The wide open spaces of the desert draw many an engaged couple to their dirt floors. Eloping to celebrate a union amidst cacti and jutting peaks not only makes for stunning photos, but sweet memories.

Though the desert setting may be a familiar site for Arizona explorers, an exchanging of vows is a new story each time, regardless of the latitude and longitude. Two people come together who have shared unique moments to get to this point. Maria and Andy’s Superstition Mountains elopement adventure was no exception, and was a beautiful day that honored the love they share.

The Bouquet

Maria was seeking to embrace the desert elements in her bouquet, including the familiar earthy tones. A mini cactus and succulent were nestled in between the greens. Varied roses in champagne, white, and peach hues were included, along with anemone, varied eucalyptus, and my favorite blue thistle. I included magnolia leaves for their duo of earth tone colors presented on each side. Bold red pops were added with pepperberry and hypericum berries.

Having only chatted on the phone, it was so fun to hand over her bouquet and meet the giddy couple simultaneously. When designing long distance, Maria had shared a few inspirational images with me so I could understand the look she was seeking. She shared with me the details and elements she favored. Beyond that, she was up for seeing what design I created come the big day!

The Design Process

I love getting to know both bride and her floral design dreams. Starting with an inspiration image, which doesn’t necessarily have to be of flowers, or a detail she wants included, is a good foundation for me to build her unique designs off of. From there, we can define a style and develop a color ratio for the big day’s arrangements.

I do my best work when I am free to source the best flowers of the season of the event. Mother Nature is her own beast and can ruin plans, and the crops of specified blooms with an unexpected freeze or rain. I want to create a beautiful and fresh arrangement for you, and choose the best ingredients available that match your style and vision. A specified flower could just look sad and droopy come wedding day, definitely not appropriate for celebration!

Elopement Day

Maria and Andy’s day among the mountains in the Lost Dutchman State Park east of metropolitan Phoenix was captured beautifully by Andria and Aslan of The Shepards Photography. They are the sweetest husband and wife team that shoot stunning wedding days and elopements. They even used Maria and Andy’s modern and picturesque Airbnb as a unique backdrop for some of the photos.

Know a dreamy Arizona elopement spot? Share it below! Swoon worthy elopement stories are welcome too!

Photography | The Shepards