The celebration with family and friends after their wedding ceremony started out slightly chaotic – all because of the rain. ….

We had to have a lot of the portraits taken in the same place as the ceremony AND the reception, which made it noisy, and busy and distracting …. but once the portraits were taken care of and dinner was served …. all that was left was the party!

And with this many family and friends, you KNOW it was a blast …

(the head table – not actually large enough for the HUGE wedding party!)

(so many nieces and nephews and cousins running around. Chris has a big extended family!)

(parents of the groom)

(keep an eye on Camille …. she adores Chris and Nichole, so she stayed close. But that’s not the only reason)

And they lived happily ever after ….

OK, actually, they went to Cancun and Nichole sprained her ankle as soon as they got there  …. but still.

In spite of everything – the rain, the cold, the chaos – I know Chris and Nichole both consider it the best day of their lives and I’m so grateful they asked me to share it with them….

xo

2 of their friends-of-honor are co-founders of Chyro Arts – a non-profit, totally volunteer venue that puts on plays, concerts, etc. It is this fantastic little unique locale in Scottsdale. (Interestingly, one of my future grooms just played there with his band).

It was the perfect location for this truly unique, family/friend-centered wedding.

Matt and Abriel took time to eat, say hi to people and cut the cake …

Then, Abriel’s family had planned this whole montage to honor her. A TOTAL surprise. Complete with photos, sound clips and video. About her musical background, her instruments, her favorite bands.

So much laughing and joy and love in the room, just by bringing up these memories…

The evening was so relaxed. No bouquet toss or toasts. But instead, Matt and Abriel encouraged their friends to prepare something for an ‘Open Mic.’ … Which Abriel took advantage of by singing to her new husband. So so sweet (I cried – but only a little. And I was using auto-focus so we’re good).

Such a fun fun fun night!

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again.
I wish I lived closer to Matt and Abriel so we could hang out. They are SO much fun.
Thanks, you guys, for including me in this amazing day! love you both!

xo

-A