Author: Chris McDonough

  • Why Saguaro Buttes: The Story Behind Tucson’s Premier Wedding Venue

    Why Saguaro Buttes: The Story Behind Tucson’s Premier Wedding Venue

    TL;DR

    • 26 acres on Tucson’s east side, hilltop next to Saguaro National Park, with 360 degree mountain and cactus views
    • Only one event is booked per day, so your guests get exclusive use of the whole property
    • Full-time professional event coordinators and all-inclusive wedding packages
    • Over 6,000 square feet of indoor space seating up to 275, plus extensive outdoor space
    • A waterfall, reflecting pond, and a mile-long desert walking path
    • Weddings, receptions, anniversaries, memorials, birthdays, graduations, fundraisers, quinceaneras, and more
    • Free Open House every Tuesday evening from 4 to 6 PM, or join our free monthly Bridal Fair for a guided sunset tour and a complimentary engagement photo
    • Discover why Saguaro Buttes is the ideal saguaro national park wedding venue and the perfect choice for your special day.

    Choose Saguaro Buttes for Your Most Important Day

    Thank you for considering Saguaro Buttes for your upcoming wedding or event. If you are looking for one of the most prestigious, scenic locations in Tucson, we believe you have found it at Saguaro Buttes.

    We offer full-time, friendly, professional event coordination that will make your planning easy. We pride ourselves in responding quickly to your calls, emails, texts, or any other communications.

    We only book one event a day at Saguaro Buttes, so your guests have exclusive use of the property, making your day even more special.

    An emotional moment during a wedding ceremony at Saguaro Buttes in Tucson, Arizona
    Couple exchanging vows during an outdoor wedding ceremony at Saguaro Buttes in Tucson.
    Newlyweds walk down the aisle with a joyful crowd applauding.
    A beautifully decorated outdoor wedding reception at Saguaro Buttes with twinkling lights and happy guests.

    A Destination of Beauty and Elegance

    So many couples tell us that pictures do not do our facilities justice. We encourage you to read our reviews, check out the photos on this website, read some of our blog posts, and follow us on Facebook. Taking a tour of the property will give you a much better idea of the beauty and splendor of Saguaro Buttes.

    We offer the greatest value for the best price with a variety of all-inclusive wedding packages.

    Saguaro Buttes wedding venue grounds

    26 Acres of Desert Beauty

    Located on 26 acres on the east side of Tucson, Saguaro Buttes sits on a hilltop adjacent to Saguaro National Park, with 360 degree views of the mountains and thousands of saguaro cacti visible through the wall-to-wall windows of our air-conditioned reception hall.

    Events can be held both indoors and outdoors, with well-maintained lawns and gardens and over 6,000 square feet of indoor space seating up to 275 people, and many more outside.

    We continue to beautify this location, and recently added a large waterfall, reflecting pond, and desert oasis, with over a mile-long desert walking path. People are amazed when they take a tour that something this close to town can look so beautiful.

    Desert wedding views at Saguaro Buttes

    Perfect for Any Celebration

    We offer a fantastic location for weddings, receptions, anniversaries, memorial services, birthdays, graduations, fundraisers, quinceaneras, and other important life events. Our wedding packages include everything you need for a one-stop shop, which makes for great savings.

    Couple sharing a first dance surrounded by guests at a beautifully lit wedding venue.
    A romantic first dance illuminated by twinkling lights at Saguaro Buttes.

    Come See It for Yourself

    We encourage you to come take a tour and see for yourself why so many couples have chosen Saguaro Buttes as the location for their special day.

    Join us for our free Open House every Tuesday evening from 4 to 6 PM. No RSVP needed, just stop by. Or, for the full experience, join our free monthly Bridal Fair, which includes a guided sunset tour and a complimentary engagement photo.

    Call or text us at (520) 647-0994 to schedule a private tour, available Tuesday through Saturday, 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

    Ready to see if your date is open?

