It’s an honor to step into the pages of Arizona Bride and join this extraordinary team. Weddings have long been my world—I’ve spent nearly 14 years as Editor in Chief of California Wedding Day—and the creative current flowing between our two states feels seamless. Style, trends and artistry travel easily across the desert air. And yes, the ever-talented Chelsea Gibson remains part of the Iron Diamond Media family, continuing to infuse the magazine with her signature vision and style.
As an editor, I endeavor to create a magazine that feels fresh, creative and full of heart. But what makes a wedding truly unique? As Coco Chanel says, it’s you. Your relationship, your culture, your family—even your fashion—all these beautiful muses tell the story of you.
This issue of Arizona Bride celebrates individuality and bold beauty. Discover fashion-forward accessories —Lucite bangles, lily-adorned chokers—and color stories that span from deep emerald to sunlit Italian tones.
At the newly opened The Woodland in downtown Phoenix, magic unfolded. The visionary Cydney Lundahl of Westgate Events put together a talented team that transformed the historic space into a European garden reverie. The details were so abundant that we spent more than 10 hours capturing every detail.
We also traveled to the beloved wedding venue The Paseo, resting in the shadows of the Superstition Mountains. There was nothing but good luck and beauty on this sun-soaked day. Andrea Besu of A & R Event designs brought a touch of whimsy to a butter yellow palette with airy blooms that conjured a modern fairyland.
If you’re looking for inspiration that feels authentic, explore our curated selection of real weddings brimming with heartfelt details.
I hope this issue reminds you that your love story is the most beautiful detail of all.
Here’s to the dream!
Lara Burnap
