How much does a wedding photographer cost in California?
rocker in love tips for you How much does a wedding photographer cost in California? The Average Cost for Wedding Photography The Average Cost of Wedding Photography If you’re wondering how much you should spend on your wedding photography, this article is here to help. Determining the average cost of a wedding photographer can be challenging due to the wide range of options available at a so different price points. Different from a physical product like a computer, or a car, comparing prices and value of wedding photography is HARD and couples can easily get overwhelmed. “Where do I even start?” “How do I choose?” “What I should pay attention to?” “Why does it even matter?” Well, starting with the importance of making a conscious decision: After all the planing, all the coordinating, the dream and expectations for this crazy special day – the day you will commit to each other – what you will get to keep forever are: each other + the photos. Starting this article by saying that without a question photography is THE MOST important contract from your wedding. Ask someone (like my mom) that has lost everything in a house on fire, what is the one thing they wish to have it back? Mom still talks about all my photos as a baby that burned with the house – 30 years later. Fortunately, she was able to rebuild everything back but our *photo albums*. Also, without going too deep and nerd in neuroscience, studies have shown how having family photography around the house brings confidence, reassurance and the sense of belonging on kids. So what could it be the effect of even a fast everyday glance at that frame in the wall showing the overflowing love in the eyes of a couple from the moment they committed to each other? Or maybe flipping, every now and then, through pages of an album that tells the story of the start of their family? Then, getting back to the question: How much should you invest in your wedding photography? Quick answer is: As much as you are willing to invest. You can probably find someone that would photograph your wedding for free (like your uncle that has a fancy camera) and you can find photographers that would charge $5k, $10k, $20k and more… You can try to compare getting prices of different wedding photographers packages and look at number of hours and albums BUT the RESULT will never be the same because it’s service + art combined. How do you compare and preachify art? How do you know the value of a service before using it? To solve this challenge, wedding blogs will tell you to spend a specific amount or a percentage but we believe this is should be an open ended answer because the most important thing is that you make a conscious decision that will make you happy is the end. You are the one that is going to experience and get to keep the result of your choice. So no judging in here! The goal is to make sure you get the RIGHT photographer, not the AVERAGE. Since it is not a straightforward answer, instead of focusing on the average, the best or essential thing to do is finding a photographer who aligns with your specific vision and values. This approach will help you find photographers you LOVE and TRUST, rather than just comparing numbers of a service that you can’t measure before the wedding day. **So, how much would the RIGHT wedding photographer *FOR ME* would cost in California?** The cost of a wedding photographer in California in 5 distinct groups: Newcomer: $0-500 (Just starting out, may not have photographed a weddings before, not seen a professional yet.) – How you might feel: Taking a leap of faith because they’re fresh to the wedding world. – What to expect: Photos might be like a surprise cake – could be a hit, could crumble a bit. Enthusiast: $500-2000 (Have some wedding experience, not a full-time. Their style might not be intentional and in a consistence that commands a tier price tag) – How you might feel: Like trying out a new ice cream flavor – curious, but not sure. – What to expect: Pictures might be like a homemade sushi – tasty, but not quite gourmet. Progressing Pro: $2000-3000 ((Has higher demand for style, transitioning into the professional category) – How you might feel: Like watching a superhero origin story – seeing them get stronger and cooler. – What to expect: At this point, photographers usually start getting fancier gear, making sure they have a reliable backup system, and learning more to grow their business. 4. Experienced Pro: $3000-$6000 (Considered full-time experts, known for their style and skills.) – How you might feel: a cozy hammock – relaxed because they know the ropes. – What to expect: Photos might be like a magical spell – capturing moments so well, it’s like wizardry. Prestige and Luxury: Starting from $6000-$9000, and beyond; initial rates could be $10k, $20k, or higher (Esteemed and well-established, these photographers offer a refined style, accompanied by an extensive array of services) – How you might feel: Sipping a fancy unicorn latte – because they bring that extraordinary touch. – What to expect: Can handle events and unpredictable situation with ease. Photos might be like walking the red carpet – elevated and intencional. **Breaking the Mold: Beyond the 10% Rule – Personalized Approaches to Wedding Photography Budgets** A while ago, “wedding specialists” started saying that you should spend around 10-15% of your budget on your wedding photographers. Not that is a bad advice but it’s a bit too simplified and might not suit everyone. We often photograph luxury elevated weddings followed by intentional elopements – Couples that spends hundreds of thousands of dollars in their wedding and couples that the only wedding cost is us. The problem with the 10% rule is that
10 tips to make the most of your wedding day timeline