    Check Date Availability
  • Tucson Bridal Fair Guide: What to Expect, Wear and Ask

    Tucson Bridal Fair Guide: What to Expect, Wear and Ask

    Just got engaged and not sure where to start? A bridal fair puts venues, vendors, and planning answers in one place, so you can make real progress in a single evening. This guide covers what to expect at a bridal fair, what to wear and bring, and the questions worth asking every vendor you meet.

    Saguaro Buttes hosts a free bridal fair every month at our wedding venue in Tucson, and every couple who RSVPs gets a free professional engagement photo.

    Next Saguaro Buttes Bridal Fair

    November 3, 4-6 pm

    • WhereSaguaro Buttes, 5825 S Old Spanish Trail, Tucson, AZ 85747
    • CostFree. RSVP to claim your spot and your engagement photo.
    • You getA sunset venue tour, local vendors, and a free engagement photo
    RSVP for Free
    Couples browsing local wedding vendor tables inside the reception hall at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair in Tucson
    The reception hall at a past Saguaro Buttes bridal fair, filled with local wedding vendors.

    What Is a Bridal Fair?

    A bridal fair, also called a bridal show or wedding expo, is an event where engaged couples meet wedding vendors in person. Instead of trading emails, you can compare photographers side by side, taste catering and desserts, see florals and attire up close, and get answers on the spot.

    In Tucson you have two very different kinds of events to choose from:

    CompareSaguaro Buttes Bridal FairAnnual Tucson Bridal Expo
    How oftenEvery monthOnce a year
    WhereAt the venue itselfA convention center
    Tour a real ceremony spaceYes, with our coordinators at sunsetNo, it isn’t held at a wedding venue
    Free engagement photoYes, for every couple who RSVPsCheck the expo’s details

    Both can be worth your time. A large expo gives you a lot of vendors in one day. A venue bridal fair gives you context: you see the space, the light, and the setting where your wedding could actually happen.

    What to Expect at the Saguaro Buttes Bridal Fair

    It’s an intimate evening at the venue, not a crowded convention hall. Here’s what every couple can do:

    Couple at sunset on the desert grounds of Saguaro Buttes wedding venue in Tucson

    Venue Tour at Sunset

    Walk the ceremony and reception spaces with our certified coordinators as the sun sets behind the mountains.

    Photographer taking a couple's free engagement photo on the garden lawn at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair

    Free Engagement Photo

    A trusted photographer takes one professional engagement-style photo of you during the event.

    Engaged couples talking with wedding vendors at the Tucson bridal fair

    Local Wedding Vendors

    Meet Tucson wedding photographers and other local vendors in one room.

    Vendor tables and floral displays in the reception hall during the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair

    1-on-1 Planning Advice

    Ask our certified coordinators anything, from dates and packages to timelines.

    Wedding decor and floral vendor displays at the Tucson bridal fair

    Decor and Styling Ideas

    See decor setups and styling displays that turn Pinterest boards into real ideas.

    Wedding planner vendor table at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair in Tucson

    Attendee-Only Offers

    Get access to special packages and limited-time offers for bridal fair guests.

    Rain doesn’t cancel anything. The tour and photographer booths move indoors, and the fair continues rain or shine.

    Your Free Engagement Photo

    Photographers setting up a portrait session on the desert grounds at Saguaro Buttes in Tucson

    This is our gift to every couple who RSVPs. It’s 100% free, with no catch and no commitment.

    • What you get: one professionally taken engagement-style photo
    • Who takes it: one of our trusted photographers, during the event
    • When you get it: by email after the fair

    Couples use it for save-the-dates, engagement announcements, and social media.

    What to Wear to a Bridal Fair

    • Something you’d like in a photo. You’re leaving with a professional engagement photo, so wear an outfit you’ll be happy to share.
    • Shoes you can walk in. Part of the venue tour is outdoors, so skip anything that sinks into grass or pinches after an hour.
    • A light layer. Tucson evenings can cool off quickly after sunset, especially from fall through spring.
    • Relaxed, not formal. It’s a casual evening. Dress up for the photo if you like, but comfortable is always fine.

