This next year BRS and I have many weddings on our calendar prior to our big day! It is such a fun season of life and we are so glad to have the chance to celebrate these special times with our dear friends and family. As these weddings come up I’ll be featuring these precious brides and grooms and their wedding day details here on “From Madi to M.R.S”!
This past spring BRS and I were able to take a flight out to Phoenix, AZ to enjoy some sunshine, climbing and relaxation.
We didn’t travel just for the weather and activities. (But what an added benefit! Just look at that view!) We were there to celebrate the marriage of BRS’ college friends, Jenna and Tyler. I met both Jenna and Tyler a year and a half ago on a surprise visit to see BRS at the University of Missouri. They are such kind, fun-loving people and the love they have for one another was apparent even in that first encounter. The couple exchanged their vows at The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch on March 24, 2012.
What was your favorite memory from the day? : It was by far, walking down the aisle. I saw all of my friends and family and walked toward my husband to be. It was an amazing feeling and something I will remember forever.
Who was your favorite vendor? : Our photographer, Kimberly Jarman. She was simply amazing from start to finish. She captured the day and created amazing photographs we will have forever. Tyler and I wanted see each other at the altar and did not want to do a first look. We were so glad with our choice. And she still let us enjoy the first 30 minutes of our marriage and captured the special moments.
What was the best part of planning? : The best decision was hiring a wedding planner. She saved us money by negotiating with vendors; she was also in charge of the schedule and was our day-of-coordinator. All of the wedding planning was made simple and easy because she made the hard decisions and I got to make the fun choices.
What was the hardest part of planning? : The hardest part of wedding planning was being in a different state than where the wedding was taking place. I lived in Missouri and the wedding was in Arizona. It forced me to be super organized.
Did you have any budget splurges? : We splurged on the draping in the reception hall. We had our reception in a large ballroom and wanted a way to make it feel more intimate. We decided to drape one entire wall and up light the draping. I love that we splurged on this because I believe it really made the room. My parents surprised me and had the fabric gather in the middle of the room with 3 chandeliers hanging from it. It was beautiful!
The plush round arrangements were full of hydrangeas, roses and orchids and displayed in beautiful crystal stands.
Any advice for future brides? : Enjoy every moment of your engagement and do not wish a single day away. Even though you want your wedding day to arrive, your engagement is such a special part of the experience. I have so many great memories of planning and figuring out details late at night after a long day of work. Those moments are amazing to look back on. We planned an event to honor both our love and celebrate with our families!
To the new Mr. & Mrs. Graff:
Thank you so much for letting us share in your special day. The entire evening was filled with fun, laughter and love. You make a beautiful couple and the love you have for one another shines. We wish y’all the BEST in all that is ahead for you and the family you will create together.
-M.T.R.
