Taylor & Kevin // Viola's Flower Garden Flagstaff Wedding

I was finally able to film at Viola’s Flower Garden in Flagstaff, AZ. It was as dreamy as I hoped it would be. The flowers are just unbelievable. The grounds provide both beautiful, natural forest and the incredible nursery area. The ceremony location is ideal, there is a full kitchen, and there was plenty of space to dance.

I would happily film at Viola’s every weekend.

Taylor had a sweet first look with her dad in the ponderosas. There is something so tender about a dad seeing his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time. Kevin also couldn’t wait to see Taylor walk down the aisle, and I loved the anticipation of that moment. There was a huge supply of love and support for Taylor and Kevin, and it was a joy to film their wedding.

Oh, and Fat Olives catered this wedding and it was some of my favorite food I’ve ever eaten at a wedding. They even sent me home with a personal pan pizza.

BTS photo by the talented Monica Saatay.

Bridget & Nick // Enchantment Resort Wedding

Bridget and Nick had quite the wedding day. They got ready separately at the lovely Enchantment Resort. Bridget with her ladies, blaring Taylor Swift, and Nick with his best man and future brothers in law. Once everyone was ready, we all headed into 4x4 vehicles, I think there were 5, and caravanned up to Merry Go Round Rock. It takes a good chunk of time as this road is ridiculously bumpy. Once we got up the mountain, Bridget and Nick had their first touch on the side of the Jeep. We then got Nick to the cliffside for the ceremony. He was so excited to see her and the anticipation had really been built up. I love this part of the film!

It was extremely windy that day. Extremely. Sand was blowing in our eyes, hair was going crazy, and I kept blowing dust off the front of my lens. We were trying to see if it would die down, but it soon became clear that it definitely wasn’t going to, so the show went on. I swear this was the windiest spring! Thank goodness for my lapel mics so I could ensure high quality audio.

After their beautiful ceremony, Nick and Bridget had the greatest celebratory cheer- another of my favorite parts. Lucas flew drone during the portrait session and amazingly was able to get footage with 50 mph guests. After the sunset we headed down the mountain and back to Enchantment for the reception.

Bridget is a ray of sunshine full of laughter and life. Nick was so kind and loving. Together, their joy was contagious. Congratulations Nick and Bridget. Full film above, preview below.

Cynthia & John // Grand Canyon and Flagstaff Elopement {Flagstaff Elopement Videographer}

Cynthia and John had wedding plans destroyed by COVID. They were supposed to get married in 2020 in Flagstaff, AZ at a church, but it was cancelled. And in the long run, despite the heartache, they were grateful their wedding turned out like it did. Cynthia grew up at the south rim of the Grand Canyon. She returned there to work dispatch at the Grand Canyon airport. John is a commercial pilot. One day he was flying into Grand Canyon airport and spoke to a woman through dispatch. The woman was Cynthia. Shortly after, they met face to face in the airport and John was struck by her beauty. Eventually they saw each other in the airport again, exchanged SnapChats, shared pizza on the rim at sunset, and the rest is history. You can’t make this stuff up.

After their original wedding was cancelled, they decided to reschedule with a smaller wedding. The new plan was to fly from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon with John as pilot. The day of the wedding was extremely windy, so we decided to head to the Flagstaff airport to take photos and video with John’s plane, and then drive to the Grand Canyon. I was a little disappointed not to be flying there, but after seeing the size of the plane and feeling the 40-50 mile an hour gusts, I was just fine with the decision— especially after Cynthia told me she even gets sick when it’s that windy.

We drove together to the South Rim, picked up a pizza at We Cook, the same place they shared pizza from on their first date, and headed to a fabulous viewpoint. We met officiant Jen Paul from Life Passages, along with photographer Dalaney Mason (a fab Prescott based photographer).

The ceremony was intimate and lovely with gorgeous views. After the ceremony, Cynthia’s favorite bird, a California condor, flew over us. I’ve been to the Grand Canyon countless times, and this was my first time seeing one at the south rim. It really felt meant to be- magic.

