There are some people who come into your world and brighten it instantaneously. Like the sun. They shine… so brightly… and you can’t help but want to be in their presence. I recently had the honor to be-friend and photograph the wedding of two such people.

From the first time I spoke with Maggie, I knew we were going to be fast friends. She is so sweet and joyful and down-to-earth, and soon we were chatting like we knew each other for years! Then I found out she is a manager at Dutch Brothers and…. Aaaahhahhhhhh!…. Well, that just sealed the deal. Anyone associated with my favorite coffee company is A-OK in my book!! Haha! Maggie is just like the gorgeous sunflowers she carried on her wedding day. She is tall and bright and welcoming. She brings happiness, cheer, and hope to all who gaze upon her. You just want to take her with you everywhere. And she pairs perfectly with a bottle of beer! (Shameless sunflower seed reference… hahaha!) And Chad is a handsome, funny, down-home, a-little-goofy-in-the-best-way, boy-next-door, little-bit-country type with a smile that will make your heart melt.

When I officially “met” with Maggie and Chad, I fell in love with them! They are high-school sweethearts, and are just adorable together. Their smiles and laughter and ability to have a good time is so infectious. They’re the kind of people you invite to your party because you know they’ll make it fun! I just can’t get enough of these two, and from the day we met I couldn’t wait for their wedding!

And it was all I expected it would be and more! It was sweet and romantic and beautiful. And it was also relaxed and joyful and fun. The bridal party got ready at the AZ Grand Resort, so that’s were our day got off to an amazing start. Any time I get to photograph gorgeous, fun-loving people in courtyards with ivy-covered arches…. Aahh, it makes me giddy!  I couldn’t have asked for a more awesome group of people in such an awesome setting. For the ceremony and reception, we took a quick trip up the hill to Rustlers Rooste. It’s a great venue with pretty lights, amazing views and a relaxed atmosphere and was the perfect spot for this party! The whole day was an absolute blast. When a bride says to you, “We have to get photos of me and my bridesmaids going down the slide!” you just know it’s going to be a good night! And was it ever! I didn’t want it to end! As their friends and family took in the city light views with the stars shining above, we snuck away for one last stunning photo of the newlyweds, and I think it was the perfect end to the perfect day.

Maggie and Chad, I absolutely adore you guys! Thank you for allowing me to capture your amazing wedding.  I know that your relationship will continue to be bold and resilient, and your love will grow stronger every day as you shine your light upon each other. Look to each other, and even on the darkest days, you will stand tall and find the sunlight! Every time I see a sunflower, I will think of you!  So much love, my friends!! 💕

©Mindy Deluca, Life Story Photography.

Maggie+Chad

The GEAR used for this Wedding:

Nikon D750

Nikon D610

Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8

Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8

Nikon 50mm f/1.4

Nikon 60mm f/2.8

Nikon 85mm f/1.8

Yongnuou 560iv Speedlights

Yongnuou 560-tx and 622nll Controllers

Nikon SB-800 Speedlights

MagMod Grids, Gels, and Sphere