Desert Weddings

Welcome to your desert wedding inspiration destination: a curated library of weddings with endless desert wedding ideas. Whether you’re getting married in Palm Springs, Tulum, or a suburban backyard, you can channel that bohemian desert wedding style anywhere. Browse through ceremony styles, tablescapes, and dance floor details, and hire the vendors behind the desert weddings you love.

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55 Results
A Desert Wedding for Sarah and Ben A Desert Wedding for Sarah and Ben
A Desert Wedding for Sarah and Ben
Ribera, New Mexico
A Boho Wedding for Courtenay and Brandon A Boho Wedding for Courtenay and Brandon
A Boho Wedding for Courtenay and Brandon
Santa Fe, New Mexico
A Glam Wedding for Kristine and Jordan A Glam Wedding for Kristine and Jordan
A Glam Wedding for Kristine and Jordan
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Paola and Niven A Desert Wedding for Paola and Niven
A Desert Wedding for Paola and Niven
Tucson, Arizona
An Outdoor Wedding for Tina and Brody An Outdoor Wedding for Tina and Brody
An Outdoor Wedding for Tina and Brody
Palm Springs, California
A Waterfront Wedding for Theodora and Charles A Waterfront Wedding for Theodora and Charles
A Waterfront Wedding for Theodora and Charles
Vouliagmeni, Greece
An Outdoor Wedding for Alison and Ken An Outdoor Wedding for Alison and Ken
An Outdoor Wedding for Alison and Ken
Paradise Valley, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Cara and Preston A Desert Wedding for Cara and Preston
A Desert Wedding for Cara and Preston
Tucson, Arizona
An Outdoor Wedding for Charlene and Jacques An Outdoor Wedding for Charlene and Jacques
An Outdoor Wedding for Charlene and Jacques
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Matt A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Matt
A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Matt
Private Residence
A Desert Wedding for Amanda and Mathieu A Desert Wedding for Amanda and Mathieu
A Desert Wedding for Amanda and Mathieu
Apache Junction, United States
A Desert Wedding for Chasity and Francois A Desert Wedding for Chasity and Francois
A Desert Wedding for Chasity and Francois
Moab, Utah
An Outdoor Wedding for Reed and Adam An Outdoor Wedding for Reed and Adam
An Outdoor Wedding for Reed and Adam
Scottsdale, Arizona
An Outdoor Wedding for Carli and Zeke An Outdoor Wedding for Carli and Zeke
An Outdoor Wedding for Carli and Zeke
San Juan Capistrano, California
A Desert Wedding for Molly and Kenny A Desert Wedding for Molly and Kenny
A Desert Wedding for Molly and Kenny
Santa Fe, New Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Alyssa and Jon A Desert Wedding for Alyssa and Jon
A Desert Wedding for Alyssa and Jon
Santa Fe, New Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Kate and Mike A Desert Wedding for Kate and Mike
A Desert Wedding for Kate and Mike
San Juan Capistrano, California
A Desert Wedding for Kylie and Isaiah A Desert Wedding for Kylie and Isaiah
A Desert Wedding for Kylie and Isaiah
Albuquerque,
A Desert Wedding for Annie and Robert A Desert Wedding for Annie and Robert
A Desert Wedding for Annie and Robert
Tucson, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Hannah and Tim A Desert Wedding for Hannah and Tim
A Desert Wedding for Hannah and Tim
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Boho Wedding for Nikki and Nick A Boho Wedding for Nikki and Nick
A Boho Wedding for Nikki and Nick
Todos Santos, Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Laura and Joey A Desert Wedding for Laura and Joey
A Desert Wedding for Laura and Joey
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Wedding Rehearsal for Nikki and Nick A Wedding Rehearsal for Nikki and Nick
A Wedding Rehearsal for Nikki and Nick
Todos Santos, Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Brooke and Jordan A Desert Wedding for Brooke and Jordan
A Desert Wedding for Brooke and Jordan
Private Residence
A Desert Wedding for Shanan and Evan A Desert Wedding for Shanan and Evan
A Desert Wedding for Shanan and Evan
Scottsdale, Arizona
An Intimate Wedding for Kenzie and Erik An Intimate Wedding for Kenzie and Erik
An Intimate Wedding for Kenzie and Erik
Private Residence
An Intimate Wedding for Patricia and Andre An Intimate Wedding for Patricia and Andre
An Intimate Wedding for Patricia and Andre
Twentynine Palms, California
A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach
A Desert Wedding for Samantha and Zach
Taos, New Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Sunna and Eric A Desert Wedding for Sunna and Eric
A Desert Wedding for Sunna and Eric
Private Residence
A Desert Wedding for Season and Elliot A Desert Wedding for Season and Elliot
A Desert Wedding for Season and Elliot
Santa Fe, New Mexico
A Desert Wedding for Wendy and Chico A Desert Wedding for Wendy and Chico
A Desert Wedding for Wendy and Chico
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
An Outdoor Wedding for Hilary and Adam An Outdoor Wedding for Hilary and Adam
An Outdoor Wedding for Hilary and Adam
Palm Springs, California
An Outdoor Wedding for Marylynn and Dan An Outdoor Wedding for Marylynn and Dan
An Outdoor Wedding for Marylynn and Dan
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Ashwin A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Ashwin
A Desert Wedding for Lauren and Ashwin
Santa Fe, New Mexico
An Edgy Wedding for Maria and Andy An Edgy Wedding for Maria and Andy
An Edgy Wedding for Maria and Andy
Santa Fe, New Mexico
An Outdoor Wedding for Jessica and Alex An Outdoor Wedding for Jessica and Alex
An Outdoor Wedding for Jessica and Alex
Palm Springs, California
A Modern Wedding for Ashley and Evan A Modern Wedding for Ashley and Evan
A Modern Wedding for Ashley and Evan
Palm Springs, California
A Boho Wedding for Nancy and Wyatt A Boho Wedding for Nancy and Wyatt
A Boho Wedding for Nancy and Wyatt
Private Residence
A Desert Wedding for Tori and Geoff A Desert Wedding for Tori and Geoff
A Desert Wedding for Tori and Geoff
Scottsdale, Arizona
A Desert Wedding for Christine and Josh A Desert Wedding for Christine and Josh
A Desert Wedding for Christine and Josh
Joshua Tree, California