    What to Bring to a Bridal Fair

    • Your partner, and anyone whose opinion matters. Parents, friends, and the bridal party are welcome.
    • A rough guest count and date range. Vendors can give you far more useful answers with both.
    • A budget range, even a loose one. It keeps every conversation realistic.
    • Your list of questions. Use the questions below so nothing gets forgotten in the moment.
    • Your phone. Take notes, snap photos of displays you love, and save vendor contact info.
    • Your calendar. Some bridal fair offers are limited-time, so it helps to know your dates.

    Who You’ll Meet

    These photos are from past Saguaro Buttes bridal fairs. The vendor lineup can change from month to month, so if you’re looking for a specific kind of vendor, ask us before you come.

    Wedding photographer booth with portrait samples at the Tucson bridal fair
    PhotographersCompare real work and styles side by side.
    Tucson wedding photography vendor table at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair
    More PhotographersTalk coverage, delivery, and pricing in person.
    Catering vendor with a charcuterie display at the Tucson bridal fair
    CateringSample the food and ask about menus.
    Dessert and bakery vendor table at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair
    DessertsTaste samples and talk custom designs.
    Beauty and skincare vendor table at the Tucson bridal fair
    Beauty and SkincarePlan your wedding-day look early.
    Wedding gowns and a tuxedo on display at the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair
    Wedding AttireSee gowns and suits up close.

    Questions to Ask Vendors at a Bridal Fair

    Screenshot this list or copy it into your notes before you go.

    Venue

    • Is our date available, and can you hold it?
    • How many guests fit comfortably?
    • What’s the plan if the weather turns?
    • What’s included, and what costs extra?

    Photographer

    • Can we see a full gallery from one wedding?
    • How many hours of coverage are included?
    • How long until we get our photos?
    • Who owns the rights to the images?

    Catering and Desserts

    • How do you handle dietary needs?
    • Is a tasting included?
    • When is the final guest count due?
    • Is pricing per person or per package?

    Every Vendor

    • What deposit do you require?
    • What’s your cancellation policy?
    • Do you offer a bridal fair discount?
    • When does that offer expire?

    Tips to Get the Most Out of a Bridal Fair

    • RSVP ahead. It claims your spot and your free engagement photo.
    • Come at the start. You’ll have time for the tour, your photo, and every vendor without rushing.
    • Photograph each vendor’s card next to your notes. After a dozen conversations, it’s easy to mix people up.
    • Ask about attendee offers and deadlines. Write down what each one includes.
    • Don’t feel rushed to sign. The fair is designed to be relaxed and no-pressure.

    After the Fair: Your Next Steps

    About Saguaro Buttes

    Saguaro Buttes is an all-inclusive wedding venue at 5825 S Old Spanish Trail in Tucson, surrounded by saguaros and mountain views. Our packages range from Just the 2 of You and elopements to full all-inclusive weddings. Want a preview before you visit? Browse the gallery.

    “Cecilia truly made the wedding planning and day of process so easy, handling absolutely everything. I had a stress free wedding day and was able to take in every second.”

    Dallis Bishop, Google review

    The Saguaro Buttes team includes Dave (Founder and Officiant), Cecilia (Wedding Coordinator), Krystal (Office Manager), Chris (Marketing and Events), Zack (Social Media and Office Assistant), and Colette (Office and Social Media).

    Bridal Fair FAQ

    Is the Saguaro Buttes bridal fair really free?

    Yes. It’s completely free to attend. Just RSVP to claim your spot and your free engagement photo. There are no hidden fees and no obligations.

    Is the engagement photo really free? What’s included?

    Yes, with no catch and no commitment. Each couple receives one professionally taken engagement-style photo, captured by one of our trusted photographers during the event. You’ll receive your photo by email after the fair.

    Can we bring parents or our bridal party?

    Absolutely. Many couples bring their bridal party, parents, or friends to get input. Extra guests are welcome.

    What if it rains?

