A Colorful Micro Wedding in Las Vegas

Lua and Ian are the coolest darn couple—and their day proved exactly why a micro wedding in Las Vegas can feel larger than life. These two are big into fantasy role-playing (think Magic: The Gathering and D&D), and Lua even works as a model and cosplayer. (If you’re into that kind of content, definitely check them out on Instagram: @lua.stardust + comedian_mtg.)

They tied the knot at the always-eclectic Sure Thing Chapel before heading to Cheapshot in Downtown Vegas, where a magician wowed their guests. The best part? We had enough time to tell their story in both digital and film. As much as I love quick two-hour coverage, days like this show just how special it is when couples book a four-hour block with space for a mini reception.

Sure Thing Chapel Micro Wedding in Las Vegas: Arrival, First Looks, + Ceremony

Lua and Ian’s story started years ago at a Magic the Gathering prerelease event—a 1920s-themed set where they both showed up in costume, played games with friends, and realized they’d already been following each other online. What started as small talk grew into something way bigger, and it all led to this day.

Before heading inside Sure Thing Chapel, I coordinated a first look right near Fremont Street so these two could share a quiet moment together. Lua looked unreal in her off-the-shoulder gown, custom Madison Chamberlain veil, and rainbow waves styled by @rockwellbeauty with makeup by Kelly Marie Artistry. Ian rocked the coolest embroidered suit jacket—decked out in dice, flames, and florals that felt so them.

We then crossed the street to the chapel, where they were greeted by family and friends before stepping inside for their ceremony. Their hour-long slot was perfect for everything: a heartfelt exchange of vows officiated by Surely the Showgirl, candid moments with guests, couple’s portraits, and even their first dance under the disco ball. In true Lua-and-Ian fashion, they wrapped things up by rolling a 20-sided die—because when you’re a D&D couple, that’s basically the only way to seal the deal!

A Cheapshot Reception: Celebrating a Micro Wedding in Las Vegas with Magic

We ended the night at Cheapshot, a moody Downtown Vegas spot that was the perfect backdrop for Lua and Ian’s micro wedding in Las Vegas. Guests were treated to catering, party favors, and a performance by magician Joan Dukore who had everyone in the room wide-eyed and laughing. The couple cut into a retro-inspired cake by Winston Marie Cakes while sparkler fountain candles lit up the room (yes, I may or may not have burned my fingers pulling them out, but it was worth it 😂). From there, the dance floor filled up fast, and these two got lit right alongside their friends!

When I asked them what they most wanted to remember from this season of life, Lua and Ian said, “the kisses in between, the tears, the casual moments with friends.” That’s exactly how this whole night felt—less about posed perfection, more about the energy, the love, and the little moments that made it authentically them. Literally the coolest, cutest, spicy nerdy lovebirds I’ve ever had the pleasure of photographing! 🖤

Why a Micro Wedding in Las Vegas Is Worth It

Lua and Ian’s day was such a perfect example of why I love when couples go for a micro wedding in Las Vegas with more than just a quick ceremony slot. Having that extra time meant we could do portraits, candids, a mini reception, and still leave space for those in-between moments that make the day feel real. It didn’t feel rushed, it felt theirs.

I book a lot of fast two-hour weddings and while I love them, the four-hour blocks with space to celebrate hit different!! If you’re the couple who wants a wedding day that’s fun, personal, and filled with energy instead of just flying by, let’s make it happen. You can learn more about me here, and if you feel like we’d be the right fit, inquire with me. And of course—check out more Vegas weddings + elopements (and even a few beyond) on the blog for inspo!

Love From Lua + Ian:

“BOOK WITH CRUZ! 10000/10 Absolute angel of a human! The planning process was incredibly smooth and stress free. (which is great for a type A person like me) She made us feel very comfortable. As a professional model I've worked with over 200+ photographers and this was one of the easiest / most comfortable experiences of my life. My partner is a bit shy in front of the camera and she was able to make him feel confident and secure allowing for some absolute MOMENT style photos. We made it clear early on we wanted a limited number of posed photos and for the rest of our photos to feel very organic and in the moment. Cruz absolutely delivered. We were able to celebrate with our guests, cheers, dance the night away etc. while knowing she was able to capture every moment. Cruz is incredibly sweet, gifted and special. We feel so lucky to have had her with us for our day. We loved her photography style of moody & intimate which totally fit our vibe! I knew I always wanted to do film + polaroids so I'm incredibly grateful for a mix of digital and physical film! Thank you again Cruz :)”

Cruz Valentin Photography | Las Vegas Wedding & Elopement Photographer

Vendors:

Chapel: @surethingchapel | Reception: @cheapshotdtlv | Florals: @lucidjuliet | Hair: @rockwellbeauty | Makeup: @kellymarieartistry | Custom Veil: @madisonchamberlain_ | Magician: @joandukore | Cake: @winstonmariecakes | Photography: @cruzvalentinphoto