, raw,  strong, honest. Love for each other. Love built on bedrock, able to stand the strong winds that may blow into their lives, with fire and passion, as well as tenderness. Luis couldn’t stop looking at Virginia, and she at him. The vows they read to each other, the way he held her hand, and helped her over rocks, and hills, the way she looked at him with her whole soul. So sweet. The Valley of Fire, just the place to begin their lives together, surrounded by family, and friends, and the occasional hawk soaring overhead. Virginia and Luis, it was an honor. We are so grateful for the opportunity to have been able to create something beautiful for you both.  Our very best wishes from all of us here at Cactus and Lace Weddings. Thanks also to Victoria of Flora Pop for her lovely officiating; Gimme Some Sugar for the stunningly delicious gold and white ruffled red velvet cake (oh my oh my was it delicious!) our favorite limo company Presidential Limo; and The Front Porch Flowers with Charlene Udall and her fantastic team of florists, who created a stunning bouquet of Blushing Bride pink roses, with succulents,  Brasila accents, and seeded eucalyptus. Gorgeous flowers, gorgeous setting, created with all our love for Virginia and Luis. Gracias and saludos!