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If I could photograph every intimate wedding at the Morada in Joshua Tree California, I would. A small pink home sits alongside a long pool perfect for sunrise dip over looking the rolling hills of the desert. There is a special magic that lives in the desert. The way the light paints the landscape pulls you into what feels like a postcard, or a dream.
It was a gusty Saturday when I pulled up to the Morada estate to photograph Courtney and Andreas’s intimate wedding. Happily Ever Adventure Co was in the courtyard setting tables. The wind was blowing so hard the glassware was crashing and shattering on the desert floor. Florals were toppling over, the tablecloths were holding on by a thread.
A small panic sets in when you see weather like this on a wedding day. We’re mostly spoiled with sunny 75 degree weddings in Southern California. The desert where this Morada Joshua Tree wedding is set is a different story. I’ve seen wind, snow, thunderstorms, you name it. Always make sure you’re working with a team who’s prepared to take on whatever the skies have planned. We pulled desert rocks from all around the property to reset the tables and weight everything down. You can scroll down to the reception portion of this blog to see that it actually fit perfectly and gave the tables capes a beautiful organic desert feel.
The Wedding Day
I entered the main house to find a happy carefree bride. She wasn’t about to let a little wind ruin any part of her day – my kind of girl! The bridesmaids kept vibes high and glasses full of champagne, dancing around the house while they get ready together. The guys were in the guest house drinking whiskey and finishing vows.
My favorite part about a Morada Joshua Tree wedding (aside from the landscape) is that it’s all in one place. The ceremony was set against the hills in the backyard. They held cocktail hour in the courtyard leading back to the house. The reception was set right behind the pool, and they danced on the patio. It makes to so easy for everyone and save so much time.
I’ll let the images below tell you the details from Courtney and Andrea’s wedding. Nevertheless I hope you can feel the love as much as I can looking back. Cort and Dre – thank you so much for having me! Cheers to you!!









Their story begins here…


























































































