Jennifer + Nick hail from Los Angeles. When starting to plan their wedding, they knew they wanted to get out of town for their big day, and celebrate with their closest friends and family in their casual style. With the help of their event planner Lavender Grey Events, they chose Las Vegas because of the fun, carefree atmosphere. The couple and their friends stayed on the Strip at the Venetian (where Jen got ready for the wedding day) so they could get that true Vegas, glam experience, but chose to have their wedding off the Strip at one of Vegas’ best kept secrets – the Springs Preserve. It’s part eco-museum, part botanical gardens, with hiking trails, a butterfly habitat, rows of desert cactus, and a cafe with views of the city skyline.
Jen + Nick did a truly joyous first look with each, and she did a truly emotional first look with her dad. The couple said “I do” at the floral-draped garden arboretum and after kissing, they surprised their guests by dancing their way back down the aisle to “Now That We Found Love” by Heavy D. Guests kicked off the party at cocktail hour, while I took the couple around for some dusk photos in the cactus garden. Their ceremony was in the Divine Cafe, the restaurant within Springs Preserve. Tables were set with blush, cream, and wine colored florals with pillar candles and gold votives. Marquee letters on the balcony spelled their names, and guests enjoyed the city view underneath the bistro lights. After a first dance full of laughter, three buffet stations opened up with foods that the couple loves – sliders, Chinese take-out, and mac n’ cheese. Instead of a traditional cake cutting, Jen + Nick opted for something different – a pie cart! Miniature pies of all flavors were available for gobbling up.
Highlights of the night include a special Happy Birthday song and cake presented to the bride’s sister/Maid of Honor. It happened to be her birthday as well, but she was gracious enough to lend the day to her sister. The sisters also did a surprise choreographed dance to their favorite party songs, including Beyonce and Backstreet Boys, during which their guests went wild! These people knew how to dance, and I’ve included some shots of their amazing moves below! It was a truly memorable, laughter-filled destination wedding. Thanks for choosing me to capture your memories, Jen + Nick!
Venue: Springs Preserve | Event Planner: Lavender Grey Events | Floral: Layers of Lovely | Caterer: DiVine Events | Bride’s Dress: Casablanca Bridal | Groom’s Suit: Klein, Epstein & Parker | Linens: La Taviola Linens | Lighting & Marquee Letters: LED Unplugged | DJ: Redshoe | Hair: Melissa Firestone | Makeup: Sin City Makeup | Officiant: Yellowbird Wedding | Bakery: Pies Unlimited | Photobooth: Shutterbooth
