Karen Agurto Photography

Summer is finally coming to an end, even though this heat wave in CA doesn’t feel like it. But the end of summer means it’s the beginning of desert season!

My top two favorite desert elopement locations are Joshua Tree and Death Valley. My favorite fact to share is that they’re both International Dark Sky parks so the night skies are INSANE.

Here you can see the Milky Way through the naked eye and it never disappoints.

Who’s ready for cooler days, epic desert landscapes, and stargazing under the clearest skies?

Hi! If we haven’t met yet, I’m Karen, adventure elopement photographer in sunny California 🌞 I live for capturing love-filled moments in the most beautiful places our state has to offer. Whether it’s along the cliff-lined coastline of Big Sur, under the Milky Way in Death Valley, or beside the world-famous peaks of Yosemite, I’m all about helping couples create unforgettable memories in nature.

I believe that weddings should be more than just big parties for show. They should reflect who you are as a couple—your love, your story, and your sense of adventure. That’s why I help couples ditch traditional wedding expectations and get married in a way that’s super authentic to them.

On a more personal note, here’s a little bit about me:

• I live and breathe for my two fur children: Simba and Balto 🐕🐕

• I’m born and raised in California, which is what makes me your local expert. I’ve lived throughout the state and currently hanging out in SoCal 🌴

• I always have a trip planned no matter what time of year it is. I absolutely love traveling whether it’s international or a road trip somewhere in CA. The call for adventure is strong and I answer it often 😂

• I eloped myself in the Italian Dolomites last year! We had an intimate ceremony with our closest friends and family, then jetted off to have our own special elopement. Just us two with the mountains surrounding us. It was a dream come true.

To learn more about me and see how I can bring your elopement dreams to life, head over to my website (link in my bio) and get in touch to schedule a call! Let’s create your perfect adventure together.

In the desert of Joshua Tree National Park, T asked his best friend to continue this incredible adventure of life together and she said yes! Nothing beats getting engaged in an epic place with your favorite person.

📍 Somewhere in the Dolomites of Italy

If I could transport anywhere in the world - it will always be the Italian alps ✨

Would I want to put on some headlamps in the middle of nowhere

and crawl into a dark, cold cave with you,

take some epic, moody pictures in the lava tubes that allow crazy streams of light

combined with the haze of the dusty floor?

I’d love to.

My favorite part of photographing in the dunes is the untouched sand and clean slate we get to play on ✨

Emotive photos from your elopement day >>

Nothing beats this.

📍 Zabriskie Point, Death Valley National Park



Hosts // Hair // MUA //

✨ Eloping at a sand dune offers a unique and breathtaking setting that combines adventure with simplicity. ✨

These open landscapes provide a surreal setting for intimate ceremonies. Desert sand dunes can offer privacy, away from the crowds and the typical wedding venues, allowing couples to focus purely on their elopement experience.

Enjoy raw, untouched nature for your elopement!

Here are five sand dune locations in California for your wedding:
1. Death Valley National Park (Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes)
2. Pismo Beach (Oceano Dunes)
3. Mojave National Preserve (Kelso Dunes)
4. Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area
5. Eureka Dunes in Death Valley National Park

(In the spirit of Dune 2 - yes, I’m adding a Hans Zimmer song 😂)

Revisiting this gallery since this image is currently my most popular Pinterest pin!

I also revamped the gallery blog post to include more information on eloping in Angeles National Forest. Lesser known areas are perfect for couples really looking for seclusion compared to parks like Yosemite (popular for good reasons!).

I LOVE the adventure of backpacking and combining it with an elopement! Camping weddings have such a unique magic to them 🤍

I do’s & unexpected guests 🦆 in breathtaking landscapes 🌲💍

Second shooting for in the Sequoia National Forest.

Death Valley only has a few months left before the temperature starts to heat up for summer! I typically wouldn’t recommend to visit past April since there is very limited shade and it’s regularly in the 90s.

If you make a visit now, you’ll even get to see the ancient Lake Manly that was revived at Badwater Basin Salt Flats from Hurricane Hilary. The last time DV had a lake was in 2005.



Host:

Hair: Daniela
Makeup Artist: Amelia

Sunrise Elopement/Mid-Day Casual:
Alissa + Michael

DOLOMITI 🤍

The Dolomites are a mountain range in northern Italy, known for its stunning jagged edges and stunning natural beauty. A picturesque and romantic backdrop for a private ceremony. The majestic peaks, alpine meadows, and charming villages create a unique and intimate atmosphere.

For couples seeking a memorable and secluded elopement experience— the Dolomites will not disappoint.

