WEDDINGS
June 28th, 2025
Summer Love in the Desert: Stephan & Aaliah’s Wedding at Desert View
Stephan & Aaliah
Aaliah and Stephan’s wedding wasn’t about trends or themes—it was about meaning. From the moment they arrived at Desert View Weddings in Phoenix, Arizona, the tone was set: clean, natural, and full of love. With the Superstition Mountains in the distance and a soft breeze running through the ceremony space, the setting did what great settings do—it supported the story without ever getting in the way of it.
This was a wedding rooted in faith, family, and that lowkey kind of connection you can’t fake.
Intentional Over Ornate
The couple opted out of over-the-top design in favor of simplicity done well. Their color palette—sage green and dusty rose—blended into the desert effortlessly. Instead of a first look, they shared a private prayer together before the ceremony. No cameras. No audience. Just a quiet moment between two people about to begin something sacred.
It’s this kind of intentionality that shaped the entire day. Every choice reflected who they are—elegant, grounded, and focused on what really matters.
The Ceremony
When Stephan saw Aaliah walking down the aisle, the emotion hit hard—and didn’t let up. That was one of the shots they were most excited to have captured, and it absolutely delivered. The ceremony itself was short (about 25 minutes), but packed with emotion. A memorial table honored loved ones who couldn’t be there, and the overall feeling was one of presence, peace, and deep love.
Post-Ceremony Portraits
We saved all portraits for after the ceremony, when the sun was low and the desert started glowing. Desert View offers one of the most iconic backdrops in the Phoenix area—open desert, textured earth, and that mountain range that looks good from every angle.
Their portraits were relaxed, romantic, and a little playful. Nothing forced. Just two people genuinely enjoying the moment. And honestly, that came through in every frame.
Reception Vibes
Once the sun dipped, the celebration kicked in. A mariachi band surprised guests and brought the energy up right away—something that meant a lot to Aaliah and her family. From formal toasts to the shoe game and the money dance, the night had range. One minute they were slow dancing with their parents, and the next they were laughing so hard they couldn’t finish a round of musical chairs.
The night ended with a formal exit (the sparkler kind), and the energy was still buzzing as they drove off.
What Made It Special
It wasn’t one moment—it was the way everything fit. From the laid-back pre-ceremony pacing to the way the light hit the mountains during bridal portraits, everything felt like it fell into place. They didn’t overthink the details, but the ones they did care about? They got them exactly right.
If you’re planning a wedding that leans into natural beauty, emotional storytelling, and an elevated but unpretentious experience—Desert View Weddings is a venue worth seriously considering.
Vendor Team
VENUE | Desert View Events • @desertviewweddings
EVENT PLANNING | Kristi Marie • @kristimarieevents
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO | Peterman Photography & Video • @petermanphotoandvideo
DJ & LIGHTING | DJ Fred • @arizonasdj1
FOLLOW @PETERMANPHOTOANDVIDEO ON INSTAGRAM
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