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement Tips to make the most of your wedding day timeline Because we know each other and we care about every minute for you to make the most of your day Tips for getting the Most out of your Timeline Looking to create a stress-free wedding day timeline that allows for celebration and ensures you capture your desired photos? Establishing a well-structured timeline and being prepared are vital steps to achieve this. Here are our top tips based on our personal experience to help your wedding day run smoothly! Leave Plenty of Time for Getting Ready Too often, brides underestimate the time required for hair and makeup, leading to delays in the wedding day timeline, particularly when it’s time to put on the dress. It’s crucial to create buffer time to account for any unexpected delays. This ensures that even if you fall 10, 15, or 30 minutes behind schedule, you’ll still be on track.For instance, let’s say you have an event scheduled for 1:30pm, such as a first look or formal photographs, and it takes place on the same premises or within a 15-minute distance. In most cases, we recommend aiming to start getting into your dress by 12:15pm or even earlier. This allows you to give yourself plenty of time and even the opportunity to get ahead of schedule. It’s important to anticipate that there will be at least one person who is highly focused on adhering to the timeline. This person, sometimes known as a “timeline Nazi,” ensures that everyone stays on track and helps to avoid unnecessary delays. Their role is to keep the wedding day flowing smoothly and according to the planned schedule. Know That There Will Be at Least One Person Who Is a Timeline Nazi Absolutely, there’s often one person who becomes concerned about the wedding day timeline. It’s essential to identify this individual and have a conversation with them before the big day. Go over the timeline together and explain where the buffer times are allocated. Assure them that regardless of any minor deviations, your wedding day will be filled with joy and celebration. By addressing this concern in advance, you can defuse any potential tension and ensure everyone is on the same page. This allows you to fully enjoy your comfortable and well-planned timeline without unnecessary stress. In addition to managing the timeline, make sure to have all your wedding details organized and ready. This includes items such as your vows, marriage license, rings, and any other essential documents or accessories. Having everything together in advance will save time and prevent last-minute scrambling or delays on the day of your wedding. Have All Your Details Together Are you a fan of intricate details? Or perhaps the more important question is, do you possess significant details that you would cherish to have beautifully styled and photographed as a memento? That’s precisely why we specialize in flat-lay photography. Creating a captivating flat-lay arrangement requires a little time and effort, but the key to success lies in ensuring that all your items are organized and prepared for the photo shoot in a neat and orderly manner. In our guide, “Meaningful Items to Include in Your Flatlay,” we recommend keeping your smaller details in a plastic Ziploc or a similar bag, while larger details, if any, can be stored in a bigger bag. You can then gently place the Ziploc bag inside a small shoe box, which can be further placed in the larger bag. This way, you will be fully prepared to hand over your items directly to your photographer upon their arrival! Keep everyone and everything together as much as possible during the process. Get ready to unleash the power of action! If you want to supercharge your wedding photos, it’s time to keep things streamlined and concentrated in just a few locations. Trust me, every minute counts when it comes to capturing those precious moments that will make your heart skip a beat. Imagine this: by minimizing the number of locations, you’re not only minimizing travel time but also unlocking a world of possibilities for your talented photographers and videographers. Instead of wasting precious minutes on packing, loading, unloading, and all the logistics in between, they’ll be fully immersed in their art, capturing the essence of your special day in all its glory. Picture this: a seamless, efficient flow that keeps the energy high and the focus sharp. By choosing to centralize your wedding experience, you’re creating a dynamic atmosphere where every detail, every emotion, and every magical instant can be captured with passion and precision. Consider a First Look Now, I understand that you may have some reservations about the idea of a “first look.” And that’s perfectly alright! We believe in embracing individual preferences. However, it’s hard to deny the fact that incorporating a first look can significantly enhance the flow of your wedding day timeline, which is why it has become so popular in modern times. If you’re still uncertain about when you should lay eyes on your beloved for the first time on your special day, we highly recommend reading our insightful article on the Pros and Cons of Having a First Look. Let me paint a picture of how a first look can work wonders for your timeline. By opting for a first look, you have the opportunity to capture almost all, if not all, of your formal photographs before the ceremony even begins. Just imagine the freedom and excitement of saying “I do” and then diving headfirst into a night of pure celebration! Not to mention, you won’t have to worry about your guests anxiously waiting for dinner to start while you’re frantically wrapping up your photo session. Embrace the possibilities of a first look and give yourself the gift of a seamless wedding experience. By taking care of the formalities ahead of time, you’ll be able to savor every precious moment with your spouse, friends, and family without
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Elopement Photographer
rocker in love tips for you Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Elopement Photographer An elopement is a wedding that is purposefully small, intimate, meaningful, and honest and is a true representation of a couple’s relationship, with the focus of the day being solely on them. Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Elopement Photographer An elopement is a wedding that is purposefully small, intimate, meaningful, and honest and is a true representation of a couple’s relationship, with the focus of the day being solely on them. It’s all about removing all of the stress, anxiety, and obligation that come with weddings. An elopement gives a couple complete autonomy over how and where they devote their lives to each other. This one-of-a-kind wedding experience is being documented through photography so having the right elopement photographer by your side is a necessity! Someone who can beautifully capture every moment of your elopement and help you create worthwhile photos. Looking to elope and still don’t know what photographer to choose? Worry not! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of choosing the perfect elopement photographer. Why do you need an Elopement photographer? Ter um fotógrafo de fuga é extremamente importante – alguém para capturar todas as memórias intrincadas de sua fuga. Você quer ter certeza de ter lindas fotos para lembrar do seu dia especial. Um fotógrafo de fuga pode ajudar a tornar o dia do seu casamento ainda mais especial. Eles estarão lá para capturar todos os momentos íntimos e emoções, desde o primeiro beijo até a última dança. E eles poderão fornecer fotos lindas e profissionais que você guardará para o resto da vida. Steps to choosing the best Elopement photographer Make a reservation for your venue first. 