    The fair continues rain or shine. We move the tour and photographer booths indoors, and we have a full indoor setup ready to go.

    Is it just a sales pitch?

    Not at all. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure event designed to help you explore your options and make informed decisions about your wedding day.

    Is it worth coming if we’re planning a small wedding or elopement?

    Yes. Saguaro Buttes offers a Just the 2 of You package and an Elopement package for up to 20 guests, and our coordinators can walk you through every option.

    How is this different from the Tucson Bridal Expo?

    The annual Tucson Bridal Expo happens once a year at a convention center. Our bridal fair runs every month, right here at the venue. You tour the actual ceremony space, meet vendors in context, and leave with a free engagement photo.

    When is the next bridal fair?

    The next fair is November 3, 4-6 pm at Saguaro Buttes. We hold one every month. See the details and RSVP on our Tucson bridal fair page.

    Save Your Spot at the Next Bridal Fair

    November 3, 4-6 pm

    Free to attend, with a free engagement photo for every couple who RSVPs.

    Reserve My Free Spot Questions first? Call (520) 647-0994.
  • How Saguaro Buttes Makes Wedding Planning Effortless in Tucson

    How Saguaro Buttes Makes Wedding Planning Effortless in Tucson

    Planning a wedding in Tucson shouldn’t feel overwhelming. After helping over 300 couples celebrate at our desert venue over the past 21 years, we’ve learned exactly what makes wedding planning stress-free: comprehensive packages that cover everything, trusted vendor relationships, and expert coordinators who genuinely care about your day.

    At Saguaro Buttes, we’ve simplified the entire process. Our all-inclusive packages eliminate the endless vendor research, and our monthly bridal fair brings Tucson’s best wedding professionals directly to you. Let’s walk through how we make getting married easier than you might think.

    Everything You Need, Already Included

    The biggest challenge most couples face isn’t finding a beautiful venue—it’s coordinating dozens of vendors, comparing quotes, and hoping everything comes together seamlessly on the big day. That’s why we created all-inclusive wedding packages that handle every single detail.

    When you book with Saguaro Buttes, you’re not just renting a space. You’re getting a complete wedding experience managed by professionals who have orchestrated hundreds of celebrations.

    What’s Included in Our Full Packages:

    Venue & Facilities: Private ceremony and reception spaces with both indoor and outdoor options, scenic mountain views throughout the property, dedicated bridal suite and groom’s quarters, and exclusive use of our 26 private acres

    Professional Staffing: Experienced event coordinator, day-of manager to handle every detail, complete setup and cleanup crew, licensed bar service staff, and timeline management from start to finish

    Complete Décor: Tables, chairs, and your choice of linens, elegant centerpiece options, professional lighting setup, dance floor, and altar decorations that match your vision

    Entertainment: Professional DJ and sound system, ceremony and reception microphones, cocktail hour music, dance floor lighting, and all necessary audio/visual equipment

    Food & Beverage Services: Multiple catering options from trusted local chefs, licensed bar service (bring your own alcohol with our experienced bartenders), cake cutting service, and coffee and tea station

    Concierge Support: Coordination with preferred florists, assistance with photographer scheduling, transportation arrangement help, guest accommodation recommendations, and detailed timeline planning

    Elegant wedding reception setup at Saguaro Buttes with mountain views and desert landscape

    Your Shortcut to Perfect Planning: Our Monthly Bridal Fair

    Imagine meeting every vendor you need—photographers, florists, DJs, planners, and more—in one beautiful evening instead of spending months researching and scheduling individual consultations. That’s exactly what our monthly bridal fair offers.

    Held on our scenic property as the sun sets behind the Rincon Mountains, our bridal fair is completely free to attend and gives you immediate access to Tucson’s most trusted wedding professionals. Plus, every couple who RSVPs receives a complimentary professional engagement photo.

