Wedding Inspo - 5 Albuquerque Venues to Fall in Love With

Even though the past few wedding seasons have been filled with the most magical destinations both near and far from our beloved New Mexico, there’s nothing quite like The Land of Enchantment, especially our sweet little hometown of Albuquerque.

While we do spend a huge amount of time up north in Santa Fe, we never say no to enchanting celebrations in the city where everything started for us over a decade ago. On the surface, Albuquerque may not seem like a typical wedding destination, but if you you peek around all of its little corners you’ll be absolutely astonished with the divine wedding venues hidden in our quaint city. From heavenly lavender farms to epic historical landmarks to tranquil gardens, Albuquerque is truly a haven for wedding nuptials.

We couldn’t resist the chance to feature just a glimpse of a few of the Albuquerque wedding venues that continually take our breath away, season after season. Our hearts beat just a little faster every time we get to capture love at these incredibly special locations and we’re forever crossing our fingers for even more “I dos” at a few of our favorite gems.

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Venue - National Hispanic Cultural Center
Located right near downtown Albuquerque, this historic location is known for its grandiose performing arts center, unique architecture, and rich history. However, one of the many details we love so much about National Hispanic Culture Center is the way that it also makes for the most perfect of wedding locations. Its blend of soft garden touches and stunning southwestern flair makes it truly the best of both worlds.

Venue - Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm

While this world renowned lavender farm needs no introduction, we simply can’t help falling madly in love with it time and time again. With its downright bewitching grounds (including an endless lavender field, iconic silos, and countless gardens) this beauty is a place we are always able to find a little bit more charm in every single time we visit. We can’t wait for more of our darling couples to become as spellbound with Los Poblanos as we have been for all of these years.

Venue - Casas de Sueños + San Isidro de Capilla
We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to feature one of the most entrancing wedding location combination we’ve ever laid eyes upon. The pure white, non-denomination beauty of San Isidro de Capilla makes for the perfect blank canvas for any couple desiring a classic wedding chic feeling that still lends perfectly to the even the most modern of fêtes. And truthfully, we think that one of the most delightful ways to follow up a ceremony in this Albuquerque staple is with an al fresco celebration at Casas de Sueños, a tiny garden known for its irresistible beauty. This little spot is close enough to the stunning bosque, yet far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it the most quaint location.

Venue - Old Town Farm
Perfectly tucked away right near Old Town Albuquerque, this darling little venue is truly the most peaceful of locations. From its stellar red barn to its tiny corn field to vast grounds, Old Town Farm is captivating beyond belief. And if its charming features weren’t enough, this alluring little spot perfectly reflects all of New Mexico’s seasons with its constantly changing foliage.

Venue - Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town
Last, but never least is one of our all time favorites and one of the first venues we ever photographed. Hotel Albuquerque is known for its incomparable beauty, from its Spanish-inspired ceremony pavilion to its stunning, open-air garden, to its famous architecture. We adore this space and the way that couples have continually loved it year after year. We couldn’t dream up a more romantic setting to make if official in the heart of Albuquerque.

Sean + Kate, a Heavenly Rancho Gallina Wedding

Sweethearts Kate and Sean celebrated their love in the most divine, intentional way this September. Surrounded by all of their loved ones, these angels said “I Do” on a day that we can only describe as being totally and utterly blissful.

This match-made-in-heaven pair first met in college during undergrad, but didn’t truly connect until almost nine years later when both Kate and Sean were living in Albuquerque. After over four years together, these babes knew their love was the real deal and Sean surprised Kate with a snowy proposal in 2021. They soon began planning their dream day alongside their sweet pups, Peach and Cookie.

From the very beginning Sean and Kate knew they wanted a charming, yet laid-back celebration that would feel inclusive, beautiful, and completely true to their love and who they are as humans. For their big day, they decided on Rancho Gallina, a dreamy little spot right outside of Santa Fe, everything else fell perfectly into place. From the colorful florals by Florecita to the most heavenly bridal look (complete with a couture gown and the most incredible crown we’ve ever laid eyes on) to all of the amazing reception details (just peep those precious mugs made by the bride herself and their stunner of a photo bus), Kate and Sean knew exactly how to find the most flawless connection between the little things and the big moments of their incredible day. We’ll never quite get over the way these two were literally showered in joy (aka flower petals) at the end of their ceremony, their stunning desert portraits, or the way Sean and Kate partied alllll night long with their favorite people on the planet.

