When Teri Ambrose, of Arizona’s Finest Wedding Sites and Services magazine offered us a cover shoot, we didn’t have to think twice.  What a treat to work at the fabulous Boulders Resort with so many of our very favorite friends and industry professionals, knowing all the time that we would be featured in this important publication. This banquet table-scape was a study in texture, subtle desert colors and unexpected elements not normally used in desert settings.

Our self-emposed challenge was to make each place setting in such a way as to provide every guest with a singular experience in terms of what they were seeing in front of them, yet maintain continuity and the feel of a lavish dinner party that could be a wedding rehearsal dinner or simply an elegant gathering of friends.  The entire table became a complicated composition that not only reflected the colors of the surrounding desert environment, but mirrored the interior design of the stunning residential compound that surrounded us.

Cactus cuttings, flowers, shells, succulent cuttings, rusty metal, metallic gold, silver, glass show cases, domes, mercury glass, stone, wood, linen, decorative accessories, branches and desert materials were all elements in our desert palette.  The unusual colors were chosen from our surroundings and included variations of lavender and beige with touched of black, orange and grey-greens.  We love the play on matte vs shiny and clear surfaces.  Our dear friend, Amina Michelle, of Some Like It Classic planned and designed the entire shoot.  We would love to take you on a tour of the table via the stunning photography of none other than Sierra Blanco Photography.

 What a gorgeous setting surrounded by towering Sahuaro and boulders.

The beautiful paper was custom designed by our friend Kim at The Event Essentials.  The one-and-only Deb Beggs from Classic Party Rentals supplied the wonderfully coordinated table, chairs and place settings.  La Tavola provided the linen runner and textiles.

The gold-washed vintage mercury glass accessories provided the perfect touch.

Every place setting had a different still life.

Ribbon flowers mixed with fresh flowers provided an unexpected blend of elements.

Gold accents were used throughout the composition.

Rustic pottery was perfect to play against the glass and gold beaded tassels.

Glass boxes framed with rusty metal featured various cactus cuttings and decorative elements.

The sophisticated color scheme provided a wide range of options.

Every element of the table could be removed and become a great design by itself.

Every guest had something different to enjoy at their place settings.

Succulents became something else when used out of context and mixed with sea life, such as these shiny, polished turbos enclosed in a glass dome.

The lavender opuntia that grows everywhere on the property became our inspiration for a rose petal carpet as well as a primary color in our vision.  Scale drawings are always used to assure correct proportions.

The colors were wonderful against the lush lawn.

We love this shot with the cascade of golden barrels in the background.

Ken’s bouquet was nothing but exquisite.  The bridal gown is by La Bella Bridal Boutique.  Jewelry by Kendra Scott.  Make-up by Rolfs.

Ken’s unstructured bridal bouquet incorporated all of the colors and textures of our vision.

Old weathered gates provided the perfect seat assignment display.

The lovely cake was designed by Pixy Cakes.  We added metallic bronze fabric, lavender rose heads and ribbon flowers.

As the hot sunny day yielded to the cool desert twilight, the glow of the candles made this table literally ignite with romantic interludes of the day.

The candles reflected throughout the entire table.

Drifts of lavender rose petals finished the piece.

Hope you enjoyed the tour!