    Next Bridal Fair: Tuesday, November 4th from 4:00 to 6:00 PM

    Complimentary Engagement Photo

    One of our trusted photographers will capture a professional engagement-style photo of you as a couple—perfect for save-the-dates, wedding websites, or simply celebrating this moment in your journey.

    Expert-Guided Venue Tours

    Walk through both ceremony and reception spaces with our experienced coordinators during golden hour. Ask questions, envision your day, and experience the property at its most beautiful.

    Meet Tucson’s Top Vendors

    Chat face-to-face with carefully selected DJs, florists, photographers, and wedding planners who regularly work at Saguaro Buttes and know the venue intimately.

    Real Wedding Inspiration

    See actual décor setups, floral arrangements, and styling displays. Whether you’re just beginning to plan or finalizing details, you’ll leave with fresh ideas and clarity.

    Exclusive Event Pricing

    Bridal fair attendees get access to special package pricing and limited-time offers you won’t find anywhere else—no pressure, just genuine value.

    One-on-One Planning Support

    Get personalized advice from coordinators who’ve helped hundreds of Tucson couples. Ask about timelines, budget optimization, seasonal considerations, or any concerns you have.

    Couples touring Saguaro Buttes wedding venue at bridal fair event
    Professional engagement photos being taken at monthly bridal fair
    Wedding vendors meeting with couples at Saguaro Buttes bridal showcase

    The Team Behind Your Perfect Day

    Here’s what truly sets Saguaro Buttes apart: our people. Our wedding coordinators aren’t just venue staff—they become part of your wedding family. Collectively, our team brings over 100 years of combined experience coordinating weddings, and we’ve seen it all.

    From Pastor Dave, our owner and officiant with 30+ years of experience, to Cecilia and Krystal, who’ve each coordinated hundreds of celebrations, you’re working with professionals who genuinely care about making your day flawless. They handle vendor coordination, manage timelines down to the minute, anticipate issues before they arise, and ensure you can actually be present for your own wedding.

    One of our recent brides, Dallis Bishop, shared: “Cecilia truly made the wedding planning and day-of process so easy, handling absolutely everything. I had a stress-free wedding day and was able to take in every second.”

    That’s exactly the experience we create for every couple.

    Trusted by Over 300 Tucson Couples

    Join hundreds of couples who discovered that wedding planning doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right team and resources.

    RSVP for Our Next Bridal Fair

    Why Tucson Couples Choose Saguaro Buttes

    Beyond our comprehensive packages and monthly bridal fair, there are several reasons why couples consistently choose our venue for their Tucson wedding.

    What We Offer Why It Matters to You
    All-Inclusive Packages Eliminate the stress of coordinating multiple vendors. No hidden fees, no surprise costs—everything you need in one transparent package.
    Exclusive Use Policy We host only one wedding per day. Your celebration is never rushed, never shared—the entire 26-acre property is exclusively yours.
    26 Private Desert Acres Experience breathtaking views of four mountain ranges surrounded by hundreds of towering saguaro cacti at the edge of Saguaro National Park.
    Expert Coordinators Our team’s 100+ years of combined wedding expertise means every detail flows perfectly, and you can actually enjoy your own wedding.
    Monthly Bridal Fair Meet all your vendors in one efficient evening, plus receive a complimentary professional engagement photo just for attending.
    21+ Years Established Family-owned since 2003, locally trusted, with hundreds of 5-star reviews and 300+ happy couples who recommend us.

    Stunning sunset wedding ceremony at Saguaro Buttes with Rincon Mountains backdrop

    Common Questions About Planning Your Wedding with Us

    Is the bridal fair really free to attend?
    Yes, absolutely. There’s no admission fee, no obligation to book, and you’ll receive a complimentary professional engagement photo just for RSVPing. We created the bridal fair to genuinely help couples connect with great vendors and see our venue at its best.

    What exactly is included in your all-inclusive packages?
    Everything from venue rental and professional staffing to catering coordination, DJ services, complete décor setup, and day-of management. The goal is to eliminate vendor juggling—you get one experienced team handling every aspect of your celebration.