We adored seeing these soulmates ride off into the sunset together and already know that their new journey will be the best one yet!!

Vendors
Venue - Rancho Gallina
Florals - Florecita Flowers
Invitations + Signage - The Knot Invitations
Hair + Makeup -sister of the bride
Bridal - Lauren Elaine Bridal
Reception Dress - Reformation
Bride’s Shoes - United Nude
Bride’s Ring - Young in the Mountains
Groom’s Ring - Bella Fine Jewelry
Groom’s Suit - Indochino
Groom’s Shoes - Taft
Photo Booth - Little Moon
Handmade Mugs - by bride
DJ - Featherricci
Baked Goods - Planty Sweet
Catering - The County Line

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Brett + Karla, a Gorgeous La Fonda on the Plaza Wedding

Long before D.C. babes Brett and Karla were partying the night away with all of their loved ones, they were just two cuties searching for love on the East Coast. These angels brought their amazing love story to a new pinnacle with unforgettable nuptials in Santa Fe.

After they both nearly called it quits on dating apps, Brett and Karla took a chance on their Hinge match with one another and met up for coffee on one of the coldest days in D.C. Almost immediately into their first date, these two realized that there was an instant, natural connection between them and from that day forward, they dove headfirst into a wonderful, loving relationship. A few years later, Brett popped the question to Karla on her birthday at home in Virginia right in the middle of the pandemic. Two weeks later, the newly engaged couple eloped on Brett’s parents’ property and had an intimate ceremony right before Brett was set to deploy with the Navy for a year. 

When July of 2022 finally arrived, Karla and Brett kicked off their wedding weekend with a traditional, yet intimate Catholic wedding at the ever-famous Cathedral Basilica de St.Francis of Assisi, making for a truly perfect prelude to their gorgeous La Fonda on the Plaza celebration. After their tiny wedding, these hunnies welcomed all of their guests to The City Different for the most show-stopping affair. On the day of their rooftop soirée, monsoon clouds gathered in the sky, yet even as Brett and Karla said “I do” for the third time in front of all of their friends and family, not a single drop of rain fell on them (cosmic proof of just how much magic was in the air for the newlyweds). And to top off their ethereal ceremony, Karla, Brett, and their guests were paraded around the plaza by the most incredible mariachi band.

After spending the dreamiest part of the evening taking the most serene wedding day portraits, Brett and Karla were beyond ready to start the party with the most un-freaking-real playlist and reception details of all time. These sweethearts made sure to incorporate some of their most beloved songs into their bash including Bad Bunny’s “Ojitos Lindos” while walking in during their grand entrance and “L.O.V.E.” by Frank Sinatra for their cake cutting (something Karla had always dreamed of doing). Brett and Karla topped it all off with a first dance to “Holy” by Justin Bieber (cementing them as one of the most iconic couples ever). The dance floor was never empty during this mid-summer fête and we’re so dang over the moon for evenings like this one.

Brett and Karla made the most of having so many people they love gathered in one place, many of whom had come from afar to celebrate. We’re so dang inspired by babes like this who keep celebrating their love time and time again.

Vendors
Venue - La Fonda on the Plaza
Planning + Florals - Genesis Event Design
Hair + Makeup - A. Salon Santa Fe
Bridal Gown - Pronovias
Bridal Boutique - Ellie’s Bridal
Bridal Veil - Modern Trousseau
Bride’s Shoes - Jimmy Choo
Bride’s Jewelry - BHLDN + Kendra Scott
Bridesmaid Dresses - BHLDN
Groom’s Attire - Suit Supply
Officiant - Robert Vigil
Desserts - Mary Cano
Mariachi Band - Mariachi Tenampa

Photo Curation + Copy Editing by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography
Blog Copy by Carolyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Wedding Inspo - Fall Weddings

As the temperatures begin to drop and the world around us turns to soft shades of orange, we know that fall wedding season is just around the corner. Besides being the busiest time of the year for us, autumn holds so much promise and beauty for our team as we journey out to capture all of the nuptials taking place amid the gently changing season.

