So you’re engaged—congrats! As you start dreaming about your celebration, you might find yourself wondering: Should we plan a full wedding weekend or just a one-day wedding?

If you’re dreaming of crisp air, golden aspens, glowing desert sunsets, and a wedding day that’s just about the two of you—a fall elopement in New Mexico might be exactly what you’re looking for. Whether you’re envisioning mountaintop vows in Taos, sandstone backdrops at Ghost Ranch, or a cozy Airbnb ceremony near Santa Fe, New Mexico’s fall season is full of magic and possibility.

A and V’s spring wedding at Casa Perea Art Space in Corrales, New Mexico, was simple, personal, and entirely their own. The weather gave them a rare gift for a New Mexico wedding day—cloudy skies, no wind, and that perfect temperature that makes you want to stay outside.

Whether you’re eloping on a mountaintop, saying “I do” after a scenic backpacking trail, or catching a flight to your dream destination wedding, one thing is certain: packing your wedding attire safely and smartly matters. A wrinkled dress or creased suit is the last thing you want to stress about while you’re out embracing adventure. So let’s talk all things wrinkle prevention, gear compatibility, and high-impact elopement logistics—because your wedding day should be stunning and stress-free, no matter how remote or rugged your celebration may be.

If you’re here, chances are you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels like you. Perhaps the idea of a huge guest list and traditional ballroom reception doesn’t quite excite you. Maybe you’re envisioning something smaller, more intentional, and full of presence, connection, and personality. Welcome — you’re in the right place!Let’s talk about intimate weddings — what they are, how they differ from traditional weddings and elopements, and how to know if this route might be your perfect fit.

Last fall, I had the pleasure of capturing M and C’s destination couple session at the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park. They made the trip up from Pueblo, Colorado, where they now call home, for an afternoon full of laughter and exploring The weather was perfect—a crisp fall day that even brought a light sprinkle, gifting us with a double rainbow! The timing couldn’t have been better.

Because the most meaningful memories don’t always happen in front of a crowd. Planning a large wedding? Maybe you envision a beautiful venue packed with friends and family, a packed dance floor, and an electric celebration. But if you’re also craving quieter, emotional moments throughout the day, just the two of you, you’re not alone.

D and S’s wedding at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine perfectly blended historic charm and deeply personal moments. These two high school sweethearts, who first met in eighth-grade English class, exchanged vows after 11 years of shared adventures, inside jokes, and growing together. And their wedding day? Absolutely worth the wait.

Choosing the perfect elopement destination starts with knowing what kind of experience you want.

You’ve made the exciting, intentional decision to elope—maybe because you want a day that feels true to your relationship, maybe to reduce stress, or maybe because the idea of a crowded venue just isn’t your vibe.

C and K’s session on the North Shore of Kauai was great—low-key, personal, and filled with moments that don’t require much direction. We began in their neighborhood, just cruising around on bikes, barefoot and laughing. It was the kind of slow start that sets the tone for everything else.