Edwin and Camilla Sorrel River Ranch Wedding {Sedona Wedding Videographer}

November 01, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

I have been waiting to film a wedding like Edwin’s and Camilla’s since I started this business. It combined many of my favorite things- adventure, romance, and a guest list of people absolutely stoked to be in the southwest. As most of the guests traveled from the other side of the world and took at least three flights to get to Moab, Edwin and Camilla wanted their guests to really experience Moab. The weekend started with a day of adventure. Their guests went canyoneering, rafting, UTV driving, and horseback riding (see adventure film above). Canyoneering with the guests was my favorite part of the weekend. This canyon was not an easy one, and we swam at least 5 times in freezing, stagnant water. I thought it quite incredible that Edwin and Camilla were willing to do this before their wedding day. I also got very good at getting my gear in and out of dry bags, and no cameras were harmed in the making.

The next day, their wedding day, was absolute elegant romance. They started the festivities off with a traditional tea ceremony. I loved how this gave them intimate time with their family before the wedding. The wedding ceremony and speeches were so full of heart and eloquent. The reception was complete with a live band, delicious food, and perhaps the most fun with a photo booth I’ve ever seen. Congratulations Camilla and Edwin!

Vicky and Nico Whispering Oaks Wedding {Sedona Wedding Videographer}

October 23, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Vicky is a photographer and Nico customizes jeeps . They road tripped their jeep all the way from MIAMI and traded white sand beaches for mountains and red rock. I followed their Instagram as they made their journey. They camped on the beaches of Lake Powell, traveled the 66, and checked off National Parks. Their family and friends soon followed, some driving their jeeps too, others flying, mostly all from Miami, some from overseas. They had a beautiful wedding at Whispering Oaks. The reception was full of some of the best salsa dancing I’ve ever seen at a reception. The next day, we met up at Canyonlands to get footage in the red rocks and watch the sunset. I love day after sessions. Everyone is relaxed and the schedule doesn’t feel so tight. Thank you for trusting me to capture your incredible wedding.

Darian and Tanner's Moab Mountain Wedding {Sedona wedding videographer}

September 18, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Darian and Tanner’s wedding was FUN. I noticed immediately that these two are incredibly likable and people LOVE them. Their bridesmaids and groomsmen were obviously close and were laughing, happy crying, and dancing the entire time. It was also clear that they were all 100% in support of this marriage, and that D&T care deeply for their friends. I watched Darian finish doing a friend’s hair (on her wedding day, a first!) and I watched Tanner help a friend get dressed. This couple looks out and cares for their people. I also loved that during the procession, every single groomsmen gave Tanner a massive hug. I also loved watching the couple with their own siblings and parents. There was a whole lotta of love, between a huge group of people, and that is special.

Joseph and Jessica Sedona Wedding at Cathedral Rock {Sedona and Flagstaff videographer}

August 13, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

My first wedding in Sedona, AZ! It was incredible. Joseph and Jessie were married at the base of Cathedral Rock with a few of their favorite people, and their beloved dog Lucy. There were multiple standout moments. After the first look, Lucy, Jessie's dog ran up to them, and JP bent down to pet Lucy and said "My two girls in white." Heart melter. During the ceremony, Jessica tried to kiss JP at the end of his vows, and the officiant stopped her. It was so charming and hilarious (see film :)). And then they fumbled JP's ring during the exchange (also see film), and their reaction was priceless. And then when it was all said and done, Jessica blurted out "We did it" and gave JP a big high five. I love couples that can totally relax on their wedding day and be 100% themselves. And they really were.

After the ceremony, they said goodbye to family, strapped on hiking shoes, and we headed to the top of the Cathedral Rock trail just in time for an unbelievable sunset. This location was one of the most beautiful I have ever shot, and I already can't wait to go back. I loved working with Sedona talent. Caitlyn Jennings is an amazing photographer and so lovely to be around. Christopher Bullock is a very talented MUA and hairstylist, and happens to be my next door neighbor, BFF from childhood. We hadn't seen each other in a good 8 years, and we could not contain our excitement when we were reunited. Moving to AZ has been good to me!

I always create a preview for my clients, and I especially loved this one:

I am so grateful for this wedding. Moving is always hard, but I'm so lucky to have moved to another incredible place. I am grateful for JP and Jessie, because they were such a fun couple to have as my first AZ couple. I can't wait for more AZ weddings and AZ sunsets.

