Country Chic Wedding at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch, Mesa Arizona
Nuzzled beneath the majestic backdrop of the Superstition Mountains, Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch offers a rustic yet refined setting for couples seeking a dreamy country chic wedding in Arizona. This breathtaking venue combines natural desert beauty with authentic Western charm, providing an unforgettable experience for couples and their guests. With stunning views, unique amenities, and endless possibilities for customization, Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is the perfect location for a weekend-long celebration of love.
Why Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is the Perfect Venue for your Country Chic Wedding
Natural Desert Beauty
Saguaro Guest Ranch is surrounded by the iconic landscapes of the Sonoran Desert. Towering saguaros, vibrant wildflowers, and the rugged Superstition Mountains create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your ceremony and reception. The beauty of this location makes it ideal for outdoor weddings, ensuring that every moment is Instagram-worthy.
Rustic + Western Charm
The ranch seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern amenities, offering a picturesque and comfortable environment for weddings. Whether you're envisioning a ceremony under the bulldog cliffs or a reception next to the rushing Salt River, Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch has versatile spaces to bring your vision to life.
Exclusive Weekend-Long Experience
Unlike many venues that host multiple events in a single day or weekend - Saguaro Guest Ranch offers exclusive access for you and your guests all weekend long. This allows for a relaxed and intimate atmosphere where you can celebrate without feeling rushed. From welcome dinners to farewell brunches, the ranch’s versatility accommodates a full weekend of events.
Accommodations for Guests
One of my favorite features of Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is its on-site accommodations, ensuring that your guests are comfortable and immersed in the celebration. No need to worry about transportation and guests are a short walk away from all the wedding festivities!
Cozy Casitas
The ranch offers charming casitas with rustic décor and modern amenities. Each casita is uniquely designed to reflect the spirit of the Old West, providing a cozy retreat for guests. These accommodations allow your loved ones to stay on-site and fully enjoy the festivities.
Nearby Hotels and Resorts
For guests who prefer alternative accommodations, the nearby towns of Mesa and Apache Junction offer a range of options, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular choices include:
The Phoenician, Scottsdale: For those seeking a luxurious experience.
Best Western Apache Junction Inn: A budget-friendly option close to the ranch.
Gold Canyon Golf Resort: Perfect for golf enthusiasts.
Shuttle services can be arranged to transport guests between these locations and the venue.
Weekend-Long Activities for Guests
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Weekend-Long Activities for Guests |
Saguaro Guest Ranch offers more than just a wedding venue—it provides a destination experience. Your guests will love the variety of activities available, ensuring that everyone has a memorable weekend.
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Kick off the weekend with a casual welcome dinner featuring Southwestern cuisine and end with a farewell brunch to thank your guests for celebrating with you.
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The ranch offers a schedule for going kayaking and paddle boarding in the salt river since it runs along the ranch. This is great for the outdoorsy couples!
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Explore the surrounding desert trails on horseback, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Guided rides are available for all experience levels.
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The ranch’s proximity to the Superstition Mountains offers access to some of Arizona’s best hiking trails. Popular options include:
Lost Dutchman State Park: Known for its stunning views and diverse wildlife.
Hieroglyphic Trail: A moderate hike featuring ancient petroglyphs.
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With minimal light pollution, Saguaro Guest Ranch is a prime location for stargazing. Set up telescopes and blankets for a magical evening under the stars.
The couple opted to have Charlie Maree Co - a hat designer at their welcome dinner. Guests were able to co-design their own cowboy + cowgirl hats for the wedding, during the rehearsal dinner! This was an incredibly cool gift and keepsake for guests attending the wedding.
Food and Beverage Options
Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch partners with top-tier caterers to provide exceptional dining experiences tailored to your preferences.
Southwestern-Inspired Menus
Delight your guests with menus featuring local flavors and ingredients. Popular options include:
Mesquite-grilled steaks
Green chili mac and cheese
Street taco stations
Seasonal salads with prickly pear vinaigrette
Signature Cocktails
Enhance your reception with signature cocktails inspired by the desert. Consider:
Prickly Pear Margaritas
Desert Bloom Gin and Tonics
Whiskey Sours with a hint of smoked mesquite
S’mores Station
End the evening with a cozy s’mores station by the fire pit. This fun and interactive dessert option is perfect for guests of all ages.
Wedding Attire for Guests
A country chic wedding calls for attire that is both stylish and comfortable. Embrace the western flare of hosting your wedding on a ranch - think bolo ties, cowboy hats and boots, flowy dresses, paisley patterns, and turquoise jewelry.
Suggestions
Flowing maxi dresses in soft pastel, paisley patterns, or earthy tones.
Cowboy boots or sandals for a rustic touch.
Lightweight shawls or jackets for cooler desert evenings.
Linen suits or dress shirts with suspenders.
Cowboy boots or leather shoes.
Optional cowboy hats for an authentic Western flair.
Mckenna and Ryan opted to have Charlie Maree Co - A Hat Design pop up to attend their rehearsal dinner and it was a hit! The couple as well as guests showed off their hats on the wedding day!
