Merrill and Jana were married in Mesa, Arizona, in a beautiful and stormy outdoor ceremony. Their wedding venue, Gather Estate, provided so much freedom for the indoor spaces to flow into their gorgeous outdoor environment. The combination of luscious greenery with areas of classic Arizona desert landscaping at Gather Estate is so unique, and the mellow beauty of the architecture here really allows any couple to put their individual stamp on the place. Merrill and Jana turned it into an intimate celebration with country-western details.
A Country-Western Wedding
The whole atmosphere of this country-western wedding was filled with warmth. You could feel Jana and Merrill’s excitement, and it radiated out to all the guests at Gather Estate. This event was full of the special little touches that really craft an ambiance. All the groomsmen sported black cowboy hats, the bridesmaids and bride were beautifully styled by Braids by Ellie, and best of all, the bride had golden cowboy boots on under her dress.
In Rain or Shine, Sun or Storm
One of the most common questions I am asked is “Will you keep taking photos if it’s raining?”
The short answer? Absolutely.
At this wedding, a shower of rain struck right before the ceremony, which was planned to take place outdoors on Gather Estate’s green lawn. Instead of waiting for the rain to pass, the bride, Jana, was so excited to get married that she insisted that everything go ahead – rain or shine. Everyone grabbed umbrellas, and it ended up being an amazing ceremony – the rain didn’t stop it from being full of laughter and joy.
I loved the way that she chose to fully embrace the moment for what it was. Sometimes couples only want photos of the ‘perfect’ moments. But the real and raw are just as significant, and I will always choose to capture something authentic – a true-to-life memory for you to keep forever.
A Night to Remember
The good times continued after the ceremony to the reception dinner, also at Gather Estate, where the newlyweds played a game of ‘Mr and Mrs’ using their cowboy boots instead of paddles! Friends and family celebrated long into the evening, dancing the night away to DJ Flo Entertainment on an open-air dancefloor.
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Venue: Gather Estate
DJ: DJ Flo Entertainment
HMUA: Braids by Ellie
