We cruise down the highway, heading to the Desert Botanical Gardens for their first look, as Danielle retells the story of how she met Jonathan. Each saguaro we pass seems to lean in, captivated by her story of unexpected love and destiny.

It all began on a seemingly ordinary night out with the girls. Danielle recalls spotting an admirer from across the room–piercing blue eyes that struck a chord in her heart. But the twist? Jonathan didn’t utter a single word to her.

Jonathan would jokingly say that when you really like someone, you do the one thing that seems counterintuitive – you completely ignore them.

She recounts packing up to leave, thinking she’d walk out of the bar and out of Jonathan’s life forever. But fate, or maybe destiny, had other plans. In a whirlwind moment, Jonathan found his courage, rushing to ask for Danielle’s number right before she slipped out the door. As she stared into his striking eyes, the bar’s noise faded into insignificance.

Their love story, as Danielle describes it, isn’t just about cosmic fate or destiny. It’s about stripping away life’s background noise to find clarity and connection in the stillness, in the silence. It’s about standing together through both joy and hardship.

In the shadow of COVID’s uncertainty, they went to the courthouse to get married in 2020. Now, three years later, they’re celebrating their wedding day. One patiently woven over time, finally coming to life in vivid colors.

Imagine a luxury backyard wedding in Paradise Valley, AZ, where gothic western meets romantic desert vibes. As a passionate film wedding photographer, I was equipped with the classic Canon AE1 35mm Film Camera, the sophisticated Mamiya 645 120mm Film Camera, the vintage Bolex Super 8 Video Camera, the versatile Canon R5 Digital Camera, and the ever-charming Polaroid.

Jonathan’s jade bolo tie and Danielle’s unique gauged earrings add to their distinct style. Danielle’s style is a striking mix of tradition and modern chic. Her first dress, a lacey long-sleeve with a deep V-cut, beautifully showcases her back tattoos. Later, she changes into a silky, classy dress with statement puffy sleeves, perfect for the romantic after-party.

Their first look was at the stunning Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix, Arizona. A pro tip for those considering this location—you don’t need to book your wedding there to take portraits. Just pay a regular entry fee for your group, and you’re all set for an unforgettable photo session. A nostalgic touch to their wedding is the courthouse wedding Polaroid from 2020, which Danielle holds close in the morning, reflecting on her vows. This photograph later transforms into a creative cake topper—talk about unique! As the night ended, I gave them with their wedding day Polaroids.

Paradise Valley Arizona Wedding Photos

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As a destination documentary and editorial wedding photographer based in Minnesota, capturing your intimate moments is an honor. Whether it’s a destination wedding or a intimate backyard celebration, I’m here for it! If you’re planning your special day, reach out to me.