Desert Elegance Meets Timeless Style at El Chorro

Dan and Yasmeen’s wedding was the epitome of relaxed elegance, held at the iconic EL CHORRO in Paradise Valley, Arizona. With Camelback Mountain as their breathtaking backdrop, the couple hosted an outdoor celebration that blended classic style with meaningful, personal moments — all beautifully captured by photographer STEPH WAHLIG and planned by WESTGATE EVENTS.

Yasmeen opted for a calm and casual start to her wedding day, enjoying Raising Cane’s fried chicken while getting ready in her hotel room. She kept the atmosphere lighthearted and stress-free, welcoming a few close friends for some quality time before heading to the venue. Once at EL CHORRO, the bridal party gathered in a last-minute attempt to steam her gown — a charming, real-life moment that added to the authenticity of the day.

Before the ceremony, Dan and Yasmeen shared a private first look. Despite the record-breaking 118-degree heat that September day, the couple embraced the moment with joy. The intimate exchange gave them a chance to connect and take in the day before guests began to arrive.

Photographer STEPH WAHLIG shares her thoughts on their day, “Yasmeen and Dan’s wedding was on a warm Arizona day but you wouldn’t know it from their smiles and pure joy. Weddings without bridal parties are always something that I cherish because it allows more quiet time with the couple together and their day is ten times more intimate. Small weddings are also highly focused on family and friends which is what a wedding should be all about. Yasmeen and Dan had a first look which gave them a lot of time after ceremony to mingle and be with their guests even after taking a few minutes for sunset photos. Having plenty of time for mingling during cocktail was very important to them and I love that they had the ability to be present.”

Yasmeen wore a stunning strapless RITA VINIERIS ballgown with a voluminous skirt — a simple yet dramatic silhouette she had envisioned from the start. She paired it with classic white satin MANOLO BLAHNIKS, a borrowed veil from her sister-in-law, and a diamond tennis bracelet from her mom. The result was a bridal look that felt both timeless and personal.

Florals played a major role in the wedding’s visual story. Yasmeen carried a bouquet of elegant white calla lilies, and her vision of tulip-filled tables was brought to life by her planner, creating a lush, monochromatic look that felt effortlessly chic.

The ceremony, held on EL CHORRO’S scenic lawn, was officiated by a former colleague of Yasmeen’s from her years in news. His heartfelt words set the tone for an emotional and deeply meaningful exchange of vows. Dan, typically reserved, surprised everyone with his emotional speech, leaving a lasting impression on guests. The couple chose not to have a traditional wedding party but included their siblings, nephews, and beloved dog, Winston, in the processional, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.

Yasmeen and Dan prioritized guest experience throughout the day. Cocktail hour featured live music, fresh oysters shucked on site, and a live sketch artist creating keepsakes for attendees. For dinner, the ceremony space was transformed into an outdoor reception with long tables set beneath the mountain view. The evening continued with interactive stations serving hand-rolled cannoli, a charming gelato cart, and plenty of dancing under the stars.

After the festivities, Dan and Yasmeen set off on a dream honeymoon spanning five weeks. Their itinerary included romantic strolls in Paris, historic sites in Istanbul and Cairo, and unforgettable adventures in South Africa — the perfect way to begin their next chapter together.

From the heartfelt ceremony to the thoughtful guest experiences, Dan and Yasmeen’s wedding was a celebration rich in intention, love, and unforgettable details — a true reflection of their relationship and style.