Some couples have a hard time deciding where to elope—while others instantly shine on a place that’s special to them. Melody and Tyler fall into the latter category, knowing definitively that they wanted to elope in Death Valley National Park. Yes, the Lower 48’s largest national park is an epic location to say, “I do!”

And it’s easy to understand why! While Death Valley is—in my opinion—a seriously underrated national park. This desert wonderland boasts some amazing scenery:

From sand dunes and salt flats,
Colorful hills to sweeping valleys,
The lowest point in the country and the second tallest peak in California,
Tons of offroading and more than a few slot canyons,
Endless opportunities for stargazing and some delightful flora and fauna

—Death Valley is a treasure.

For all these reasons and more, Melody and Tyler felt it was the perfect location for their micro-wedding. They bonded over their love of national parks and the great outdoors, after all.

While helping this couple plan their wedding, Melody and Tyler were torn between wanting a true elopement and inviting their family. I let them know that the final decision was theirs, of course, but that eloping with guests is more common than you think. In the end, they decided to bring their closest friends and family to the ceremony—a decision that made for a lot of laughter, joy, and more than a few happy tears.

Melody and Tyler’s day started at the beautiful Oasis Hotel inside the national park itself. I snapped some photos of our soon-to-be newlyweds while they got ready, before exploring the hotel grounds. The Spanish-style building and green areas made the location feel like a welcome oasis in the desert landscape. Even more impressive was the classy interior and rooftop patio. But I chose the lush outdoor garden for the first-look photos.

Everyone piled into vehicles to make the short trek to Breakfast Canyon for the ceremony. This area is private, intimate, and full of rich earthy tones. My spouse and business partner, Isiah, officiated the ceremony—complete with a handfasting for the couple.

As a photographer, I love a good tearful ceremony—and this one did not disappoint. Melody and Tyler presented some adoring vows, and friends and family in attendance were absolutely thrilled to be a part of the big day.

We had a packed day, so there was no time to waste after the ceremony. We quickly booked it over a popular overlook to snap some family photos—which ranged from the serious, to the silly, to the loving, to the emotional, and everything in between. The natural lighting was superb. I mean, check out those views!

After family photos, Isiah and I left with Melody and Tyler for some portraits against the almost otherworldly landscapes Death Valley has to offer. We walked amongst the colored hills, explored hidden corners of the park, and even got some evening photos. Melody and Tyler were simply beaming with joy the whole time.

We wrapped up the day with the whole group at the hotel’s rooftop patio. Cake, champagne, and good conversations all around. It was an absolute joy to be a part of Melody and Tyler’s micro-wedding day in Death Valley. One I’m sure they will cherish for the rest of their lives.