Amanda + Ryan were both born + raised in New Mexico, so it was a no brainer for them to host their wedding there. But not just any old venue would do; they wanted to create an environment that would make their day as special to their guests as it was for the two of them, and that started with choosing a unique + interesting wedding space. Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico – the former home of Georgia O’Keeffe, which inspired many of her paintings – fit the bill completely and its “middle of nowhere” feeling was just right for personalizing with lots of handmade DIY details.
Amanda tells us, We both agreed we wanted more of a country backdrop rather than a city backdrop. Ghost Ranch provided that without being too far away and it was also a place that invited people to stay for a day or two, with affordable lodging and plenty of activities to do.
Sounds like a dream to us! And you’ll see in the photos below, by Elizabeth Wells Photography, that it really pretty much was!
Our Favorite Memory
For both of us, the most memorable moments of the day were the moments we had to ourselves, the first look and the 30 seconds or so after we left the ceremony. Those moments, in the midst of all the wedding fun and crazy, were calm and we were able to look into each others eyes and take a breath and remember what the day was really all about.
We adore Amanda’s bridal look! She is wearing a wedding dress by Alfred Angelo (which she had altered to her specifications), hairpieces by Teresa Romero Atelier and Frye Boots, which were beyond ideal for the rugged setting.
Our Musical Choices
The bridesmaids looked darling in ivory lace dresses from one of our fave shops, ModCloth! And the super pretty blooms were designed by Viva Flora.
Thanks to some fun ideas dreamt up by A + R, and the beautiful event design of Manmade + Sage, the reception space came to life in such a perfect way. We adore the rustic feel and organic hues!
Our Advice
Identify what is most important and what is least important to you as far as decor and details go. Don’t go overboard on everything... just a few things that are most important and that will make the biggest impact. Try to stay as true as you can to what you and your partner want, not what everyone else wants.
Featured in This Wedding
Genica Lee
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Other Vendors in This Wedding
Photography: Elizabeth Wells Photography // Venue: Ghost Ranch // Event Design: Manmade + Sage // Wedding Planner: Bride and Groom // Florals: Viva Flora // Wedding Dress: Alfred Angelo // Hairpiece: Teresa Romero Atelier // Bride's Shoes: Frye Boots // Bridesmaid Dresses: ModCloth // Groom Attire: Mens Wearhouse // Paper Goods: Bride and Groom // Catering: El Pinto Restaurant // Cake: Cowboy Cafe // Music: Anastasia Nellos Cello Studios // Officiant: Groom's Father
