Joshua Tree/Sacred Sands desert wedding by susan sabo photography
When you think of the desert, you think of lots of nothing. No buildings, no people, no cars; just lots of sand, rocks, a lizard here and here, and big sky. When people in Montana want to see big sky, they step outside their door. When people in LA want to see big sky, we go to the desert. But believe me, when you head out to Joshua Tree for a day visit or an overnight trip--or a wedding!--you'll find anything but nothing.
For example, there's the city of 99 murals; the neon sign graveyard; and one of SoCal's best-kept secrets, Sacred Sands Bed & Breakfast. When Erica & Andy asked me to join them at Sacred Sands to shoot their wedding, I was thrilled. An architectural feast, this B&B is a photo op waiting to happen, and with only 2 guest rooms (that's right, only two) it's the perfect place to get married and then stick around for some much valued post-wedding privacy. Surrounded by their closest family & friends, Erica & Andy stood illuminated in the amazing desert sun and promised to build a life with one another as Mr. & Mrs. The entire day--from their Mad Libs wedding story, the Photo Booth scavenger hunt and tromping through the entirely wild desert to find just the right spots for portraits--was breathtaking. But I'll let you see for yourself.
I'd say these are all good reasons to plan a desert wedding--especially at Sacred Sands! Scott & Steve (the owners & operators of SS) provided all the delicious details for Erica & Andy's big day, and even had recommendations for an officiant and for hair and makeup. The photo booth was by SassyBooths, and the musician was Alex Lavruk (he provided the loveliest acoustic guitar accompaniment).
If you're wishing for an intimate, beautifully lit and big sky wedding, you must check these guys out. And I wouldn't terribly mind if you asked me to join you. :)
All photography by Susan Sabo Photography