A perfect November day in Arizona to celebrate a playful couple that I had the honor of documenting; Meet Anaya and Jeff! We first met years ago when they booked me for a mini session. Each year, they continue to book a mini session to get updated couple portraits. When I saw that Jeff had proposed to Anaya, I was so stoked and honored that they wanted me to capture their one-of-a-kind love on their wedding day at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum. 

The Story of Anaya and Jeff

Coincidentally, Anaya and Jeff crossed paths thanks to Anaya’s former partner. Jeff played a significant role during Anaya’s breakup. Fast forward 8 years, and Anaya and Jeff are celebrating their love at Boyce Thompson Arboretum! They cherish moments of bonding over games of ‘Magic: The Gathering’ and exploring the outdoors by hiking and camping.

Celebrating Love at Boyce Thompson Arboretum: A Sweet First Look

Opting for a first look, we efficiently captured photos with their wedding party and family, ensuring they had a full hour post-ceremony to explore the park. This time allowed them to concentrate on portraits surrounded by the scenic backdrop around Boyce Thompson Arboretum. Following the ceremony, they encouraged guests to wander the park for an hour or two before gathering at his parents’ house for the reception.

Intimate Wedding Ceremony at Boyce Thompson Arboretum

While desiring a distinctive and laid-back wedding venue, Anaya and Jeff opted for Boyce Thompson Arboretum. With a shared passion for nature and the outdoors, the arboretum’s appeal as a wedding venue and a stunning park made it the perfect choice for them. 

An Intimate Backyard Wedding Reception

Throughout the entire day, Anaya and Jeffery filled their wedding with personal touches, which I absolutely adored! They wrote heartfelt letters to all their immediate family and Anaya’s bridesmaids. Leveraging Anaya’s exceptional writing skills, she crafted the entire script for her ceremony. 

Anaya and Jeff wrapped up their unconventional celebration with friends and family by engaging in games instead of dancing. Illustrating their unique personalities. I love when a couple chooses to do what they want to do instead of feeling the pressure to follow traditional norms.

Kind Word from Anaya and Jeff

“I LOVE these photos! It was my and my partners first time ever getting professional photos taken and we were both nervous. Kali was amazing and we immediately felt relaxed around her. She is really great with giving prompts to do things so the pictures look authentic and not like stiff poses. I think she really captured our love and our genuine smiles and that is why I love these photos sooo much! We look so happy in them and I know we will cherish them for our whole lives!”

Arizona Wedding and Elopement Photographer + Videographer | Kali M Photos + Film 

Whether you’re seeking to infuse a non-traditional vibe into a conventionally classic wedding or crafting an entirely unprecedented way to say “I do,” you deserve more than just an ordinary photography experience. You deserve an Arizona wedding photography and videography experience as distinctive as you are, and my friend, you’ve just discovered it. Secure your date here! 

Vendors:

Wedding Planner: Alexys Carr | Venue: Boyce Thompson Arboretum | Photographer: Kali M Photos + Film | Reception: Private Residence | Florists: Evergreen Bride | Caterer: Bells Kitchen | Rentals: I Do Rentalz | Restrooms: The Lavatory