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We all have a picture in our mind whenever we hear Las Vegas wedding; yes, it does involve a bright sign behind. If you are a local or visitor searching for a Wild West adventure or unconventional locations in Nevada, I have the ultimate guide of unknow and Instagram worthy locations for your photo shoot. And do not get me wrong, I am a local, the lights and the city are in my bones, but not so many people get to see the other face of this beautiful place I call home, surrounded by National Parks, valleys, and canyons, a true wonder of nature.
Located a few miles west of Las Vegas, this National Conservation Area is known for its natural and geological richness. Red Rock Canyon offers breathtaking scenic views of red mountains, and depending on the season you choose to visit, trees can go from green to gray in the winter. One of the pros of this spot is that you can easily access it without climbing or hiking, perfect for brides. The best time of the year to visit is from fall to spring. Summer is only for the brave ones as temperatures range into the 100s.
Just northwest Las Vegas, you will find this 680-acre oasis. Your pictures will have lush foliage and vegetation, a calm lake, and a tree-filled view. This is an ideal location for a couple trying to get away from the classic Las Vegas pictures and neon lights. You will not believe you are still in the city.
Three miles west from the busyness of the city, you can find this hidden gem. With 180-acres of nature, you will find the right spot to take amazing pictures with your loved one. Ideal for couples that are looking to have some nature but more in the garden like way. It is easy to access and near the city. You can even celebrate your wedding there.
Are you feeling like taking a one-hour road trip to enter a unique State Park with 40,000 acres of red sandstone that provide the name of this fantastic place? Valley of fire has the ideal background for your wedding. Just imagine how much will your white dress stand out from that red scenery.
I always recommend these amazing places to have unique images of such a special day. You can also have some pictures taken in the classic Las Vegas-style, but give yourself the opportunity of scaping the city and enjoy the magic of this ancient location with over two thousand years of history. And remember that if you are looking for someone to capture your wedding, I would love to be part of your love story.
For more information about our services, call 725-220-7958
References
https://figwillowstudios.com/blog/2020/2/25/the-best-3-spots-to-do-engagement-photos-in-las-vegas
Elopements always remind me how spontaneous and magical love is. What is more romantic than taking a plane or a car and getting married in secret? And what better place to say I do than Las Vegas. From a classic chapel wedding to an out of traditional ceremony in the middle of the desert, Las Vegas has it all for your elopement. If you have made up your mind and decided to elope to this world-renowned city of neon signs, I have the ultimate guide for you.
We often only see the romantic part of escaping to get married in Vegas, but always keep in mind the formalities. If you are a visitor, you may prefer to do it legally at home and only have a symbolic ceremony where you can both exchange vows and express the love for each other without having to travel with documents and apply for a marriage license. But if you are a local or want to do it all in Las Vegas, here is what you need to know:
*Check with the local office for any other requirements.
Now, as you read before, you can get married pretty much anywhere you decide within the borders of the state of Nevada. The most obvious way to have a wedding in Las Vegas is at a chapel on the Strip. But that is not the only option. Here are my top picks for a dreamy elopement in Vegas.
Are you looking for a classic Las Vegas type of elopement? You are not to blame. I love those weddings, with a classic car in the background, neon signs, and the traditional picture at the Las Vegas sign. Here is a list of my favorites spots to say I do.
Home of legendary and historic neon signs from casinos and resorts, located right in the middle of the city, it is a perfect spot for a festive ceremony.
Before the Strip, there was the historic center of Las Vegas. You can find beautiful spots of the original gaming locations, the arts district full of street art and color, and of course, Fremont Street.
Iconic, that is the word to describe this boulevard. People around the world can easily recognize the Strip from pictures. If you are a big fan of this fantastic city, this is the best part of town for you.
Are you tired of the lights and the casinos? Las Vegas is much more than nightlife. With multiple State Parks and natural beauty around, you will find the perfect spot to escape and tie the knot.
Nelson’s ghost town is the best location for a themed wedding. Imagine old buildings, mining equipment, antique cars, old gas stations, and the desert all around. You will have unforgettable memories of this place.
