Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding Day

Rosa's Ranch - Fort McDowell Adventures

Ceremony

Reception

Spring

Our Wedding

Tom and Rachel first crossed paths in October 2022 after both swiped right on a dating app. With Tom out of town visiting family, their connection started through weeks of texting, building anticipation before finally setting a date to meet in person.Just one day before their first date, Rachel received an unexpected text: Tom had seriously injured himself playing kickball—he had torn his Achilles and was possibly facing surgery. Naturally, Rachel wondered if this was a polite way of backing out. But to her surprise, Tom was still determined to meet her. He apologized in advance for arriving on crutches and wearing a walking boot, but made it clear he was excited to meet her.The next day, they had their first date at Buck &amp; Rider—now their favorite restaurant. What started as happy hour at the bar turned into a four-hour conversation filled with laughter, connection, and something special neither of them expected. From that night on, their story began—and the rest, as they say, is history.

Our Story

Tom proposed to Rachel in October 2024 during one of the most unforgettable adventures they’ve ever taken together: hiking the Kalalau Trail along Kauai’s breathtaking Nā Pali Coast. After 11 grueling miles of steep cliffs, stream crossings, and jaw-dropping views, they finally arrived at their remote beach campsite, where they had originally planned to spend two nights unwinding.After the eight-hour trek, Rachel suggested a change of plans—splitting the hike out over two days instead of one, to avoid waking up at 3 a.m. for the full return hike. Little did she know, Tom had carefully planned to propose that second night at sunset on the beach.The next morning was pure paradise: naps in the sand, and a slow, peaceful day. After lunch, they packed up camp to begin the five-mile hike to their next stop. But just before leaving, Tom asked Rachel to take one last walk along the beach. With his arm around her waist, he began reminiscing about their amazing two years together—and that’s when Rachel realized what was happening.At the edge of the beach, Tom got down on one knee and asked Rachel to marry him. On a secluded stretch of shoreline, surrounded by cliffs and crashing waves, she said “yes” without hesitation. It was the easiest answer and a proposal that felt like something out of a dream.

The Proposal

Photos

Sarah Bradley

Kevin Kmett

Bri Cooper

Andrew Ferleman

Amy Jackson

Kyle Phelps

Jessica Heck

Ben Pineau

Helaine Wilkowsky

George Matthew Saad

Emerson Bradley

Asher Bradley

Everett Bradley

Wedding Party

What time should we arrive?The ceremony begins at 5:00 PM, guest arrival begins at 4:30 PM so you have time to park, find your seat, and enjoy the views before we say “I do.” What’s the dress code?Dressy cocktail or semi-formal attire — but with a desert twist! The venue is entirely outdoors with a gravel floor, so cowboy hats and boots are welcome, and sandals or wedges are perfectly appropriate for women. We recommend skipping stilettos. Where is everything taking place?Both the ceremony and reception will be held at Rosa’s Ranch at Fort McDowell Adventures — no travel needed between events. Will transportation be provided?Yes! A complimentary shuttle will be provided for guests that are not planning on driving.The shuttle will depart from We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort at 4:30 PM to take guests to the ceremony venue, and a return shuttle will be available at the end of the evening to bring guests back to the hotel.There is also a large free parking lot at the venue for those that are planning to drive. Are kids invited?We adore your little ones! Children are invited for close family members only, so parents can enjoy a well-deserved night out. Can I bring a plus-one?Please refer to your invitation to see if a guest is included on your RSVP — we’re keeping things intimate with close friends and family. What’s on the menu?Dinner will be served with the following entrée options. Guests will select their preference when RSVPing:• Marinated Strip Loin with Garlic Herb Butter• Rockfish with Lemon Caper Picatta Sauce• White Spinach &amp; Artichoke Lasagna (Vegetarian)The meal will be followed by cocktails, dessert, and dancing under the stars!