    How far in advance should we book our wedding date?
    Popular dates, especially during spring and fall in Tucson, typically book 12 to 18 months ahead. However, we sometimes have availability for dates closer in. Contact us to check your preferred date and discuss your timeline.

    Can we customize the package to fit our specific needs?
    Absolutely. While our packages are comprehensive, we understand every wedding is unique. We work with you to tailor the package to your vision, guest count, and budget. Let’s have a conversation about what matters most to you.

    What makes Saguaro Buttes different from other Tucson venues?
    Three main things: our truly all-inclusive approach (not just venue rental), our one-wedding-per-day exclusivity, and our experienced team that’s been doing this for over two decades. You’re not just renting a space—you’re partnering with professionals who care about your experience.

    Ready to Experience Stress-Free Wedding Planning?

    Planning your Tucson wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With Saguaro Buttes, you get more than a stunning desert venue—you get an experienced team, comprehensive packages that simplify everything, and direct access to trusted vendors through our monthly bridal fair.

    Whether you’re just beginning your planning journey or you’re ready to book your date, we’d love to help make your wedding day effortless and unforgettable.

    Here’s How to Get Started:

    “We love helping couples turn a sunset tour into their forever memory.”

    — The Saguaro Buttes Team


    Learn more about our Tucson wedding packages, explore our venue photo gallery, or read more wedding planning tips on our blog.

  • 2022 Wedding Trends

    2022 Wedding Trends

    As we are nearing June, it marks the middle of 2022. In a post pandemic society, we have seen many new trends pop up since weddings have made a full comeback. One of the many trends we’ve seen that has not been seen before is an untraditional guest book table. I’m sure our parents and grandparents have their gust book from their wedding that all their loved and adored guests signed to help them remember who celebrated with them on their special day. In all honesty, how many times will you be looking through your guest book in the years to come after your wedding? Chances are that they will be slim. If you are within the generation that appreciates having something to remember virtually apart from a wedding video your photographer or videographer took then you will appreciate this new wedding trend. Audio guest book! Yes, you read that right. It is a new way for you to be able to record your guests who attended your wedding and hear personalized messages they leave for you and your spouse on your wedding days. There are several companies in the wedding industry that allow you to rent a stylish vintage telephone for your guests to use and leave you personalized messages the night of your wedding. After they will be downloaded and sent to you so that you are able to have and listen to post wedding. It is a cool and unique new way to be able to listen to your guests and what they sound like and have as a keepsake to look back on that you will appreciate hearing their voices and their sweet messages. So, ditch those boring guest books and rent a stylish vintage telephone as your guest’s book and guarantee it will be the talk of your wedding. A cool and new unique way to break traditional wedding barriers and have something you’ll cherish forever. 

    Written By: MC Esquerra, Event Coordinator

    Links to audio guest books: https://www.fetefone.com/

    https://afterthetone.co/

    https://www.atthebeep.co/

    https://photobooth.co/hire/at-the-beep/

  • The Language of Flowers

    The Language of Flowers

    Did you know that there is a meaning behind every flower? Flowers have a language all their own. Every sentiment is expressed in one form or another by these fragile blooms. A leading Psychologist states Flowers are a perfect replica of human life, planting, growing, blooming and withering.

    The language of flowers, called Floriography, is a Victorian Era means of communication in which various flowers and floral arrangements were used to send coded messages allowing individuals to express feelings which otherwise could not be spoken. This language was most commonly communicated through tussie-mussies an art which still has a following today.

    Victorian women elaborated on Floriography, expressing their feelings within the boundaries of strict etiquette. Flowers afforded them a silent language that allowed them to communicate many sentiments that the propriety of the times would not normally allow. This practice was especially popular amongst lovers. Also, anything that carried the scent of a particular plant, like a handkerchief, carried the same message.