From the moody and romantic fêtes to the more subtle and easy-spirited days, weddings in the fall always bring something extra special to the mix. Whether its florals in all hues of yellow and brown or the mystical light of an autumn sunset at the end of a stunning wedding day, weddings at this time of year always bring us full circle in a perfect mix of nostalgia and inspiration.

We’re so thrilled for all of the love stories to be captured at this incredibly special time, we know that we’re going to lean into this fall in the best way possible.

Featured Love Stories
Will + Jill at Los Poblanos Historic Inn and Organic Farm
Stuart + Kelly at Camp Hideaway Retreat
Ysidro + Celestina at Casa Perea Art Space
Ethan + Leila At Hacienda Doña Andrea
Andrew + Deanna at Hotel Andaluz
Brad + Kenna at Old Town Farm
Maria at Terese Rose Studios
Will + Lindsay at Pecos National Historical Site
Luke + Regan at Race and Religious
Andrew + Shay at a Private Estate
Dylan + Crystal in Nob Hill
S + C at a Private Estate
Jaclyn at White Mesa
Michael + Sarah at La Fonda on the Plaza

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Alex + Shannon, an Iconic Hotel Parq Central Wedding

Lovers Shannon and Alex started their new chapter in the most mesmerizing of ways at the historic Hotel Parq Central in the heart of Downtown Albuquerque. These babes knew just how to celebrate their once-in-a-lifetime kind of love on the most magical summer evening.

Alex and Shannon originally met in college when they were both art students at The University of New Mexico. Even though Alex called Shannon the wrong name (Samantha), she still agreed to go on their first date. After many hours talking over coffee (over the course of many dates) and endless games of 20 Questions, these two knew that they had discovered something extremely special in one another. Over the last few years together, Shannon and Alex have cultivated a life together based on love, light, and a deep sense of adoration for all of their loved ones.

These hunnies enchanted everyone this July with an elegant, modern, and completely stunning wedding. From their colorful florals and disco ball accents to Shannon’s divinely chic bridal style to the most killer playlist (complete with Sade, Beyonce, and Kendrick!), these two took every last element of their nuptials to the next level. We loved the way these lovers did things that were true to themselves, including walking down the aisle together (which made for the most emotional moment) to both Alex and Shannon having an outfit change for their reception (just look at Shannon’s sparkly party dress and Alex’s vibrant shirt) to showing everyone an extremely special skateboarding video that Alex made for Shannon. This day was full of the deepest love, joy, and excitement for two souls who are so clearly meant for each other.

Bring on all the couples who know how to bring the party and who aren’t afraid to take their love to new heights.

Vendors
Venue - Hotel Parq Central
Coordination - Corazon Events
Florals - Albuquerque Florist Weddings
Invitations - Minted
Ring - Porter Gulch
Hair + Makeup - Something Ginger
Bridal Gown - Sarah Seven
Bridal Boutique - Lovely Bride Denver
Bride’s Reception + Reception Shoes - Vince Camuto
Reception Dress - Fame and Partners
Bridesmaid Dresses - Petal and Pup + Lulus + Reformation
Groom’s Attire - Jack Victor Official
Groomsmen Attire - Men’s Wearhouse
Cake - Simply Sweet by Darci
Disco Balls - Darling Details Rentals
DJ - Dream Factory Productions

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Miles + Kelley, a Moody Hyatt Tamaya Wedding

Right in the middle of our sunny, warm summer wedding season, we were lucky enough to capture Kelley and Miles’ moody, yet completely gorgeous day at Hyatt Tamaya. These lovebirds filled their sweet celebration with a whole lot of joy and romance.

Miles and Kelley first met almost a decade ago while playing sand volleyball and even though they may have been a little bit competitive with one another at first, sparks eventually flew between these cuties. These two began the most beautiful relationship filled with going on lots of adventures, helping each other through grad school, and falling more and more in love with one another. A few years down the line, Miles surprised Kelley by proposing at Disney World right in front of Sleeping Beauty’s Castle (extremely magical if we don’t say so ourselves). And to top it off, Kelley’s family from the East Coast was there to witness their incredibly special moment.

These babes knew that they wanted a wedding that reflected the natural beauty of the Southwest as well as one that gave off those elegantly classic vibes, so they headed just a little bit north to the iconic Hyatt Tamaya for the most stunning July day. From their dreamy ceremony under a gazebo to the most breathtaking romantics out in the desert, this day was full of everything that we adore about weddings. Every last second with Kelley and Miles was sweet, intentional, and downright divine.