Alexa and Jacob Mountain Wedding Film {Sedona and Flagstaff wedding videographer}

July 23, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

My family moved to Flagstaff, AZ from Moab, UT just over a month ago. Alexa and Jacob's wedding was exactly one week before our move date. While I will still be filming weddings in Moab, I was feeling extra sentimental at this wedding. Jacob and Alexa are Moab locals. Jacob coached one of my kids several years ago in toddler soccer. Alexa is so loving and has some of the most amazing parents. Their bridal party was made up of nearly 20 local young people, many of whom I'd had some association with, either through swim lessons, the local Pop shop, or church. And everyone was so polite, kind, cheerful, and excited.

And Jacob and Alexa- they are so in love. One of my favorite parts of the film is hearing Jacob talking to Alexa right after the ceremony. You should probably watch it, because it is so sweet.

The location of this wedding was an unbelievably gorgeous piece of private property at the base of the La Sal mountains. I could move there now and never need to leave. So yes- this wedding was about perfect. Lovely couple, beautiful venue, sweet guests, cheerful bridal party. And that cake cutting and feeding- watch it. Oh, and the choreographed first dance. Too bad licensing Beyonce and Ed Sheeran's Perfect would cost a good million dollars, because their dance to this song was pretty amazing, complete with a lift. Ok, I could write about this wedding forever.

Katya and Matthew Wedding Film {Sedona and Flagstaff wedding videographer}

June 04, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

MOAB, UT WEDDING

Katya and Matthew grew up an ocean apart. One day, nine years ago, he walked up to her during a California evening. It's amazing how life brings people together.

Matthew's parents are documentary filmmakers, and now Moab residents. His father Michael Chandler was nominated for an Academy Award for his editing in "Amadeus", a best picture winner. He worked on multiple films from the 80's and 90's, one being a personal teenage favorite of mine, "Empire Records" (Rex Manning day anyone?). Later he produced documentaries, including one for PBS. In 2015, Michale Chandler and his wife Sheila Canavan (a very successful attorney) created a documentary together that was picked up by Showtime.

I love the incredible people I meet as I film weddings, and I am always grateful to couples and their families for trusting me to witness and capture important, intimate life events.

Alice and Dan Dead Horse Point State Park Wedding Film {Moab, Flagstaff, and Sedona wedding videographer}

May 14, 2018 by Leslie Allred in wedding

I've had multiple couples tell me that they plan their wedding in Moab, sure that it's so remote and hard to get to, that no one will come. And almost every time, when the date arrives, more people than they ever expected make the journey to Moab. It makes complete sense to me! If given the chance, why would you NOT go to a wedding in Moab?

Alice and Dan had family and friends travel from both ends of the country. Literally from CA to NJ. The couple did a slam dunk job planning their wedding, because they hired a charter bus to take their guests up to Dead Horse Point State Park. They wanted to do a first look, so Alice even changed into her dress on the bus while Dan, the talented photographer Emily Klarer, and I set up a first look. After a gorgeous cliffside wedding with a natural rock amphitheater for the guests, there was a picnic-style cocktail hour. Everyone then loaded up on the bus to drive back to Moab for a reception at Sunset Grill. This is such a safe, fun way for a wedding party to travel. I was kind of wishing I could catch a ride on that party bus.

Alice and Dan were so fantastic and cheerful. They were relaxed and went with the flow, and made me laugh repeatedly with numerous butt grabs. If you are planning your wedding day, do what you want to do, and you'll love your day.

Photographer: Emily Klarer

Reception: Sunset Grill

Heaven married Devon, Blanding, Utah Wedding {Moab, Utah videographer}

November 08, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Blanding, Utah is a town about 90 minutes south of Moab. Heard of the Bears Ears? Blanding is the gateway town to that incredible area. This was my first wedding in Blanding, and I was excited because it felt like a local wedding. We small towns in rural Utah have to stick together (except when it comes to high school sports).

And then when the groom's mother told me the couples' names- I got even more excited. Heaven and Devon. And then I showed up to the beautiful barn venue, that sometimes acts as a drive-in theater(!!!!), and saw the marquee: "Match made in 'Heaven', said Devon". And the rest is history.

Andrea + Chantell Castle Valley Wedding Film, Moab, Utah {Moab wedding videographer}

October 11, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

In his opening remarks, the officiant Timmy, a good friend of theirs, mentioned that more than three times as many people showed up to the ceremony than they originally thought during the planning stages. Chantell and Andrea, two local Moab women, were surrounded by loving and supporting friends and family. In the beginning of the film, I include some of Timmy's words. He essentially says that Andrea and Chantell's happiness is of huge importance to their friends and family's happiness, and that if they ever need anything, loved ones of these women are trusting that they will ask for assistance. So lovely!

The two got ready separately at Red Cliffs Lodge, and then arrived separately at the wedding venue at the gorgeous Castle Rock Ranch. Their first look was down the aisle and dramatically fun as Chantell arrived first by classic car, and then Andrea by a horse drawn carriage. The ceremony was full of beautiful words while they also raced the setting sun. I was so glad I prepared ahead and brought my lights, as they were essential for the couple's session after.