👉 We recommend that you read this for The Best Wedding Venues in Joshua Tree After you’ve booked your venue, it’s a good idea to hire your photographer. Try your best to hire the photographer roughly nine months before the wedding event or even a year in advance if the photographer is in demand. Look for recommendations on social media. Inquire of your recently married friends whose wedding images you adored, as well as your wedding coordinator or reception site manager for recommendations. Determine your preferred photographic style. Do your homework and spend some time learning about the photographic styles you enjoy. It’s possible you may be interested in an environment that’s more vintage with semi-washed-out tones and an alluring, nostalgic feel, or you’d like one with a brighter look with lots of captivating colors. Once you’ve chosen a few photographers who share your aesthetic, send an email to each of them to see if they’re available on your wedding day and to inquire about their photography fees. You can plan initial appointments if the ones you’re interested in are available on your date and their fees are within your budget. Inquire about the photographers. Before your first meeting, most photographers will send you a link to their image portfolio. Check to see if the collection includes current weddings that he or she has shot from beginning to end, rather than “a list of” highlight reels from dozens of other weddings. This is usually a better way to evaluate the photographer’s portfolio. Also, inquire as to whether the photographer has photographed at your location, and if so, seek to see those images. Find out who will be shooting your wedding day during the meeting. Even with single-person operations, it’s not uncommon for the photographer to delegate images of the groom getting ready to an assistant while he concentrates on the bride and bridesmaids. Ask the photographer to show you the work of the photographer (or photographers) who will be photographing at your event. The fee should be discussed. Some photographers charge a fixed or hourly pricing while others charge a monthly or quarterly retainer for future events or albums; others charge a flat or hourly rate and then charge you à la carte for any pictures or albums you want. Many photographers provide a price list that lists the many packages they provide at various price points. Do well to fully understand everything that’s been offered. Inquire about the length of time the photographer will be with you (seven to nine hours is excellent) and whether there will be a second shooter, as this will allow you to capture more detailed images. Follow your instincts. It’s time to make your choice once you’ve assessed each photographer’s work and costs and limited your alternatives. Remember that you’ll be spending your entire wedding day with this individual, so you’ll want to make sure you’re fully comfortable with them. Do you and your fiancé have a true fondness for this individual? Do you guys get along well? Make an appointment for a trial run. An engagement photoshoot is usually a fantastic idea—a terrific chance to get to know your photographer and start to feel at ease having your picture taken, especially if you or your groom are camera-shy. Check for reviews The importance of a person’s reputation cannot be overstated. What other people have to say about a photographer is quite important. If you want to buy something online, you’ll almost certainly check reviews to see how effective it is. Photographers are in the same boat. Photographers are rated differently on different platforms, so make sure you read reviews before contacting them. If the photographer has no internet reviews, it’s a red flag – unless they’re brand new to the business. You can take it a step further and request permission to talk with one of their previous clients who is ready to share their story. If a photographer acts shady or refuses to let you access any of their reviews, it is most likely not your photographer. Ask to see a portfolio Customers are frequently shown a portfolio of a photographer’s greatest work. The majority of people choose an online portfolio, such as a website. A gallery frequently showcases
10 Best Wedding Venues in Joshua Tree
joshua tree wedding venues 10 Best Wedding Venues in Joshua Tree Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning location for a wedding, with magnificent and often surreal surroundings. 10 Best Wedding Venues in Joshua Tree Joshua Tree National Park is a stunning location for a wedding, with magnificent and often surreal surroundings. Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need to know and the processes you’ll need to take to get married in the park, as well as some of the problems and limitations that come with having a wedding in this isolated and underdeveloped National Park. If you are certain that you want to host your wedding in Joshua Tree National Park, request a special use permit as soon as possible to ensure that your date is available. You are able to apply for it at any time of the year. The special use permit application form can be found at the bottom of the Joshua Tree National Park website’s Permits & Reservations page. 👉 We recommend that you read this for permit in Joshua Tree Even if you live outside the United States, you may apply for and pay for the permit online, making it a simple process. Continue reading for a selected list of Joshua Tree’s greatest wedding locations. List of Best Wedding venues in Joshua Tree Morada Morada is a Joshua Tree, California-based open-air wedding venue. The estate, which is located in the Mojave Desert, provides a chance for soon-to-be-weds to get away from the city’s hustle and bustle. During the evening, any couple’s romantic celebration will be surrounded by magnificent mountain ranges and romantic sunsets, creating a stunning, photo-worthy backdrop. Morada’s crew offers a number of packages to ensure that couples have exclusive access to the grounds on their wedding day. You are free to choose your own vendors, from florists to caterers, to assist you in achieving your dream design. The team will ensure that all of your romantic events, from your engagement party to your day-after brunch, are in keeping with your nuptial ideal. Tumbleweed Sanctuary