WEDDING PLANNING GUIDE
las cruces
wedding tips & inspiration
BR I DE
BR I DE Las Cruces 2021
EDITOR’S LETTER
digital publication editor Savannah Reynolds
graphic designer Jessica Goldy
u.s. editorial
& sales staff
COLORADO & NEW MEXICO Brit Tucker-Kline IDAHO, MONTANA & WYOMING Mackenzie Stevens UTAH Heidi Zeh UTAH SALES Hannah Wollenzien
& sales staff
grace gatto photography
canadian editorial
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Celynn Bowman ASSISTANT Carly Cooper
COPYWRITER Lily Harris
digital team
DIGITAL EDITOR - Laura Osborn SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER - Bailey Jameson STYLE EDITOR - Tasha Tagliani CONTENT CURATOR - Lauren Phillips
New Mexico is one of those places where you find something special nestled in every corner of the state. The breathtaking White Sands National Monument and rich history make Las Cruces no exception to the magic of New Mexico.
operations ACCOUNTING Lynn Kieffer PUBLISHED BY RMB Media, LLC
PUBLISHER Erika Oltmann
DISTRIBUTION Disticor Magazine Distribution Services Storefronts in the U.S. & Canada or online at shop.rockymountainbride.com
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Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine is published by RMB Media, LLC. All rights reserved. No portion may be duplicated, in whole or in part, without the written consent of its publisher. We greatly appreciate those who have contributed to this publication. Contributors’ opinions are their own and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Rocky Mountain Bride. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. The publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy of information or omissions from the material provided. Rocky Mountain Bride cannot be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services rendered by the advertisers published in this magazine. We reserve the right to refuse advertising.
This Wedding Planning Guide is full of intimate elopement inspiration, local Las Cruces vendors and every detail you need to know about planning your Rocky Mountain Wedding in New Mexico. My wish is that you always remember your love story is something to celebrate, no matter the state of the world. Whether you’re waiting for the start of your forever or are in the throes of wedding planning, never forget that love conquers all. Happy Planning! xo
Savannah @savannah_rockymtnbride
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find the best wedding vendors + venues in the u.s. & canadian rockies ro c ky mo untainbrid e. com/vend ors
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Table of Contents LOVE STORIES weddings
&
anniversaries
13.
summer + caleb - Las Cruces
15.
sarah + marcus - White Sands
28.
gladys + john - Las Cruces
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I N S P I R AT I O N 20.
moody white sands elopement inspiration The Chalet at Crested Butte
I N F O R M AT I O N 8.
las cruces 101 - Seasonal weather and activities
10.
make it official - Where to get your license
34.
rehearsal dinner spots
36.
venue guide - Top spots to tie the knot
Clockwise from the top: Jade Rae Photography, Erin Richins Photography, Jordan Jankun Photography, Jordan Jankun Photography, Jazmine Rubio Photography
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FOLLOW ALONG WITH RMB
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In order from top left to right: hannah mann | karli elliott photography | jake anderson | rmb original | keeley mckay photography robin sassi | amanda crean photographers | kate osborne photography | lisa teuscher photos
Las Cruces miles of white sand, rich history and beauty around every corner awaits in las cruces, new mexico.
Jordan Jankun Photography
LAS CRUCES 101 Plan the perfect Las Cruces trip with these favorite spots in the area. Planning ahead can make all of the difference for your guests and you.
SEASONAL WEATHER Summers in Las Cruces are hot and sunny with little to no precipitation. The average temperature from June to August is around 97°, which makes for a hot and dry summer wedding, so make sure to accommodate your guests with some shade. Winter in Las Cruces is very mild, with temperatures rarely falling below 32°, which makes for a relatively warm winter wedding.
