Turquoise Dreams Elopement Inspiration

New Mexico Styled Shoot

I was so excited to style this elopement styled shoot. New Mexico is rich in history, culture, known for its spicy cuisine and of course it’s Native American heritage. When planning this styled shoot, I wanted to use bold colors and pieces that would help create deep rich tones to truly create that southwestern feel that would be a testament to the location and culture. I specialize in western and ranch weddings and creating western wedding styles is totally my jam! 

I really like to create western wedding inspiration that pushes the boundaries beyond the typical western fashion. I wanted to showcase a groom wearing something other than a black cowboy hat, jeans and a vest. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with a man in Wranglers, but it’s his day too, the bride gets a gown so the groom should get fancy as well. 

Traditionally I begin planning styled shoots around a gown, or a bouquet. This time, it all started with a suit. A 3 piece turquoise suit was the base for the entire mood board. Turquoise is a staple in western fashion and I was excited to pair this suit with some amazing jewels. I finished the groom’s look with a wine colored tie and pocket square from Men’s Wearhouse, an American Hat Company fedora shaped with a classic western brim and a men’s fashion boot from Ariat’s two 24 line. I really tried to incorporate a western theme, but giving our cowboy groom a more contemporary feel, after all, he can wear boots and jeans for the rest of his life. 

Flutter Dress created this one of a kind custom lace gown and added all the fringe, because everything is better with a little fringe. Greeley hat works sent us a round crowned turquoise hat for our bride, and we topped it with a floral crown created by All The Pretty Flowers. I styled her in turquoise booties from Ariat, because oftentimes, western brides like the idea of wearing their boots on their big day, and the turquoise was perfect for the overall theme. 

Turquoise jewelry is so timeless, and I love it when brides incorporate it into their wedding jewelry. Most times it comes with a story, it was borrowed from a family member or was passed down, or in my case, I collect it, so that I can pass it down to my daughter and when in New Mexico, you go big! I collaborated with Wild Honey Turquoise and she did an amazing job of bringing my vision to life. I wanted all the chunky pieces stacked up, I mean, there’s no such thing as too much turquoise. 

Staci and Lance are actually engaged and will be married this spring. Staci is the former Miss Rodeo New Mexico 2016. Her and Lance were so excited and accommodating when it came to modeling for this styled shoot. Lance actually broke his foot just a few days before the shoot and was a trooper during the entire thing. They still loaded up the horses and brought them along so we could incorporate them, really telling their story as western, horse people. Staci actually cried real tears during their “first look” and I have no doubt their wedding day will be filled with emotion. I would like to wish them a lifetime of happiness.

– Wedding Photographer, Native Roaming

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