Your Love Story Was Never Meant to Fit Inside a Box
There’s a moment somewhere between planning the big wedding everyone else wants and scrolling through inspiration that never feels quite right where something inside you whispers:
“What if we did this our way?”
That spark right there?
That’s the beginning of your elopement or micro-wedding story.
This guide is for couples who value experience over expectations, connection over performance, and a wedding day that feels alive. A day where you breathe deeply, move freely, and let the world fall away so you can actually feel your own love story.
WHAT ELOPEMENTS & MICRO WEDDINGS REALLY ARE
Elopement
(Modern Definition)
An intentional, deeply personal wedding experience focused on the couple, their relationship, and the landscape they choose to get married in.
Guest count: 0–10 typically.
Elopements today aren’t about running away.
They’re about running toward meaning.
Micro Wedding
A small wedding (usually 10–35 guests) that blends the intimacy of an elopement with the structure of a traditional ceremony—just on a more human scale.
Micro weddings often include:
A ceremony
A dinner or reception
A few curated traditions
Time for portraits and adventure
They allow you to have your people and your peace.
Why Couples Choose These
Less pressure, more presence
A day that reflects their relationship
A desire for nature, travel, or adventure
Budget spent on experiences, not performance
Photography that feels real, not staged
Space to breathe, connect, and actually enjoy the day
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT EXPERIENCE
Elopement Might Be Perfect If…
- You crave privacy.
- You want to say vows without an audience.
- You prefer experiences over tradition.
- You want landscapes to be a meaningful part of the story.
- You love the idea of hiking, exploring, or keeping things simple.
- You want to include family or friends.
- You still want those emotional speeches and shared memories.
- You like the idea of a dinner, toast, or gathering.
- You want a balance of intimacy + celebration.
Both are valid. Both are beautiful.
We just shape the day around what feels right for you.**
What It’'s Like to Work With Desert Born Studios
Your experience matters just as much as your photos.
When couples work with me, they get:
A guide who knows the wild places the seasons, trails, lighting, crowds, and secret nooks
An emotional storyteller who captures the moments you didn’t realize you were feeling
A steady presence who keeps the day grounded, calm, and joyful
Someone who truly gets why you’re choosing something more intentional
I’m here to help you:
Pick your perfect location
Understand permits and rules
Create a timeline that feels natural
Plan activities that feel authentically you
Find trustworthy vendors
Build a day with emotional weight + joyful energy
More than anything, I’m here to make sure you feel wild and free on your wedding day—connected to each other, connected to nature, and fully present.
We loved her style and energy and could tell how much she cares about her work and the couples that she photographs.
A+J
Location, Location, Location!
Choose Your Wild!
Landscapes That Shape Your Story
When couples choose to elope or plan a micro wedding, the landscape becomes the third character in their story.
Every environment carries its own energy desert stillness, high-alpine expansiveness, the roar of the Pacific, the sacred hush of old-growth forests.
HOW TO CHOOSE YOUR PERFECT LANDSCAPE
Consider:
- What environment feels like “you”?
- What climate do you love?
- How accessible does the spot need to be?
- Do you want privacy?
- Sunrise or sunset?
- Do you want guests or a true adventure?
- What season makes sense for the place you’re dreaming about?
GUEST CONSIDERATIONS (MICRO WEDDINGS)
If you’re including people, here’s how to keep it smooth:
Communicate early about location, weather, travel, terrain
Offer shuttles or carpools for national parks
Bring blankets for cold mornings/evenings
Encourage comfortable shoes
Give guests a packing/prep guide
Provide water & snacks
Keep ceremony spots accessible or choose a split timeline (intimate vows first, ceremony later)
Landscape + WEATHER + SEASON GUIDE
THE PROS
Epic light almost year-round glowing reds, pink sunsets, and soft mornings.
Gorgeous in winter warm days + crisp evenings = dreamy conditions.
Dry air = amazing hair days — no humidity frizz!
Minimal crowds in late fall + winter more privacy for your ceremony.
Dramatic landscapes that look magical even in overcast light.
Night skies that are unreal perfect for stargazing photos if temps are right.
THE CONS
Cold mornings + blazing afternoons (temperature swings can be 40°+).
Spring winds are VERY real especially March–May.
Summer heat can be unsafe (100–110°+).
Flash flood potential in slot canyons during monsoon season (Jul–Sept).
Plants are spiky — dresses + ankles beware.
Limited shade makes midday ceremonies challenging.
