Jessica and Nick’s Joshua Tree Elopement brought them all the way in from Tennessee. They are both, admittedly, two people who have a vast affinity for nature. So it’s no surprise that they chose Joshua Tree for their elopement. The beautifully renowned national park is known for its two distinct landscapes. The views from inside the park are incredible in every direction. It’s also home to over 57 species of mammals, 75 species of butterflies, and 250 species of birds. To say that the park is a majestic landscape filled with wonder is a vast understatement. Working with Jessica and Nick on their Joshua Tree elopement has me ready to pack my bags and head back!
Aside from the amazing terrain at Joshua Tree, I got to know a little bit more about Jessica and Nick. For their elopement, they were set on honing in on a location that would combine their love of the outdoors, but with a dessert vibe. Bordering both the Mojave and the Colorado Dessert, Joshua Tree easily fit the bill for what they had in mind. In addition to their deep love of the outdoors, Jessica and Nick both had such radiant personalities. They are overflowing with class, kindness, and style. If you’re thinking about planning your own elopement at Joshua Tree, keep reading for my top tips.
Obtaining a Permit for Your Joshua Tree Elopement
The first thing you need to know about getting married at Joshua Tree is applying for a permit. The fee for a permit is $120. This special use permit allows you to hold your wedding ceremony in any area of the park where ceremonies are permitted. In order to apply, you have to have your application submitted at least 15 days prior to the date of your elopement. Do you know, without a doubt, that you want to plan a Joshua Tree elopement? You can apply for your special use permit in advance. But no more than 12 months before the date of your wedding. Once you’ve applied for and received your permit, the last bit of info you need to know is this. You have to have your permit on you, at all times, on the day of your wedding.
In addition to your special use permit, your photographer or videographer will need to have their own permit as well. For the couples I work with for a Joshua Tree elopement, I will personally take care of this permit.
Best Time of Year to Get Married
The ability to receive your permit will depend on the total group size of your wedding along with the day and time of year you’d like your wedding to take place. The date and season you choose is entirely up to you. However, it is important to know that during the winter a Joshua Tree elopement can be freezing cold. Alternatively, during the summer, a Joshua Tree elopement can be incredibly unbearably hot. If you want to avoid either of those extreme temperature situations, I highly recommend planning your elopement in March, April, October, or November. These months bring more tepid weather. Additionally, those months cut down on your risk of having rain on your wedding day.
Wondering which time of the day works best for your Joshua Tree elopement? If you want those majestic wedding photos filled with the glow of the sun, you’ll want to plan your wedding for sunrise or sunset. Each of these times will provide you with golden-hour wedding photography. Which is perfect for that ethereal vibe with the epic landscape of Joshua Tree hanging out in the backdrop!
Joshua Tree Wedding Locations
There are three distinct locations within Joshua Tree where couples choose to host their elopement. They are Split Rock, Cap Rock, and Hidden Valley. Split Rock is a bit tucked away from the tourists and foot traffic of Joshua Tree and provides beautiful views of rock formations and desert plants. Cap Rock is one of the more popular choices for couples planning to get married at Joshua Tree. This location is filled with rock domes and a space where the rock formations form a frame, perfect to use as your ‘altar’. However, it’s important to note that Cap Rock comes with a ½ mile hike. This will be especially important to know depending on your guest list.
The final location, Hidden Valley is a popular location for hiking and climbing within the park. If what you’re looking for out of your Joshua Tree elopement is a private experience, this location will not be for you. But, if you still want to check out this area of the park on the day of your wedding day, I recommend holding your wedding ceremony at another location and then heading to Hidden Valley for a picnic celebration.’
Joshua Tree Elopement Photographer
Hopefully, you were able to garner some insight on planning your own Joshua Tree elopement from the above info. If you’re ready to plan your elopement, and you’re searching for an elopement photographer to capture every moment, you can find more information on the experience I provide, here. Or, to see more of that golden hour wedding photography I mentioned, you can scroll through Jessica and Nick’s photos in the blog below!