Looking for the best wedding venues in Joshua Tree? Look no further than Tumbleweed Sanctuary! This beautiful venue offers the perfect setting for your special day, with stunning views of the desert landscape and plenty of space for your guests to enjoy. Tumbleweed Sanctuary is the perfect place to exchange your vows and start your life together! With its stunning desert setting and incredible views, the Tumbleweed Sanctuary is the perfect place to celebrate your special day. The venue offers a variety of wedding packages that can be customized to suit your needs and budget. The Tumbleweed Sanctuary is a truly unique and unforgettable place to celebrate your love. Sacred Sands Sacred Sands is a boutique desert hideaway in California that welcomes weddings. It is located on the rough borders of the Joshua Tree. The venue is an architectural marvel that is both gorgeous and elegant while also blending nicely with its natural surroundings. Its knowledgeable staff guarantees that the needs of wedding parties are met from beginning to end. Sacred Sands is an excellent choice for style-conscious couples looking for a sophisticated wedding venue that combines breathtaking natural beauty with modern conveniences. The Sacred Sands is a private facility with four elegant rooms for guests to enjoy. They have private stargazing beds, outdoor terraces, luxurious linens, coffee/tea, mini-fridges, robes/slippers, and outdoor baths and showers. There are no televisions in the rooms because the emphasis is on zen and relaxation throughout the facility. Instead, visitors are encouraged to listen to our records or turn off their phones and relax in the peaceful serenity of the Joshua trees. There is plenty of parking on-site (50 spots with parking attendant included). Autocamp Joshua Tree There are a lot of great wedding venues in Joshua Tree, but one of the best is Autocamp Joshua Tree. This venue is perfect for couples who want a rustic and unique wedding. The campground is situated in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, so there are plenty of opportunities for beautiful photos. Plus, there are plenty of activities for guests to enjoy, such as hiking, stargazing, and rock climbing. If you’re looking for a unique and memorable wedding venue, Joshua Tree is the perfect place to tie the knot. With its stunning desert landscapes and wide open spaces, it’s no wonder this Southern California destination is becoming increasingly popular for weddings. This unique venue offers a truly unique experience, with accommodations that include vintage Airstream trailers, glamping tents, and more. There’s also a variety of event spaces to choose from, including an outdoor amphitheater and a beautiful desert oasis. Nowhere California Nowhere California is a location in Joshua Tree, California that provides a one-of-a-kind background for weddings. This location, set on 15 acres of California countryside, provides a wild and beautiful backdrop for weddings. Couples who choose this location to exchange vows can enjoy an attractively rustic experience with modern amenities. Couples can rent out the entire venue for a private and intimate gathering with their closest friends and family. Wedding groups can enjoy both indoor and outdoor event venues at this location. A 1,400-square-foot covered porch is great for events, letting guests to enjoy an alfresco wedding while being sheltered. This venue provides a blank canvas for couples to decorate, allowing them to create celebrations that are fully personalized to their preferences. The location has a campfire area that may be marked with string lights for a whimsically beautiful mood for nighttime gatherings or after parties. We at Rockerinlove (a family of elopement photographers) can capture the best moments and emotions of your wedding party. Let’s discuss your dream wedding. Rimrock Ranch Situated on 200 acres of pristine desert landscape, Rimrock ranch offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The property includes a variety of amenities, such as a wedding chapel, reception hall, and catering services. RimrocK Ranch is the perfect place to host a rustic and unique desert wedding. There are plenty of photo ops at Rimrock Ranch, so you can capture memories
How to Elope in 2023
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement How to Elope in 2024 The beauty of elopement is the ability to combine traditional or non-traditional aspects to create the perfect day for you and your partner. MORE VALUE INFO WHY JOSHUA TREE Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park Elopement VS Big Weddings The Pros and Cons How to Elope in 2024 The beauty of elopement is the ability to combine traditional or non-traditional aspects to create the perfect day for you and your partner. While organizing a whole wedding can seem like a demanding task, an elopement can also require some forethought. Where should your wedding be held? Who will be invited to the party? What unique elements should you include in your special day? Fortunately, there are plenty of wedding options available to alleviate some of the stress of preparing for your elopement. Here are some suggestions on how you can elope in 2024: Select a Venue What do you envision in your mind when you think of your elopement experience? Do you imagine the sun’s pleasant warmth? Do you appreciate rainy, foggy days like on the west coast? Wildflower meadows in full bloom in front of a mountain? Take all of your thoughts into account and incorporate them on your elopement day. Once you’ve decided on a venue, talk to your photographer about the best time to elope. They have most likely photographed at the site you’re interested in and will be able to advise you on the ideal time of year to visit for the perfect experience and memories to look back on. Make an appointment with your photographer. Although few people realize it, this should really be done after the first step. Let me explain why. If you’re planning an elopement, you should choose an elopement photographer rather than a wedding photographer. Elopement photographers have many different experiences that they can share with their clients. They may, for example, assist you with selecting a site and date, creating timelines, obtaining permits and licenses, understanding outdoor safety, developing backup plans, and adhering to leave no trace standards. Traditional wedding photographers, on the other hand, will be able to photograph your wedding, but they will not be able to assist you with the planning for your elopement. We at Rocker in love (a family of elopement photographers) can capture the most special