Wedding Inspo - Avant Garde Weddings

Over the past few seasons we’ve found ourselves falling head-over-heels for those bold, bright, completely unique avant-garde weddings and elopements. This modern, colorful spin on traditional celebrations always leaves us pining for more extraordinarily stunning days.

From rainbow florals to shag rug cakes to elegant wedding style with a touch of exceptionally individual details, these days always have so many moments to drool over. Avant-garde nuptials have the perfect mix of classic wedding elegance with modern funk. With disco balls as wedding decor, brides in designer gowns walking down the aisle to bluegrass music, and couples rolling dice with their wedding parties in the middle of an art galleries, these days have seriously never failed to blow us away.

Bring on all the exceptionally unique, wildly beautiful weddings and elopements. We’re so dang excited to capture more and more of these groovy days!!

Featured Love Stories + Shoots
Noah + Rachel at Camino Real Ranch (Austin, TX)
John + Anna at La Fonda on the Plaza (Santa Fe, NM)
Nate + Cait in Downtown Denver (Denver, CO)
Scott + Leanne at SITE Santa Fe (Santa Fe, NM)
Morgan + Mattie at Las Campananas (Santa Fe, NM)

Weddings + Elopements by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Wedding Inspo - Intimate Weddings

As 2020 progresses, it feels like there are different possibilities for weddings on a daily basis. And while big weddings, especially in New Mexico, might not be a reality for a little bit, we adore that intimate weddings are starting to become a bigger staple in the wedding industry.

For clarity, intimate weddings and elopements might seem similar, but they’re actually quite different. In a typical elopement, usually just the couple, the officiant, and the photographer are present. However, in an intimate wedding, usually both sets of parents of the couple, the officiant, a few close friends/family members, and the photographer are present. Sometimes, when there’s not a pandemic taking place, an intimate wedding can even look something like 15-45 guests, usually just a short list of the most important people in the couple’s life.

So far this year, we captured one of the sweetest intimate weddings here in Albuquerque at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm, but in the past we’ve captured a handful of tiny weddings that have filled our hearts with absolute joy. Some of the bonuses of intimate weddings aren’t just cost related (or in 2020’s case, health related), sometimes the best things about smaller weddings involved being able to spend quality time with pretty much every single guest. Another factor is even being able to allow moments of the day to feel less hectic such as making timelines that have less rushed portraits and ceremonies with smaller weddings parties (which means a lot less stress too).

While big weddings will someday be a possibility again, having intimate weddings in their place until we can all gather together safely again might just be the next best thing. Here’s to finding new ways to celebrate and never ever giving up on love, no matter what the universe throws our way!!

Featured Intimate Weddings + Styled Shoots
Brad + Kenna at Old Town Farm
Paul + Carolyn for Rocky Mountain Bride at Los Poblanos
Ben + Katy at The Inn of the Five Graces and Hacienda Corta Caro
Zach + Coli at Hotel Albuquerque and Casas de Sueños
Stuart + Kelly at Los Poblanos
Ryan + Jennifer at Sarabande Bed and Breakfast
Daniel + Natzidielly at Los Poblanos
Ryan + Jason at Ghost Ranch
Daniel + Rebecca at Eldorado Hotel and Neptune Art Space
Oriol + Sarah at Gerald Peters Gallery
Angelo + Rocio at Los Poblanos

Weddings + Styled Shoots by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

What We Heart About Santa Fe Weddings

Anyone who knows our team has seen how much we adore Santa Fe weddings and all of the amazing little spots where we’ve captured our couples and their love stories. From its vast architecture to it rich culture, Santa Fe is a gem among the Southwest and we feel so dang lucky to spend so much time exploring it.

One of the most iconic locations for weddings is, of course, the Santa Fe Plaza, but what many don’t realize is the vast number of different venues of all shapes and sizes for weddings.

Do you want a huge wedding with a parade around the historic plaza followed by an outdoor reception? There are several hotels including La Fonda on the Plaza, The Inn and Spa at Loretto, and La Posada de Santa Fe that are pros at these celebrations.

Or are you a bit more low-key and want an intimate wedding at a stunning hacienda or tiny inn? Spots like Hacienda Corta Caro and The Inn of the Five Graces are the coziest of wedding nooks.

Maybe you want a venue with an iconic past or one that’s even an art gallery? Places like Peters Projects at Gerald Peters Gallery, SITE Santa Fe, and The Santa Fe Opera are just a few of those unique, art focused spaces.

There’s even two incredibly famous churches right on the plaza, Loretto Chapel and The Cathedral Basilica of St Francis of Assisi, for more traditional weddings.

And what about places for couples wanting to venture a bit outside of the usual Santa Fe scene for venues nestled among the mountains and vast New Mexican landscape? Venues like La Mesita Ranch Estate, Las Campanas, Hacienda Doña Andrea, and Four Seasons Santa Fe all provide amazing views and details for any and all weddings they host.

