John and Maya’s sunflower wedding day started early on a smoke filled morning in the Gila Valley. The sun was just a red ball through the smoke from the California fires. It kept the temperatures lower, which is never a complaint in southern Arizona!

The day started early for us at Maya’s home where she got ready in what was her room growing up (now a younger sister’s room that she graciously gave up for Maya’s getting ready area). I loved getting to photograph Maya’s sunflower themed details there where she grew up.

I LOVED the sunflowers, they were the perfect touch for an end of summer wedding! They complimented Maya’s gold hair perfectly (just wait until you see the flower crown she wore)!

Maya’s mother and aunt worked together on her hair and makeup while her sisters looked on and chatted from the bed.

Once ever flower was in place, we headed over to the Gila Valley Temple where we would have their First Look before they went in for their wedding ceremony.

The First Look

John was not nervous at all, just excited to see his bride and get married. He had such a calm feeling and was great to work with.

We got Maya set up as John’s back was turned and snapped this shot for him. I love getting a shot of what the groom’s first glimpse of his bride is so they can always have that moment caught for them.

Following the First Look we spent a few minutes grabbing some portraits.

See? Even with smoke in the air, the light was glowing and perfect!

The Temple Exit

Photography is not permitted in temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, so I love to take that time to wander the grounds, snap some photos of the temple, and photograph the landscaping (these go in a folder in the bride and groom’s gallery that are especially good for prints for their home that aren’t specifically wedding related).

And then, Mr. and Mrs. Lunt came out the doors!

Following the family formal photos, we grabbed a few quick Just Married photos for them!

These two are so cute! SO CUTE! I love the way they make each other smile!

See?! What did I tell you?! Her hair with the sunflowers and the flower crown is the perfect combination. I loved it all so much!

Sunflower Ring Ceremony and Reception

With the pandemic, the number of family that were allowed to attend their ceremony was very limited. To be able to have more of their loved ones present they decided to hold a ring ceremony just before their backyard reception.

Following the ring ceremony the guests were all invited to the gorgeous reception area the families had worked to decorate themselves. It was beautiful and all so fun!

Those hand pies were INCREDIBLE!

John and Maya, thank you so much for inviting me to be a part of your day! I loved watching your interactions with your family, getting to visit with your siblings, and be there to celebrate with you. You two have such a sweet and fun connection and I can’t wait to celebrate through the years with you!

Vendors and Creatives

FLORAS: Jewell Floral
CAKE: Brenda’s Sweet Spot
RECEPTION DESSERTS: Family and Friends
DRESS: June Bridals
RECEPTION RENTALS: Forever Sweet Wedding Rentals and Design