📋 Get the Wedding Quick Start Guide!

Tranquil Elopement in Joshua Tree National Park

When you shop via links on our site, we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Learn more.
Nicole + Matt decided on having the beautiful backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park for their micro wedding. This budget savvy couple wanted to keep things stress free, low budget, and simple. We especially love the bohemian look they incorporated into their ceremony!

Nicole + Matt

Joshua Tree, California
- 04/07/2022
Total wedding budget $7,125

Budget Breakdown

Below is an estimated wedding budget breakdown provided by the couple.

  • Cake/Dessert
    1%
    $60
  • Officiant
    1%
    $100
  • Miscellaneous
    1%
    $100
  • Flowers
    3%
    $200
  • Decor
    3%
    $200
  • Hair & Makeup
    3%
    $200
  • Partner 2 Attire
    8%
    $600
  • Partner 1 Attire
    17%
    $1200
  • Venue
    23%
    $1665
  • Photography
    45%
    $3200
  • Total wedding budget
    $7125

What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?

We kept everything so simple. We purposely stripped everything down so we could experience all the joy of the day with each other and keep as much stress out.

We wrote our own vows and just focused on our family.

The intimate experience was really magical and I think that’s why, even today, my husband and I both reflect on how sacred and precious that day was. It really was such a special day!

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

We didn’t worry about any extras, and we spent where we felt it was most appropriate. We obviously wanted amazing photos and videos, and we both wanted to look good. That was what we were going to remember most.

What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?

I would 100% recommend it. You will always reflect on the feelings and memories of that day. You won’t remember all of the unimportant details.

There’s something so sweet and memorable about keeping it intimate and simple.

What was your biggest splurge?

Our biggest splurge was our photos and video, but it was absolutely worth it!

What was your favorite detail?

I loved the boho house we stayed in! It added a style and vibe that set the tone for our wedding day.

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

The most memorable moment of the day for me was walking down the aisle with my son towards the love of my life!

Share any additional details you’d like us to know about your event.

We had originally planned to have 10 guests – but then scrapped it once we figured it would cost us close to $15,000 with a planner and vendors involved.

Yes, some of our family were disappointed, but they ultimately respected our decision and have enjoyed the photos and videos captured from that day.

A special note from the photographer:

Family is the most important thing to Nicole and Matt. They knew from the start they wanted their wedding day to be intentional, intimate and filled with only the people they love most. Matt’s closest childhood friend officiated for them which was so meaningful. Joshua Tree has that perfect blend of beauty, vibrant energy and tranquility. They couldn’t have made a better choice on where they said I do.

We are huge advocates for couples doing their wedding their way and what feels most authentic to them and their relationship. Matt and Nicole did just that and had zero regrets. We were so incredibly honored to be part of it and capture their memories of their beautiful day for them.