Eloping is one of the most intimate and intentional ways to get married. You get to strip away the stress and expectations and focus purely on what matters most: the two of you. Mikey and Ashley’s Palm Springs elopement at sunrise was a perfect example of how beautiful and meaningful an elopement can be. They rented a classic car, drove out to the iconic windmills, and had the entire desert to themselves. It was a peaceful, cinematic, and completely personal way to celebrate their love.

Why Choose a Palm Springs Elopement?

Palm Springs is one of the dreamiest elopement destinations, and for good reason. If you’re looking for retro vibes, breathtaking desert landscapes, or the peaceful solitude of being surrounded by nature, Palm Springs has it all. Plus, the flexibility of an elopement means you can plan your day around what truly makes you happy. Whether that’s a sunrise adventure, a slow morning at a boutique hotel, or celebrating with a small group of loved ones under the stars.

The Perks of Eloping

One of the best things about eloping is how personal it is. There’s no pressure to follow a timeline that doesn’t feel right for you, no long guest lists to manage, and no stress about expectations. Instead, you get to create a day that feels authentic and special—maybe that means exchanging vows under the Palm Springs windmills, taking photos in a vintage car, or planning a fun getaway just the two of you.

Some of the biggest perks of eloping include:

• Total Freedom – You can choose exactly how you want your day to unfold.
• Intimacy – It’s just the two of you (or a small group of your closest people), making it incredibly personal and emotional.
• Adventure – Whether you want to hike, drive through the desert, or explore unique locations, eloping lets you create an experience rather than just an event.
• Less Stress, More Fun – No huge wedding planning headaches. Just a day that’s centered on your love and what makes you both happiest.
• Investment in What Matters – Eloping doesn’t mean skimping on the things that truly matter. You can go all out on florals, hire your favorite photographer, enjoy a private chef, or book a dreamy Airbnb. The options are endless, and you can invest in the elements that will make the experience exactly what you want.

Planning Your Palm Springs Elopement

If you’re considering eloping in Palm Springs, here are a few things to think about:

The Best Time to Elope

Palm Springs is beautiful year-round, but choosing the right season for your elopement depends on the experience you’re looking for:

• Fall (October–November): The desert starts to cool down, making it one of the best times to elope. With mild temperatures and fewer tourists, you can enjoy a peaceful ceremony and explore without the crowds.
• Winter (December–February): Palm Springs’ mild, sunny winter days create the perfect setting for an outdoor elopement. It’s also a great time to soak in the natural hot springs and enjoy cozy desert evenings.
• Spring (March–April): The desert bursts into bloom with wildflowers, and the weather is warm but comfortable. If you want a vibrant, colorful backdrop for your photos, this is the season for you!
• Summer (May–September): Expect triple-digit temperatures, but if you’re up for a sunrise or sunset elopement, you’ll get dreamy golden light and quiet, empty landscapes. Plus, summer is off-season, meaning fewer tourists and better deals on accommodations.

Where to Stay

Palm Springs is home to some of the most charming and stylish boutique hotels, perfect for a relaxed and romantic elopement experience. A few favorites include:

• The Ace Hotel & Swim Club – A trendy, laid-back spot with a retro vibe.
• Korakia Pensione – A dreamy, Mediterranean-inspired hideaway.
• L’Horizon Resort & Spa – A luxurious and private retreat for couples who want a little extra romance.
• Les Cactus – A chic, pastel-hued boutique hotel with a playful, relaxed atmosphere.
• Fleur Noire – A stylish, adults-only retreat with vibrant floral murals and a cozy, intimate feel.

Where to Elope

Palm Springs offers endless beautiful backdrops for your ceremony and photos. A few iconic spots to consider:

• The Windmills – The perfect mix of modern and natural landscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Joshua Tree National Park – Just a short drive away, this desert landscape is unlike anywhere else. Check out this blog.
• Moorten Botanical Garden – A lush, intimate setting filled with cacti and desert flora.
• Mid-Century Modern Homes – If you love that Palm Springs aesthetic, consider an Airbnb or rental home with vintage charm. Check out this colorful airbnb intimate wedding for inspo.

What to Do After Your Elopement

After you’ve said your vows and taken in the beauty of your intimate wedding day, make the most of your time in Palm Springs with these fun activities:

• Explore All the Incredible Food Options – Palm Springs has so many amazing restaurants to choose from, whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience.
• Explore Downtown Palm Springs – Walk the colorful streets, check out the vintage shops, and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
• Take a Jeep Tour of the San Andreas Fault – A fun and unique way to explore the desert landscape.
• Relax by the Pool – Because no Palm Springs getaway is complete without some poolside lounging.
• Book a Couples Massage – Celebrate your new marriage with a spa day at Two Bunch Palms or The Parker Palm Springs.
• Explore the Hot Springs – Palm Springs is known for its natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding and relaxing after your adventurous day.
• Go Hiking – There are tons of beautiful trails in and around Palm Springs that offer breathtaking desert views, making it the perfect place for an intimate hike with your new spouse.
• Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride – For an unforgettable experience, take to the skies for a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over the desert, offering sweeping views of Palm Springs and beyond.

Making Your Elopement Special

There’s something so special about the desert, and Mikey and Ashley’s elopement perfectly captured that magic. Their day was a reminder of how beautiful a wedding can be when you design it around what truly makes you happy. From the quiet desert morning to the thrill of driving a classic car, every moment reflected who they are as a couple. Adventurous, vibrant, and full of fun. I had so much fun capturing their obvious love for each other, creating editorial shots, and documenting this adventure. 

If you’re dreaming of a Palm Springs elopement, think about what would make the day feel the most special for you. Whether it’s bringing in personal touches, exploring a new place together, or simply soaking in the pure joy of being with your person, your elopement is the perfect chance to make your day as exciting and unique as your love story.

Let’s Plan Your Dream Elopement

If you’re considering eloping in Palm Springs or somewhere else in Southern California, I’d love to capture your story. Whether you’re drawn to the desert landscapes, the retro charm, or just the idea of an intimate, stress-free wedding day, let’s create something beautiful together. Reach out, and let’s talk about my Palm Springs elopement packages and start planning your dream elopement!

XO, Karissa

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