Q + A

✈️ Travel InformationWe can't wait to celebrate with you in beautiful Arizona! Whether you're flying in for the weekend or planning a full desert getaway, here’s everything you need to know. Nearest AirportPhoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the closest major airport, about a 25–30-minute drive to our venue and surrounding hotels in Fountain Hills. Getting AroundUber and Lyft are available, but we recommend renting a car if you’d like to explore beyond the wedding.Parking is available at the resort, rehearsal dinner venue, and at the wedding venue. The rehearsal dinner venue is a short two-minute drive from the resort, and a shuttle will be available for guests who prefer not to drive or do not have a vehicle. - Shuttle service starting at 5:15pm and returning for additional pickups for a 5:30pm start time. Where to Stay/Hotel Block InformationWe’ve reserved hotel blocks at We-Ko-Pa Resort to make your stay easy and comfortable. Please use the link below to take advantage of the room block discounts. Hotel Block Website and Login Information<a href="https://book.rguest.com/wbe/group/2093/wekopacasinoresort/auth" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://book.rguest.com/wbe/group/2093/wekopacasinoresort/auth</a>Group Code: 2604YKWEDDPassword: WEDDING Weather &amp; What to PackApril in Arizona is beautiful! Expect sunny skies with highs around 85°F and lows around 60°FBring sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes if you plan to hike or explore.A light jacket is recommended for the evening.

Travel

Things to Do in the Phoenix &amp; Scottsdale AreaWhether you're here for the weekend or turning the trip into a mini vacation, there’s so much to explore! Local AttractionsOld Town Scottsdale – Great shopping, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.Desert Botanical Garden – Gorgeous desert plants and trails, especially beautiful at sunset.Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright’s desert masterpiece.McDowell Mountain Preserve or Phoenix Mountain Preserve – Popular hikes such as the Gateway Trail, Piestewa Peak, Camelback Mountain and trails for all hiking experience levels. Phoenix Art Museum &amp; Heard Museum – Perfect for art and Native American history lovers. Relaxation &amp; FunResort Spas – Try The Phoenician, Sanctuary Camelback, or Civana for some pampering.Golf – Play at courses like TPC Scottsdale, Troon North, We-Ko-Pa Golf Club.Scottsdale Wine Trail – Local wine tasting rooms all walkable in downtown Scottsdale.Fountain Hills Area - The Fountain – One of the world’s tallest fountains, shooting water up to 560 feet. A scenic spot for a walk or picnic in Fountain Park. Scenic Drives - the drive to Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat offer stunning views of the Superstition Mountains and desert scenery. Day TripsHave a little more time? These make perfect day trips from the Phoenix/Scottsdale area:Sedona (2 hours north)Red rock hiking, energy vortexes, spas, and stunning views. Don’t miss Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross, or a Pink Jeep tour.Flagstaff (2.5 hours north)Charming mountain town with forests, cool weather, and a laid-back vibe. Great for hiking, breweries, and shopping. Head to Buffalo Park for beautiful walking paths with snowcapped mountain views of Humphrey's Peak.Grand Canyon (3.5–4 hours north)Bucket-list worthy! Head to the South Rim for breathtaking views, hiking, and visitor centers. Start at the East Rim and drive to the South Rim for less crowds. Extended AdventuresIf you’re turning this into a longer trip, check out these epic Southwest destinations:Kanab, Utah (5 hours)A hidden gem for outdoor lovers. Explore Coral Pink Sand Dunes, Slot Canyons, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, or Buckskin Gulch.- Try booking local tours with Coral Cliffs Tours in Kanab for short- or all-day adventures. They offer the best guided trip to White Pocket in AZ. Zion National Park (5.5 hours)One of the most stunning parks in the U.S. Hike Angels Landing (permit required) or The Narrows for a truly unforgettable experience. Stay in nearby Springdale for easy access.Add in Bryce National Park if you are going to Zion. Only about an hour and a half away!

Things to Do

Registry

Rachel & Tom

Rachel & Tom

Travel