simply spectacular

"Simple Elegance” was the hallmark of the wedding celebration of Lesley West and Jeff Shipley at La Mariposa. From start to finish, the Tucson couple created a stylish celebration that was a perfect reflection of themselves…and their guests had a wonderful time.

“Jeff and I wanted to plan a wedding that was simple and classic,” explains Lesley. “We wanted everything from the invitations and flowers to the catering and wedding attire to be clean and uncomplicated.”

One of her favorite details in their wedding was the donation cards she and her mother made in lieu of favors. “We donated money to the American Heart Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in honor of my uncle who recently passed away from heart disease and for Jeff’s grandma who suffers from Alzheimer’s.”

“Another aspect of our wedding, which we both loved, was our wedding attire. Jeff and I chose clothing that was pretty effortless, which totally matches our day-to-day style.”

The groom had wanted to get married in something “easy and comfortable” such as flip-flops, a T-shirt and shorts, an ensemble which was vetoed by his bride-to-be. Says Lesley, “Since that wasn’t really an option, he chose a traditional black tux…which he looked amazing in!”

Jeff’s sense of the casual did make its way into the wedding attire, in a more discreet manner. Lesley explains: “My favorite part of my outfit was my garter. Jeff is an avid hunter and I found the ugliest camouflage garter with a silver deer head charm on it. Tacky, yes. . .but Jeff loved it!”

The wedding ceremony also reflected the couple’s relaxed style. The groom asked the chaplain at the fire department he works for, to officiate the ceremony. Recalls Lesley, “He created the most amazing speech that made everyone in the audience smile and laugh.” By including anecdotes about how the couple met and fell in love, the ceremony was a personal testament to the couple’s relationship.

“Our wedding was truly memorable and one of the most amazing days of our lives,” recalls the bride. “We laughed, spent time with the people we love, ate delicious food, danced, and got married all in a few hours... can’t get any better than that.”

Location:
The Starlight Room at La Mariposa

Photographer:
Ted Hewitt Photography

Flowers:
In Full Bloom

Gown:
Pour Moi

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