Are you planning a desert elopement in CA but don’t know where to go? Joshua Tree is the perfect place! As an elopement photographer based in Southern California, I cannot profess much I love to shoot in Joshua Tree National Park, it is an incredible destination to elope. Joshua Tree National park is one of the most unique places to elope for couples. The desert landscape is covered in unique plants and animals and has the most breathtaking night skies!
I was so happy when Natasha and Ricky reached out to me knowing they wanted to elope just the two of them but were unsure where. They knew they wanted to keep it simple and have it be a “just us” elopement due to all the continued craziness with covid. But they still hadn’t decided on a location!
Desert Elopement Location
We discussed different locations like the beach and the forests in Angeles National Forest, but they had never been to Joshua Tree before and were wanting a new experience, so we of course had to go with a desert elopement experience!
If you aren’t familiar with Joshua Tree you’ll want to keep in mind that in the summer Joshua Tree can be extremely hot, especially if you aren’t used to hot weather. It’s always best to have your elopement later in the evening, closer to sunset as there is so much more shade, and is a lot cooler!
I knew the second Natasha and Ricky rolled up in a Subaru Outback with all the upgrades that they were perfectly aligned with having an adventure elopement here in Joshua Tree! Not only that but, both Natasha and Ricky had the perfect elopement attire for the desert elopement aesthetic and vibe. Natasha wore a stunning champagne-colored gold sequin dress and a stylish white fedora and had a gorgeous bohemian style bouquet with blush-colored roses and dried elements while Ricky kept it simple with a floral black tie and suspenders.
When couples wear non-traditional wedding attire in Joshua Tree it’s one of my favorite things as it matches the free-spirited vibes that Joshua Tree gives off. Although, traditional wedding attire can work just as well too, adding some stylish retro and/or western elements will enhance your photos in this setting!
Elopement Ceremony Location
When figuring out an elopement ceremony location it can get overwhelming as there are numerous locations around Joshua Tree National Park. Each one is more beautiful than the next, so be sure to explore them all before deciding on ‘the one. Or, speak to an elopement photographer in Joshua Tree like myself, and they’ll be able to guide you towards the locations that will work best for you!
Elopement Itinerary
We started Natasha and Ricky’s desert elopement ceremony in front of the iconic Joshua Tree basalt rock formations where they exchanged their vows and celebrated their future with souvenir Joshua Tree shot glasses. (A fun detail of the night). Then we roamed around embracing Joshua Trees landscape and taking photos. To end the night I took them to one of my favorite spots to bring couples. The Arch Rock, the best place for sunset and starry night photos, it takes a little leg muscle to get up to but it’s worth it!
Capturing Natasha and Ricky’s desert elopement was a pleasure. You could really feel the love they had for one another. Not a single minute went by without smiles and laughter. They were just so excited to finally get married and start a family together.
Need help planning a Joshua Tree Desert Elopement? Check out my Joshua Tree elopement guide to get you started!
Want to see what it looks like getting eloped in Joshua Tree during the Milky Way Galaxy? Check out Michael and Michelles Joshua Tree Elopement for incredible photos!