BEST SEASONS
Fall, winter, early spring
(October–April is usually the sweet spot.)
DESERTS 🌵
(Think: Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Utah desert, Sedona, Mojave)
THE VIBE
Golden light. Open skies. Silence that feels ancient.
But also… it’s a land of extremes.
MOUNTAINS⛰️
THE PROS
Cooler temps in summer — perfect for hiking elopements.
Clear, rich air that makes colors POP in photos.
Wildflower seasons (varies by altitude) add dreamy detail.
Fall colors = unmatched magic (especially late Sept–Oct).
Sunrise sessions above the clouds are unreal.
Backdrop variety — meadows, granite cliffs, waterfalls, lakes.
THE CONS
Weather changes fast — sun → hail → sun again.
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in late summer.
Snow sticks around MUCH longer than you think (some trails reopen in July).
Higher elevation = breathing is harder, especially in gowns/suits.
Road closures can limit access (Tioga Pass, Glacier Point, etc.).
Bugs — mosquitoes at lower lakes in early summer.
BEST SEASONS
Late spring, summer, fall
(June–October depending on snowpack.)
(Think: Yosemite, Sequoia, Sierra Nevada, Rockies, Pacific Northwest ranges)
THE VIBE
Majestic peaks, alpine lakes, wildflowers, quiet forests, and unpredictable weather that keeps you on your toes in the BEST way.
COASTAL🌊
THE PROS
Fog = instant cinematic mood — soft, flattering light.
Cool temps even in summer — perfect for dress comfort.
Golden sunsets with pastel skies (especially late summer).
Wind movement makes clothes + hair extra magical in photos.
Great for couples who hate heat — it rarely gets hot.
THE CONS
Fog can roll in or out randomly — you just have to embrace the mood.
Wind can be intense especially on cliff edges.
Salt mist can make hair a little wild (cute wild though).
Parking can be tricky in popular areas on weekends.
Sand + sea spray get everywhere (part of the adventure!).
Some beaches have strict rules about ceremonies + group sizes.
BEST SEASONS
May–October
(Summer is warmer; fall is clearest.)
(Think: Big Sur, San Diego cliffs, Oregon coast, Malibu, Mendocino)
THE VIBE
Dramatic cliffs, rolling fog, pastel sunsets, and a vibe that’s equal parts moody and romantic.
🏞️ NATIONAL PARKS
THE PROS
Iconic landscapes you can’t get anywhere else.
Sunrise solitude even in busy seasons.
Protected natural beauty that always photographs beautifully.
Variety of backdrops in one day (meadows → forests → cliffs → rivers).
Ranger support + clear guidelines that help things run smoothly.
THE CONS
Crowds during high season (especially summer + holidays).
Time-specific permit restrictions — some parks limit group size or ceremony locations.
Occasional last-minute closures (wildfires, floods, rockfall, snow).
Parking + shuttle rules can affect timing.
Some elopement spots require a hike, which isn’t ideal for all guests.
WHAT DATES DEPEND ON
When we choose your national park date, we’ll look at:
Crowd patterns (I always track this — weekdays are GOLD).
Road closures + trail openings
Wildfire season
Climate trends
Permit availability + processing time
Sunrise/sunset direction for your chosen spot
(Think: Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Zion, Joshua Tree)
National park elopements require a little extra planning — but the payoff is huge.
PERMITS 101: What You Need + How It All Works
Permits sound intimidating, but I promise they’re actually super simple. Think of them like your golden ticket to having an intimate, gorgeous, stress-free ceremony in some of the most protected and beautiful places on earth. I handle the confusing parts so you never feel overwhelmed.
National parks, state parks, and certain public lands require permits for weddings and photos to:
Protect the land
Prevent overcrowding
Keep your day private + organized
Support conservation (your fee literally helps protect the place you’re getting married in)
Your permit is basically your approval to be there, celebrate there, and have the space feel like yours.
Why Permits Matter
TYPES OF PERMITS YOU MAY NEED
1. Special Use Permit (Ceremony Permit)
This is the “We’re getting married here!” permit.
You might need this if you're:
Saying vows
Having a small group of guests
Setting up any chairs, arches, rugs, florals, etc.
Holding any type of ceremony or vow exchange in a protected area
What to expect:
Cost typically ranges from $50–$300 depending on the park
Processing time varies from 2–10 weeks
Some locations have group-size limits or designated ceremony spots
I’ll walk you through every step of this.