Not only does Santa Fe have so many amazing venues, but so many unique New Mexican and Southwestern traditions have stayed in style season after season in The City Different. Every season mariachi parades around the plaza take center stage, tequila donkeys like sweet Conchita make an appearance at receptions, and all the chili, cactus, and skull details accent every inch of weddings. We love how couples from near and far fully embrace all the special little pieces of Santa Fe that we have such a soft spot for. And we can’t help but absolutely love it even more when our lovers from previous wedding seasons continue to visit Santa Fe year after year just to always have a part of the Southwest with them.

In our eyes, any venue in Santa Fe is the perfect venue and every tradition is beyond special. We’ve been so fortunate to capture a huge amount of couples in the most unique locations and honestly, we can’t wait to explore new places with brand new love stories.

Featured Santa Fe Venues
La Fonda on the Plaza
Hacienda Doña Andrea
La Mesita Ranch Estate
La Posada de Santa Fe
Santa Fe Opera
Las Campanas
SITE Santa Fe
Gerald Peters Gallery
Hacienda Corta Caro
Loretto Chapel
Inn and Spa at Loretto
Inn of the Five Graces
Eldorado Hotel and Spa
Four Seasons Santa Fe

Weddings by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Behind the Camera with Alicia

There’s a lot going on in the world right now and amid all of the uncertainty, change, and eventual growth, we’re spending a little time reflecting on our team’s past, present, and future. Our head gal in charge Alicia sat down for a little behind the scenes Q&A and we talked everything Alicia Lucia Photography; from her sweet little beginnings as a photographer to cultivating her business and her team, to why she has major heart eyes for New Mexico, and the future of ALP including just a few of the international (!!!) places she’d love to capture weddings and elopements in once the world reaches a sense of calm again. She also shouted her favorite couples, weddings, and styled shoots from the last few years, and trust us when we say that they are absolutely iconic days for our team!

Alicia + New Mexico, a Match Made in Southwest Heaven

All of my childhood & adulthood, from as early as I can remember, has been spent in our beautiful southwest state. We moved from Texas to New Mexico for a job opportunity that my dad had and have called New Mexico home for the last 20+ years! I love it so much and don't see myself living anywhere else. It has become a huge source of inspiration for my work! Both personally and professionally, I love that New Mexico is our home base for a multitude of reasons, but most importantly i love how we have a variety of drastic environments. I can be shooting a gorgeous desert bridal session in the middle of the white ridge mesa and in 45 minutes can get to our wooded forest for a hike with my family. It's vast and beautiful, it's where I met my husband, where we got married, had both of our children, it's home to both of our businesses and I wouldn't change any of it for the world! Outside of work, we love spending most of our time outside, whether it's going or bike rides, hiking, fishing, (day) camping lol, or working on our ever growing garden!! 

Alicia’s Photography Roots

I got into photography way back when we still were developing prints in a lab! I was around 13 years old when a family friend gifted me my first film camera & was totally that friend in highschool snapping away. In college, I pursued a different route, but deep down I always had a love for documenting people, places and love through photography. In 2012 I got the opportunity of assisting on a few weddings and in the fall of 2012 I shot my very first elopement solo! It was such a special experience and one that I will always treasure and be forever grateful for. I remember it like yesterday, I was a ball of nerves, but so happy and ecstatic to be given the chance.

Alicia Lucia Photography’s Beginnings + Growth

I started the company in 2013 and by 2015 we had already shot over 25+ weddings/elopements and brought on Ashley to shoot full time as co-lead! 

By 2017 we were growing at the speed of light. It was a bummer to not be able to take on as much work because I was either busy shooting or growing our social media. That winter, I decided to outsource all social media and blogging and brought on Jaclyn our amazing social media and blogger maven. Soon after, I went full time on booking out weddings to Ashley, Bre, and me! It's been amazing so far and are able to be a part of documenting that many more love stories!! 

On the Horizon for ALP

The future is such a loaded idea and one that I never do super great with. The uncertainty of the future, especially now with COVID-19 terrifys me, but I know our little team will make it through and I honestly seeing us traveling the world at some point! I would love for us to go beyond our home state and the Southwest region, and shoot across the country and world at some point! My top international destinations are Morocco (and other regions of Africa) and Iceland!

Fave Wedding Moments

Truly love it all. Every last part of it. Even when the nerves and anticipation from the slight chaos and tight schedules sets in, it's part of the thrill! I'd say the most memorable part of the day for me is getting to document the emotion of pure joy and elation at the realization of being just married after the couples come down the aisle! Their look and embrace to each other is always so sincere and sweet! That and the parent dances always, ALWAYS gets me. 

The Best New Wedding Ideas + Trends

I'm loving that couples are doing their own thing, wholeheartedly! That they aren't going the traditional route, just for the sake of tradition and instead are opting for details or parts of the day that are true to them. We are seeing less of the bouquet and garter throwing, smaller or no bridal parties at all and brides who have multiple looks because who says you should only wear one dress or look? Couples who are writing their own vows or having friends and family members officiate. Couples who are opting for less of the structured photo time and instead just want candids and being intentional with guests, friends, and family! I really love the direction we're headed to, more intentional, wholesome and meaningful! 

