DIY brides, here’s one for ya. Dakota planned her incredible (and incredibly crafty) wedding with a relaxed boho vibe and their inspiring desert venue in mind. We love how laidback yet romantic these photos by Fondly Forever Photography feel, not to mention all the earthy details and handcrafted elements.
Dakota, on why they chose Le Haute Desert Aerie: The earth there had this innate spiritual presence that we both immediately felt. It really felt magical. I knew that here we could be fully present and just ourselves taking the biggest step in our lives so far! The venue is completely surrounded by nature, you can’t see a building or another structure, all there is are rocks and trees! We knew this would be a special place for all our guests to experience. Plus there is no cell phone service so there is no choice but to tune in and enjoy everyone you’re with!
Dress deets: washed silk organza, strapless, sweetheart neckline, sweep train
You guys know we love us a good DIY wedding. We think this miiight qualify… Painted signs, hand-dyed table runners, photo booth backdrop (by both bride + groom), dream catchers, tambourines for the ceremony seating, invitations + ceremony program, wood palette escort sign. Plus, Gordon’s mom painted the Ketubah.
First dance song: Talking Heads’ This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody) as covered by The Lumineers
Dakota says, I was so nervous about getting in front of everyone and dancing for 3 whole minutes that I almost didn’t want to do it. However, when our song came on and we started to dance, everyone melted away. We mouthed the words to each other and for the first time it hit me that we were now husband and wife. It was a powerful moment.
Congrats, D + G!
Photographer: Fondly Forever Photography / Videographer: Eric Nystrom / Ceremony & Reception Venue: Le Haute Desert Aerie / Event Planner & Invitation Designer: Bride / Florist: Cactus Flower / Hair & Makeup: Bride’s Sister, Haylie Johnston / Catering: El Dorado Supper Club / Cake: Over the Rainbow / Rentals: Classic Party Rentals / Brides’s Dress: Watters from Lovely Bride / Shoes: Anthropologie / Floral Crown: Bride / Bride’s Wedding Band: Enropy Jewelry / Engagement Ring + Groom’s Wedding Band: Stephan Hill Jewelry / Earrings: Anthropologie / Sash: Something Ivory / Groom’s Suit: Nordstrom / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Weddington Way / Flower Girl: H&M Kids
