Intimate Elopement at Hidden Valley in Joshua Tree National Park

Malia + Jose

Malia and Jose are such a sweet couple, they asked me to tag along to capture their intimate elopement day surrounded by only a handful of close friends and family. Malia is originally from Hawaii (yewww!) and since they couldn’t fly out to the island they decided on something completely opposite of the beach: the desert! And what better place than Joshua tree National Park.

I met them at the West Entrance station and we carpooled around the park exploring, taking portraits, and having fun sightseeing. They were a little nervous being in the park and drawing attention in their wedding attire, but the awesome thing about getting married in a national park is that everyone is always super stoked for you. We had people drive by honking and screaming out congratulations we even had someone leave a few celebratory cold beers on their car!

After exploring just the 3 of us, we made our way to Hidden Valley Picnic Area to meet up with the officiant and family + friends. They shared their vows and officially got married! We then explored around the Hidden Valley picnic area during sunset, and then rejoined their guests who were waiting with champagne, treats, and Strawberry Champagne Cake!

A special detail that I loved about the day was two photo charms of Malia’s Parents and Grandparents that hung from her gorgeous bouquet, it was a very sweet homage to her family who couldn’t be here physically.

A little shout out to the awesome vendors who made their day extra special:

HMUA : Beauty By Lidia

Officiant : Marie Burns Holzer

Florals : Pinyon Pine Floral

Cake : Desert Villa Bakery

Check out my favorites from the day below xx