A Little Note to All the Lovers Out There

There is no right or wrong way to host your wedding, do what feels right and true to you. Try to not get caught up or stressed on the fine details and instead remember the real reason why you are celebrating! Also consider a day of coordinator. (hint: Lauren with Just Lovely Weddings + Darling Details Rentals is truly the best of the best!!)

Alicia’s Fave Days

So many favorites instantly come to mind but here are some: 
- Zach + Coli (Hotel Albuquerque + Casas de Suenos, 2019)
- Chris + Ari (Los Poblanos, 2019)
- Drew + Lauren (La Mesita Ranch, 2019)
- Scott + Leanne (SITE Santa Fe, 2018)
- Dave + Lauren (La Fonda on the Plaza, 2018)
- Rocky Mountain Bride x Los Poblanos Editorial (2018)
- Derek + Brigitte (La Fonda on the Plaza, 2018)
- Romantic Rockstar Styled Elopement (Los Poblanos, 2018)
- Tyler + Cassie (La Posada de Santa Fe, 2018)
- Shaun + Jessie (Sarabande Bed and Breakfast, 2018)
- Boot + Mallory (Eagle Nest Elopement, 2017)

Weddings + Styled Shoots by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Bridal Inspo - Strapless Wedding Gowns

A true bridal classic we see season after season, strapless wedding gowns are both elegant and just a tiny bit flirty. From the constructed couture variety to the plush blush styles to even the most gorgeous hand painted ones, strapless wedding gowns are definitely the perfect canvas for any bride to find her own unique style in for her big day!

One of the most special aspects of strapless wedding gowns is that the silhouette can still come in a multitude of styles. From sleek curve hugging gowns to ballgown inspired dresses to even the slightest mermaid bridal train, strapless gowns are each incredibly individual and downright beautiful!

We’re so excited to see what new designs and inspirations future strapless gowns will take on and we can’t wait to capture all of them!!!


Featured Bridal Gown Designers
Vera Wang
Eisen Stein Bridal
Ines di Santo
David’s Bridal
Stella York
Allure Bridals
Maggie Sottero
Hayley Paige
Reem Acra
Kelly Faetanini
Casa Blanca Bridal
Lillian West
Watters

Weddings + Styled Shoots by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Wedding Inspo - Wedding Cakes

If you’ve been craving a sweet escape, we can’t help but mention that this blog is just for you! We’ve featured some of the most stunning cakes we’ve captured over the past two years and we’re still drooling over them.

From succulent accented beauties to bright and festive babes to the classic, yet pretty floral beauties, we gotta say that these cakes certainly had their own personalities (and some of them definitely stole the show). We love seeing when couples get super creative with wedding day details and its always such a treat to see how some of local baking beauties pull off these sweet masterpieces!

We’re still on a sugar high for some of these cakes so scroll through and find your new favorite sweet treat!!!

Featured Bakers
Maggie’s Wedding Cakes
Chocolate Maven
Simply Sweet by Darci
Mellow Cakery (formerly Maimie’s Cakes)
Bizzy B Cakes
Q’s Cakes & Sweet Boutique
Small Cakes
A Cake Odyssey
Emerald Pie Bar
Sassy Bakes (Heather of Los Poblanos)

Weddings + Styled Shoots by Alicia, Ashley, Bre, and the ALP Team
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Scott + Leanne, a SITE Santa Fe Wedding

Scott and Leanne, aka Hush and LeeLee, aka the coolest/most down to earth couple out there, made it official this past June in Santa Fe, NM. These babes met while playing soccer and the connection was pretty much instant. With a little magic from the one and only Jessie Baca, Scott and Leanne pulled off a killer wedding at the newly opened (but really tho, there were still parts of the gallery that were being constructed— see below) SITE Santa Fe, a contemporary art space, with some of the coolest details around. From personalized coozies, to French fry filled centerpieces, soccer ball cake toppers and dancing to LOVE by rap genius Kendrick Lamar, these two pretty much had something for everyone. LeeLee included a few super sweet, personal details on her wedding day: her mother’s own (insanely gorgeous) wedding veil and her parents’ toasting glasses. And just when we thought that this couple couldn’t be any cooler, Scott’s only request, a fun “dice bet” photo op complete with Mickey’s and some cold hard cash. These lovers set the bar sky high for prioritizing a family centered day while still incorporating their unique and fun style into every detail. We were sooo thrilled to be a part of their day, congrats again to Scott and Leanne! #leeleehush

Vendors
Venue - SITE Santa Fe
Planning + Coordination - Jessie Baca
Florals - Viva Flora
Cake - Chocolate Maven
Cake Toppers - Jess West
Hair - Chrome Salon Santa Fe
MUA - Jacqueline Chavez
Bridal Gown - St. Patrick
Bridal Veil - Bride’s Mother
Bridal Shoes - Klub Nico
Personalized Coozies + Napkins - Etsy
LeeLee Hush Logo - Kenny Barela
Cocktail Music - Cali Shaw

Photos icy Alicia Lucia of Alicia Lucia Photography
Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn Younger of Alicia Lucia Photography