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Queen Creek AZ Micro Wedding with Family, Mountains, and Major Feels | TAVIA & NICK 3.21.25

  • racheldowdphotos
  • Apr 23
  • 2 min read

Couple in formal attire beside a piano; man in white tux, woman in white gown seated, serene mood. Beige armchair and decor in the background.


There’s something so incredibly special about a wedding that feels like home—and that’s exactly what Tavia and Nick’s day was. Held at a private residence in Queen Creek with mountain views as their backdrop, this intimate celebration was full of love, happy tears, and moments that had me clutching my camera and trying not to cry behind it. (Spoiler alert: I failed. I definitely cried.)





The day started off like most do—quiet, calm, and filled with the soft hum of anticipation. The house was light, fresh, and welcoming. A gorgeous charcuterie board sat in the kitchen, inviting anyone in need of a snack (honestly, a wedding day must, if you ask me). Tavia got ready in the master bedroom with her mom and stepmom, while professional hair and makeup artists worked their magic. There was lemonade, baby talk, and an air of joyful excitement for the day ahead.





While everyone was getting glammed up, I photographed the sweet little details—her dress, her shoes, and the stunning bouquet. That’s when her mom quietly let me in on a secret: she was going to surprise Tavia by pinning her grandmother’s ring to the bouquet. Cue the waterworks. It was such a beautiful, sentimental touch.





Tavia and Nick share a daughter, and Nick also has a daughter from a previous relationship. Both girls were flower girls and looked absolutely precious in their little dresses. Watching them admire their mama’s gown and whisper about what their own wedding days might look like someday? Ugh. My heart.




Two children in black and gray dresses look up joyfully at a hanging white wedding gown in a cozy bedroom with patterned pillows.


As guests began arriving—many having traveled across the country—the groom shared a quiet, emotional moment with his daughters before his first look with Tavia. The way his face lit up when he saw her? Pure magic. They embraced, shared a few teary words, and then it was time to say “I do.”






The ceremony was short and sweet, grounded in tradition and full of so much love. Tavia walked down the aisle with her dad, and every single guest was wiping away a tear (again... same). Their vows spoke of deep connection, partnership, and building a life together—and honestly, it felt like the entire universe paused to witness it.



Wedding ceremony under a wooden pavilion with mountains in the background. Bride and groom facing officiant; guests seated, taking photos.


After signing the marriage certificate and taking some gorgeous family portraits, I snuck Tavia and Nick away for couples photos. It was their first real moment alone as newlyweds, and watching them breathe it all in together—soaking up that just-married glow—was the perfect end to their beautiful day.






Though they opted out of a traditional reception, there was one final surprise: a gender reveal! At dinner with their loved ones, they announced that they were expecting a baby boy! Cue confetti, celebration, and my heart bursting into a million pieces.



Wedding party celebrating; group of people in formal attire raising hands joyfully. Bride in white, bridesmaids in gray dresses. Outdoor setting.


This micro wedding was such a gentle reminder that love doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to be unforgettable. A backyard, your closest people, and a whole lot of heart are all you really need. If you’re planning a small or nontraditional wedding, let this be your sign: it’s more than enough. It’s magic.




Thinking of planning your micro wedding? I’d be honored to capture every sweet, silly, emotional second of it. Let’s make some magic together.

 
 
 

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