I boarded the plane to fly to Albuquerque, New Mexico. All of my camera gear stored safely in my carry on camera bag. I literally did not let go of the handle of my camera gear until I had climbed in the rental car. (I am a little neurotic sure, but who can blame me! I even had a dream last night that my 24-70mm f2.8 lens shattered RIGHT before family portraits for a upcoming wedding! Photographers worst nightmare!)

It was so refreshing stepping off the plane in New Mexico. When all of Utah was still buried in snow, clouded with inversion, New Mexico was bright, warm and sunny. I instantly remembered all of the reasons I love New Mexico, and one of them is their weather. You just can’t beat it.

Aslyn and Ryan had a beautiful wedding day in the Albuquerque New Mexico LDS temple. A Temple I got to see being build as a 12 year old, so it has a little special meaning to me now. Their ceremony was early in the morning. Early enough that when we went to take the getting ready pictures, the sun still was sleeping away. But even in the dark early morning, Aslyn was calm and collective. With pen in hand, she was writing Ryan a note as she was getting the finishing touch of her hair done. I love when brides write these little love notes. They will be treasures for years to come!

All of Aslyn’s wedding details were beautiful and classic.  I was in love with her crystal and bronze belt that she added to her simple elegant white wedding dress. It was perfect for her.

I love those blue skies. Not a cloud in sight. This made the winter wedding morning warm and rich.

I LOVE getting my bride and groom’s wedding announcements. In my “night before preparations” when I am cleaning all my gear and making sure I have all my memory cards and batteries, I love to bring the invitations with me to photograph. It is in little details that help tell you full wedding story.

Do you see Aslyn and Ryan’s niece in the background playing Simba from the Lion King? 🙂

The story goes that Tanith (Aslyn’s sister) with help of her boyfriend Eddie, set Ryan and Aslyn up! I love how this story pans out, because in a month Tanith and Eddie will be the ones tying the knot in this same beautiful place! Can’t wait to photograph their wedding day soon!

Ryan is the perfect compliment to Aslyn. He is hard working and sincere, but know how to good around with having this many brothers in the family.

When you start bride and groom portraits off with something like this, you know it is going to be a fantastic day. And it WAS.

This picture screams “CANVAS PRINT” to me. 🙂

Aslyn you looked beautiful. It radiated inside and out. Ryan looked as sharp as can be in his dark gray suit. You could tell that he had a deep love for his new bride.

Aslyn and Ryan! I loved being with you on your wedding day. You guys make a beautiful couple full of a cherished love. You were so welcoming, not only did I feel a connection of friendship with you both and your guest, but everyone welcomed me in as family.  I am excited to see what life has in store for you both and am crossing my fingers that you move up to Utah so we can hang out together as “old married couples” do.

Breanna McKendrick is a Salt Lake City Wedding Photographer.  Like what you see and want to book your wedding or portrait session? Contact her HERE to inquire about availability and pricing or just take a moment, look around and get to know her more.