California Desert Elopement – Cass + AJ

As an intimate wedding and elopement photographer, I recently had the pleasure of capturing the love of Cass and AJ, a talented photo and video husband and wife team. We took photos in a remote location in the California desert where they could be alone with nature, far from the crowds of the city.

We scouted a few different spots before we found the perfect location – a secluded area that was basically in the middle of nowhere. It was so hidden that no one else seemed to know about it, which meant that Cass and AJ could enjoy complete privacy.

On the day of the elopement, the winds were extremely high. I always encourage my couples to embrace whatever comes their way, whether it’s wind, snow, rain, or sunshine, as long as it’s safe. Cass and AJ were troopers and took everything in stride. Cass’s hat with beautiful floral decorations even tried to fly off a few times, but we all laughed it off, and the wind created for some beautiful moments and photos.

As the day went on, the winds calmed down a bit, and we ventured down into the canyons for some incredible sunset shots. Cass and AJ hiked around, soaking up the beauty of the surroundings and each other’s company. As the sun began to set behind the desert mountains, they embraced each other in a private moment, which made for some breathtaking photos.

Tips for Planning your California Desert Elopement

If you’re considering planning an elopement in the California desert, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Choose your location carefully: The California desert is vast and diverse, so take your time to find the perfect spot that resonates with you and your partner. Be sure to do your research and make sure that the location you choose is safe, accessible, and legal for your elopement.
2. Consider the time of day: Depending on the time of year and location, the desert can get incredibly hot during the day. Consider having your elopement during the early morning or late afternoon/evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. Plus, the lighting during these times is absolutely stunning.
3. Embrace the elements: The desert can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything. Bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and plenty of water. And don’t forget to pack some warm clothes for the evening, as the desert can get chilly once the sun goes down.
4. Connect with vendors: Whether it’s an elopement planner, florist, or photographer, working with vendors can be incredibly helpful when planning an elopement in the California desert. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations, and they often know the best hidden gems for your elopement.
5. Have fun: Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Your elopement should be a reflection of your love and unique personalities, so don’t be afraid to be yourselves and make it a day to remember.

As an elopement photographer, my goal is to capture the love and joy of couples like Cass and AJ and to help them create memories that they’ll cherish for a lifetime. If you’re interested in having me as your California desert elopement photographer, please don’t hesitate to reach out! Fill out the contact form on my website and let’s get to planning! I am a Leave No Trace Photographer which means I will also help you plan an elopement that leaves the planet better than we found it.