moments and vibrant emotions of your wedding party. Let’s discuss your dream wedding! Other Vendors To Be Scheduled? After you’ve decided on a venue and a date, contact all of the vendors you’d like to work with for your elopement. A florist, hair and beauty artist, officiant, caterer, planner, and other professionals can be included. There are dozens of other options you can look into, just to be prepared. Your best bet will be to hire vendors who are local to the area. They’ll be familiar with the location, the weather, and other details. This way, they can capture the authenticity of the moment. It’s important to get in touch with vendors as soon as possible. We have already done the work of separating some vendors for you. You can turn your elopement into a family adventure by inviting family members to join in. Although the traditional notion of elopement is that of drive-thru wedding chapels in Vegas- it doesn’t have to always be that way. While remaining surrounded by your closest relatives and friends, you can have the romantic, natural elopement that you truly desire. Your wedding day can be whatever you dream of. Keep in mind that depending on your guests’ physical abilities and ages, you may need to adjust your location to suit the crowd. Another alternative that Rocker in love offers couples is an adventure session before or after their wedding ceremony—exchange vows in front of family and captures all the beautiful moments while at it. By doing so, you get to have a taste of both worlds during the ceremony. You may still share your day while still creating a private adventure you’ll never forget! Plan your travel, lodging, and activities ahead of time. Choosing where to stay and what to do can be another enjoyable aspect of planning an elopement. Don’t forget to book your lodging after you’ve purchased your flight tickets and rented a car (if necessary). The majority of our couples prefer to stay in hotels or Airbnb. It is entirely up to you to make your decision! You can even have your elopement while camping! whatever you want to make work, works! Purchase your personal materials and attire. Now that you’re getting closer to eloping, it’s time to purchase your special outfit and gather all of your personal essentials. When choosing your wedding dress, keep in mind the date and location of your wedding. Is it going to be cold, hot, rainy, or humid? Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather so you can enjoy the entire event. No, you don’t have to wear a dress, suit, romper, jumpsuit, or anything else if you don’t want to. The best thing about elopements is that they are completely personal, so you can wear whatever you want and enjoy yourself nonetheless. This is also an excellent time to get all of the finishing touches, such as shoes, hair accessories, rings, and so on. All of these touches can be integrated into your elopement day and photographed. Carry out the legal work Okay, this portion might not be the most entertaining or enticing as the others, but it’s the most crucial and necessary. This phase entails obtaining all of the appropriate documentation, such as a marriage license and special usage permission, to make your elopement legal. This permit essentially grants you permission to hold a ceremony on the park’s property and lets the park know that you will keep to all of the park’s rules. Make arrangements for a first peek with family and friends. Invite your family to your first look if you’re eloping with them! Some couples’ first intimate, emotional experience
The Complete Guide to Planning an Intimate Wedding
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement The Complete Guide to Planning an Intimate Wedding Small intimate weddings with just the select close loved ones are starting to become the new norm for wedding planning. The Complete Guide to Planning an Intimate Wedding Small intimate weddings with just a select close loved ones are starting to become the new norm for wedding planning. The idea of couples planning to have an intimate wedding became even more seeked out following the covid lockdown where many couples either had to cancel their weddings or reschedule their weddings to something smaller. An intimate wedding is something that many people have come to fall in love with not just because it costs less but also because intimate weddings tend to create a calmer ambiance for a deeper connection between the couple and their guests! Another primary reason why so many couples are opting for an intimate wedding instead of a large, traditional wedding is because of how less stressful it is on yourself. Instead of having to stress about centerpieces and color schemes, you could plan a small, intimate wedding; which is the ideal way to ensure that you spend the best day of your life having fun and enjoying yourselves. The truth is that not everyone’s cup of tea is to have a large extravagant wedding. Having an intimate wedding, on the other hand, is becoming increasingly popular for the people who prefer to surround themselves with only their closest loved ones. With a smaller guest list, you can focus on providing a more personalized and memorable experience catered for you and your guests. For some couples, an elopement may be on their agenda because of the fear of an overwhelmingly large wedding but at the same time, they wish for their families to be there to witness their special day without all the craziness that comes with a large wedding. In this case, an intimate wedding is your best bet! If you are getting married soon and have been thinking about how to plan the perfect intimate wedding- then read on to find out how! What is an Intimate Wedding? An intimate wedding is a small, private ceremony typically involving close family and friends. These types of weddings are often more personal and intentional than large, formal affairs, and it is just as beautiful and special for the day If you’re planning an intimate wedding, here are a few things to keep in mind: Plan and discuss the size of your guest list. An intimate wedding usually has 50 guests or fewer, so you’ll need to be selective about who you invite. This is a good opportunity to really focus on quality over quantity, so invite the people who are most important to you and who you know will make the day even more special. Choose a venue that fits the vibe you’re going for. A small banquet hall, restaurant, or even someone’s home, like a special Airbnb, can be the perfect setting for an intimate wedding. Just make sure the space is comfortable and has enough room for your guests to mingle. Don’t cut corners on the details that