Hit the road and enter a new scenery. This place offers snow in the winter and green views during spring. Perfect for couples that love the outdoors, hiking, trailing, biking, and even horse riding. You can plan your weekend elopement and stay at this unique oasis.
Wine in the desert? Yes, Nevada has its winery. You can say I do in a different location than the usual Strip and dessert. You can even stay and have dinner there. Make sure you bring your photographer to capture every moment.
Many couples forget this tiny and crucial part of eloping. When you organize a traditional wedding, you probably hire a photographer to capture the ceremony and the key events of the night. Why would you not do the same for your elopement? Keep in mind that if you decide to go completely solo, there will not be friends and family to take pictures or video of you while you say your vows. A wedding is always worth capturing, even if it is a two guest’s event.
References
https://elopementlasvegas.com/
Elopements are not for everyone, just like traditional weddings. Couples that find it hard to invest time and money organizing a big event for friends and family often decide to elope.
And that does not necessarily mean that friends and relatives are entirely out of the picture. I believe that is the beauty of elopements. You decide what to do, who to invite, and were to elope.
Las Vegas has been an ideal place to get married over a weekend without asking the whole family. It was the place to elope before eloping was a thing. Nowadays, you can do it the old way at a Chapel with Elvis as officiant, or you can do it in the desert and even camp there to disconnect from the city and routine. If Las Vegas is on your list of destinations to say I do, here are the ten best places to elope.
Of course, it is number one on this list. Everyone visits this town for its iconic boulevard. You can have your ceremony with the best view of your favorite Casino. Have a photoshoot thru the Strip and capture every moment of your big day. Just remember that our weather is a bit extreme. If you are planning an outdoor ceremony, avoid the hot summer and cold winter.
Loving those giant red rocks you saw on the road? Well, we have a 40,000 acres State Park filled with red sandstone, petroglyphs, and exotic flora. It is only an hour and a half away from the city. You can stay at a nice hotel and make the same day trip to this millenary spot to say I do. Again, I recommend avoiding the summer for this location, but if you are a local or feel like having a wedding in the summer is ideal, just bring lots of water.
Dreaming of a desert boho wedding? This magical mining town is located just two miles from the border between Nevada and California. It offers the best views for a bohemian-inspired wedding. With its canyons and sand dunes, you will feel like time just went back.
Not into nature or casinos? Well, there is always the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel. A casino free hotel that offers privacy and a distraction-free environment. Remember that eloping gives you the opportunity of investing in yourself as a couple. Instead of having a 200 guests’ reception, you can book a suite, have dinner at their fabulous restaurant, and traditionally celebrate your ceremony.
Want to escape the city but not leave it? Floyd Lamb Park is for you. This oasis offers a series of small lakes, views of the Sheep and Spring Mountains. Enjoy the green lawn, lakes, and cottonwood trees. This is an ideal way to have a different background without traveling too far.
References
If you plan to say I do in Las Vegas and do not know where to start or need some good advice, I have prepared a list of dos and don’ts for you to consider before your wedding. You have probably read all the articles but trust me, there is never too much information, especially coming from a local.
Chapel weddings are not as bad as they look in the movies. You can find an elegant place that includes it all for a reasonable price. And if you are looking to get away from the cliché, remember that Las Vegas offers impressive natural reserves, with unique views of valleys, canyons, and mountains. You will be surprised by the beauty of these locations.
Apply for your marriage license if you are planning on making it legal in Las Vegas. The couple should apply to a Clerk at a Clark County Marriage Bureau location, bring the required documents, and pay the fee. The license is suitable for a year.
Las Vegas is known for a couple of things; hot summers are one of them. Temperatures from June to September are on average around the 90s and can go higher. If you want a summer wedding, make it after the hottest hours or at an indoor location. Also, keep in mind that conventions, sports events, and music events happen all the time. It might be challenging to accommodate and move from one place to another during a big event weekend. Try to plan as much as possible.
It is a big mistake that I see often happens to brides. Even if it is a small event, you should look flawless. Hot days make it harder to maintain a perfect DIY makeup. Try to book in advance a professional hair and makeup artist. Many hotels offer this service, so you do not go blindly.
