Pat Murphy, Celebrant: October 2012

Today is Halloween, a holiday that traces back 2000 years to the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain, meaning “summers end”. To me Halloween is a bewitching time of year and the beginning of the festive Holiday season.

Did you know that the Holiday season is the most popular time to become engaged? Maybe that’s because it’s a festive time where loved ones gather and celebrate various traditions and rituals. Many of the traditions include expressions of gratitude, sharing of meals, music and special gifts. For couples in love it often brings forth a proposal of marriage and the excitement of planning for the wedding day.

I have recently relocated from Miami, Florida to Santa Fe, New Mexico and I’m looking forward to participating in the Santa Fe traditions of the Holiday season. I’ve been visiting this “Land of Enchantment” for many years. I have fallen in love with its expansive vistas, and its love of art and culture. Being a celebrant, I’m also attuned to those areas or venues that would create a perfect environment to pledge ones love to another in a ceremony that speaks to the heart and reflects the couples unique love story.

If you are considering a Santa Fe wedding I would like to introduce you to a truly authentic Hacienda atop the Ortiz Mountains, high above the Galisteo Basin. Hacienda Dona Andrea de Santa Fe is on 65 acres of spectacular land and offers both indoor and outdoor areas with stunning vistas. They can accommodate up to 180 guests but also offers intimate settings for the couple wishing to exchange their vows privately with two witnesses. To share some of what Hacienda Dona Andrea’s offers I have some photos just taken a couple of days ago by photographer Lou Novick. This particular Hacienda location is one to enjoy for all seasons.

Beautiful Panoramic Vistas