Sara & Anthony

Sometimes, couples know exactly what they want for their wedding day. When Sara & Anthony reached out to me for Joshua Tree elopement photography, I knew they had a vision. And I was more than happy to help them fulfill and capture it.

Desert Lovers Get Married at Cap Rock

Sara & Anthony are desert lovers, down to their bones. They have lived in Nevada for most of their lives, and while they love their home state, they felt that Joshua Tree called to them for their nuptials.

I always say that certain kinds of people are attracted to deserts. They are the folks who can see the wonder in desolate landscapes, admire the ruggedness of the flora and fauna, and find comfort in the harshest climates. It might not be for everybody, but for the desert-lovers, it’s a pretty awesome feeling.

Isiah and I met Sara & Anthony at their Airbnb, just minutes from the park’s entrance. I showed up as I always do, loaded with my camera gear. Isiah followed me in, carrying his trusty officiant binder to hold the ceremony script and legal paperwork. As Anthony chatted with us, Sara got ready with Desert Honey Artistry.

Sara & Anthony had so many adorable details for me to photograph, from the Joshua Tree-themed cake and cat figurine topper to the custom national park sign and til death banner. I told you they had a vision! I mean, just check out some of these pictures.

I carefully coordinated some first look photos of our couple, doing my best to keep Anthony from seeing Sara in her wedding dress until the right moment. With a tap on the shoulder, he turned around to see his lovely bride and showered her with compliments.

Next, we headed into the park for the ceremony at Cap Rock. Our couple had Boho Bloom Rentals set up an arch for the festivities, which was absolutely gorgeous. We made double-triple sure that the arch and floral decorations wouldn’t blow over in the high winds. Yes, the desert is almost always windy!

Isiah started the ceremony, his neatly combed hair tussling in the wind, while Sara & Anthony took a deep breath to let the moment sink in. Our on-staff officiant gave a few words about the meaning of love, commitment, and our couple’s history together.

Then we stepped away to allow for Sara & Anthony to privately share their vows. While I was careful not to listen to their words, I did snap photos of our couple emotionally reading their deepest feelings to each other. Sometimes, the only ones who need to hear how we really feel are that special someone and the wind.

Sara & Anthony waved us back in when they were ready. A couple of “I do”s, a ring exchange, and a big kiss—hooray!—followed by a champagne pop and a moment to reflect.

I toured the couple around Cap Rock, snapping wedding portraits of the newlyweds by Joshua Trees and rock features. Anthony has some mobility concerns, so I did my best to make sure that any of the poses I recommended were comfortable and safe for our couple.

Remember those wedding details and decorations from before? Well, we took every chance we could to get the most out of them. I especially enjoy the fun signs Sara & Anthony posed with.

Sara & Anthony adore the night sky. So, we broke up the day to allow for starry night photos. Our couple returned to their Airbnb for a little R&R, while Isiah and I hung out in the national park.

The four of us met up after dark, walking into the desert for our creative photoshoot. As I played with light, shadow, and shutter speed for portraits, Isiah shared a little bit of his night-sky knowledge with Sara & Anthony.

After getting every shot we needed, Isiah and I bid Sara & Anthony a hearty congratulations, before we wrapped up the wedding day.

How to Have Your Own Cap Rock Elopement

Cap Rock is a popular wedding ceremony spot in Joshua Tree National Park. With room enough for a few guests and lots of gorgeous scenery, this is an iconic location to tie the knot.

Here’s what you need to know about an outdoor wedding in Indian Cove:

Consider your wedding date. Take into account the seasons and climate. Summers and late autumn are hot, but spring, late fall, and winter are milder. Note that weekdays mean fewer visitors and more privacy.
Obtain your marriage license ahead of the big day. From out of state? Contact the San Bernardino County Clerk to get your marriage license. If you’re in California, this can be done at any county clerk's office in the state.
Book your elopement wedding photographer. I’m more than happy to capture your day and help you plan some of the details.
Get your special-use permit to get married in the national park. Contact the park’s permit office to make your request. Or consider having the ceremony at a venue, then heading into the park for wedding portraits—no permit necessary.
Book your lodging. Either for you and your newly-wed spouse, or for your guests too.
Book your other vendors. We have an officiant on staff. But you might also want florals, decor, food, hair and makeup, and the like.