Sunset Sentiment in the Sonoran Desert
An Anniversary Session at Spur Cross Ranch

Nikki and Bret are the kind of couple who radiate warmth the moment you meet them. Midwestern at heart, adventurous in spirit, and grounded in their love for each other (and their sweet pup, Yoshi), they bring light and laughter everywhere they go. For their anniversary session, we met at the rugged, sun-kissed trails of Spur Cross Ranch—one of Arizona’s desert gems—and their joy quickly filled the cool afternoon air.

A Love That Glows, Rain or Shine

As they stepped out of the car, I could already feel their energy—playful, present, and so in love. The sky, however, told a different story. A thick layer of clouds muted the desert sun, and I gently warned them that we might not catch any golden hour glow. Still, we pressed on, undeterred. Nikki and Bret were up for anything, and their enthusiasm lifted the mood.

We hiked to the first scenic overlook, chatting between breaths and soaking in the quiet beauty of the trail. Just as I adjusted my camera settings for that very first frame, the sun broke free from the clouds—stretching wide across the horizon like it had been waiting just for them. In that golden moment, everything aligned: the light, the love, and the land. It was pure magic.

From Irish Pubs to Desert Trails

Their story began on a Friday night before the Super Bowl at Casey Moore’s, a cozy Irish pub nestled in Tempe. Nikki and her roommate had just dodged some less-than-ideal attention from across the bar and made their way toward a table of friendlier faces—Bret’s. One karaoke invite later, the night turned into an impromptu serenade as Bret used his college singing chops to belt out The Temptations. Nikki was charmed.

Though their first attempt at exchanging numbers was a little rocky, the spark had already been struck. One date turned into many, and before long, Nikki and Bret were spending nearly every evening together. They moved in, made a life, and over six years later, they’re still choosing each other—day after day.

Grounded in Love and Laughter

When Nikki talks about Bret, it’s with genuine admiration. She describes him as loving, honest, and deeply rooted—a partner who brings both joy and stability. He’s goofy when it counts, thoughtful always, and the kind of man who doesn’t just love quietly, but intentionally.

This session marked their second wedding anniversary, a milestone they plan to celebrate with a trip to Oregon this June. I feel so honored to have captured this season in their lives—two hearts, still wild for each other, exploring life hand in hand.

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