Few people can say they’ve been glorious spectators to true love culminating in beautiful wedding ceremonies many times over. I count myself one of the lucky ones. As a Joshua Tree wedding and elopement photographer and someone who covers special moments, travel photography, and all manner of weddings, I have captured in the lens of my camera moments that can bring one to tears or lead one to ponder about the meaning of life. Love is what it is all about and Kali and Ale are a perfect example of how your soul mate could just be around the corner when you least expect it.
Kali and Ale met in Texas, and both of them were scarcely sure the other was a fully real human being and not a phantom because is it possible to stumble into love at first sight and then for the fairytale to never end? The couple are both deeply empathetic, kind, and intelligent souls (which was nothing short of infectious for me as a Joshua Tree wedding photographer trying to capture their special moments), and when they met it was like a puzzle piece fitting together. Cheesy… me? Never!
I was tremendously excited to document the whole process from getting ready to the lovely couple walking down the aisle and hosting their reception. As a wedding photographer in Joshua Tree, I am very familiar with the venue they chose which was Hidden Valley – a picnic area in Joshua Tree National Park, semi-remote with wondrous rock formations and immense beauty with fields of Joshua Trees.
I arrived early at the AirBnB where Kali and Ale were staying to capture their pre-wedding smiles, tears, hugs, and everything in between with them and their family. Whether it was revising vows, touching up makeup or hugs with their precious pup Addie, the atmosphere was tranquil and joyful with no cold feet! Both the brides favored a lace gown with open wavy long hair that went beautifully with the golden rays of the sun, the desert sand backdrop, and the boho flower tiaras and rustic vibes.
The intimate gathering of loved ones and friends at the ceremony made it even more special. Kali and Ale went for an ancient Celtic tradition of handfasting to signify their bond and the joining of their souls which was very moving and poetic.
Post-ceremony photographs feature a lot of fun. We captured them hoisting the pride flag, wearing funky sunglasses, and running carefree in the desert wind as the sun was setting. In the evening it was back to the AirBnB for cake and specially prepared delicacies by The Dez. The Dez is a local and extraordinary Joshua Tree takeaway and catering eatery.
There are no words to describe how Kali and Ale impacted me; their sincerity, their adventurous and loving spirit, and how they were completely, unapologetically, and amazingly themselves without a care in the world. Their love is larger than life which is a privilege to witness in Joshua Tree elopement photography. Anyone within a few feet of Kali and Ale can just feel the warmth and devotion radiating from them. It feels like an embrace for the soul. It is a gift to have been a part of their big day! I am thrilled to say that I’ve kept in touch with these two angels.
If you are looking for a photographer for your wedding or elopement, and you like what you see, let’s connect!
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