Full film above, preview below. BTS photos from Dalaney Mason.

Sarah & Dalton Oak Creek Wedding // Flagstaff and Sedona Videographer

Sarah and Dalton had a beautiful wedding at a private residence in Oak Creek Canyon. Sarah grew up coming to this beautiful creek side house, and its lush greenery, unique architecture and cliff views were gorgeous.

A highlight from this wedding was the pocket watch. Sarah gave Dalton a pocket watch for his wedding gift, and when he opened it, he was so excited. He couldn’t believe it and said something like “a pocket watch so I can be a gentleman!” Even funnier, he kept calling it a pocket square, which made Hailey Golich, the photographer and his best man laugh repeatedly.

A second highlight was Sarah and her dad’s walk down the aisle. They didn’t just walk, but danced down the aisle, and it brought a great energy to the wedding. Congratulations Sarah and Dalton! Full film above, preview below.

Grand Canyon Rentals Adventures Commercial Shoot // Flagstaff Commercial Videographer

I headed to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon to Tusayan to film for Grand Canyon Rentals Adventures. They are a Polaris outfitter that rents side by sides to explore the dirt roads in the Kaibab National Forest near the Grand Canyon. Customers can also drive their side by side into Grand Canyon National Park to take in the incredible views. It is a fantastic adventure. These side by sides have top notch shocks and give a smooth ride. The GPS makes it impossible to get lost, and there are miles of dirt roads to explore.

John, the owner of G.C. Rentals Adventures wanted to create a film that showcases the customer experience. Customers often ask what their storefront looks like, how they can load their snacks, if there are coolers, safety equipment, GPS, helmets, goggles, etc. This video answers all these questions and will give potential customers the confidence they need to book their reservation. In addition to this video, I created shorter versions, perfect for reels and stories.

I loved this experience, and we are planning a future shoot to showcase their overnight camping trips.

Amanda & Kenny // Red Agave Adventure Resort Wedding

Amanda and Kenny’s wedding was a total blast. Her dad officiated and quoted Bob Marley; we went on a good 2 mile hike after the ceremony; their first dance was to this amazing song called All My Love by Stick Figure that I’ve been listening to daily ever since; their bridal party was an incredibly supportive, beautiful, and fun bunch.

Amanda was also one of the most humble people I’ve ever met. She’s going to serve and love people for the rest of her life- it’s clear. I often wish my brides lived in Flagstaff so they could become my new adventure buddies. So much love to these two! Full film above, preview below.

Kathryn & Sam // Desert Botanical Garden Wedding

I don’t think I’ll ever forget how Sam promised to follow Kathryn down black diamonds (even if he’s not sure if it’s a good idea) and to call each day on the way home from work. Kathryn promised to keep OJ in the fridge, gummies in the pantry, and to go on beach vacations (even if they’re not her thing). I also loved how in the toasts, both families mentioned how competitive the other is at board games. We’re talking ultra competitive.

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix was a phenomenal venue, and I absolutely hope I get to film here again. The way the saguaros were lit at night, the great outdoor dance floor (which they tore up), and the lovely ceremony spot…a southern AZ dream.

Preview above, full film below.

Jessica & Andy 2.0 // Red Agave Resort in Sedona

I filmed Jessica and Andy’s May the 4th elopement in 2020. COVID was going in full force and we didn’t know what the future would bring. Jessica and Andy are both residents living in different parts of the country. They had their wedding planned for May the 4th at Red Agave in Sedona. They decided not cancel, but to elope instead, because that date was extremely important to them, as was being married living so far apart. Their elopement was beautiful— click here to see.

When it became clear that most of their friends and family would not be able to attend, the plan was always to come back to Red Agave with their family and friends. They made it happen, and it was incredible. Jessica was finally able to get her dress which had been stuck overseas, and to my delight, Brutus, their fabulous dog came to walk down the aisle for the second time. Congrats you two! Preview above, full film below.