The reception that followed was one of my favorites of the year. There was a beautifully lit tent out in the alfalfa fields, complete with a dance floor and DJ. Have you ever seen a wedding money dance? If not, watch the entire film! Basically you pin money on the bride and dance with her. It is one of the most joyful things I have seen at a wedding. I drove home from this reception so cheerful and grateful for the love that absolutely does still exist in this world.

Jonna + Josh Corona Arch Elopement {Sedona, and Flagstaff Wedding Videographer}

September 21, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Jonna and I started planning her wedding this spring. She had some epic plans. She would bring her two kids and her fiancé Josh all the way from Georgia. They would ride horses, elope under an arch, fly home, and two days later have a reception at the Sky Lounge in downtown Atlanta, where her wedding film would be debuted to her loved ones.

Jonna is a professional horse trainer. Her darling daughter competes in riding and jumping horses. So naturally, she wanted footage of her family on horses. The night before their sunrise wedding, we headed over to Moab Horses so they could ride into the sunset. The views of Castleton Tower and Fisher Towers from the ranch are absolutely lovely. And then the trail ended right at the Colorado River; it was quite dreamy.

The next morning, we met at 6 am at Atomic salon to start filming. The original idea was to get married at Delicate Arch, but with all the road construction and restricted hours in Arches this summer, she decided to go for Corona Arch, which was genius. While Delicate is incredible, Corona is pretty amazing itself, and with hardly any people.

After Jonna was ready, I picked up Josh and drove him to the trailhead so we could do a first look. We met up with photographer Angela Hays, and got everyone positioned. I love the anticipation of first looks! And the double first look with the kids was extra cute.

The hike to Corona arch is no stroll in the park. It's 1.5 miles, with elevation gain, a section with steep enough climbing you need a chain, and then there is a ladder. The family did it in their wedding clothes, and no one complained once. It was actually a breeze for them. The ceremony went fantastic and clouds hung around for a great photo/video session after.

After our hike out, I filmed the family at their celebration brunch at the Moab Diner. The diner is so kid friendly and relaxed, and the staff was fantastic. I loved watching those kids chow down on their well deserved cinnamon rolls.

We said our goodbyes, and the next day they flew home to Georgia, and I got to editing. I edited non stop for two days and had the film ready on Friday night, in time for their Saturday reception.

I was dying with anticipation to hear how the film debut at the reception went. I heard from Jonna Sunday morning. She said:

"I can't wait to show you the video of everyone's reactions....Countless people cried. The moment was almost as magical as that special day. It was amazing. You are truly gifted and captured everything I could have imagined. I will never be able to thank you enough."

I was shown this sweet photo of Josh and Jonna watching the wedding film at the reception in Atlanta.

Rachel + James Sand Dune Arch Elopement, Arches National Park {Sedona and Flagstaff wedding videographer}

September 11, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

The minute I picked up the phone and started chatting with Rachel, back in the spring, I knew I'd like her. She's a first grade teacher (I have a first grader!!), is easy going, adventurous and so genuine. There are endless locations to elope around here, and Rachel and James decided on Sand Dune Arch, and for a hot sunny day, it doesn't get better. It's a dream to shoot. James had a fresh tattoo of Sand Dune Arch on his arm, above his wrist. Look for it in the film!!

Rachel and James came from the Boston area. We met at a cafe the day before the wedding. I think it had been about 48 hours since they landed in Vegas, and they'd already checked off 3 National Parks. After their elopement, they checked off many more over 10 days or so. Such a good idea- elope, then adventure.

Just this past weekend, Rachel and James had a gathering with loved ones and showed the film. This was the email Rachel sent me after the party:

"We had the film playing on a loop for guests during the party and every single person commented on how professional, creative and talented you are!!! Every guest cried watching it (I had to put a couple boxes of tissues out) and most people watched it more than once!! They were so curious as to how you filmed it and what direction you provided- your attention to detail and vision for our film was phenomenal!

You can go right ahead and post the real deal on social media - so many guests will be looking for it so they can watch it again!"

Emails like this are so incredibly rewarding to receive. I don't often get to see a bride or family watch a wedding film, so I love hearing about reactions.

I truly love filming elopements. The photographer, officiant, and I are the only ones who get to see this incredible event and it's seriously such a privilage. And then I get to create a film the couple can share with their loved back at home. It is just so exciting and meaningful.

