Which is why we’re so happy to feature local photographers, like Sacred Life Photography, here! We have the honor and pleasure of working with Albuquerque + Santa Fe’s finest wedding professionals, and connecting them with local engaged couples is what we love to do.
Emma, of Sacred Life Photography, is a candid photo expert. She knows that on your big day, the details, schedule, and excitement can swallow you up. With her though, the one thing you don’t have to worry about is missing all the tiny, special moments that pass by in a dreamy haze as you celebrate your love. Imagine her as a fly on the wall, who happens to have a wonderful photographic eye and dedication to your wedding day. She lovingly documents — her words, not ours! — all of these ephemeral, once-in-a-lifetime moments, so that you can revisit them time and time again.
But don’t take our word for it — revisit with us just a few of the many weddings Sacred Life Photography has cemented in memory.
These photos are from an elopement at Hacienda Vargas — I just love the smile on the groom’s face as he looks at his bride. This was one of her favorite photos from the set, she jokingly refers to it as “Ben, and my hair.” In addition to the beautiful outdoor setting all around the grounds, the ceremony itself was magical, held in an old chapel, lit by candlelight.-Emma, Sacred Life Photography
This bride was such a fun lady to work with! She definitely was not nervous on her big day (or at least she didn’t show it!). She and many of her guests all worked together at a salon, so they did all the makeup and hair themselves – it was amazing!! This is her, showing off her great sense of humor, as she puts the finishing touches on her daughter/flower girl’s hair. Taken at the ever elegant Casa Rondena Winery.-Emma, Sacred Life Photography


The themes for this backyard wedding was “fairytale” and “sustainability.” It was incredible! They built as huge structure out of branches to be married under, and hung a swing from one of the trees for some of their post-wedding shots. So pretty, and so much love went into the whole event. Friends and family from all over came together to make it happen. Very sweet!-Emma, Sacred Life Photography

The Most Blissful Bed+Breakfast: Hacienda Vargas
There’s a new theme emerging among all the incredible weddings of the world, especially here in New Mexico… Have you noticed it yet, brides and wedding lovers?
We’ve taken note, from our little perch between local wedding professionals and engaged couples, that brides and grooms are putting more and more emphasis on the cultural and historical beauty of their hometowns and states when planning their wedding. And we are so here for it!
So here’s a tip: Hacienda Vargas is the perfect wedding venue for engaged couples who are looking to incorporate some of New Mexico’s rich culture and history into their celebration. With traditional adobe structure to reflect New Mexico’s famous sunsets, walls covered in authentic local art, and vast, pristine land surrounding the inn, Hacienda Vargas emanates all the things that make our state so wonderful. Plus, The Land of Enchantment, aptly named, has enraptured so many of its inhabitants, it only makes sense to draw from the vibrant colors and unique history for some wedding inspo!
Tucked just between Albuquerque and Santa Fe, the historical bed + breakfast has been welcoming weary travelers and locals in need of relaxation since the 17th century. Yes, you read that right! For four centuries, Hacienda Vargas has dazzled every guest who passes through with the inn’s traditional architecture, and the owner’s — Cynthia and Richard — delicious, homemade breakfast.
Wrapped in a familiar sort of comfort, the bed and breakfast invites engaged couples to an intimate, yet rural, space to celebrate their union. Hacienda Vargas is happy to hold up to 150 of you and your partner’s loved ones. So whether you two are looking for a small elopement or you’re planning to invite everyone you hold dear, the inn is here with open doors.
To book Hacienda Vargas for your wedding here in New Mexico, contact their team here!
In the meantime, come gawk at this gorgeous wedding at Hacienda Vargas that we still can’t get over!

Photos by Britianie Tyler Photography.
More on the wedding featured above here!
{Wedding Veteran} Hacienda Vargas
(505) 867-9115
1431 Highway 313, Algodones, NM 87001
Our Spring/Summer issue of the Albuquerque & Santa Fe Perfect Wedding Guide is now available! View the new issue at The Perfect Wedding Guide.
{Weekend Wedding Inspiration} Viva La Vida New Mexican Elopement Shoot
Viva La Vida New Mexican Elopement
This winter Alicia Lucia Photography teamed up with Orange September event company and Hacienda Vargas in Algodones, New Mexico, to create this absolutely gorgeous New Mexican elopement stylized photo shoot. From the traditional chapel to the cowgirl boots and gold pinatas, this shoot is overflowing with inspirational wedding ceremony and reception details.





















Photography by: Alicia Lucia Photography
(505) 459-7791
Rancho, NM
Chapel and Venue: Hacienda Vargas
(505) 867-9115
1431 Highway 313, Algodones, NM 87001
For more wedding inspiration, and for everything else you need to plan your wedding, please visit The Perfect Wedding Guide.