Jess & Daniel

Is it coincidence or fate that intertwines our lives with someone special? I wondered that when I talked to Jess & Daniel about how they met.

This couple’s origin story is one for the metalheads. Apparently, Daniel went to a concert one night where a woman was knocked unconscious in a mosh pit. Later, he and Jess met and started dating. Making conversation about memorable concert experiences, they realized that Jess was that very girl. Maybe a little more hardcore than meet-cute. But still—Isn’t that wild!

Jess & Daniel are fun-loving people, while at the same time, very introverted. So this couple decided their dream Death Valley wedding day would be just the two of them and one friend, who’d act as the wedding officiant.

Jess & Daniel’s Death Valley Wedding Day

As the wedding photographer, I started my day by meeting up with Jess & Daniel at one of the casitas at The Oasis in Death Valley—one of the few lodging options within the national park. Because Death Valley is so remote, amenities are fairly limited. So, staying at The Oasis is a good option if you don’t want to drive over an hour into the park.

I snapped some photos of our bride and groom getting ready. It was obvious that they were both feeling a mixture of joy, excitement, and nervousness. After getting ready together, I took the couple for the first-look photos. And to celebrate the moment, Jess & Daniel cracked a beer with their officiant before heading out to their wedding ceremony location.

A Zabriskie Point Wedding Ceremony

Admittedly, Zabriskie Point is not a secret. In truth, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in the park. That’s something I always try to remind couples of when they want to visit. You won’t be alone. However, I understand that it’s popular because it’s beautiful and easy to access. And as long as you’re in the know, you can choose to have your ceremony here.

Jess & Daniel knew this was the spot they wanted to say, “I do.” So when I scouted the area a few days prior, I scoped out the ideal spot to hold a ceremony with epic views and without too much interference.

The officiant started the ceremony as Jess & Daniel looked lovingly into each other’s eyes. The bright blue sky and I were the only other witnesses to the moment. It was magical as the couple recalled special milestones and future hopes in their vows. It was full of love and compassion, which simply made my heart soar.

After the ceremony, the four of us headed to the actual viewpoint for some photos. The now-married couple really embraced the wind Death Valley is known for. Then it was off to the salt flats, where they split champagne and watched one of the most amazing sunsets I’ve seen to date!

Tips for Your Death Valley Elopement

If your heart's set on getting married in this incredible area, there are a few things to know when planning your Death Valley elopement day:

Work with your photographer regarding locations, permits, and venues. Death Valley has specific restrictions around where you can hold a ceremony. I can help you navigate that and find the perfect spot that satisfies your needs while protecting 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. Weekdays are the best time to get married for less crowds. Avoid all major holidays, or elope in the winter between holiday weekends..
Don’t go in the summer. That’s it—just avoid this spot in the summer. Temperatures can reach up to 130ºF / 54ºC!
Go all out on activities! Death Valley is the largest National Park in the lower 48. That means there is a TON to explore. Rent a Jeep and explore the tons of backroads.