White Sands Elopement at Sunset

Kelly and Jacob’s incredible, adventurous and colorful White Sands elopement at Sunset was one for the books.. or should I say the blogs? These two already had a love of National Parks, and Kelly knew this was the place for their elopement. Free from the bounds of prioritizing guests over their own experience, we planned an epic day. The couple’s adorable dog Dexter even got in on the action! They showed me their goofy sides. (truly, they do not have serious sides.) And so I can’t thank these two enough for inviting me to enjoy and capture their elopement.

Eloping at White Sands National Park

White Sands National Park is a newer jewel in the USA’s crown of National Parks. Made official in 2019, this is the largest gypsum sand dune field in the world. Eloping here is easy. Grab your ceremony Special Use Permit from the park and you’ll be set to wander into the dreamy dunes. If you like that blue and crisp white look, aim for midday. For a golden glow, sunset can’t be beat! Check out my full how-to guide to Eloping in White Sands here.

Adventure Elopement at White Sands

I can never choose just one location to adventure with my clients. Kelly and Jacob are my people. As evidenced by their willingness to tromp under a barbed wire fence and explore a deserted slot canyon before their elopement ceremony. Although they picked a February date, it was unseasonably hot in New Mexico that day. Ducking within the steep canyon walls provided a cool shelter for us that was very welcome. I loved watching them explore the slot canyon like they were kids again. And we got some amazing creative shots inside!

Their Sunset Ceremony at White Sands National Park

When we got out to the dunes, we all got super amped up. It was finally time to have the best dang time! First, we roamed around a bit before their families arrived. We wanted to make sure we got some epic portraits on the sparkling sand before the sunset ceremony. And the almost-weds even got a few runs in on their sleds. When it was time to get married, I have to admit I was a bit of a stickler. I had to preserve the iconic sand-lines that make the scenery so dramatic here. So I made everyone walk up a dune in single file to reduce the footprints. But hey – I stand by this decision. Because their White Sans elopement at sunset was so, so, so beautiful.

Star Photos at White Sands

What’s the best thing to happen after a White sands elopement at sunset? Why, star photos of course! But wait- don’t assume that because you see it here that you can just make it happen for yourself. White Sands is unique in that it closes at sunset. You’ll need to acquire special permission from the park to stay late, so you’ll need to know how to sweet talk your application too. But the results are soooo worth it!

Ready for your own National Park Elopement?

I photograph and plan epic two-person elopements in National Parks and destinations worldwide. Check my travel schedule and get in touch to start making your dream into reality!