    A man could convey his feelings by having just the right flowers delivered to his lady the morning after a dinner party or dance. Is he trying to win his lady’s heart? Perhaps he’d send her Snowdrops for hope, decorated with Peppermint for warmth of feeling. Did he behave badly the night before, flirting with other women? He should send Field Lilacs for humility, or Brambles for remorse. Maybe he wants nothing more to do with the lady in question. Flowers can send a message of finality as well as affection. A striped carnation can mean refusal, while the York and Lancaster Rose declares war.

    Here is a short list of some commonly used wedding flowers that you might consider using in your wedding.

    • Red Rose = Love and Respect
    • White Rose = Innocence and Secrecy
    • Red and White Rose combined = Unity or Togetherness
    • Rose Coral = Desire
    • Rose Pale Pink = Grace, Joy
    • Rose Yellow = Joy, Friendship
    • Stock = Bonds of Affection
    • Stephanotis = Happiness in Marriage
    • Iris = Faith, Hope and Wisdom
    • Calla Lily = Beauty
    • Daisy = Innocence, Loyal Love, Purity
    • Peony = Happy Marriage
    • Smilax = Loveliness
    • Lily of the Valley = Sweetness, Humility, Complete Life
    • Ivy = Wedded Love, Fidelity
  • Bridezilla

    Bridezillas are a breed of engaged women who make unfair demands of their friends, family and those involved in the planning and creation of “their day.” They break the rules of etiquette to insure that they are noticed and recognized as the bride-to-be from the second they are engaged until the day after the honeymoon when reality slaps them upside the face. It’s hard to climb down from a pedestal like that with their dignity in tact and their friends and family still there for them. The vendors won’t really care, after the wedding is over, they will mostly be grateful for the Bridezilla tax they collected. And don’t think I am kidding. Bridezillas also loose money in ways they don’t even comprehend.Author and etiquette expert Gail Dunson, who goes by pen name, Noe Spaemme, has written a book about this scary breed of brides and she’s got some advice for the engaged on how to avoid becoming a Bridezilla.The following are some of Dunson’s tips on taming your inner Bridezilla:

     Remember to say thank you and cultivate an attitude of gratefulness. Avoid talking about nothing but the wedding from the time you are engaged. It will bore people and you’ll lose friends. Leave a little suspense for the wedding! Don’t tell everyone what your dress looks like. Keep a little mystery. Plan appropriately for receptions, and do not make guests pay for drinks or dinner or anything else. If you can’t afford a sit-down dinner, don’t have an evening wedding. Don’t plan over-the-top weddings and expect other people to pay for it.

    Here is her best advice on getting out of the clutches of a Bridezilla:

    “Think of it as a child in the middle of a storm, having a temper tantrum because she can’t have a lollipop. One of the methods that I recommend is to walk away, because if there is no audience what’s the point? So, if Bridezilla has no audience, who is she going to whine to?”

    Happy Planning

  • Do I really need flowers for my Tucson wedding?

    Flowers By Julie Clark

    The answer to this question is no. However, what would a wedding celebration be without the beauty, fragrance and color that flowers will add to your special day? They are a traditional part of every wedding celebration symbolizing fertility in the marriage.

    How do I select a florist?

    Finding a creative and intuitive florist who specializes in weddings can be an incredible help. Ask your caterer, photographer, baker, event site or anyone that might have used a professional event florist in the last year. I recommend booking your florist six to nine months in advance of your wedding. If you are planning to be married during the months of March through June or October and November in the Tucson area, you will want to book your florist well in advance.Set up an appointment to meet the florist and discuss your ideas and needs. Know in advance what your event site will provide for you. Look through Bridal magazines and on line resources to find flowers and bouquet styles that appeal to you and bring them to your potential florist. Tell him or her the style you wish to achieve along with color schemes or themes. Bring photos of your wedding gown and your attendant’s gowns. A swatch and a description of the dresses will usually suffice.It is very important that you feel comfortable and confident in your florist’s abilities. A professional designer will be able to show you photos of their work and suggest options. Inform your floral designer of your budget for flowers and what types of flowers you like. He or she should be able to determine if your desires and your budget are going to line up. Happy planning!