2. Photography Permit (Commercial Use Authorization or CUA)
This allows me, the photographer, to legally work in the location.
This is something I handle — not you.
Some parks require me to apply annually, others per event. Either way, I’ll make sure everything is covered so your day goes smoothly.
How Permit Booking Works
1. Pick Your Location.
Desert? Mountains? Coastal? National Park?
Once we know your dream spot, we check the exact requirements together.
2. I send you the permit link + checklist.
No outdated Google searches. No stress. Just the correct form and a step-by-step guide.
3. Fill out the application & pay the fee.
Most are online and take 5–15 minutes. Easy peasy.
4. The park reviews your request.
Processing times vary:
National Parks: 2–6 weeks
State Parks: sometimes same week
BLM / desert lands: depends on the district
If we need a rush, I’ve got your back.
5. Receive your official approval.
Usually by email. I’ll double-check to make sure everything is perfect.
Important Details You Should Know
- Permits don’t reserve the entire area.
- Weekdays are gold.
- Guest counts may be limited.
- Weather can affect permits.
- Leave No Trace always applies.
But tons of alternatives exist: vow books, champagne pops, flower hoops, or a picnic under the stars.
So what does a full elopement or micro wedding day look like?
Adventure Elopement Timeline – Yosemite National Park (Sunset Ceremony)
-5:30 AM – 6:30 AM: Wake up & breakfast
Light, energizing breakfast at your cabin / Airbnb / lodge.
Coffee, tea, fresh fruit, granola, water, and snacks for the adventure ahead.
-6:30 AM – 7:00 AM: Travel to Yosemite / Sunrise stop
Scenic drive into the park.
Optional sunrise photos at Tunnel View or another early-morning viewpoint.
-7:00 AM – 9:00 AM: First waterfall adventure & photography session
Explore iconic waterfalls (Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, or Vernal Fall).
Candids & portraits in the morning mist and soft light.
-9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Moderate hike to a hidden overlook
Trails like Mist Trail, Sentinel Dome, or Taft Point.
Adventure + lifestyle portraits while hiking.
Stop at scenic points for dramatic shots with cliffs, valleys, and trees.
-11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Picnic + couple’s break
Private picnic with blankets, snacks, champagne.
Rest, relax, soak in the surroundings.
Optional journaling or private vow reading in advance (preparation for sunset ceremony).
-1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Second adventure session / waterfall chase #2
Explore another waterfall or scenic river spot.
Portrait and lifestyle shots with movement, reflections, and natural light.
-2:30 PM – 3:00 PM: Short rest / snack break
Hydrate, stretch, adjust layers.
-3:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Afternoon scenic exploration
Continue adventure portraits at overlooks or hidden spots.
Capture candid, playful, and intimate moments before sunset.
-5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Sunset vow ceremony
Official ceremony at a breathtaking viewpoint (Glacier Point, Taft Point, or Olmsted Point).
Vows, ring exchange, and first “official” married moments.
Photographer captures golden-hour portraits immediately after ceremony.
-6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Wrap up & celebration
Quick toast or champagne pop to close the day.
Travel back to lodging or viewpoint for a final sunset memory.
Guests: Just the couple (intimate + adventurous day)
Goal: Explore waterfalls, scenic spots, enjoy a picnic and hike, and end with a private sunset vow ceremony.
Micro Wedding Timeline – Joshua Tree National Park (6-Hour Day)
Guests: Up to 20 (intimate + magical desert celebration)
Goal: Combine adventure, intimacy, and meaningful family moments in a half-day experience.
-10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Morning Prep at Airbnb / Cabin
Hair & makeup for couple (optional for guests).
Coffee, breakfast, and light snacks to fuel the day.
Couples can enjoy quiet moments together, finalize ceremony details.
Photographer captures casual getting-ready candids.
-11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Travel to Joshua Tree Park / Scenic Photos on the Way
Short drive to chosen ceremony location.
Optional quick stop for landscape photos or quirky desert shots along the way.
-11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Ceremony Setup
Small floral arrangements, signage, or personal touches.
Guests gather for intimate micro wedding ceremony.
Photographer captures detail shots of decor, flowers, and desert textures.
-12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Wedding Ceremony
Vows, officiant-led ceremony, and ring exchange.
Photographer captures wide shots of the desert backdrop + close-up emotional moments.
-12:30 PM – 1:00 PM: Post-Ceremony Portraits
Couple portraits in Joshua Tree landscapes (rocks, cacti, sand).
Optional small family photos with guests.