Practical Tips
Remind guests to bring sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and sunglasses. It’s hot and sunny in the desert!
Recommend sturdy footwear for those participating in outdoor activities.
The Ceremony: A Horse Corral with Mountain Views
Imagine exchanging vows in a rustic horse corral with the Superstition Mountains as your backdrop. The horse corral at Saguaro Guest Ranch is a truly unique ceremony location that encapsulates the country chic aesthetic.
Ceremony Setup
Seating: Wooden benches or chairs can be arranged in a semi-circle, creating an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
Decor: Adorn the space with wildflower arrangements, lanterns, and delicate fabric drapings to enhance the natural beauty of the setting.
Entrance: Arrive in a horse-drawn carriage or make a grand entrance on horseback for an unforgettable touch.
Golden Hour Photography
The golden hour at Saguaro Guest Ranch is nothing short of magical. The warm hues of the setting sun against the rugged mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding photos. With this stunning scenery, every shot is guaranteed to be frame-worthy.
The Reception: A Rustic and Romantic Celebration
Decor
Lighting: String lights, lanterns, and candles create a warm and romantic ambiance.
Tables: Wooden farm tables adorned with wildflowers and burlap runners.
Dance Floor: An open-air dance floor under the stars or inside a rustic barn.
Entertainment
Live country band or acoustic guitar performance.
Line dancing lessons to keep guests entertained.
Photo booth with Western-themed props.
Late-Night Snacks
Keep the party going with late-night bites like sliders, mini tacos, or churros.
The couple had Dulce Churro Cafe cater their reception for a late night snack - all the guest LOVED it! Myself included!
Planning Tips
Hire a Wedding Planner
A professional wedding planner familiar with Saguaro Guest Ranch can help you navigate logistics and bring your vision to life. They’ll ensure every detail is handled, allowing you to enjoy your special day stress-free. Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch has some unique rules and policies due to the preservation of the land and livestock that call it home. It’s important to hire a planner well-versed in the venue requirements!
Copper Blossom Events
Weather and Seasonal Considerations
The weather and seasons play a significant role in shaping the experience of your wedding at Saguaro Guest Ranch. This wedding took place in April and the weather was warm during the day and cooled down at night! Here’s what to expect throughout the year:
Ideal Months to Host Your Wedding
Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to host a wedding at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 70°F to 85°F, and the desert blooms with vibrant wildflowers, adding a touch of natural color to your wedding backdrop.
Fall (October to November): Another ideal season, with similar temperatures and stunning sunsets. The cooler evenings make it perfect for outdoor receptions.
Seasonal Highlights
Winter (December to February): While daytime temperatures are comfortable (50°F to 70°F), evenings can get chilly. This season offers crisp air and clear skies, ideal for stargazing and cozy fire pits.
Practical Tips for Each Season
Spring/Fall: Recommend lightweight attire for guests and incorporate natural floral décor inspired by the desert blooms.
Summer: I would not recommend hosting a wedding here during the summer as it gets EXTREMELY hot, temps ranging between 100-120 degrees
Winter: Offer blankets or heaters for outdoor receptions and consider a hot chocolate or spiced cider station to keep guests warm.
VENDOR TEAM + Photo Gallery
Special thank you to all the incredible vendors who made McKenna and Ryan’s wedding day so special! Looking forward to working with them again soon! EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THESE VENDORS WHERE AMAZING!
Planner: Copper Blossom Events @copperblossomevents
Venue: Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch @saguarolakeranch
Photographer: Val Photo Co @valphotoco
Videographer: Darian Caleigh Films @dariancaleighfilms
Hair and Makeup: Makeup & Hair by K @makeupandhairbyk
Hat Bar: Charlie Maree Co @charliemareeco
Florals: Petal Thyme @petal_thyme
Catering: Beyond Basil @beyondbasilpizza for wedding | Venue hosted rehearsal dinner
Churros: Dulce Churro Cafe @dulcechurrocafe
Cake: Whisk & Paddle Bakeshop @whiskandpaddle_az
DJ: Amani Jae Entertainment @amanijaeent
Decor Rentals: Wood N Crate @woodncrate
A country chic wedding at Saguaro Guest Ranch is more than just an event—it’s an experience that you and your guests will cherish forever. From the breathtaking ceremony site to the unforgettable weekend activities, every element of your wedding will reflect the beauty and charm of Arizona’s desert landscape. Saguaro Guest Ranch offers the perfect blend of rustic elegance, making it the ideal venue for couples seeking a unique and memorable celebration. Whether you're drawn to the stunning scenery, the exclusive accommodations, or the chance to create a weekend full of cherished memories, this venue truly has it all.
I’d love to photograph your wedding at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch!
This venue is truly a desert gem and perfect place to host an immersive wedding weekend experience.
There are endless photography opportunities in a variety of settings here - the lush desert landscape, river bank along the salt river - EVEN the getting ready suites were photogenic! The list goes on and on!
I had the best time capturing the raw and heartfelt moments that unfolded on Mckenna and Ryan’s special day! Their hospitality and kindness will never be forgotten - THANK YOU MR. AND MRS. BRUSH!!
XO, VAL
