Croft Downtown by Wedgewood Weddings

Wedding Ceremony & Reception

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour & Reception

Spring

Our Wedding

Buckle up - I love a good detailed story time... Way back in the old days of 2014, I had just moved up to Flagstaff to start my undergrad at NAU. Like any 18-year-old girl who is off on her own to have some fun, I downloaded Tinder and had a blast looking at 'people watching' through photos. Eventually, I stumbled across Rob's profile. Obsessed with his dark, curly hair, his accentuated cupid's bow, and his goofy photos, I swiped right. It was an immediate match. After some chatting on Tinder, we swapped over to Snapchat because I had to make sure he wasn't a catfish! It was there we decided that me being in Flagstaff and him in Phoenix just wasn't the right move for either of us. We drifted off into our own lives, but I still caught the occasional flirty Snapchat message from him. Fast forward to 2018, when I had just graduated NAU, celebrated in Los Angeles with family, and was nearly killed by a distracted driver. My plans of student teaching for a semester in Flagstaff were shattered, along with my hip bone. Little did I know, this was my blessing in disguise. I spent some time in Florida with my family to physically heal from my injuries, where my boredom got me back into communication with Rob. After some time, I moved back, as NAU allowed me to do my student teaching in Downtown Phoenix instead. It was here where I lived with my other mom and wedding officiant, Jill. Having just barely bounced back from a near-death experience, I had a "What's the worst that could happen" mindset. I reached out to Rob, letting him know I moved to Phoenix and would love to meet him. We decided to meet at CASA on Mill Avenue. (Yes... the college bar that serves drinks in buckets...) I went out with friends and met up with Rob and Anthony, sharing drinks, stories, and laughs. By the end of the night, I had an indescribable feeling that this man was going to be so important to me. I called the Uber and my go-getter self made the first move to kiss him goodbye. Want to know the first thing I said to myself in the Uber? "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck. I think I like him a lot." The next day, we hung out again. Truthfully? We never stopped hanging out since. I adore his love for me and our two kitty sons, and we are about to live happily ever after.

Our Story (Sammi's Version)

In 2014 I was a one-time college dropout working to make my way to ASU for my second try at college. I was staying at my friend Anthony's apartment when I matched with Sammi on tinder. We talked for a bit but ultimately decided that pursuing anything else wasn't feasible. She was going to school in Flagstaff, and I was working to get my life together in Tempe and Phoenix. Four years later, we were both college graduates and Sammi let me know she was staying in Phoenix. Naturally, we met in person for the first time at CASA on Mill Ave and hit it off immediately. She was and still is the most beautiful person in the world and I felt insane that she was interested in me. And yes, she did make the first move. If I'm being generous to myself I'd say I was trying to be respectful, but I probably was just being a coward. We hung out almost every day after and started dating. We decided we'd try long distance as well since I got a job offer in Southern California. Looking back, it's kind of crazy that we started the relationship long distance. That didn't stop us though, and we saw each other almost every weekend. We'd trade off weekends traveling. One weekend I'd drive to Phoenix, the next she'd make the trip to Temecula. Not seeing her every day sucked, but it made the drives better knowing we'd get to be around each other for the next 48 hours. Eventually, we decided that her coming to California was the best move for both of us. Finding a job in journalism isn't necessarily the easiest, but everywhere needs teachers. Our time in California was short, but the weather, Angels games, and frequent Disneyland trips kind of made up for the fact that we had almost no friends there. Enter—COVID-19. Sammi got a job offer to work back here in Phoenix shortly after the pandemic started and we agreed to come back to the place we met. Oh, and I almost forgot, we adopted our first cat, Barry, a few months before leaving California. If you haven't had the pleasure of meeting Barry then you're missing out on probably the greatest cat of all time. We've been in Arizona ever since. Going to Suns games, exploring our city, and taking care of Barry and our second cat, Remi. I love Sammi. She's been one of the most supportive people in my entire life. I can't imagine life without her, and I am so excited to spend the rest of our lives together.

our story (from Rob)

Our Story

Photos

Sammi was lucky to meet Serena in college at Northern Arizona University. Very quickly, Serena and Sammi became inseparable. They loved and fought like sisters, knowing that when life got tough, and boy did it, they forever had each other's backs. They went from sorority sisters to besties in no time, and it was a rare occurrence that Serena didn't stay in Sammi's bed every night for a sleepover. Friendship with Serena is filled with the kind of laughter that makes your stomach ache, adventures where you don't turn on your GPS because you don't know where you're going to end up, and copious amounts of "I'll do it if you do it". Sammi truly doesn't know where she would be without this beautiful soul, and she is so grateful she is joining her special day as her Maid of Honor! 

