Desert Meets the Sea

Going from clients, to friends, to creative collaborators is a one of a kind relationship. But is exactly what happened with megan and nate from cedar & pines, and stevie from wildly collective. and if i do say so myself - when imaginative minds that care about the environment are brought together, beauty happens. we strove to create an inspiring editorial showcasing an intentional, ethical outdoor elopement.

Featured in Green Wedding Shoes, we dreamt up a world where our love for the desert collided with the sea. we reveled in the juxtaposition of ocean meets dust, of quenching the parched land’s thirst. the winds that day picked up the hems of each gown, flowing delightfully against the still backdrop of Joshua Tree National Park. remaining mindful of what was being brought in and out of the desert, we shot at the home of cedar & pines, and wildly collective foraged dried plants found around their land.

joshua tree desert elopement wedding dress
The bride wore a selection of dresses by nordeen. Each one, crafted with mindfulness of the environment and with the intent of them being worn in natural, adventurous landscapes.
— Green Wedding Shoes, September 2021

showcasing several nordeen looks, each piece enhanced specific moments throughout the day. The first look began with The Faven Top and Maeve Skirt. the dappled satin of this elegant set shimmered against the airstream, like sunshine sparkling on the sea. For the ceremony moment, we changed into the Arwin Dress with the Wren Sash. The satin side of this material reflected in the mirrors found at local flea markets, creating the illusion of water.

the organic silk of the Lyra Gown glinted in the afternoon sun during the reception set up, mirroring the opalescent surface of freshwater pearls. The Kaia Sash cascaded down her back to blend with the crinkled weave of the table runner, reminiscent of waves crashing in the ocean. As the chilly evening breeze drifted through the desert landscape, The Bryony Sweater provided warmth to her décolletage during sunset portraits. We ended the night running barefoot amongst the joshua tree boulders, the Winola Coat billowing behind in the wind like swelling sails on a boat.

The centerpiece was reminiscent of a desert garden or an underwater reef scene: layers of dried elements, sand, wobbly tulips, open water in the centerpiece vessel, twisting candlesticks, and ochre pillar candles.
— Green Wedding Shoes, September 2021

Photography: Cedar & Pines

Design & Florals: Wildly Collective

joshua tree desert elopement wedding dress
Brenna Simmons