Also, 1000% recommend Gemma from as your wedding planner 💍

Into the slot canyons of Anza-Borrego ✨

Moments from our wedding weekend in the Dolomites this year. We explored a couple of places I had researched, and were in awe. Just as we were with every other scene in the Italian Alps.

But little did we know the night before our wedding that weather would cause us to create an alternate plan, leading us to exchange vows in these very locations.

There’s no place like the Dolomites.

“In the wild embrace of the great outdoors,
Two kindred spirits, their love explores.
A journey hidden, like a well-kept lore,
Elopement’s song, forevermore.”

🤍

Lost in love; Found in the canyons of Anza-Borrego.

Magical moments in desert sunsets 🌵

December is a beautiful time to visit Joshua Tree National Park for the mild temps. Autumn is a serene season, offering an escape from the usual heat amidst the stunning landscape, and you might even catch the park under a blanket of snow!

Choosing an elopement photographer who shares and believes in your vision for your special day is paramount.

Elopements are inherently intimate and personal, often driven by a unique narrative or a couple's distinctive style. A photographer who aligns with your vision will not only capture moments but also infuse them with the emotion and authenticity that make your elopement truly yours. Their understanding of your story ensures that the images will reflect the genuine essence of your union, creating a timeless visual narrative that resonates with you and your partner.

Finding your elopement photographer who embraces your vision is not just about documenting memories; it's about co-creating a portrayal of your unique love story.

As N & S stood amidst the stark beauty of the Mojave National Preserve, standing side by side, the decision to elope here felt like a dream come true. The vast, untamed landscape seemed to stretch on forever, and the desolation around us only served to intensify the intimate connection they shared.

Against a backdrop of dormant volcanoes and intricate lava tubes, N & S exchanged heartfelt vows. The brilliant sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow over their special moment. It was an experience of raw, natural beauty that perfectly mirrored their deep love for each other.

As night fell, the desert transformed into a celestial wonderland, with a sky full of stars that seemed to stretch to infinity. Their elopement among lava rocks formed eons ago was not just a wedding; it was a profound journey into the heart of nature and love, a memory etched in souls forever.

In honor of Death Valley National Park reopening after shutting down due to Hurricane Hilary damage, I bring you J & B’s adventurous day in the desert.

We explored the various landscapes from the bright sun to cotton candy skies until just the starry night illuminated the ground alongside our lanterns.

DVNP is a highly overlooked gem who caught the eyes of J & B. When we first spoke I was excited for them to witness this place for the first time. It’s one of my favorite parks with such a short window of opportunity to visit before it’s scorching or freezing.

We began where Furnace Creek Paleolake existed five million years ago, then adventured into a golden canyon with rich red sediment. Eventually, ending their day in hues of teal, pink, purple, blue, and warm brown.

Thank you, J & B, for the opportunity to witness and capture special moments between you ♥

When it comes to your elopement day, we want every detail to have its moment in order to tell the full story. Detail shots gather all of your meaningful items that represent your unique journey.

From handcrafted wedding bands and intricately designed invitation suite, to the delicate lace of your bridal veil and personalized vow cards, these items will help tell the story of your special day.

I love when couples also include sentimental heirlooms passed down or memorial items to keep loved ones close when they can’t be there.

How are you planning to weave meaningful details into your elopement day?

In the heart of nature's majesty, we find our love story. Eloping in Henry Cowell Redwood State Park is a surreal experience. Surrounded by towering ancient giants, our couple exchanged vows. Their hearts echoing in the silence of the forest.

The enchanting redwood canopy provided the most picturesque environment for this intimate ceremony. The filtered sunlight danced through the leaves, creating a whimsical ambiance.

As they explored the trails hand-in-hand, the serenity and tranquility of this hidden gem embraced us. The scent of moss and earth, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the birdsong that accompanied us along the way - it all felt like a symphony composed just for them.

If you're seeking a place of breathtaking beauty and a sense of profound connection, consider eloping in Henry Cowell Redwood State Park. It's a sanctuary where love and nature intertwine, where your union can be celebrated in harmony with the ancient rhythms of the forest.

🌲



hosts: +
models:
florals:
dress:

The desert oasis of Joshua Tree National Park truly comes alive on a summer night, with the most vibrant sunsets and breathtaking stargazing you'll ever witness.

As the sun begins to set, the creamsicle orange and pink hues of the sky reflect off the massive boulder formations, creating a mesmerizing display of color and light. And once the stars come out, the beauty of this natural wonder truly showcases.

As you explore this incredible landscape under the starry night sky, you'll feel a sense of peace and tranquility that can only be found in nature. Whether you're camping amongst the rocks or simply enjoying a peaceful evening hike, Joshua Tree is the perfect place to escape and reconnect with the world around you.

Experience the magic for yourself. Come for the gorgeous sunsets, stay for the starry nights.