Serena

Rob and Emily have been together since they gained the ability to retain memories. They weren't the closest siblings through childhood, but adulthood brought them closer than ever. 

She's been one of his best friends since they left high school, and one of the easiest people to talk to about their shared life experiences. 

Fights happen, like with any siblings, but they always end with "I'm done being mad are you?" "Yeah I'm good." And everything gets dropped and they move forward. 

Emily has always been there for Rob and they'll likely be there for each other for the rest of their lives. She was the natural choice to be the Best Woman and was always going to be the choice. (Even if he tried to convince her over and over that he wasn't going to pick her.)

Emily

You could say Lorin and Sammi have known each other for a while... Once Lorin knew she was getting a sibling, her mom's stomach became "Sam", and the rest is history. Lorin and Sammi have been through all aspects of life together, including sharing a bunk bed as teenagers because Sammi needed her foot to touch someone to be able to fall asleep. Lorin was also lucky enough to have Sammi follow her to college at NAU to continue making memories, which she loved as much as she says she didn't. If it weren't for Lorin, Sammi wouldn't have even needed those two nose surgeries after taking an exercise ball to the face! The inside jokes and moments shared are utterly endless, thanks to Lorin's ability to live her life so freely and unapologetically. Her ability to achieve anything she sets her mind to, along with her free spirit, are the reason Lorin is joining Rob and Sammi's special day as Matron of Honor. 

Lorin

Anthony and Rob have been friends since high school. East Mesa is basically hell so you need a group of people to get you through that hell until you can get out. 

Anthony's place has always been one of Rob's go-to spots. Whether it's his house in Mesa, apartment in Tempe, or house in Scottsdale where he proposed to Sammi, Anthony's place is a comfortable and safe place.

Anthony is one of the most friendly and relaxed people you'll ever meet and Rob is excited for many of you to meet him for the first time.  

Rob and Anthony have been close for over 10 years now and he's so glad he agreed to be a groomsman. 

Anthony

Tia and Sammi are soul sisters, to say the least. Though they are cousins by blood, their bond is unmistakable. Tia and Sammi grew up living quite far from each other but always picked up where they left off as if not a day was missed. From their awkward stages to being full-time cat moms, Tia has provided Sammi with so much joy and the ability to make mistakes without judgment. Tia's authenticity is so inviting to all lucky enough to cross her path, and Sammi is so honored to have her as a Bridesmaid on this special day. 

Carl and Rob went to Skyline High School in Mesa together, but they didn't get close until well after graduation. They always had mutual friends like Anthony and Rob used to spend most weekend at their apartment in Tempe when he moved back to the Valley from Flagstaff. Carl has been a close friend for years now and Rob is stoked that Carl is moving back to Arizona to continue his work as a star expert. It's awesome that he agreed to be a groomsmen and Rob and Sammi are excited for you to learn what spoonerisms are because of Carl.

Carl

Sister from another Mr. is how anyone would describe Sammi and Elizabeth. After meeting in Texas, thanks to Taekwondo, the Wright and Smith family officially combined- and the Smight family came about. Sammi didn't know she needed another big sister, but her heart wouldn't be complete without her. Where she would be without Elizabeth's infectious energy, shared love for Diet Coke, and sisterly love is a mystery.  It's an honor to have Elizabeth joining in on this special day. 

Elizabeth 

Joplin and Rob have been best friends since junior year of high school. They spent almost every weekend together playing video games, going to parties, and just hanging out. Joplin has almost always been there for Rob as a close friend and someone to rely on. Rob is glad he will be coming from Florida and everyone can see the strongest person at the wedding. 

David

If you hear Sammi talking about a wild story in college, there's a 99.99% chance that Shannon was there too. From college roommates to lifelong sisters, Shannon and Sammi have shared countless memories. Country Thunder, Sedona & Jerome trips, birthday power hours, standards meetings (that were always Sammi's fault), and Vegas trips- just to name a few. If Shannon would finally cave and move to Arizona, there is no doubt they would continue to be the package deal they were in Flagstaff. It's no wonder this wedding wouldn't be complete without Shannon standing by Sammi's side. 

Shannon

Jason and Rob have been going to school together since junior high school, but they weren't friends until high school. Rob and Jason bond over hating their favorite sports teams and going to watch live professional wrestling. Jason is one of the nicest people you'll ever meet and Rob is excited for everyone to get to know him. 

Jason

Sammi has loved Gabriella since she pronounced her name "Gabilella" ...because R's are hard for toddlers. She came into this world as a cousin but stands by Sammi today as the little sister she always wished for. Watching Gabriella grow up, make mistakes, and find herself has been one of life's greatest treasures for Sammi. She has grown into the fiercest woman who takes nothing less than what she deserves but loves so boldly, which isn't surprising given the line of strong women in our family. For Sammi to have Gabriella standing by her on such an important day, is empowering. 