are meaningful to you. Just because your wedding is intimate doesn’t mean it can’t be as fabulous as larger weddings if that’s what you want. Work with a talented photographer, florist, and caterer to make sure every element of your wedding is perfect for you and the special day. What is the ideal number of guests for an Intimate Wedding? While there is no number set in stone for the number of guests you should have at an intimate wedding, an intimate wedding is selectively defined as having 50 or fewer guests. Many believe that the fewer people you invite, the more intimate the event can be, but that doesn’t have to be the case for you. You can make it a highly personalized memorable experience by inviting 20 to 40 people, or you can have a Deluxe guest list of ten loved ones. It’s completely up to you for what you end up going with. Advantages of Planning an Intimate Wedding There are plenty of advantages that come with planning an intimate wedding. Intimate weddings are ideal for daring, creative concepts that create the perfect setting. Although you can go as big or as small as you want with an intimate wedding, there’s no reason you can’t have all the amazing details as larger weddings—like stunning flowers—while also splurging on photography or videography or what feels right for you. An intimate wedding also allows for greater organization, venue options, and more time spent with each guest. Your guests will also benefit from an Intimate Wedding With a smaller guest list, you can plan to wed in more intimate settings and devote more time to creating new experiences and memorable moments that you and your guests will remember fondly for the rest of their lives. Having fewer guests allows you to invest a larger portion of your budget in other areas, such as set-ups, photo/video services, dresses, and guest entertainment. You can ‘pamper’ your guests even more by planning some surprises for them (such as a tourist visit, a welcome dinner, a brunch, or a tasting) in the days leading up to or following the wedding. You also have a larger variety of location options to think and choose from, which isn’t that easy to do for a traditional wedding. Features of an Intimate Wedding The fact that you are planning a small, intimate wedding does not mean that the wedding would lack a format and setting if you wish. While an intimate wedding requires less ambiguous preparations, you can still structure a timeline to have the desired format. Intimate weddings don’t require a certain format and settings and with the number of guests reduced more guest-centered details could take place at the wedding. Instead of a formal reception with speeches, it could become more relaxed in the easy ambiance like
How to Plan a Multi-day Wedding Successfully
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement How to Plan a Multi-day Wedding Successfully There’s no doubt your multi-day wedding will be the happiest event of your life. MORE VALUE INFO WHY JOSHUA TREE Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park Elopement VS Big Weddings The Pros and Cons How to Plan a Multi-day Wedding Successfully There’s no doubt your multi-day wedding will be the happiest event of your life. Understandably, knowing how to plan a wedding can be intimidating, especially if you’re planning one in these unprecedented times. The process of planning a multi-day wedding is the same whether you desire a modest, uncomplicated wedding or a large, opulent affair: Establish a budget, seek inspiration, and begin your guest list. So, we’ll do it one step at a time down below. Since it’s possible to be overwhelmed by the planning, we advise you to focus on one job at a time. If you’re short on time, assign some of these chores to family and friends, who will likely be happy to assist you. Keep reading for detailed info on how to plan a multi-day wedding. The advantages of a Multi-day wedding A multi-day wedding allows you to spend more time with your family and friends and unwind. You go through a rush of emotions from the minute you become engaged until your wedding day. While the wedding planning process is full of joy and excitement, it is also full of stress and concern as you strive to finalize the details before the big day. Hiring a wedding planner relieves a lot of the stress on planning a wedding. Additionally, having a wedding weekend reduces the pressure of the actual wedding day. Weddings are enjoyable. That is, without a doubt, the case. On the other hand, weddings tend to be less relaxing for couples in the evening. You are burdened with thanking each of your guests for attending and doing all of the conventional wedding things, such as first dances, cake cutting, bouquet throwing, and more, rather than genuinely enjoying your first married moments with your new husband or wife. A wedding weekend relieves the stress of greeting, thanking, and entertaining all of your wedding guests. Because the truth is that interacting with everyone in such a short time is nearly impossible. The average wedding reception lasts four hours. If you host a 100-person wedding and spend one minute with each attendee, you’ll only have 30 minutes left for the rest of the festivities. It’s simply not possible; therefore, you won’t be able to mingle with all of your guests on your wedding day. Out-of-town guests will have additional opportunities to enjoy themselves throughout a wedding weekend. A wedding weekend is essential for guests not from the area where you are getting married. Your out-of-town guests may make the most of their weekend celebrating you by having many scheduled parties and a specific list of activities to do. How to Plan a Successful Multi-Day Wedding Make a Timetable Three days make up the basic layout of a multi-day wedding. You can add additional days for activities, which is advised for a destination wedding or if you have many out-of-town guests. Keep things simple and plan for the following: Rehearsal Dinner and/or Welcome Party Remember that not everyone can afford to take several days off to party, so specify which days are optional. If most of your guests cannot attend on weekends, you can just plan your event from Friday to Sunday. Also, if any of your guests have children, remember that they may not be able to leave them behind if you want a child-free wedding. If you want them to come, be prepared to hire a nanny or make the wedding day the only day they can bring their children. Don’t over plan or force anything. You want your visitors to feel relaxed as they move from one activity to the next and not like being forced into something they don’t want to do. Your itinerary