A Guide to Planning An Intimate Tucson Wedding. A Sunset Ceremony at Gates Pass and a Romantic Backyard Reception
Written by https://www.coppermoonfloraldesign.com
Photography by https://hannahb.photography
Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Tucson, Arizona, offers a unique backdrop for couples dreaming of a wedding that combines old Spanish charm with the beauty of the Sonoran Desert all around. A backyard wedding in Tucson not only embraces the city's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes but also offers a canvas for an intimate, personalized celebration. Here's your guide to planning the dreamiest Tucson backyard wedding, from saying "I do" in front of the vibrant red and gold sunset to dancing the warm night away in your intimate backyard reception.
The Ceremony at Gates Pass
Gates Pass is characterized by its rugged terrain, dotted with towering saguaro cacti, ancient rock formations, and wide-open skies that seem to stretch on forever. Known to locals as the place to go to watch the best sunset view in Tucson, its also a great location for couples to exchange vows in an atmosphere that's both wild and wonderfully serene.
Gates Pass is located in the Tucson Mountains, west of downtown. This scenic mountain pass is part of the Tucson Mountain Park and is known for its breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert, especially at sunset. To reach Gates Pass, you would typically take West Speedway Boulevard from downtown Tucson, which eventually turns into Gates Pass Road. This road winds through the mountains and towering saguaros and offers several spots to pull over and enjoy the views.
As the ceremony time approaches, guests are treated to the ever-changing colors of the desert sky. The air is filled with the scent of creosote bushes, and the gentle sounds of local doves cooing provide a tranquil soundtrack. When the moment arrives, the couple exchanges vows against an unparalleled panoramic view of the Tucson Mountains, with the setting sun providing a radiant glow that enhances the beauty of the moment.
A permit may be required for wedding ceremonies at Gates Pass, especially for larger gatherings, so it's essential to plan ahead and check with local authorities about any regulations. Since the area is a public park, it's also important to consider the timing of the ceremony to ensure privacy and the best possible experience for everyone involved.
The Desert Themed Bridal Bouquet
Our bride Genesis wanted a nod to the desert surroundings so we had no problem bringing that theme into her custom bridal bouquet. Here's our video of it on the wedding day! https://www.instagram.com/p/C2kLc6qLhLW/
We created a bouquet with a harmonious blend of traditional flowers, dried tropicals, and desert themed plants. Think of the fiery reds and oranges of autumn chrysanthemums or the delicate pink of the desert rose and ranunculus. The soft sage green hues of the silver dollar eucalyptus adds a touch of serenity, while the bright oranges or the safflower bring a burst of sunshine. Finished with one soft pink tropical protea flower. Accenting these are the textures and shapes of desert grasses and dried elements, such as dried palm spears, bunny tails, and preserved white limonium.
The color palette of a desert-themed bridal bouquet leans heavily on earth tones—creams, browns, greens, and reds—reflecting the landscape’s natural beauty. Accents of brighter colors, like yellows, oranges, and pinks, mimic the stunning sunsets and wildflowers of the desert. This combination of colors creates a warm and inviting feel, perfect for a desert bridal bouquet.
Check out Copper Moon Floral Designs other desert inspired bouquets here https://www.instagram.com/coppermoonfloraldesign/
The Reception
1. Choosing the Right Backyard Space -
The first step in planning your Tucson backyard wedding is to find the perfect venue. Whether it's a family home with sentimental value or a rented estate that captures the rugged elegance of the desert, the key is to choose a space that feels personal and suits your guest list size. Consider the natural landscape and existing structures that can be incorporated into your wedding decor, such as a spacious patio, a poolside area or a wild desert ranch. Also consider the historic neighborhood of Barrio Viejo like Genesis & Maro did. Barrio Viejo exudes the old Spanish style of Tucson.
2. Embracing the Desert Theme -
A Tucson backyard wedding is incomplete without a nod to its desert surroundings. Use the natural palette of the desert as your inspiration, incorporating earth tones, succulents, and native plants into your decor. Think about integrating local materials such as terracotta, wood, and stone into your decor and backdrops.
Floral decor is another way to transform a simple backyard into a lush, wild and romantic wedding space. Some key elements of desert-themed floral decor;
1. Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti are staples of desert-themed floral designs. They not only add unique shapes and textures but are also resilient and can withstand hot, dry wedding environments. These plants can be incorporated into bouquets, centerpieces, boutonnieres, and even cake decorations. Echeveria, Sedum, Sempervivum, and small barrel cacti are popular choices that blend beautifully with flowers and greenery.
2. Warm and Earthy Tones
The color palette for a desert-themed wedding often includes warm, earthy tones like terracotta, sand, ochre, and dusty pink, complemented by pops of vibrant color such as sunset orange, cactus green, and bright yellow. These colors reflect the natural hues found in desert landscapes and can create a cohesive look throughout the wedding décor.
