A Celebration in Contrast: Colorful Welcome Party Meets a Black-and-White Wedding DreamWest

Planned by Meagan, Real Wedding

August 21, 2025

Candace & Michael

Sanctuary Camelback

November 18th, 2023

There’s nothing we love more than when a couple embraces Arizona’s natural beauty and charm to create a wedding weekend to remember. For Candace & Michael, that meant hosting friends and family at two iconic Scottsdale venues: a lively welcome party at El Chorro and a stunning wedding at The Sanctuary Resort on Camelback Mountain.

The weekend began with a warm, western-inspired welcome party at El Chorro. Guests were treated to Arizona’s famous hospitality with delicious food, craft cocktails, live music, and heartfelt toasts celebrating the couple. Leaning into the desert backdrop, the evening set the perfect tone, relaxed, fun, and full of love for the wedding day ahead.

On the wedding day, Candace & Michael chose an elegant white-and-green color palette that perfectly complemented the desert scenery of Camelback Mountain. Their ceremony took place on the side of the mountain on the Sanctuary’s upper patio, where guests watched the couple exchange vows against the breathtaking natural backdrop. Dinner was held outdoors on the main lawn under a canopy of stars, creating a romantic and intimate atmosphere that felt timeless and magical.

As the night continued, guests moved into the ballroom, where twinkle lights, music, and energy filled the space for an unforgettable dance party. To cap off the evening, Candace & Michael treated everyone to a classic late-night snack, In-N-Out burgers, a fun and personal touch that had guests smiling until the very end.

From start to finish, Candace & Michael’s wedding weekend celebrated both Arizona’s desert charm and their timeless love story. With the mountain views, heartfelt moments, and a celebration that seamlessly blended elegance with fun, it was a weekend no guest will ever forget.