Moab Whispering Oaks Wedding // Delane & James

Delane and James came from North Carolina to get married in Moab, Utah. They had planned to get married in Arches National Park, but if you’ve been to Moab in the last few years, you know how incredibly packed it can get. The day before their wedding, Arches reached max capacity during the day and the NPS was restricting entry. Last minute changes were made and permits acquired, and instead of getting married in the national park, they were married at an equally beautiful spot on BLM land.

One unforgettable moment from this wedding was the cake cutting. Right after they put the slice on the plate, Delane grabbed a handful and smashed the cake in his face (see pic below). It was a bit shocking and hilarious.

I also loved watching the kids dance with their dad and new step mom. It’s a beautiful thing when families are blended. So much love to you, Delane and James!

Amber & Justin Hoodoo Moab Wedding {Destination Wedding Videographer}

I had the opportunity to return to Moab, Utah to film two back to back weddings. Moab has a huge place in my heart, as I lived there for over 9 years. I love going back, as it is where I worked for the National Park Service and where I began my videography career. I spent endless days on the trails and in the rivers and truly love it.

Amber and Justin road tripped from Arkansas to get married at this incredible location. I’m pretty sure they hit some crazy spring blizzard in New Mexico, so we were all relieved when they arrived safely. Come to think of it, I hit a gnarly blizzard on the Navajo reservation on my drive too. March has the most unpredictable weather!

The reception after the ceremony was at Hoodoo Moab, which was under construction when I moved to Flagstaff. It was a lovely location for all the family and friends together and celebrate and for everyone to rock out to their favorite country jams. Amber changed into the most glamorous white jumpsuit for the reception and was a master at the air fiddle. I’m so grateful to meet such incredible people from all around the country. Full film above, preview below.

Sarah + Marcus Sedona Elopement // Sedona Elopement Videographer

Sarah and Marcus eloped at the base of Bell Rock with their parents. Sarah’s brother was the officiant. I especially loved at the end when he said “You may now kiss my sister.” After a beautiful ceremony— seriously those views get me every time— we said goodbye to the family and headed over to Cathedral Rock. The parking was absolutely insane. Luckily we were all able to get dropped off, but it took a lot of logistics to make that happen. We grabbed a few shots near the base of the trail, and then Sarah hid behind a tree to change from her wedding dress and shoes into hiking clothes. We huffed and puffed it up the trail, where Sarah changed back into her dress. It’s pretty incredible how quickly she got all this done, and how flawless she looked back in her gown at the top of the cliffs.

Cathedral Rock was very busy, however, the hikers were all so kind and incredibly excited to see a bride and groom. They were very respectful and cheered them on as we got our shots. The sunset was gorgeous. This spot, despite the crowds and limited parking, never disappoints.

The photographer at this wedding was Danielle Holman. She is wonderful to work with! Preview above, full film below.

Alyssa & Zack L'Auberge de Sedona Wedding // Sedona & Flagstaff Wedding Videographer

Alyssa and Zack had a beautiful micro wedding at L’Auberge de Sedona. They were married on the Spirit Song Terrace with a gorgeous reception near the creek. Every single detail—from the invitations to the place settings—was absolutely lovely.

Alyssa and Zack are high school sweethearts. They met in Spanish class (he was the class clown), were a little off and on, but then ON for good. They spent time apart while Zack served in the Air Force, which only made their love grow stronger. Both of their mothers gave lovely speeches, and their first dance against the stunning setting was absolutely beautiful. Also, I am in love with the sleeves of her gown. When I was in high school, I wore my mom’s high school graduation dress. It was white, knee length, and had bell sleeves. I loved that dress and am wondering where it is now…

So much love to Alyssa and Zack! Full film above, preview below.

