September 28, 2020

Sydney & Alexis’ Intimate Joshua Tree Elopement

2020 has been the year of intimate elopements, and can I just say… I’m HERE for it.

Whether you’re local to Southern California or from across the country (or beyond), one of the most magical destinations for Southern California elopements is Joshua Tree National Park. I just can’t get enough of shooting there!

This August Joshua Tree elopement was extra special. I feel honored to be chosen to capture this fun, unconventional couple as they ditched their big wedding day plans in Philadelphia and opted instead for this intimate elopement. It was just us, the officiant, a few close friends, and the enchanting desert elements.

Intimate elopements, especially LGBTQ elopements like this one, always give me butterflies. I want to help create a memorable experience. And at the same time, I want to focus on capturing beautiful, authentic images the couple and their loved ones will cherish for the rest of time.

I was so happy to hear Sydney and Alexis’s family was excited and supportive when they heard about this intimate elopement adventure – despite their expectations to attend a big wedding.

In reality, marriage is a once in a lifetime occasion and it should be all about celebrating your unique love story. 

As someone who’s been behind the camera for 9 years and worked over 75 weddings (both small and large), I figured you might want to know my go-to list for couples planning an intimate destination elopement…

Here’s 4 Things You Absolutely Need For An Intimate Destination Elopement:

  1. Comfortable attire – You opted out of the big, fancy wedding so do yourself a favor and pick outfits you feel fantastic AND comfortable in. Especially when it comes to shoes. Trust me – the better you feel, the better you’ll look in your photos!

  2. Accessories you love – Bring an accessory or two (for both partners!) that feel unique and meaningful to you. You can even switch up your look up during the shoot! Some popular ideas: bouquets, veils, flower or crystal crowns, hats, sunglasses, jackets, jewelry, earrings, ties, suspenders, your fur baby or babies, even a pop up altar.

  3. An officiant – Yes, you want amazing photos to remember your special day but you also want someone to lead your commitment ceremony and prompt those two famous words – “I do.” This person will be in your photos forever, I highly recommend choosing someone who knows you, and inspires you both to be the best version of yourselves – both individually and as a couple.

  4. A photographer who brings out the best in you and your partner – Find someone who, like us, is all about conveying the message of your love story. A good photographer will handle all the technical stuff, so you can just show up, have fun, and get some awesome photos to capture your special day.

What do you think is the most important thing to bring to an intimate elopement session?

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