Greetings, all!
Today's blog features Sami+Matt and their beautiful Albuquerque Botanical Gardens/Shark Reef Aquarium Wedding.
We met Sami, her mom, Matt's mom and some of her best friends at a Wedding Show at the beginning of this year. And we can honestly say, we will never forget them. It was the first time a group of people actually cheered and yelled out loud with joy when they booked us to photograph their wedding.
We photographed Matt and Sami's engagement photos earlier this year at the very location they would later be married. Here's one of our favorite images from their engagement session. Partly because they're adorable, and partly because there's a DRAGON!
And months later, it was their wedding day. The weather was surprisingly mild for August, and we didn't have a drop of rain which is so common in summer New Mexico months due to monsoon season.
Sami was a classic beauty, with a vintage look in her makeup and dress that she pulled off perfectly. Her floral combinations of Sunflowers, roses and succulents were stunning. Matt lit up when he saw her.
Sami and Matt had their wedding ceremony at the Albuquerque Biopark Botanical Garden's Ceremonial Garden. If you haven't had the pleasure of visiting the Gardens, this is truly the stuff of fairytales. Vine-covered branches wrap around beautiful wood arches to create a setting that is romantic and feels intimate while still being able to accommodate large groups of guests. It's truly a gorgeous place, and was the perfect setting for this couple to exchange vows.
Once the tears were shed and the "I do's" were said, it was time for formal photos. Sami and Matt had family come from all over to attend this special day, and we loved capturing large group photos for them. Next came wedding party photos, and finally, some alone time for the newlyweds to have their formal photos taken.
After the photos were complete, it was time for the PARTY. We actually wrapped up our formal portraits ahead of schedule and were able to announce the Bride and Groom earlier than planned. Their reception was at the amazing Shark Reef Cafe. It's not every day you can have your reception next to a huge aquarium that houses not only giant fish but also sharks! It was truly a unique setting. And what FUN was had! There was even a choreographed father and daughter dance!
Congrats to Sami and Matt! We are so honored to have been chosen to photograph such an important day in your lives, and we absolutely loved spending the day with you, your families and your friends. We know only great things await you. And we can't wait to hear about the amazing things you do. Keep in touch with us for future photos!
Photography: Matt Blasing Photography
Venue: Albuquerque Biopark, Botanical Gardens and Aquarium, Ceremonial Garden (Ceremony) and Shark Reef Cafe (Reception)
Florist: Shannon Loves Flowers
Hair and Makeup Artist: Genica Lee
DJ: Complete Weddings and Events, DJ Jose
Officiant: Boyd Hamlin
Cake: ABC Cake Shop
Catering: Taste of the Wild
Sami's Dress: Demetrios
Matt's Suit: Men's Wearhouse
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