Kayla & Rosbin

Sometimes, the secret ingredient to a fun elopement is friends! The people closest to you in heart and soul. The ones who support you. The folks who are down for anything—included an intimate desert adventure wedding in Joshua Tree National Park.

As an experienced outdoor wedding and elopement photographer, I simply adore the splendor of Joshua Tree, California. So, when I met up with Kayla & Rosbin for their big day, I was bubbling with excitement.

I met the soon-to-be newlyweds at their very stylish Fieldtrip Airbnb. The two got ready separately, with some helpful support from their friends. As Danielle worked on our bride’s hair and makeup, I captured lots of detail shots of jewelry, the dress, and more.

Next, it was time for the first look. These two were just so adorable, and you could really tell how head over heels they were to get married. But even anticipation of life’s happiest moment can make you feel nervous. So, Kayla & Rosbin’s friends invite the couple to take a round of shots. Nothing like a little liquid relaxation to calm the nerves!

After some quality time together, we parted ways with their guests. Yes, that’s rights—their friends stayed behind at the Airbnb while Kayla and Rosbin went into the park together for their ceremony. They wanted to celebrate with their closest friends, but also wanted that ceremony time to themselves. That’s one of the beautiful things about a non-traditional elopement: You can do whatever you want!

The couple and I arrived at Split Rock to meet with my husband, Isiah, at the spot we had scouted the day before. It was rather warm in the park, so we stopped under the shade of a Joshua Tree. As Isiah officiated the wedding ceremony—complete with readings, a personalized history of the couple, and tearful vows—our couple simply couldn’t contain their joy.

After the ceremony (and a few deep breaths), the four of us took our time exploring the national park. We started on the Split Rock trail, famous for its rock formations. Next, we headed out to a lookout which offered views that seemed so different and unique compared to the rest of the park.

The sunset was breathtaking. And we are glad that we arrived early for it. Because when the crowds started to form, we slipped away to lower elevations to photograph couple’s portraits amongst blooming white flowers. Superblooms are a rare sight in the desert, so it was an extra special moment for Kayla & Rosbin’s elopement

The fun wasn’t over yet—we arrived back at the Airbnb for post-ceremony celebrations. A first dance and speeches all took place while Desert Dine prepared a meal that smelled amazing.

I stole the couple away from the festivities once or twice to capture some nighttime photography under the celestial canopy of stars and moonlight. And by the time I left, the newlywed Kayla & Rosbin were singing along with friends inside the Airbnb. A perfect combination of a private elopement and social celebration!

Tips for Your Split Rock Elopement

The desert is a beautiful yet rugged and hot place. Being prepared is extra important for spots like these! Here are a few things to know when planning your Split Rock elopement in Joshua Tree:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. Joshua Tree has many locations to choose from for a ceremony. Talk to a photographer, such as yours truly, who’s local and knows the area well.
Practice Leave No Trace when getting married outdoors. Keep the natural world happy and healthy by following LNT guidelines, as well as local restrictions. Packing out what you pack in, stay on trails and travel on hard surfaces, respect plants and animals, and don’t bring prohibited items into the park.
Consider the timing. For example, weekdays are less busy than weekends. As for seasonality, summers are too hot, so it’s best to avoid that time. Spring and early autumn are quite lovely. 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 fun! Talk with your photographer about including all levels of activities such as a picnic, bike riding, offroading, rock climbing, roadside attractions, or checking out a local bar.

Ready to take the next step? Book a call with Love & Latitudes your Split Rock elopement photographer!