should serve as a guide, but any activities outside of the ‘formal’ events (i.e., the dinner the night before the wedding and the ceremony and reception on the wedding day) should be considered optional. Guests will appreciate it if you offer things to do on-site or in the surrounding area but remember to provide plenty of time for them to rest, get ready, and nurse their hangovers. Remember that the first night is usually the most important We’ve all been there: you go away with pals for the weekend and get a little carried away on the first night, leaving you feeling a little worse for wear the next day. If your guests enjoy a good party, keep this in mind and try to keep the day before the wedding as low-key as possible. Consider a casual BBQ or pizza night that won’t overshadow the big day. Make some time for yourself. Set aside some time not only for yourself but also for your visitors. In general, you should allow 30-40% of each day for guests to do as they like. Everyone needs a break from partying every now and then. If you want to go above and beyond, recommend local places for different activities. Make a Meal Schedule You don’t have to feed your guests three meals a day, but at least one complete meal is required. The sole exception is when the usual regulations apply on the wedding day. If you’re not serving food during the event, make recommendations for local restaurants. Changing your menu regularly will keep things from becoming monotonous. Have Asian cuisine one day and classic American cuisine the next. You can even switch up the serving method, such as hosting a tapas cocktail party on a welcome night and then serving a multi-course meal at the wedding reception. Make your wedding website. A wedding website and/or app are almost required when a wedding takes place over multiple days. With this, your visitors will always have a
Elopement VS Big Weddings – The Pros and Cons
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement Elopement VS Big WeddingsThe Pros and Cons Congratulations on taking the next step to spend forever with your partner! Elopement VS Big WeddingsThe Pros and Cons Congratulations on taking the next step to spend forever with your partner! Now that you’ve decided on one of the most important decisions of your life, I’m sure you must be racking your brain thinking about how exactly you want to celebrate it. You may be caught between having a big wedding party or eloping for a more intimate wedding experience. So which exactly should you go for? How should you celebrate your wedding? While we would not want to push you to make a decision because after all your wedding is all about you… We will however outline the pros and cons of each wedding so you can decide for yourself which fits best into your and your partner’s personality and vibe. What is an Elopement? Eloping means foregoing a traditional wedding in favor of a more intimate ceremony. It doesn’t necessarily imply that you and your partner went on a secret getaway without telling anyone. You need to see elopements as an intentionally small, intimate, and authentic wedding experience that truly reflects your relationship and the focus of the day is on no one else but you two. The old-fashioned meaning of the word “elopement” is running away to get married without the knowledge of the parents. This already makes an elopement wedding look bad even today. But the modern-day definition has changed it to something more meaningful for couples. “Eloping is simply getting married with a smaller number of guests (or none), in a beautiful, meaningful location, where the whole day is all about the two of you.” Pros of Having an Elopement It doesn’t matter whether it’s just the two of you or you plan to invite a few people along. An elopement is an intimate thing that involves spending your best moments with your favorite people. So what are the pros of elopement? Let’s find out below! Minimal drama In an elopement, the focus is primarily on you and your partner. Sometimes big weddings can get into a cycle of pressure and overwhelm but with an elopement, it is calmer and less demanding. When choosing to Elope the drama is naturally minimized just by the fact that you are not bent on making sure everyone else is happy and sometimes at the expense of your happiness. You might end up fatigued at the end of the day without really having the fun you dreamed of. Fewer location limits In an elopement, it’s easier to get married anywhere! On the beach, the mountains, parks, National Parks, and your backyard. You just name it. You can be spontaneous. There are almost no limits! What guest list? Another major source of stress when planning a traditional wedding is the choice of who to invite and who not too. Then there’s also where to seat people at the reception. But with an elopement, you only need to plan for two! Or a bit more depending on the people you want to witness your elopement. Most couples do not have more than 20 guests at their elopement. It’s usually just the closest people to them. Your elopement could include just your immediate family and a few close friends too! In many US States, you only need two witnesses to be legally married. And they could be your photographer, videographer, or stylist. A big wedding has a lot more people attending. Anywhere from 50 to hundreds of people. And as a couple, you may not know every single person at your wedding. You may know of them, but you really may not know them. At a big wedding, people tend to bring a +1 like a partner, girlfriend, or boyfriend. So chances are, you will be introduced to people on your wedding day and not all couples can deal with that. Cons of an Elopement With an elopement, You’ll have very few guests if any You might face an awkward situation with some friends & family afterward as some might feel excluded. You might not get to experience some of the classic big wedding traditions like bouquet throw, speeches, dance, and all. Now let’s talk about big weddings! Sounds like we are “pro-elopement” but stay with us here: We LOVE photographing big weddings too! Big weddings come with a lot of fun and excitement and involve the opportunity to host as many guests as possible. Pros of Having a Big Wedding An opportunity for both families to bond A wedding is a great place to strengthen bonds. It’s a union of two families where you meet, interact and build bonds. It’s widely believed that when you marry someone, you also marry their family. Yes, the marriage is between you and your partner, but in a big wedding, you allow others to share in your joy. Whether you are the type that wants all the classic wedding traditions, or an alternative, layback couple that loves the idea of being surrounded by all your favorite people, then this is perfect! Big Weddings can be very fun! There is something special about being surrounded by all of your friends and family on your big day. For many people, having all their family and friends around for the big day can translate into a lot of fun for them. Your guests will likely talk about your wedding for years to come. With a big wedding, you can show your loved ones how much you appreciate them. Cons of Having a Big Wedding Planning In planning a big wedding, most of the time, you need to do more tasks compared to an elopement. Cos you’re taking care of a larger number of guests. Say you’re planning a wedding for 200 guests. This means you need to first get a venue that can accommodate that number, then, food
Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree Wedding and Elopement Photographer Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park Eloping is the perfect opportunity to travel to the magical lands of Joshua Tree National Park! Getting married surrounded by desert hues, unique botanicals, massive rock formations, and ethereal open skies. An important space inside the Mojave Desert ecosystem, the backdrop of Joshua Tree screams beauty, resilience, longevity, growth, and communion. As experts at photographing weddings in Joshua Tree, we’ve put together an Essential Guide to Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park. Everything you need to know to plan your elopement in this stunning part of the world! Why Joshua Tree? It really is as magical as the photos you’ve seen! The desert is awe-inspiring and truly spectacular, it’s the perfect place for an adventurous elopement. Located right where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet, forming this beautifully sculptured landscape. With major airports (LAX, Palm Springs) only a two-hour drive, it’s close enough to invite your loved ones, but also remote enough to keep it between just you two. Surround yourself with those deep night skies, the rich history of the area, and the surreal geologic topography of this wonderful wilderness. Where is Joshua Tree National Park? A hop-skip-and-a-jump from San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is located in southeastern California. Named for those spiky magical trees, the Joshua Tree (Yucca brevifolia), that is native to the Mojave Desert. Why Elopements? We are biased! We live in this spectacular place! As nomad photographers who have photographed weddings in ALL 50 STATES (yes, you read that correctly), we could live anywhere. This is where we choose. For so many reasons, mainly it has to do with how much eye candy there is here. Our cameras absolutely love the colors, the scenery, the magical spaces. That made choosing this as our base a no-brainer. Try to imagine yourself marrying the love of your life in a place so unique, it looks like another planet at times. Picturesque doesn’t even touch how inspiring it is here. We know all of the greatest spots with the best desert views, giant rock formations, and unique vegetation. There is no other venue like it. How Do I Get There? Whether you plan to travel by air or by road, we got you covered! BY PLANE: John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) Given the proximity to Joshua Tree, SNA is a better choice that shaves off some of the driving time and helps you avoid the dreadful LA traffic. Just 122 miles from Joshua Tree, it’s a great place to look for affordable flights. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s 140 miles from Joshua Tree. With more international flight options, it might be your only choice. But, heed our warning that LA traffic is as bad as you’ve always heard. San Diego Airport (SAN) Sure, it’s a bit further away at 175 miles from Joshua Tree, but it is a wonderful city to explore for a day or two, if you can. And did we mention that LA traffic? Yeah, obviously easy to avoid if you never go there! Las Vegas Airport (NV) Amazing road trip from Vegas to Joshua, you will be passing through the Mojave Desert and start feeling the desert adventure spirit! PRO CAR TIP: There are three main entrances to the park: North, West, and South. Having a paper map and a compass on hand is always smart. Or you can download the map here. The navigation systems around Joshua Tree have been known to lead visitors off the main roads and onto soft sands. Avoid getting your car stuck out there by entering the park through Interstate 10 or California Highway 62 (the Twentynine Palms Highway). Do We Need a Permit? Oh heck yeah! Like almost all public parks, you will need to get a wedding permit. The mandatory special use permit is $120. More information here And because the bureaucrats like to make things even more costly, they also require a separate photo permit for your photographer (that’s us!). Having had over 20 years of experience coordinating and photographing elopements, we can help you sort out all of the permits you will need for your Joshua Tree Park Elopement! Are There Special Rules We Have to Obey? Absolutely! But, they are the best kind that safeguard the beauty of the park for everyone to enjoy. Keeping it eco-safe is of utmost importance. Because of this, most wedding decor, drones, dried flowers, needles, and bubbles are not permitted on the grounds. You will love this place as much as we do. And you’ll want to leave no trace after the wedding. Take everything with you when you leave. Our motto is simple: Leave it in better condition than when we arrived. When is the Best Season to Elope in Joshua Tree? This has a lot more to do with YOU than with Joshua Tree. It’s a desert, after all! The summers here are EPICLY hot. That is something to think about when you’re planning. Some couples prefer eloping during cooler seasons of Spring, Fall, and Winter. During the cooler seasons, Joshua Tree is more comfortable and has less crowds. The light is amazing, too! If you want to avoid crowds, elope on a weekday. In the shoulder seasons, March to May or October to November, temperatures linger around 85ºF/29ºC. June, July, August, and most of September are H-O-T, hot! Joshua Tree is an open desert, which means it’s usually dry and hot all year, and has very little shelter from the sun, wind or rain. Be prepared for varying temperatures as you move around the park, too. Check the weather here! When is the Most Ideal Time to Visit Joshua Tree? Alright, you twisted our arms! We’ll tell you, just don’t tell too many people because we want you to have a truly unique and special time in Joshua