This advice goes for everyone that is planning a wedding. Finish your guest list as soon as possible so you can search for the right venue and accommodation. It also comes in handy if you need to book transportation from the ceremony to reception.
Las Vegas is a busy city. Depending on the date and hour, you might experience more traffic than usual. Significant events make it hard to circulate The Strip. So, my advice is, avoid having to go from A to B, prefer a venue that offers space for your ceremony and reception. If you must do it, leave a reasonable time frame for everyone to arrive on time.
Maybe you are too focused on the ceremony and did not have the time to plan what to do after. Please do not leave it on fortune. If you are having a destination wedding, you can offer a great dinner and entertain your guests. From a fancy dinner to a buffet, Las Vegas provides a significant number of options for newlyweds.
Yes, all those movies are there for a reason. Bachelor and Bachelorette parties and Las Vegas are like peanut butter and jelly. But they can often go wrong, and the last thing you want for your big day is hungover. Plan those activities for a couple of days before the wedding so you can be at your best.
This is the essential step to have a stress-free wedding. If you have professional vendors, you will have a minimum frame of failure. Yes, things can go wrong, but they will probably be little things. Please do your research before hiring them, meet them, and connect with them. Your vendors should clearly understand the vision you have for your wedding. Most Las Vegas vendors will be professional since our city hosts important events all year long. Make sure you feel comfortable with them.
Budget is the first thing any couple should do when planning a wedding. Your budget lets you know how many guests you can afford, what type of venue suits you, what kind of entertainment you need. You must have a real number. If you visit Las Vegas, you can get caught by the glamour, the party, and the machines. Please make sure you are on the same path when it comes to spending.
One of the most common regrets of couples after their wedding is not hiring a photographer to capture every moment of their big day. Weddings are unique events; they do not happen every year, like birthdays. And it takes months of planning, but they end so soon. Ensure you have a professional focused on getting the best pictures, do not leave this task to one of the guests. They will be too busy enjoying the party.
Weddings commonly last 6 to 8 hours. Three of them will be spent between ceremony, photoshoot, dinner, and speeches. And the rest of the time, you should be on the dance floor or only having fun. Weddings are remembered for how fun they were, not for the color of the napkins. Hire a great DJ or live music to make your wedding unforgettable.
You have been planning for months, investing your money, and the big day has finally arrived. Enjoy every moment of it, even the ones that did not go as planned. Your wedding is a once in a lifetime event. Make sure you take it all in and have fun.
It seems like a trend that has risen in popularity over the last years, but why do couples have these photo shoots? Are they worth it? Should you only stick to the wedding photos? Well, I find them very necessary, and here are some reasons why:
Weddings are sometimes overwhelming, couples have too much pressure on this day, and pictures often reflect that feeling. On the other hand, engagement photos reflect the romantic part of a team. You get to capture the before, the couple being themselves without a big dress to hold or carry, without the pressure of running to the reception. They are an excellent opportunity to have pictures of their day-to-day selves.
There are no rules for engagement photos. You can dress as you want, you get to choose the location, there are no poses involved. It is a moment where you and your partner can show the camera your complicity and the reason why you are taking this big step. Having this session will also break the ice between your photographer and you.
Yes! What better way to celebrate your engagement than having your hair and makeup done, dressing nice, and going to a breathtaking location. After taking your photos, you can stay and enjoy the evening or even spend the night and have a weekend getaway.
You can use your beautiful and professionally taken pictures to post them on your wedding website, you save the date announcement, and they can even be at the entrance of your reception or sliding at your rehearsal dinner.
If you have made up your mind and want to have your engagement photos taken, here are some tips for you to have the perfect photoshoot.
Sit down and talk about how you imagine your pictures, what you enjoy doing together. This will narrow the possibilities. For example, a couple that met on the beach and enjoyed the sand and the water will probably feel more comfortable there than in the middle of the city. If you are a hiking couple, choose accordingly. Once you agree on the location or the overall mood, you can start planning your outfits.
You will have plenty of time to be uncomfortable with your wedding dress. For your engagement session, you should look more like your everyday self. You can match tones and colors to have harmony in the images. Remember the background when picking your outfit.