Gabriella

Rob has also known Zoë for her entire life. She goes to Arizona State University's Tempe campus and is studying to become an architect. If you're lucky enough, you'll get one of her architectural drawings framed and signed as a gift. If you're interested in seeing live music while visiting Arizona, ask her what the best music venues are. Zoë is a great person and amazing sister. He feels very lucky to see the kind of adult she's becoming. Rob is so excited to have Zoë by his side for this special day. 

Zoë

Wedding Party

Q + A

Use our hotel block to book your room by clicking <a href="https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/group-booking/PHXZD/G-LOV1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">HERE</a>! Hotel Information: Hyatt Place Downtown - $129/night150 W. Adams St.Phoenix, Arizona 85003 United States(602)-388-4888 Restaurants &amp; bars onsite and nearby &amp; Market available 24/7

Travel

Downtown &amp; Midtown Phoenix are very LGBTQ-friendly, however, if you have any concerns please feel free to reach out to us! Below we have curated a list of some of our favorite spots in and out of the area, as well as some popular ones. Enjoy!!

21 and over ONLY. Delicious and handcrafted beverages with a more overwhelming menu than the cheesecake factory...but don't fret! The servers are beyond knowledgable and have never handed me a drink I didn't LOVE.The location is downtown, so parking is limited to street or parking structures, so, if you are close, walk or rideshare!CLOSED on Sunday and Monday, open 4-midnight on Tuesday-Thursday and 4-1 AM on Friday and Saturday. Taking the Lightrail? Get off at these stations:Eastbound: 1st Ave &amp; JeffersonWestbound: Central &amp; Washington

Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour

Delicious food and one of our favorite places to frequent! Recommended to walk, use the light-rail, or use a rideshare app.

The Arrogant Butcher

You may get confused or freaked out trying to find this place because it is in an alleyway and is the only basement bar in Arizona... but this is my favorite place for a drink! Valley Bar is also a venue that hosts music events with small or local musicians. If you like politics and are familiar with Arizona, you'll also likely get a chuckle out of their drink names. ;)Not only do they host local artists, but they also support local businesses with their drink mixers and some of their alcohol. This is a TRUE local spot that we love so much and hope to share with you!

Valley Bar

Why drink Starbucks when you can drink LOCAL?! I highly recommend this coffee shop. It is a walk-up window, so leave your car behind and enjoy the sights!

Cartel Roasting Co.

Need to do some shopping while you are here? Here is a place nearby to Downtown Phoenix!

Biltmore Fashion Park

A large mall located in Scottsdale for any last minute shopping needs.

Scottsdale Fashion Square

Love beer, cider, wine or seltzer? This is the pub for you! Rob and I love to frequent this place before or after Suns games. They do not have liquor, so if that is what you are looking for, try Bitter and Twisted instead! However, this local pub is like home for Phoenix locals!

The Whining Pig Downtown

Cobra is your typical bar/club. Club music with indoor and outdoor seating, but filled with arcade games! If you're looking for a fun night out, this is it. There is usually a food truck located outside of the bar as well.

Cobra Arcade Bar

If you're looking for a museum to fill your time and brain, look no further than the Heard Museum. This museum documents the history of Native Americans and the tribes that still reside in Arizona to this day. Be warned that this museum does go into the dark history of what our native brothers and sisters endured, especially regarding what they suffered in the boarding schools. Though, if you are like me (Sammi), and love history then this will be a place you will enjoy visiting and learning from!

Heard Museum

A delicious food hall with music, drink options, and food! Open to all, but 21+ need to show ID at the door to be able to get alcohol inside :)

The Churchill

A lovely rooftop bar! Reservations are recommended.

Floor 13 Rooftop Bar

Hands down the BEST sushi I have ever had. I recommend making reservations - they are popular!

Harumi Sushi Bar

A cute little speakeasy! ...if you can find it ;)

Pigtails Downtown

Like a steakhouse or sports bar, but better! If you're a whiskey or bourbon fan, this is the spot for you. If you're hungry for something delicious, this is also for you! Located right above Arrogant Butcher so you have plenty of options for drinks and snacks :)

Phoenix Bourbon Room

A pub with LOTS of beer and yummy bar food. The menu is a little limited (and can be spicy) so look beforehand if you're going for eats! If you're going for a pint, you'll be amazed at the options and the artistic marketing! Plus... it's dog-friendly! You will see LOTS of sweet little puppers around the outdoor seating areas and they are always open for pets!

Samantha & Robert

Samantha & Robert

Travel