The U.S. is undoubtedly full of amazing wedding destinations and Abiquiu, New Mexico is one of them based on the magnificent natural scenery in today’s wedding. Exquisitely captured by Elizabeth Wells Photography it showcases the rustic charm and desert hues perfectly, whilst rich red tones dabbled throughout the florals and decor lift the neutral color palette, and add an element of drama to create a truly breathtaking and inspiring celebration…..

With both Amanda and Ryan born and raised in New Mexico, there was never any doubt where their wedding would be. The challenge was finding the perfect venue for their vision. Wanting to create an environment that would make their day as special to their guests as it was for the two of them, any old venue would not do. Finding a unique and interesting wedding space was key! And Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico – the former home of artist Georgia O’Keeffe – with its “middle of nowhere” feeling was just perfect.

Amanda explained…. “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.”

Before sharing all of the gorgeous images, Beth Wells is here with a little introduction….“Ryan and Amanda were married on a windy and cold day in March at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, New Mexico. Ghost Ranch is a magical place. If you’ve never been, you should go. It’s beautiful and romantic! Ryan and Amanda are amazing. I’m honored to have been asked to photograph their day, it was full of so much love. So happy to call them my friends.”

Amanda & Ryan chose to take a few moments to themselves before the ceremony with an intimate first look. And wow what a backdrop for this emotional moment…..

Their color palette really was so perfect for the desert landscape!

Favourite memories from the day…

“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.”

Thanks to some fun rustic DIY details by Amanda & Ryan, and the beautiful event design of Manmade + Sage, the ranch came to life in such a perfect way for the couple’s reception. I adore the simple tablescapes and organic hues! It really makes the unique feel and decor of their chosen venue the focus…..

Pearls of wedding wisdom from the bride…

“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.”

Oh now this is my type of wedding!! I just love Amanda’s style!? A huge congratulations to them and a big thankyou to their photographer Elizabeth Wells Photography for letting me share their celebration with you. If you love these photographs and would like to see more of Beth’s wonderful work head over to her beautiful website elizabethwellsphoto.com – and be sure to follow her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

VIEW THE GALLERY

If you love this wedding and are looking for more rustic vintage inspiration for your own big day, then you should take a peek at this gorgeous greenery-filled vision, and the glamorous rustic affair of designer Anna Campbell. Or if you’re after something a little more seasonal then you might like to see this Autumn wedding inspiration shoot in cobalt & crimson, and this elegant inspiration board in a palette of serenity blue and neutrals is heavenly.

If it’s a dramatic backdrop you’re looking for, then how about looking a little further afield for your venue? What bride wouldn’t love to get married in a french chateau in the Dordogne? Or an historic venue nestled in the hills of Tuscany? Or you could chanel your inner Mr & mrs Clooney with a breathtaking Venice elopement!…. They’re enough to make me want to get married again.

Amy

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Contributors & Credits

Photography – Elizabeth Wells Photography // Venue – Ghost Ranch Abiquiu, New Mexico // Event Design – Manmade + Sage // Floral Design – Viva Flora // Wedding Dress – Alfred Angelo (altered) // Hairpieces – Teresa Romero Atelier // Shoes – Frye Boots // Bridesmaids Dresses – ModCloth // Hair & Makeup – Genica Lee // Groom’s Suit – Mens Wearhouse // Wedding Stationery – DIY (Bride & Groom) // Catering – El Pinto Restaurant // Wedding Cake – Cowboy Cafe // Officiant – Groom’s Father // Music – Anastasia Nellos Cello Studios