I am all in for spontaneity, but you should also search for some inspiration. For example, see what poses you like and feel comfortable with. Remember to save them or share them with your photographer to make sure he captures them.
If you are planning on having engagement photos, you should hire a professional wedding photographer. He can guide you and suggest some themes or locations. That is the pro of hiring a local. He will know the best spots in town. Also, consider hiring a professional hair and makeup artist. Even if you are not a big fan of makeup, professional makeup looks much better on camera.
Talk to your photographer about the best time of the day to capture the ideal light. Remember that these photos will reflect who you are as a couple. Try to make enough time for it so you can both enjoy it and even make a day out of it.
https://www.cosmopolitan.com/lifestyle/a61597/engagement-photos/
Getting married in Las Vegas is a popular choice. In 2019 66,686 couples tied the knot—ranking number 3 out of 933 metropolitan areas in the United States. Having a wedding in Las Vegas guarantees a fun time. With entertainment, sports, casinos, and known nightlife, this town has it all. If you are a fan of the iconic wedding chapels, let me tell you there is more than the classic neon light sign ones. You can have a luxurious wedding at one of the most exclusive hotels and still have your wedding at a chapel. There is one for every budget and taste.
One of the largest chapels on The Strip, you can have a large wedding at this chapel. They have a wide range of prices, from $195.00 to $10,000.00. They offer many services, from weddings on-site to off-site. During these uncertain times caused by the pandemic of COVID-19, one of their services comes especially in handy. They offer a skype transmission of the weddings they celebrate. They can even host your reception.
Just pass the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign, you will find this unique chapel. A wood construction makes you feel like you are in a fairytale, and it carries the distinction of being the Strip’s oldest building. They do not offer reception on-site, but Elvis can officiate your ceremony.
Near downtown, this little traditional chapel has seen many celebrities say I do. They have complete packages that start at $199.00. Elvis can be your officiant or sing at your ceremony. This small chapel is filled with history and anecdotes.
This hotel offers options for intimate weddings of 65 guests up to more than 100. They have three locations to celebrate the ceremony and many services like the limousine to take you from the airport to the Courthouse and the hotel.
If you plan on having a luxurious wedding, this hotel has three beautiful chapels and multiple spaces that you can use for your ceremony. The advantage of celebrating your wedding at this hotel is that they offer all the services you need. From catering, ceremony, reception, transportation, accommodation, rehearsal spaces, dinners, and they can even host your bachelor and bachelorette parties.
Offering anything from 30 to 130, their elegant chapels are breathtaking. If you are searching for luxury and magnificence, this is the right place for you. With chandeliers, stained glass windows, dancing fountains, and a nine-acre Mediterranean garden, every bride will fall in love with this chapel.
So, you have many options, from the traditional and budget-friendly chapels to the luxurious and exclusive weddings at the most famous hotels in Las Vegas. There are options for every couple. Just make sure you give me a call to capture the happiest day of your life.
https://www.lasvegasdirect.com/top-10-wedding-chapels-in-las-vegas/
https://www.gpsmycity.com/directory/top-20-vegas-wedding-chapels-1018.html
Wedding dresses are expensive. On average, in the US, a bride will spend anything from $500.00 to $4,000.00 on her dress alone. You should add alterations, accessories, shoes, and so on. It is a great experience to try many dresses and find the right one, brides dream of that day. But if you put it in perspective, you will wear that dress one day, and then it will remain stored at the back of your closet. This is the reason why wedding dress rental has become a popular alternative. Imagine saving $3,000.00 from your dress and spending them on your honeymoon or indulge your guests with a delicious dessert table. Now, if you have no budget issues or like to keep memories, this option might not suit you, but either way, here are some of the pros and cons of renting your wedding attire.
The most significant advantage of wedding dress rental is the money you save. You can find dresses from $150.00 to $2,000.00. Depending on the designer and quality.
You can wear a dress over your budget because you are only renting it for a day!
If you are a visitor, you do not have to travel to your wedding gown. They are big and bulky, and you will stress about lost luggage or carrying them around the airport.
Many rental stores offer complete service, from alterations, accessories, and shoes, and they even deliver it to your hotel and pick it up from there—Cero stress.
You do not have to save space for it in your closet or worry about cleaning it and preserving it appropriately.
