Happy endings, or should I say, beginnings, are possible in a land where pink fairy dusters blossom and the Sonoran Desert sun shines on a land rich with history and spirit.

Take a trip to Carefree, Arizona and drive down streets with names like Why Worry Lane, Ho Hum Road, Peaceful Place and Tranquil Trail. Visit the world’s largest sundial and capture views of Black Mountain. The destination is easy to get to with non-stop flights available from major cities like Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. Be sure to turn on North Tom Darlington Drive to discover The Boulders, spread on 1,300 glorious acres staged by Mother Nature with twelve million year-old boulders, prickly pear cacti, soaring saguaros and cottontail bunnies.

The land now occupying The Boulders resort is often referred to as one of Arizona’s spiritual lands. “The Sonoran Desert is exquisitely magical and I was compelled to create the most ideal spot in this natural paradise for two people starting their lives together,” says Managing Director, Steve Ast. “I can think of no better way to celebrate the excitement of marriage and honor its importance.”

Couples have breathtaking indoor and outdoor venues to select from including Duck Pond at Main Resort, El Pedregal Courtyard, the 19th Green, Rosie’s Rock, Promise Rock and the Organic Garden. “The Boulders, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, offers a unique wedding destination with ancient boulder formations…it’s the perfect setting for a once-in-a-lifetime event that your family and friends will talk about for years to come,” says Ellen Haboush, Senior Catering Manager.

Enjoy a roster of magical moments spent star gazing during a night-time mountain bike ride, enjoying a sumptuous couples massage at the 33,000 square-foot Waldorf Astoria Spa or playing golf on two championship golf courses accompanied by quails and rock squirrels.

“Our experience at The Boulders was absolutely wonderful! I couldn’t have imagined a more perfect venue. Our ceremony was on the grassy area in front of the duck pond. The backdrop for our photos was incredibly picturesque with the surrounding boulders and mountains. I especially loved all the baby bunnies that hopped around during the ceremony. The reception was in the ballroom at El Pedregal – again beautiful views and ending with a finale of fireworks!” says former bride Lindsey Gubler.

Couples looking to combine the allure of nature with a truly spectacular setting should follow the whimsical roads of Carefree to the beauty of The Boulders.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2015 issue. You can order a copy here.