3. Dried Flowers and Grasses
Incorporating dried flowers and grasses such as pampas grass, bunny tails, and dried palms adds texture and a boho-chic vibe to floral arrangements. These elements also evoke the arid beauty of the desert and can add height and drama to centerpieces and bouquets.
4. Native Desert Flowers
Flowers that naturally occur in desert environments can add authenticity and a touch of softness to the rugged theme. Think of adding blooms like desert marigold, aloe flower, and California poppy for their natural resilience and stunning colors that can brighten any arrangement.
Floral Elements to Consider
Bouquets and Boutonnieres: Bridal bouquets can mix succulents and desert blooms with traditional wedding flowers for a unique look. Boutonnieres can feature small succulents or dried elements for a cohesive theme.
Ceremony Backdrops: For outdoor ceremonies, consider using large pampas grass arrangements or a wooden structure adorned with palm leaves as a natural, eye-catching backdrop. Our arbor rentals available https://www.coppermoonfloraldesign.com/rentals
Centerpieces: Table centerpieces can vary from minimalist arrangements featuring of mini 2'' potted cacti dotted down the tables to more elaborate displays combining vibrant flowers, eucalyptus, palm leaves, and rustic elements.
Aisle and Chair Decor: Line the aisle with terracotta pots filled with desert plants or hang small bouquets of dried flowers and grasses from the chairs to add to the desert ambiance.
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3. Outdoor Comfort for Your Guests
Tucson's weather can be a major factor in outdoor event planning. For cooler months, consider providing cozy blankets or setting up fire pits for guests to gather around. During warmer seasons, ensure there are plenty of shaded areas, fans, or misters, and offer personalized water bottles or hand fans as welcome gifts. Remember to have a contingency plan, like a tent or indoor space, in case of unexpected weather.
4. Lighting the Night
As the sun sets and the stars begin to twinkle in the vast Arizona sky, the right lighting can transform your backyard into a magical setting. String lights, lanterns, and candles can create a warm, inviting ambiance. Consider highlighting natural features like trees, bushes, or pathways to add depth and interest to your evening celebration.
5. Local Flavors in Your Menu
Tucson is known for its delicious Mexican cuisine and historic food scene. Work with your caterer to incorporate local ingredients and dishes into your Tucson backyard wedding menu. Your wedding menu is an opportunity to explore and celebrate the rich tapestry of flavors that this region has to offer. Consider offering a modern twist on classic Mexican dishes, such as mole poblano, enchiladas, or ceviche, each prepared with a unique blend of ingredients that showcases the chef's creativity while honoring traditional flavors. Desserts might include tres leches cake, prickly pear sorbet, or churros with chocolate and chiltepin pepper sauce. One of the city's most beloved dishes is the Sonoran hot dog, a bacon-wrapped hot dog served in a bolillo-style bun, topped with beans, onions, tomato, and a variety of sauces. While it might be more casual fare, creative caterers can transform it into elegant appetizers or a late-night snack for guests. Try the Sonoran dog here https://www.bktacos.com
Also consider a signature prickly pear margarita for you wedding cocktail. The star ingredient, prickly pear syrup, is derived from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, known for its deep magenta color. The fruit is juicy, with a flavor profile that hints at watermelon and bubblegum with a touch of tartness, perfect for creating a syrup that’s both flavorful and visually striking. Recipe here https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/prickly-pear-margarita-3644153
6. Capturing the Moment
Choose a photographer familiar with the area who can capture the essence of your Tucson backyard wedding. Wedding photography in Tucson is about more than just capturing images; it's about telling a story that reflects the couple's journey, set against one of the most picturesque landscapes in the United States. From the sweeping desert vistas and golden sunlight to the historic architecture and warm, star-filled night skies, Locations for more romantic photo sessions include; Saguaro National Park, Tohono Chul Park, Sabino Canyon, Agua Caliente Park, Mount Lemmon, Tucson Botanical Gardens, Downtown Tucson and the Barrio Viejo neighborhood.
7. Entertainment and Activities
Keep your guests entertained with activities that celebrate the great weather and the culture of the Southwest. Lawn games, live Spanish guitar, or like in the case of this wedding, a piñata! These can add fun and unique elements to your Tucson backyard wedding celebration. Finish off the event with the perfect Tucson themed favor for your guests! Ideas could include; a mini potted cacti or succulent, prickly pear candy, custom sunglasses, local coffee or honey, artisanal soap, Sonoran desert spices or handcrafted pottery.
Closing Thoughts
An intimate Tucson backyard wedding with a ceremony at Gates Pass offers an opportunity to celebrate your love in a setting that's both historic, wild and breathtaking. By incorporating the beauty of the desert, paying homage to local traditions, and ensuring the comfort of your guests, you can create a day that's not only beautiful but also deeply personal and unforgettable. Embrace the spirit of Tucson, and let it guide you in planning a wedding that reflects both your love story and the enchanting allure of the Southwest.
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