The variety might be limited, and you will depend on luck to find the size you need.
You will not have a dreamed appointment at a bridals store with your whole family selecting the right dress months before your wedding. When you rent a wedding dress, the process is a lot faster.
If you are a romantic and dream about having a daughter who will someday wear your wedding dress, rentals are not for you.
Remember that you must return the dress in perfect condition. If you party too much and damage it, fees for significant damage can be expensive.
While renting a wedding attire for a man is quite common, brides tend to be more sentimental about their wedding gown. Evaluate the benefits of leasing, and if it suits you, you will save time, money, and closet space. Remember, you can also rent your bridesmaids’ gowns and save them some dollars.
https://www.brides.com/story/should-you-rent-your-wedding-dress
We all know how expensive weddings are, but there are always ways to save some dollars here and there. If you plan on a destination wedding to Las Vegas or a local that wants to get married home without spending like a tourist, I have called you a couple of hacks to have your dreamed wedding on a budget.
First, we need to understand where all the money goes. Here is the average cost of the main four vendors every wedding needs. Considering that, on average, couples in the United States spent $33,900.00 on their big day, you can estimate how much you want and can invest in your wedding.
For Nevada, the total cost is lower, with an average of $22,500.00 for 130 guests. If you are planning on an intimate wedding, you can lower that number. In general, there are some useful tips to adjust the budget and start your married life with healthy finances.
Las Vegas is a busy town all year long, but the peak season is from May thru October. If you choose any other month or a weekday date, you have better chances of getting a discount.
Every guest you add to the list will cost you. Elopements are great opportunities to save. You get to have a ceremony and a day to do whatever you choose without consulting friends and family. But if you want your closest friends and relatives to be with you on such a big day, try to keep it intimate, this will make your planning a lot easier.
Traditional wedding invitations are expensive, and they often end up in the trash. You can find quality digital designs that can replace the paper invites and save you money.
I know it might sound a bit drastic but considering you will only wear it for a few hours one day, it sounds right to rent it. Many vendors offer anything from simple to fancy dresses at an affordable price. If you want to keep it, you can also consider buying your dress for a preloved or second chance store, many brides sell their dresses after a while, and they are in perfect conditions.
Many Las Vegas hotels offer discounts when you hire everything from them. From rooms to catering, they are equipped with all you might need. This will save you time planning and money.
Weddings can quickly add up to your original budget. Sit down and discuss what is more important for each of you. Maybe you are not such a fan of decoration and instead have an exquisite dinner. Or you prefer having amazing pictures and videos of your wedding instead of a fancy dessert table. Please make a list of your priorities and stick to it.
Stick to seasonal local flowers. If you keep an open mind, you will find many alternatives to the peonies you fell in love with and are off season. You can save big money if you trust your florist.
From hotel, flights, to venues. Try to book everything as soon as possible. Las Vegas is known as a wedding capital. Many couples come here to tie the knot. Vendors have their schedules full of months of anticipation.
There is a common mistake when trying to save money, leaving out the essentials. As we know, a photographer is one of the most expensive vendors at a wedding. And there is a reason you would not leave the catering to your aunt who makes an excellent roast beef for family reunions, simply because caterers are specialists in this field, and they know exactly what to do and how to do it. Food will be served hot and on time for your 150 guests. The same happens with wedding photography. You want to have a professional behind the lens, someone who understands light, who can make the best out of the scenery. There are many photographers with affordable packages.
I know many come to Las Vegas to have a traditional Welcome to Las Vegas sign picture. But there is so much more out there. If you are adventurous and a nature lover, you can have an untraditional scenic wedding in one of the many State Parks that are just a road trip away. Many of them can be a one-day trip. They can be a great alternative to save some money and have a unique wedding. References
https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost
If you recently got engaged and just begun to plan your wedding, you are probably starting to see just how expensive everything is. At this point, you must decide what vendors you need if you are hiring a wedding planner or if you are taking care of everything. One of the big decisions couples must make is whether to have a professional photographer or forgo and take pictures with their cells. I understand how tempting it sounds when you see just how much you can save, but here are some reasons why having one will be one of the best decisions you make.