ACTIVITIES Only a short drive from the city-center is the White Sands National Monument where you will find miles of white sand situated under the crystal clear New Mexico sky. Hike around the Monument, explore the Dripping Springs Natural Area or try trail riding at Corralitos Trail Rides. The rich desert landscape holds many activities for you and your guests to enjoy. Among the vibrant culture of New Mexico is their scrumptious food and drink. Enjoy wine tasting at the Rio Grande Vineyards and Winery with your guests who are over 21 or stop by The Shed with your younger guests for local New Mexican cuisine. Las Cruces is home to the largest farmers market in the state, so make sure to stop by and enjoy the local city scene. You and your wedding guests will love the rich history and vibrant culture of Las Cruces, New Mexico.
Make it official One integral piece of your wedding day is your marriage license. You can buy a marriage license in Las Cruces at the Doña County Government Center for $25, and you must return it within 90 days of your wedding ceremony. You and your spouse-to-be both need to be in attendance with proper identification when purchasing the marriage license.
Jade Rae Photography
Doña County Government Center 845 N Motel Blvd. Las Cruces, New Mexico 88007 (575) 647 7421 donaanacounty.org/clerk/marriage
LO C A L W E D D I N G I N S P I R AT I O N
Summer + Caleb las cruces
Summer and Caleb met in college at a student event where they became best friends. They fell in love and the rest is history! Their engagement was very special, simple and intimate. Summer and Caleb spent the whole day together doing the things they love, and ended the day with a proposal. While driving Summer home, Caleb stopped and began telling her how lucky he was to have her and that he hoped they could do life together forever. He got down on one knee and asked her to marry him. She was on cloud nine the whole night. Their wedding day was spent surrounded by close friends and family celebrating Summer and Caleb’s love. Caleb’s favorite moment of the wedding was watching his bride walk down the aisle to the altar. Summer’s favorite part of the day was spending it with their closest friends and family.
ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES
“Always be a student of marriage. Learn, grow, and understand yourself so that you may be the best, healthiest version of yourself for your spouse.”
-VENDORSReception Venue & Catering Ramada by Wyndham Las Cruces Hotel & Conference Center Ceremony Venue Calvary Baptist Church Las Cruces | www.cbclascruces.org Photographer: Jade Rae Photography | www.jaderae.com Groom’s Suit Men’s Wearhouse | www.menswearhouse.com Cake Let Them Eat Cake, Inc. Officiant Kevin Glenn Honeymoon Carnival Cruise
Sarah + Marcus white sands
Marcus’ grand proposal was set in Marfa, Texas, but a large snowstorm ruined his plans and shut the city down for a week. Redirecting and creating a new, snowfriendly plan, Marcus took Sarah on a walk to a park nearby with their dog where a basket of goodies was hidden in a bush. He popped the question in the most perfect, low-key way! Marcus and Sarah eloped at a courthouse in their hometown with only a judge present. They headed to Santa Fe, New Mexico for a few days to explore the city and then traveled to Cloudcroft to relax in the mountains for the rest of the week. They decided to have bridal portraits done at the White Sands National Monument as a beautiful representation of their love.
ADVICE TO FUTURE COUPLES
“The other person is not a mind reader. Be vocal with expectations so that they are known! Be generous with giving grace.”
-VENDORSLocation White Sands National Monument | nps.gov/whsa/index.htm Photographer Jazmine Rubio Photography | www.jazminerubiophotography.com Bride’s Attire Lulus | www.lulus.com Bride’s Shoes Target | www.target.com Ring Designer True Gem Company | www.thetruegem.com Hair Madison Wigs Collection | www.madisonwigsboutique.com
Moody White Sands Elopement Inspiration Like you’ve escaped to another planet, this moody White Sands National Monument elopement styled shoot combines the unique white sand backdrop with moody hues for a dreamy elopement. The intricate floral details by Kern Place Florist and simple arch from Three Sisters El Paso add to the natural beauty of White Sands. The groom’s simple black tux and bride’s dreamy Maggie Sottero cap sleeve gown bring an ethereal element to the moody tablescape. A picnic-style reception with plush pillows, romantic candlesticks and dark tablescape setting set the stage for an intimate reception. Where the land meets the sky, the White Sands National Monument is the perfect simplistic backdrop for your laid-back New Mexico elopement where you and your spouse-to-be will be celebrated and start your lives together.
