Adventure Meets Intimacy: A Cross-Border Wedding in Arizona & Mexico
Some wedding days just stick with you, not because they were over the top or jam packed with timelines, but because of how simple, grounded, and love-filled they were. Maria and Fernando’s day at Rancho Santa Cruz in Tumacácori, followed by their reception in Nogales, Mexico, was exactly that.
The morning started quietly at the ranch. I arrive and greet Maria inside while she is still getting ready, all the women helping her with her hair, makeup, and getting into her dress. Maria handed me their invitations and a few sentimental items for detail photos before she and Fernando shared a private first look and vows. We found a tucked away pathway lined with white walls, where they read their vows while a curious orange ranch cat looked on from a nearby fence (their unofficial wedding guest). I gave them space, letting the moment unfold without interruptions: tears, laughter, hugs, all of it.
Afterwards, we slipped in portraits that felt like them: a mix of simple, classic shots and a few fun, motion filled frames that Maria had mentioned loving from my past work. From there, the ceremony took place in the grassy courtyard, shaded by one giant tree in the center of the villas. Their officiant spoke to them like old friends, weaving in details about who they are as individuals and as a couple. Mid-ceremony, they tied a symbolic knot together. A grounding, quiet gesture that fit them perfectly.
When it came time to celebrate, we caravanned across the border into Nogales. I’d come prepared with my passport, insurance, and toll money; and the 30-minute drive south was more than worth it. Their reception at Jardín Ajijic was a whole new world: colorful, lush gardens and a lively, tucked away vibe. Maria and Fernando took some time for themselves before making their entrance, then shared their first dance surrounded by their closest people. The night carried on with laughter, food, and the kind of atmosphere that feels less like an event and more like a gathering of family.
For me, this day was such a reminder of the kind of weddings I love to photograph. Intimate, stress free, and rooted in what really matters: two people choosing each other. Everything else like the travel, the details, the setting, just made it even more special.
FROM THE BRIDE & GROOM
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR VISION FOR THE WEDDING?
We wanted our wedding to be small and intimate with a grounded feeling. We wanted to be in an open earthy space with the people we care about most.
WHAT DETAILS OR MOMENTS WERE MOST IMPORTANT TO YOU?
Some of our favorite moments were out first look reading our vows to each other and our first dance.
WAS THERE A MOMENT FROM YOUR VOWS OR CEREMONY THAT STILL GIVES YOU CHILLS?
Our ceremony was very special to us since we previously had answered questions about each other to our officiant and didn’t hear the answers until we were getting married. It was very sweet to hear about our first impressions of each other when we met at around 11 years old and the things we admire most in the present.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST DANCE SONG?
Turning Page by Sleeping at Last
FROM THE BRIDE & GROOM
WHY DID YOU CHOSE TO WORK WITH ME?
We found your work through instagram and the candid style pictures and dreamy vibes were exactly what we wanted in our wedding album to look back on one day. You were our #1 choice for our wedding photos.
HOW DID YOU FEEL IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA?
Completely relaxed, under no pressure to pose perfectly. We just enjoyed our day and had awesome photos by the end! The guidance you offered on setting up photos was gentle and you made us feel so comfortable. (Thank you for that, we’re both camera shy and your energy was perfect for us).
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF HAVING ME AS YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER?
You create the most magical pictures on the spot! Your direction flows with the wedding, helping us create even more memorable moments instead of feeling like we paused our wedding for a photo session. You are also the sweetest !
“Things will inevitably go wrong the day of but focus on the excitement of marrying the person you love. Everything else won’t matter!
Bonus tip* Choose Sierra as your wedding photographer! The photos she creates are beautiful and you’ll be glad to have her calm, warm energy on your big day.”
Maria & Fernando
THE RESULTS
At the end of the day, what stands out is how much joy and calm surrounded them. Their gallery is a glimpse into what it looks like when love is the focus and everything else just falls into place.
START
YOUR STORY, YOUR WAY
Your wedding doesn’t have to feel like a production. It can be simple, intentional, and completely yours. If that’s the kind of day you’re planning, I’d love to capture it for you.