Jennifer & David Snowy Sky Ranch Lodge Wedding // Sedona Wedding Videographer

Where to begin with this wedding? We all knew it was likely going to snow on Jennifer and David’s wedding. The day predicted 80-90% chance of snow, 1-3 inches in Sedona. On my drive from Flagstaff to Sedona, it snowed the entire time, but wasn’t accumulating much. I didn’t feel too worried about it because I drive in snow all the time, and 1-3 inches isn’t that much for Flagstaff standards. I wasn’t stressed at all and was sure I’d be home with my family that night. Ha ha.

As soon as I arrived at Sky Ranch Lodge to film Jennifer getting ready, it started snowing a lot harder. Jennifer remained calm and was grateful Stevy Fletcher the photographer, and I were there. I think she kind of worried we wouldn’t show up because of the weather, which never crossed my mind! It snowed while she put on her dress and final details, but then suddenly stopped snowing. Then I saw a warning on my weather app that said “SNOW SQUALL WARNING.” I asked Stevy- what the heck is a snow squall?

As I started setting up my tripods for the ceremony and as the guests sat down, I suddenly understood what it was. We could see a white wall coming towards us from off the Mogollon Rim. The ceremony started with a few flurries but 10 minutes in, it started snowing HARD. They weren’t snow flakes but little hard balls of snow. The visibility went down between my cameras and Jennifer and David, it was snowing so much. The snow accumulated on David’s suit, and on my cameras. However, Jennifer and David smiled through it. The officiant asked if he should cut it short, and they both said, nope! What resulted was an unforgettable ceremony, and I learned that my cameras can take more snow than I thought. Thanks goodness.

There rest of the wedding went on without a hitch- thanks goodness for the large tent at the venue! However it kept snowing. Soon we learned that the 89 and I-17 were shut down, and as vendors, we were stranded in Sedona. Sky Ranch Lodge put Stevy, her second Taylor, and I in a room for free, which was so generous. Stevy even let me borrow a pair of sweats to sleep in, that saint! Huge congratulations to Jennifer and David, and huge props to them for loving their best day ever, come what may.

Full film above, preview below.

Nina & Tyler Agave of Sedona Wedding {Sedona Wedding Videographer}

Everything came together for Nina and Tyler’s beautiful Sedona wedding. Nina is an RN and has been on the frontlines caring for COVID patients this last year. Tyler has been by her side supporting her through it all and working hard in the paving industry. This power couple is hilarious, kind and completely in love. I was so happy they could have friends and family gather around, many of them fully vaccinated. It’s a joy to watch loved ones celebrate after such a tumultuous year.

I loved being back at Agave of Sedona for the first time since March 2020. Shooting with Victoria from White Desert Photography is always a joy. I also brought along Jen Sawyer as my second shooter along with her sister Rachael, an excellent drone pilot. The wedding was planned by Casey Green Weddings, and she is the queen of the best timelines ever. Live music and entertainment was provided by Lucky Devils Band. It had been far too long since I’ve heard live music. This year, spring feels more amazing than ever. Full film above, preview below.

Kellie + Erich Sedona Elopement // Sedona Flagstaff Wedding Videographer

Kellie and Erich eloped in the afternoon with their family and a wonderfully warm spring day. There were two things I’ll never forget about their ceremony. First, Erich wrote Kellie a song and performed it for her. It was intimate, vulnerable and lovely. It is the first time I’ve had someone sing to their partner during the ceremony and it had us all swooning. The second thing that knocked my socks off were the words that Kellie spoke. She wrote these incredible vows comparing the rugged landscape of the Colorado Plateau to their love—about how it will stand through the tests of time. She also said she would love him similar to how mother earth loves- by nurturing and helping him to grow. It’s moments like this that I believe in the power of video more than ever. They will be able to hear the song, hear the vows, and see themselves moving on the Colorado Plateau forever.

After the ceremony, we left their family, climbed in Hailey Golich’s 4Runner and adventured to an amazing location for sunset. Hailey is an incredible photographer and great driver. She’s one of the very best. Congratulation Kellie and Erich! Full film above, sneak peek below.