Tyler and Kaitlin Whispering Oaks Ranch Wedding {Sedona and Flagstaff Wedding Videographer}

August 11, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

The way Tyler delivered his vows to Kaitlin is something I will never forget. He had them written on a folded piece of paper in his hands. However, he never once looked at his notes. Instead he looked her in the eyes and delivered the most lovely vows. I later heard friends talking about how much they each cried during the ceremony.

This couple is in deep love, and it is obvious. You could just feel it as they looked at each other. It was also clear that they have many people who love and support them, because they return that same kind of love and support to others.

One thing I will also forever remember about this wedding was riding in the side by side through the pine trees, down a very rocky road, with Tyler and Kaitlin, the wonderful photographer Bailey Dalton, designer Annie Spring, and the wedding organizer to beat the sunset. It was getting dark so we were flying to capture the last light. We were laughing and hooting, and holding on for dear life. It's moments like this, where things get really fun. Everyone relaxes and true personalities come out. And then I realize I'd love to hang out with these people regularly. And we captured some gorgeous scenes, and made it back with plenty of time for dancing. Although someone may have eaten Tyler's piece of Key lime pie.

Venue: Whispering Oaks Ranch

Photographer: Bailey Dalton

Designer: Annie Spring

Dante + Anna, Moab Under Canvas Wedding {Flagstaff and Sedona Wedding Videographer}

July 13, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Dante and Anna are from Chicago, but have history together in the desert. From concerts and festivals, to the proposal, the desert is a part of them. They traveled from Chicago to Moab, for their wedding day. They were surrounded by loving friends and family who also traveled similar distances to be there. The whole day was grooving, with a fantastic playlist for each part of their wedding weekend.

Before the wedding, we buzzed over to Arches National Park to get some photos and footage in front of Turret Arch. It was about 100 degrees, and the first really hot day of summer. However, Dante carried water for his bride, and Anna had a parasol, and we had a great time. I love when people are flexible and face the elements cheerfully. Multiple times, they had to scramble up boulders in their finest for that perfect shot, and they did it so well.

We then headed back to Moab Under Canvas for the wedding. What a beautiful venue that is! You have gorgeous views of the La Sal Mountains, Arches National Park, Gemini Bridges road. It is lovely. Anna and Dante wrote heart felts vows bursting with humor and sincerity. It was gorgeous. And then the dancing. The dancing was amazing.

And I must mention that Anna's hair was gorgeous. Perhaps one of my favorite wedding hair styles ever. So happy for this couple!

Heather + Anthony, Whispering Oaks Ranch Wedding {Flagstaff and Sedona Wedding Videographer}

July 13, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

Heather and Anthony climb, raft, and hike, with their sweet son in tow. They are my kind of people! Don't stop doing what you love because you have kids, just alter it a little! I am so glad I met this couple. Immediately I thought to myself- we would probably hang out often if we lived in the same city.

Heather and Anthony's day was full of joy and laughter. I could tell they were genuinely loving their wedding day. I found out Anthony has a secret skill of juggling pinecones. And Heather- she is tough. She lived in a tent for several months, pregnant. Yesss.

And to match the beautiful day, the La Sal mountains had recently received a spring snow storm, and they were absolutely stunning! Now, over a month later- this is hardly a patch of snow left up there. Congratulations Heather and Anthony!

Drew + Diana Moab Wedding Film, Long Canyon and Fisher Towers {Sedona and Flagstaff Wedding videographer}

April 04, 2017 by Leslie Allred in wedding

I loved Drew and Diana's wedding day. It was windy. Not breezy, but blow-your-hair-all-over-the-place windy. Blow-flowers-off-the-bouquet windy. However, we found gorgeous locations and shelter when we needed it. And for sunset, the wind practically died. And best of all, my lav microphones still did a fantastic job picking up the vows, despite being on a cliffside with the biggest gusts of the day.

Drew and Diana are both law enforcement officers. They met on the job, across the country in Florida. Looking for a change of scenery, Drew accepted a job in Moab, and Diana soon did too. Diana has a fun loving 6 year old daughter who immediately took to the red rocks and scared everyone by always getting too close to the edge.

All three wrote their own vows, and they were perfect. Perhaps the highlight of the ceremony was watching Drew get on one knee as he made a vow to Diana's daughter. It was such a privilege to film this intimate ceremony.

After the ceremony, we hid from the wind in a park for cake, and then went on to Fisher Towers for sunset. Fisher Towers is a stunning and majestic place. The light was fantastic, and it was a great way to end the day.

Bonnie Estell, Florida photographer, was wonderful to work with. This was her first time in Moab. I LOVE being with Moab first timers. Her excitement was contagious, making for fun car time.

Editing this wedding film was a complete joy and I was so excited to show it to Diana. I am obsessed with the song, the footage, Diana's beauty, the scenery, Drew's suspenders. Congratulations you two!