November 12, 2022 | Joshua Tree, California | Joshua Tree Elopement
Nothing beats planning an intimate desert wedding or a Joshua Tree elopement. The best part? We only live less than 2 hours away from this amazing National Park and travel there quite often. It honestly never gets old! With the help of our planning skills and love for nature, we knew how to give our couple the best experience ever. Our couple, a very laid-back and fun duo, focused on making their special day all about what they love and enjoy doing. They were not huge on planning a big traditional wedding, so when they reached out to us and said they wanted an intimate desert wedding, we knew the perfect spot- Joshua Tree!
Getting Ready
Brittany & Daniel decided to make it a whole weekend of celebration. They checked into their beautiful and unique Airbnb called Mars Garden located just outside of Joshua Tree National Park and near the town. The night before, they hosted a casual gathering for some food and drinks with family and friends at the Joshua Tree Saloon. Such a cool place to grab a beer and a bite to eat, highly recommend visiting!
The day of their wedding, they woke up early and enjoyed sipping on their coffees together on the Airbnb patio. It was a slow morning and they were able to enjoy every moment together, even while getting ready. Once they were all dressed, we did a first look in the backyard surrounded by all the pretty cactus then headed to the park!
Ceremony Spot
They decided to have their Joshua Tree elopement ceremony at the Qual Springs Picnic Area around 4pm. This was during the month of November so it was just about an hour before sunset. The sun was so golden and ended up being such a pretty evening! The temperature dropped quickly once the sun set behind the mountain, but we expected it. The ceremony lasted a quick 15 minutes, followed by family portraits and their romantics. After finishing their portraits, they headed back to the Airbnb. They ordered pizza from 2 Guys Pie and had a little pizza party with all their family and friends who were all staying at the Airbnb. It was such a fun night and we are so happy we got to capture it all!
How to Plan An Elopement in Joshua Tree National Park
If you’re feeling stuck and unsure where to begin planning your Joshua Tree elopement, everything you need to know is outlined below. Let’s start!
Step One: Pick your date.
When it comes to choosing your date, you want to avoid picking a date that falls under a holiday weekend (spring or fall school breaks). These times of the year usually draw large crowds. We recommend choosing a date between the spring and fall months if you are not a huge fan of the scorching heat. The desert tends to be very unpleasant during the summer time. Joshua Tree is our favorite to visit during the months of October-February. Not too hot during the day but the nights do get a bit chilly. Always prepare and stay flexible for unexpected weather changes!
Step Two: Apply for a Special Use Permit
Yay! You chose your date! Now it’s time to apply for a permit. A Special Use permit is $120 and allows you to hold a ceremony in certain areas of the park. There are certain areas in the park you can choose from depending on the location, how many people will be present and time of year. It’s important to apply for a permit no later than 15 days before your inquired date and no more than 12 months when applying. To apply and read more information on what is permitted and not-permitted for a wedding at Joshua Tree, you can visit their website here!
Step Three: Choose Your Ceremony Location
Once your permit is approved, you need to choose a location for your ceremony. The park only allows certain areas to hold a wedding so we suggest to try to visit the park before your date, site-see all the spots and pick your favorite one. Here is a list of all the beautiful locations you can choose from if you have less than 35 guests attending:
- Hidden Valley Picnic Area No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
- Turkey Flats No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
- Cap Rock No more than 25 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
- Rattlesnake Picnic Area No more than 20 people and 8 vehicles.
- Quail Springs Picnic Area No more than 15 people and 8 vehicles.
- Split Rock No more than 15 people and 5 vehicles.
- Porcupine Wash No more than 12 people and 4 vehicles.
- Queen Valley Mine Intersection No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
- Lost Horse Parking Lot No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
- Live Oak Picnic Area No more than 5 people and 3 vehicles.
If you are holding a ceremony with 100 guests or less, Indian Cove Amphitheater is your best option. Please note, this area only allows 1 vehicle. You must hire a shuttle for your guest to this location. The park does not provide transportation. (Location not available June 1-August 31)
*This ceremony location took place at Qual Springs Picnic Area at 4pm during the month of November. Couple asked additional permission to bring benches.
Step Four: Where to Stay
Joshua Tree offers so many beautiful and unique Airbnbs and lodging! Make sure to check with airbnb hosts if having pictures taken or hosting a post-ceremony dinner at the airbnb is allowed. Some rentals do not allow parties/events or even photography on their property so make sure to check with this before booking anything. Here are some of our favorite stays in Joshua Tree and near by towns!
- The Joshua Tree House
- Pioneertown Motel
- Autocamp Joshua Tree
- Rimrock Ranch
- Casa Blanca
- Boulder Cove
- Halcyon Hideaway
- Mars Garden
Step Five: Book Your Vendors
Start by researching vendors who specialize in intimate, desert weddings and have a portfolio that resonates with your aesthetic preferences. Communicate your specific desires and values clearly, seeking vendors who are flexible and willing to personalize their services to reflect your unique love story. By selecting like-minded professionals, you can create a harmonious, authentic celebration that honors both the natural beauty of Joshua Tree and your shared values. When you book us as your photographer and videographer team, you’ll have day one planning and guidance with vendor referrals such as hair & makeup, florist, planners and more.
As you finalize your plans for an unforgettable Joshua Tree elopement, remember that the most important elements are those that reflect your love and commitment to each other. Embrace the natural beauty of the desert, and let it be the stunning backdrop to your intimate celebration. With careful planning, thoughtful vendor selection, and a focus on sustainability, your elopement will not only be a beautiful event but also a meaningful expression of your values and vision. Enjoy every moment of this unique and personal journey, creating memories that will last a lifetime in the magical landscape of Joshua Tree.
HI, WE ARE ALLY AND ANDRE! A HUSBAND AND WIFE PHOTO & VIDEO ELOPEMENT AND WEDDING TEAM BASED IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA.
We would love to help you plan your Joshua Tree Elopement. Reach out for more information.
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