There is nothing like a young couple who is down for anything for their Las Vegas wedding! Las Vegas is the perfect spot for that kind of spontaneous energy. So when S + J called with a few requests for their Las Vegas elopement, I was down.
Wedding Prep
We pull up to a beautiful mid-century home in Las Vegas not far from downtown. Here, S + J are getting ready with their closest family and friends. S’s dress is ready. Her ladies are helping her apply her makeup and finish her hair. The room roars with laughter and nostalgia. However, we’ve arrived, so it’s getting a little more serious. S writes her vows while I take her flowers and shoes outside to shoot. In the other room, J also writes his vows with the help of his best man and soon-to-be Father in Law.
Dad’s First Look
Before they saddle up to head to Mt. Charleston, S and her father have a heartfelt first look in the backyard. Now, it’s time to head out and let J get his first look at the top of the mountain too.
J’s First Look
We take two different vehicles up the mountain, S with her parents, bestie, and close friend, J with his bestie and bestie’s girlfriend. There’s a perfect spot off a small cliff with a view of the desert. J’s bestie helps S down the small hill to meet her fiance. J’s surprise and awe is written all over his face.
Ceremony
Meeting on this beautiful mountaintop proves to be a little emotional. It just goes to show that having a Las Vegas wedding does not mean sticking to the Strip. S + J begin their ceremony with Papi leading us all through their love story. They exchange vows, rings, and tears. Even S’s bestie is crying. Their 6 closest people watch while two people they care for deeply commit themselves to each other. Their love is sealed with joyous laughter and the happiest of tears.
Sunset
We spend sunset grabbing some photos of the newly wedded couple and their support system. The besties enjoy a few puffs and even dad joins in with a celebratory joint. Dad gets inspired by a tree that he wants to take a picture with, so S dutifully heads down the hill with him to admire this beautiful tree.
“Reception” Time! (Tap for more reception ideas.)
With the sun setting behind Mt. Charleston, we head down the mountain to get the party started on Fremont Street. S + J choose a casual dining experience at Hennessey’s Tavern, a place with great burgers and fish and chips and on some nights, live music. They spend the rest of their evening grabbing shots at all the bars. They join other partygoers in admiring the lights and nightlife of Fremont Street. Other partygoers send money via CashApp and shake hands with groom to congratulate him on his beautiful bride. Other couples, who are there celebrating their anniversaries approach S + J to congratulate them. I’d bet that their own weddings were nothing like S + J’s. S + J are proof that when you elope in Las Vegas, your options are limitless.
