Kristin & Bobby

Kristin & Bobby celebrated their Joshua Tree wedding with an intimate, slow-paced, and highly personalized desert elopement.
A secluded, private spot nestled between two Joshua Trees at Hidden Valley inside Joshua Tree National Park.
The couple performed a foot washing ceremony, symbolizing humility, acts of service, and mutual support.
The day concluded with an après-dark photo session using lanterns to capture portraits under Joshua Tree's famous celestial night sky.
Photographed and officiated by the husband-and-wife team behind Love & Latitudes.
Plus, tips for your own Joshua Tree elopement.

I adore working as a wife-and-husband business. I’m a Joshua Tree wedding photographer, and my partner is a wedding officiant. And today, we’d both be working Kristin & Bobby’s Joshua Tree elopement. The desert heat was present, but not too much so. And the sky was clear as could be.

I met Kristin at her Airbnb, which was cozy and cute in all the right ways. As she got ready, I snapped details—which were simply impeccable! Kristin has a real eye for design, so everything was picture-perfect. I mean, just check out this beautiful Joshua Tree cake!

Bobby arrived just a short while later, eager to see his bride, I’m sure. The two put on the finishing touches. Rather than rushing to get ready, like for a big wedding—elopements move at their own pace, giving couples a chance to really appreciate the moment before the ceremony.

As the outdoor temperatures rose, we decided to shake up the schedule a little bit—by cutting the cake early. And bringing slices in the cooler. Clever move!

We drove into Joshua Tree National Park, Kristin & Bobby in tow. Once we arrived at Hidden Valley, we cozied into the perfect ceremony spot—nestled between two Joshua Trees, with no one else around.

Isiah began the ceremony with a reading, allowing the couple a few deep breaths before sharing their vows. Kristin & Bobby opted for a foot washing ceremony—which was fun for Isiah & me because it was a first for us. The foot washing was demonstrative of acts of service, humility, and support for one another. It was slow and intimate, feeling like something special and unique for the betrothed.

After Kristin & Bobby’s big kiss, the couple shared their cake and pink champagne. Because even the eats gotta match the vibe!

Our newlyweds changed shoes for ease of exploring the park. The footwear was another touch of personal flair—matching Joshua Tree socks and shoes with their pets embroidered on them. The four of us headed into an unusually green picnic area for wedding portraits.

Kristin & Bobby wanted to go all out for their outdoor elopement photos—and I’m so here for it! So Isiah and I stuck around after dark, waiting for the night sky to show off her celestial splendor. Kristin & Bobby returned to the park to meet us. I handed them some lanterns, which cast only a bit of light, but were perfect for the starry photos.

From the darkened landscape to the shimmering stars, coffee in the headlights to swaying under the moonlight—it was the ideal ending to a glorious wedding day in Joshua Tree National Park.

Tips for Your Joshua Tree Elopement

Here are a few things to know when planning your Joshua Tree elopement:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. Joshua Tree is a super simple spot to get married, if you know what to do. Work with a photographer such as yours truly who knows the ins and outs of getting married in the park.
Practice Leave No Trace when getting married outdoors. Keep the natural world happy and healthy by following LNT guidelines: like packing out what you pack in, staying on trails, and respecting the local flora and fauna.
Consider the timing. For example, weekdays are less busy than weekends. As for seasonality, summer can be hot, spring and early autumn are quite lovely, and winter is more gentle than in higher elevations. What to Expect When Getting Married in a National Park >
Looking for adventure and activities? If so, Joshua Tree is a hot spot for all sorts of outdoor fun! Talk with your photographer about including some activities, like lanterns at dusk, including a classic car, or staying out late for starry night photos.

Ready to take the next step? Book a call with Love & Latitudes, your Joshua Tree elopement photographer!