Here’s to dream couples and dream days that keep us up on cloud nine for years to come!!!

Vendors
Venue - Hyatt Tamaya
Planning + Coordination - Just Lovely Weddings
Florals - Albuquerque Florist
Makeup - Ashley of Betty Rose by Alanna
Hair - Jayce of Betty Rose by Alanna
Bridal Gown - Wtoo by Watters
Bridal Boutique - BHLDN
Bride’s Shoes - Gianni Bini
Rentals + Decor - Darling Details Rentals
Officiant - Grant Harvey Jr
Cake - Whole Foods
Band - Diamond Empire Band
DJ - Dream Factory Productions
Lights - Black Swan Events
Photo Booth - NM Photo Booth

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Ryan + Annie, an Elegantly Modern Santa Fe Wedding

Dallas angels Ryan and Annie brought their love to the Southwest this spring for one of the most breathtakingly romantic days we’ve ever seen. Every last bit of their serene Santa Fe nuptials was beyond beautiful and so dang memorable.

These cuties have been adventuring all over the world together for several years now, so its no surprise that Ryan popped the question while he and Annie were hiking along Path of the Gods trail in the Amalfi Coast, Italy. These two knew that travel and really incredible views would be a major part of their wedding so they picked Four Seasons Santa Fe as the place to make their love official.

On the most dreamy May afternoon, Annie and Ryan said “I do” surrounded by so many of their beloved friends and family. This stellar day had some of the most gorgeous details around, from the soft yet luxe florals, to Annie’s heavenly bridal style, to the most incredible dance party the Southwest has ever witnessed. And if their details weren’t enough, their deeply emotional first look and sweet moment with their pup, Wally, are sure to be the cherry on top of an already incredibly special day.

We adored these sweet souls and their love for one another, cheers to the most amazing new chapter!

Vendors
Venue - Four Seasons Santa Fe
Planning + Coordination - Black Bow Events
Florals - Two Baroque Girls Florals
Paper Goods - August and White Designs
Invitations - Studio Seventy Six
Hair + Makeup - Something Ginger
Bridal Gown - Alyssa Kristin
Veil - Untamed Petals
Bridal Boutique - a & bé bridal
Bride’s Shoes - Badgley Mishka
Bride’s Reception Dress - Ramy Brook from Saks Fifth Avenue
Bridesmaid Dresses - BHLDN
Ceremony Music - Ryan Smith Cello
Cake - Maggie’s Wedding Cakes
Reception Band - Legacy Band
Lead Photographer - Bre B.
Second Photographer - Molly
Assistant - Erin

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography

Matt + Melissa, an Enchanting Garden-Inspired Backyard Wedding

Together with only their closest friends and family, sweethearts Melissa and Matt made official this spring with an elegant early morning wedding. This garden party inspired day was one filled with so much beauty and love, we were blown away by the way these hunnies adore each other.

This dreamy Sunday was kicked off with an intimate ceremony in these cuties’ backyard and then continued on to the most stunning tented reception with all of the most whimsical spring floral detail we could ever imagine. We adored seeing Matt and Melissa’s newly blended family come together to celebrate such a monumental occasion in the most perfect of ways. Amid all of the stellar personal touches and romantic settings, these babes’ love took center stage.

Melissa and Matt’s love is truly something to behold, we were beyond lucky to be a tiny piece of such a deeply special celebration.

Vendors
Location - Private Estate
Florals - Florecita Flowers
Invitations - Minted Weddings
Hair - Hair by Portia
Makeup - Beauty by Angelique Martinez
Bridal Gown - Dress the Population
Bridal Boutique - Neiman Marcus
Bride’s Shoes - Badgley Mischka
Bride’s Ring - John Thomas Jewelers
Bridesmaids Dresses - Nordstorm
Groom + Groomsmen Attire - Bert and Jess
Groom’s Ring - James Avery Artisan Jewelry
Catering - Walter Burke Catering
Rentals - AA Events and Tents
Officiant - Mike Bohny
Music - Ryan Montano
Photographer - Carissa
Assistant - Jacqueline A.

Blog + Photo Curation by Jaclyn of Alicia Lucia Photography