Here is a controversial opinion. You don’t have to go over the top to propose.

You don’t have to go over the top to propose.

It doesn’t have to be the biggest, fanciest or craziest experience of your life.

If you are the rad couple that would love a flash mob, DO IT. Because it’s you.

But if you aren’t, don’t feel the pressure to plan “the best, most expensive moment of our lives” if it isn’t  authentically you as a couple or makes you both uncomfortable.

I think it’s more significant to have a personalized  moment that you will both treasure for the rest of your lives.

Plan a moment that is special to you and your partner, it can be the place you had your first kiss, your first date, an activity that you love to do together, a new experience if you love to do new things together, a place you’ve dreamed of going together or a favorite hiking spot.   Long story short, if you know you and your s/o will connect over the moment, it’ll be beautiful and the best proposal for YOU BOTH as a couple.

Botanical Garden, Botanical Romantic Session, Retro, Retro 60’s, Retro 70’s, Magical Botanical Garden Photo shoot, Dome garden,

Something I didn’t expect about visiting Arizona for the first time was how much I would love it.  I’ve shot weddings and elopements in Colorado, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma but the southwest really captured my heart.  The southwest boho vibes, the people, the weather, the culture and the Arizona pride was so refreshing.   While visiting Phoenix, Tucson and Sedona what stood out to me was each one had such unique vibes.  The beauty was different and the towns had different paces and architecture.

So of course I fell in love when I went to shoot in Saguaro National Park for this gorgeous sunset stylized elopement.  This gorgeous flowy, blush dress was made for Nicole, making her stand out from all the saguaro cacti and the desert landscape.  If you are on the fence about wearing a dress that is long for your desert elopement, take this post as a sign TO DO IT!

One other thing that I didn’t expect is the jumping cacti, you heard me right, JUMPING cacti.  I found out if you weren’t paying attention and you got close to a certain cactus, it would jump on you and sink it’s spines into you.   I found out why cowboys wore their high cowboy boots in the west.  It isn’t just cuz they are cool John Wayne vibes. :D

Saguaro National Park Sunset Elopement

Sunset Elopement, Saguaro National Park

Blush Wedding Dress

Host: Taylor Jan Photography

Model: Nicole A Swift

Dress: Dalliance Bespoke