Your spend an entire year planning one day. You make sure every detail is taking care of. You go to trials for dinner, wedding dress, cocktails, and even cake. A lot of time is invested in this celebration, but it feels like those 24 hours go too fast. When you least expect it, your wedding is over. You will want to relive the entire day over and over and see everything you missed while getting ready or waiting to make your grand entrance. Having someone to capture everything is priceless.
Weddings are events that gather friends and family. Everyone tries to be there, and they are perfect opportunities to have family pictures taken by a professional. We often get together but do not take the time to take pictures, and we should since those are memories not only for us but for generations to come.
Each photographer has a particular style. You should do a lot of research before choosing the right one. If you are looking for a documentary style, natural portraits, classic poses, you name it. A professional photographer will reflect on your personality and wedding style providing the best images of your special day.
I know smartphones and semi-professional cameras have fantastic features and take beautiful pictures. On the other hand, a professional photographer will know exactly when a critical shot is coming. You can not repeat moments like the couple’s first look, your mother’s reaction when she saw you walking down the aisle. Weddings are dynamic events, and your photographer must have the skills to capture every second.
Finally, keep in mind that your wedding is a once in a lifetime event. You probably will not even remember what you had for dinner 20 years from now, but you will want to look back at everyone who attended, see how you both smiled when your first dance started. The look on your grandparents or friends while you said your vows. Wedding photography is not only about capturing moments, but telling a story, your love story. Make sure you have the best photographer you can afford and do not be the couple that regrets not hiring a professional for their big day.
As 2020 comes to an end, we are beginning to make our predictions for next year’s weddings. We are hopeful for the new year and for marriages to come back. This year changed how we celebrate weddings, but it has left us with some recent trends that will likely stay for the new year. Outdoor and intimate weddings are on the top of the list, as well as elopements. If you just got engage and are looking for some inspiration, keep reading.
We see a significant demand for outdoor spaces. The reason has probably something to do with the current health situation, as outdoor gatherings are less restricted and allow guests to have the correct physical distance. Another great reason to have an outdoor wedding is that you do not have to spend a lot on decoration. Find a place that has the right vibe for your wedding. For example, a botanical garden filled with greenery, a dessert location for your boho wedding, or a beach wedding. Possibilities are endless.
White and green are classic, and if you are looking for timeless wedding decoration, you should probably stick to them. But this year, we see many playful and colorful combinations, from mismatched tables and chairs with a hint of color to lush florals in multiple colors. Color in bridesmaids and groom attires are also in trend. Do not be afraid of color. It will only make your white dress stand up more!
A trend that started in 2018 and has taken force over this year, many brides are going for the preserved foliage and flowers to add a boho touch to their decoration. Pampas grass is on the top of popularity, and dried flowers as a wedding favor are a great idea too.
Having an eco-friendly wedding does not have to be hard. You need to focus on having as little plastic as possible in your reception. For example, wedding favors in paper bags, or better yet, you can gift small aromatic plants to your guests. Renting a wedding dress or giving a second chance to your mother or relative dress is also a great way to contribute to the planet. Avoid any disposable eating utensils, plates, cups, and napkins. Try to incorporate live plants to your tables instead of cut flowers. Stick to local vendors that use local products. There are many ways you can have a green wedding.
A big trend for those who cannot attend your wedding. It can be due to travel restrictions or health issues. Whatever the reason, your loved ones do not have to be left out. Make everyone part of your celebration regardless of where they are. You can share a link with them, set up a camera, and do a live stream of your wedding.
During 2019 weddings had to become small events, and we are seeing that some couples enjoyed having intimate weddings that only included their closest relatives and friends. It is a way of saving money and time. When you are organizing a wedding for 200 guests, things get out of hand quickly. A small wedding allows you to spend on what you want, like a five-star dinner, exclusive cocktails, or your dreamed live wedding band. And the best of all is that your stress level will go down too.
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding. Make sure you have someone to capture every moment. If you are looking for a professional wedding photographer, do not forget to contact me. I will love to be part of your celebration.
https://www.insider.com/wedding-advice-best-and-worst-trends-2021#dried-florals-are-in-demand-15
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