Alex & Curtis

When Alex & Curtis reached out about a summer wedding in Tucson, Arizona, we knew it would be hot. If I’m being honest, I pushed on them to consider if that’s what they really wanted. But this couple was confident their family would be able to handle the heat with aplomb.

For two weeks leading up to the big day, we watched the weather drop from 110º to 90º as haboobs and monsoons blew through. That was good news, but like they say, preparation is everything. I packed for every type of weather and braced for whatever Mother Nature could throw at us.

But the storms passed—and aside from the little bit of morning rain, Alex & Curtis had an absolutely beautiful desert wedding day… and a burning sunset to boot!

So let’s get into their perfect day!

Rainbow on a Saguaro Wedding Day

I met Alex & Curtis in the foothills of the Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Their giant Airbnb was beautiful, featuring the typical desert landscaping and adobe buildings this area is known for.

The two got ready separately with their families while I captured their details, along with their videographer and content creator. We love to see these matching details—black cowboy boots with a black stone bolo, green velvet ring boxes with green and white faux florals, and more.

After an emotional first look between Alex and her dad, then with Curtis, we grabbed some quick photos with their beloved pups. Koda and Sam did not want to sit and look at the camera with all the fun happening around them—but we managed to grab some good pictures!

Unfortunately, Saguaro National Park does not allow dogs in most areas. So Koda and Sam were left behind with a sitter as we all headed to their ceremony location in the park.

Once there, Alex & Curtis had a beautiful service along with teary-eyed vows under ancient saguaros. The two did a cross-braiding ceremony with her father. And much to our excitement, the rains stayed away, and we even got a rainbow during their ceremony.

After family photographs and portraits, we headed back to their Airbnb. Their media team even stopped to save a turtle in the road on the way back! There, the couple had something for everyone—Mexican food from the famous Amelia’s, a vanilla cake, and adorable national park-themed cookies. They also had a live painter working diligently on a scene of them next to a Saguaro cactus.

Along with their dogs and close family, these two had a day to remember forever.

Tips for Your Desert Elopement in Tucson

Here are a few things to know when planning your desert elopement in Tucson:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. Do you want to get married at a venue or in a national park? Do you want to bring your dog? Do you want desert views or craggy mountains? Ask your photographer to help you navigate the local restrictions, permitting, views, and more.
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.
Watch for cactus. Everything in the desert is sharp. Watch where you’re walking and don’t touch pointy cactus.
Consider the timing. For example, weekdays are less busy than weekends. As for seasonality, summers can be too hot and bring monsoons; spring and early autumn are quite lovely, and winter is gentler than in other areas. What to Expect When Getting Married in a National Park >
Looking for adventure and activities? If so, Tucson is a great spot for all sorts of outdoor fun! Talk with your photographer about including some activities.