Talk about a whirlwind wedding week! Elizabeth and Andrew’s marvelous several days were jam-packed from morning until late evening for days with happy activities with their family and friends. This wonderful couple loves each other so much. And when they decided to marry, one of their biggest wishes was to provide a marvelous time for all. And a marvelous time it was! Vegas, wedding and honeymoon capital of the world, was the right choice with 24 hours around the clock things to do!
One of the first events they scheduled with us was a photo shoot at the Neon Museum the day before their wedding! Elizabeth wore the cutest pair of sunglasses we have ever seen, we could gush on those sunglasses. Bright bold lipstick, a deliciously, lovely dress from BHLDN, and sassy shoes completed her attire (Hayden by Jewel Badgley Mischka). Andrew had found the most beautiful gold tie. Andrew has a marvelously chill attitude toward life. He is her rock, and her strength and she is the spice which flavors his world. The Neon Museum with its iconic signs from old hotel and casinos was the perfect setting for the chic couple. Posing among the old Neon signs brought out their playful side, and judging from the big smiles, they seemed to have a great time there.
The next day was the big ceremony and celebration day at the fabulous Valley of Fire. Music for the wedding was provided by skilled, classical guitarist, Michael Lucarelli. Michael has played for many prominent events, and dignitaries. We loved the atmosphere he provided through music. Valley of Fire lends itself to music very well, especially guitar and acoustical strings.
Andrew and Elizabeth were the perfect examples of the word union. They were blending two cultures, unique and special to each of them. Elizabeth’s father performed the touching ceremony and included examples of the couples love for each other, as well as the admirable qualities each possessed, as seen from each others perspective. This ceremony blended elements of Elizabeth’s Jewish culture, standing under a Chuppah, including the crushing of the glass by Andrew, and a hearty Mazel Tov!
Next, there was a lovely Thai Water Ceremony highlighting Andrew’s background and culture, which included specially obtained holy water from monks. In this ceremony, the bride and groom were each adorned with a circle of pearl beads on their heads which were joined together with string, signifying being joined as husband and wife. They each had small streams of holy water poured over their hands by parents, family, and friends, while good wishes and blessings were spoken to them. A special set of gold artifacts are used in the symbolic ceremony, including a golden conch shell to hold the blessed water as it is poured. Afterward, colorful dried flowers collected by Elizabeth’s aunt’s glorious flower garden were showered on the couple as they walked down the aisle. We loved these little personal touches of love from family. The wonderful feelings of love and friendship permeated this wedding. It seemed an exotic blend of cultures, amid the red striking scenery of the stunning Valley of Fire. With a coffee bar and appetizer table by SweetSauce Coffee, it was truly a desert party. Later, a bus loaded with wedding guests took a brief driving tour of different sites within the park. It is a spectacular sight not to be missed.
What a joy to be a part of this unique union. We wish you all the happiness in the world, Andrew & Elizabeth!
Wedding Vendors:
All inclusive Planning: Cactus and Lace Weddings
Location: Valley of Fire – Seven Sisters
Cake and Cupcakes: Peridot Sweets
Flowers: The Front Porch Flowers
Coffee Bar and Appetizer Table: Sweet Sauce Coffee
Cake Topper: Glitter Paper Scissors
Hair and Makeup: Ruby Finch Salon
Rentals: RSVP Rentals
Guitarist: Michael Lucarelli
Transportation: Earth Limos
Photography: Lory Fabbi and Rachel Garcia of Cactus and Lace Weddings