A Desert Fairytale: Alysha & Adam’s Intimate Elopement at Lost Dutchman State Park
Alysha and Adam, fellow Minnesotans, decided to turn a trip to Arizona with their closest friends into something unforgettable—an intimate elopement surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Lost Dutchman State Park.
The Beginning of the Adventure
When they first reached out to me, they weren’t entirely sure where they wanted to exchange vows. But after they booked, I sent them my location questionnaire to narrow down the possibilities. It wasn’t long before we landed on Lost Dutchman State Park, where the Superstition Mountains would provide a stunning and meaningful backdrop for their day.
Their vision was simple: a relaxed and intimate celebration with their two best friends. From that moment on, everything fell into place.
Getting Ready with Ease
The morning of the elopement was calm and filled with anticipation. I arrived at their Airbnb where Alysha was having her makeup done by Corey Egge (Carly Calder had already been there to do her hair). While final touches were happening, I captured the little details—her dress, jewelry, and other meaningful pieces. Alysha and her best friend helped each other get dressed and added the finishing touches to their looks. Meanwhile, I got a few shots of Adam and his best friend as they got ready.
To preserve the magic of the first look, Adam and his friend headed to the ceremony location first while Alysha and her friend followed shortly after.
The First Look: A Moment to Remember
We met at a quiet spot with sweeping views of the Superstition Mountains. When Adam turned around and saw Alysha for the first time, his reaction was one I’ll never forget—pure joy and awe. It was a quiet, emotional moment that set the tone for the rest of the day.
Saying “I Do” Under the Superstition Mountains
Their ceremony was simple but filled with meaning. In one of my favorite spots in the park, where a majestic saguaro stands tall with the Superstition Mountains in the background, they exchanged heartfelt vows. Before that, they read letters from family and friends who couldn’t be there, adding an extra layer of love to the moment. Their friends stood by, quietly recording the ceremony so those back home could experience it later.
After the vows were exchanged and tears were shed, we made it official. Their friends signed the marriage certificate, and since I’m ordained in most states, I had the honor of making it all official.
Exploring the Park and Capturing Every Moment
After the ceremony, we wandered through the park, soaking in the golden light just before sunset. We captured a mix of candid and posed moments, including some fun shots of Alysha and Adam doing a celebratory toast with their friends. Before heading back, we stopped at a perfect spot where they popped champagne, adding a playful finish to their adventure.
But the story doesn’t end there.
Tattoos to Mark the Moment
The next day, I sent them a few sneak peeks. To my surprise, just a few hours later, they sent me photos of their brand-new tattoos— (using one of my photos as inspiration) commemorating their wedding day in the Arizona desert. It was such a unique and meaningful way to celebrate their commitment.
A Celebration Back Home
Alysha and Adam returned to Minnesota and a few weeks later had a larger celebration with more family and friends, including their daughter. It was the perfect way to share their joy with everyone who couldn’t be there in person.
A Perfect, Laid-Back Day
Alysha and Adam’s elopement was the perfect blend of adventure and simplicity, with heartfelt moments and natural beauty all around. It was an honor to document their day, and I’m so happy I could be part of it.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful elopement in the great outdoors, I’d love to help you create a day that reflects your love and your story. Start by filling out my contact form to begin planning your own unforgettable adventure.