-1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Adventure + Exploration
Explore Joshua Tree’s iconic spots for lifestyle + candid photos.
Short hikes to hidden viewpoints or boulder fields.
Couple enjoys quiet, playful adventure while photographer captures natural, emotional moments.
-3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Travel to Campground / Dinner Setup
Guests settle in at the desert campground.
Photographer captures twinkle-light setup, candles, and table details.
-3:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Family Dinner & Celebration
Small seated dinner under twinkle lights in the desert.
Toasts, laughter, and connection with close family and friends.
Optional music or acoustic performance.
Photographer captures candid moments: cheers, smiles, and magical golden-hour light as the sun sets.
-5:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Wrap Up & Sunset Shots
Final sunset portraits with desert backdrop.
Couple enjoys private end-of-day moment with optional champagne toast.
Guests depart or settle into evening for camping under stars.
Adding Meaningful Adventures to Your Elopement or Micro-Wedding Day
One of the most beautiful parts of choosing an elopement or micro wedding is the freedom to craft a day that feels like you. Instead of squeezing into a traditional timeline, you get to weave in meaningful adventures—big or small—that turn your celebration into an actual experience. These moments aren’t just filler; they become the heartbeats of the day, the memories you’ll still feel in your bones years from now.
Why Add Adventures?
Adventures let you slow down, breathe in the landscape around you, and connect with each other in a deeper, more intentional way. Whether it’s scrambling over boulders in Joshua Tree or sharing a quiet picnic under Yosemite’s towering cliffs, these are the moments where the world gets quiet and your relationship takes center stage.
Adventure Ideas You Can Add to Your Day
- Hiking to a lookout for sunrise or sunset
- Chasing waterfalls after your ceremony
- A picnic in a meadow or tucked into a hidden canyon
- Rock climbing or bouldering together
- Stargazing under the desert sky
- Birding walks (especially magical in the Grand Canyon!)
- Jeep or 4x4 adventures to remote viewpoints
- Soaking in natural hot springs
- Sharing your favorite snacks or cocktails at a scenic overlook
- A post-ceremony champagne pop at the dunes
- A campfire dinner with s’mores and music
- Kayaking/Paddle boarding through a river or bay
- Sunset Surf Sesh
The options are endless.These moments aren’t just activities, they’re invitations to be fully present with each other.
How to Choose the Right Adventures
Think of your adventures as chapters in the story you want your day to tell. Here’s how to choose ones that feel aligned with your relationship:
What do you love to do together on a weekend? What makes you feel connected? If hiking clears your mind, or desert sunsets feel like home—build your day around that.
Your elopement shouldn’t feel like a photoshoot itinerary. Pick moments that bring you joy, ease, or excitement. If you don’t love hiking? Skip it. If you want something laid-back? A picnic or star-gazing might be perfect.
Every place has its own magic.
Yosemite gives you waterfalls, meadows, granite cliffs.
Joshua Tree gives you desert boulders, Joshua trees glowing at sunset, galaxies above you at night.
Choose the moments that make the location feel alive.
Adventures don’t have to be go-go-go. Some couples want a full day of movement; others want space to breathe, cuddle, and soak in the scenery. There is no wrong choice.
1. Tap Into Who You Are as a Couple
3. Think About the Pace of the Day
4. Let the Landscape Inspire You
2. Choose Activities That Feel Natural – Not Forced
For Micro Weddings: Adventures Make the Day Unforgettable for Your Guests
Micro weddings are magical because they blend intimacy with community. Adding small adventures gives your guests an experience they’ll remember forever—something far more meaningful than sitting at a banquet table.
Some guest-friendly adventure ideas:
-A golden-hour stroll through the desert
-Group picnic or grazing table in the park
-Sunset vow circle surrounded by family
-Stargazing together after dinner
-A camp-style dinner with twinkle lights at your campground
-A group hike to a scenic overlook
-S’mores and stories around a fire
These shared experiences create connection—not just for you two, but between your families and closest friends. It feels less like “attending a wedding” and more like “being part of something special.”
FINAL CHECKLISTS
Pre-Planning
1–3 Months Before
Week Of
Decide on elopement vs micro wedding
Choose location
Choose guest count
Select date
Hire photographer
Apply for permits
Book vendors
Finalize ceremony details
Make travel plans
Buy attire
Build timeline
Send guest info
Pack essentials
Check weather
Confirm permits
Communicate with guests
Breathe
A FINAL NOTE FROM ME
