Melinda + Mateo | El Dorado Santa Fe Wedding | Santa Fe Wedding Photographers

Melinda and Mateo met years ago while they were both working as Hotshots in Santa fe. They instantly hit it off and began dating, however when the season ended and Melinda was getting ready to head back to Connecticut, they thought about how they were going to see each other next. Melinda being an avid runner, convinced Mateo to sign up for the Denver Rock and Roll marathon. The two ran it together and then decided to go on a vacation to Puerto Rico where they drove around the island for 10 days. Its been a nonstop adventure since, Melinda says. When Mateo later made a trip to visit Melinda in CT, he decided he no longer wanted to do long distance, and wanted to make Melinda his fiancé. She of course said yes!

The wedding planning commenced and the duo chose Santa fe for their wedding, the place where it all began. They knew their guests would all be traveling from afar, so picking The El Dorado hotel for its fantastic views of the mountains, was a no brainer. Melinda looked breathtaking in her Haley Paige gown as she walked down the aisle to say I do with all her family and friends looking on. A cloud formed above in the shape of a heart, and Melinda told us that whenever she sees a heart shape cloud she knows her father is looking over her. Of course one would appear on her wedding day. Cue the tears!

The party was nonstop all night as guests enjoyed dancing to the music of the Diamond Empire Band, but the most special part was when the band played YMCA for her grandfather. He has been leading the YMCA at family functions since Melinda could remember, and the band learned it on a whim so that he could lead it on her special day.

Congratulations Melinda and Mateo, we are so happy for you both and it is couples like you who make us truly love what we do.

Venue: El Dorado Hotel

Photographer: Sarah and Veronica for Maura Jane Photography

Florist: Wild and Free

Makeup: Monica Stark

Hair: Deborah Reed

Dress store: Sara’s Bridal Boutique

Dress Designer: Hayley Paige

Cake/Desserts: Cake Odyssey

Entertainment: Diamond Empire Band

Invitations:Tavern Creative

Bridesmaid Dresses:The Dessy Group

Videographer:Catch Love Weddings