“The park is massive so even though it was crowded, there wasn't a single soul in sight. White Sands is a must see for everyone. Since this shoot I have been back three times! It never gets old.”
360 DEGREE VIEWS
“This shoot was so much fun to be a part of. White Sands is one of the most stunning locations to get married or have a session at. There are 360-degree sunsets, stunning mountain views, and the dunes look like another planet. The sand is actually cold to the touch and feels like moon sand regardless of the temperature outside.”
creative team venue:
white sands national monument | www.nps.gov jordan jankun photography | www.jordanjankunphotography.com planner: wedding travelers co. | @weddingtravelersco bridal boutique: ella blu | www.ellabluboutique.com gown designer: pronovias | pronovias.com bride’s jewelry: etsy, lietofiore | etsy.com/shop/aleishlalopez makeup: makeup by brenda | fb: artistrybybrenda cake: cottage catering | www.cottagecatering.com florals: kern place florist | www.kernplaceflorist.com paper/calligraphy: wild ivory and co | fb: wildivoryandco rentals: three sisters | www.threesistersep.com quartz headpieces: judy and madeleine | www.judyandmadeleine.com models: chelsea & cody
photographer:
Gladys + John las cruces
Gladys and John met on a blind date set up by John’s aunt, and they immediately hit it off! One after their first date, John proposed the day of Gladys’ grad school graduation in Silver City, New Mexico. With their families both in attendance, John popped the question at Gladys’ celebration dinner.
-VENDORSLocation Aguirre Springs Photographer Erin Richins Photography | www.erinrichins.com Engagement Ring Zales | www.zales.com Beauty Anyssa Magallon | @anyssashearslay
Rehearsal Dinner Spots
L A P O S TA D E M E S I L L A
SALUD! DE MESILLA
La Posta de Mesilla first opened in 1939 and has been a familyowned establishment for over 80 years. The traditional New Mexican restaurant has been visited by presidents, baseball champs and many classic movie stars over the years. This New Mexico rehearsal dinner space is the perfect mix of historical significance and delicious food.
Russell Hernandez, owner of Salud! De Mesilla, always dreamt up owning a restaurant. His dreams came true when Salud! De Mesilla first opened its doors. Their commitment to great food, great atmosphere and great service is what makes this restaurant the perfect rehearsal dinner space.
2410 Calle De San Albino, Mesilla, New Mexico 88046 lapostademesilla.com | 575 524 3524
1800 Avenida de Mesilla, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005 saludmesilla.com | 575 323 3548
HACIENDA DE MESILLA
D.H. LESCOMBES WINERY & BISTRO
Hacienda de Mesilla is inspired by the grand old Haciendas of the Old West. This charming boutique inn, grill and cantina will enchant you and your guests as you wine and dine before the biggest day of your life.
D.H. Lescombes Winery & Bistro was created by the Lescombes family, who are sixth-generation French winemakers. Their family, originally from Algeria, were drawn to the New Mexico climate and lifestyle. Host your rehearsal dinner at their Las Cruces bistro and enjoy a carefully crafted menu paired with their speciality wines.
1891 Avenida de Mesilla, Mesilla, New Mexico 88046 haciendademesilla.com | 575 652 4953
1720 Avenida De Mesilla, Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005 lescombeswinery.com | 575 524 2408
LAS C R U C ES
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Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces
The Blue Door Venue
Rio Grande Vineyard & Winery
U.S
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Calhoun Flower Farms
las cruces V E N U E S
Calhoun Flower Farms 86 Haasville Road Anthony, New Mexico 575 526 6661 Calhounflowerfarms.com
Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces 705 S Telshor Boulevard Las Cruces, New Mexico 575 522 4300 Hotelencanto.com
Rio Grande Winery 5231 Avenida de Mesilla Las Cruces, New Mexico 575 201 3744 Riograndewinery.com
The Blue Door Venue 1750 Calle De Mercado Las Cruces, New Mexico 575 800 0802 Bluedoorvenue.com
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