Desert Weddings: 

Everything You Need to Know

If you and your partner are planning to get married in the near future, a desert wedding might be the ideal option for you. Because there are so many options and destinations to host one, finding the perfect desert wedding venue is sometimes difficult. If you want to go through all of the best spots and ideas, our directory provides a glimpse inside real-life desert weddings and it can help you plan your own desert wedding—including the top venues and vendors who can bring your vision to life. 

Planning your desert wedding begins with the choice of a venue. Desert wedding venues are often outdoor venues in locations like Las Vegas, Sedona, and Palm Springs (just to name a few). Any desert wedding venue is guaranteed to offer a unique backdrop for your special event, and this guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about desert wedding venues in Arizona, California, Nevada, and other areas in the United States and around the world. It will also offer advice on what to wear to a desert wedding and how to decorate your desert wedding venue to create the perfect atmosphere for your big day.

This inside look at desert wedding venue options and decor will assist you in making the right decisions for your wedding ceremony and reception. By checking out the photos of real weddings in our directory, you can decide on the perfect desert wedding venues in Arizona, California, or anywhere else you like. This can help you to plan your desert wedding from start to finish and ensure it’s the most memorable day for you and your guests.

What is a desert wedding?

As the name suggests, desert weddings are held outdoors in these specific ecosystems. These scenic areas are primarily located in the southwestern part of the United States and you’ll find deserts in many other areas around the world too. Destination desert weddings can allow you and your guests to experience the glamor and stunning vistas of stark red rock cliffs and rolling sand dunes in locations all across the globe.

Desert weddings are unique because of their stunning natural settings. Red rock formations, wide skies, and unforgettable scenery can make your wedding day even more special. Many desert wedding venues offer indoor-outdoor convenience to help guests beat the heat and provide shelter from the sun. Choosing a desert wedding venue for your upcoming ceremony and reception can create the perfect foundation for the rest of the key elements and decor.

Coming up with desert wedding ideas or deciding on a desert wedding theme can be challenging. By working closely with your partner and using these real events as inspiration for your own unique desert wedding ideas, you can find the perfect desert wedding venues and vendors for your ceremony and reception.

Why are desert weddings so popular?

Desert weddings have become an increasingly popular choice in recent years. Some of the factors that have played a role in their popularity are listed below:

  • Little to no rain: For couples interested in getting married outdoors, desert wedding venues generally guarantee that nothing will rain on your parade—literally. The lack of precipitation or dryness in these locations can make it easier to incorporate your desert wedding decor into outdoor areas and to hold your desert wedding reception under the open skies and even under the stars. Just keep in mind that some deserts are warmer than others, and temperatures may change throughout the year.
  • Warm weather: Deserts in the United States (Sedona wedding venues or other spots in California, Arizona, and Nevada) are generally warm and mild, but beware of summer months. Considered these areas’ “shoulder season” (or off-season), summertime (June, July, and August) are typically not recommended for outdoor events.
  • Stunning natural vistas: The red rocks, golden sands, and other colorful aspects of desert environments can provide cues for your own desert wedding colors. You can even request desert wedding guest attire that is in tune with this natural backdrop for your wedding.
  • Lower costs: In some cases, you may be able to find Sedona wedding venues and other desert wedding venues in Arizona, California, Las Vegas, or in other areas of the United States that could be much more affordable than venues in big cities or other popular destinations. This can help you to find the perfect desert wedding venue for your reception and ceremony while saving you money on the overall cost of your wedding.
  • Adaptable to various themes: While casual, rustic, and bohemian themes are common for desert weddings, you can easily transform these venues with desert wedding decor and flowers to suit just about any color palette or general preference.

These advantages can make it easier for you to plan the desert wedding reception and ceremony of your dreams while maintaining a budget you and your partner are comfortable with.

How much do desert weddings cost?

The average cost of a wedding in the United States was approximately $23,000 in 2020. Depending on the desert wedding venue you choose and the vendors you hire, you can expect to pay around that (or more). Sedona wedding venues, for instance, are often in demand and may come with a higher venue rental cost than some other desert wedding venues in Arizona. In general, your desert wedding venue could take up as much as 50-70% of your overall wedding budget.

Desert wedding packages are available from some resort destinations and dedicated desert wedding venues. These can sometimes allow you to save money on the overall cost of your wedding but will take some of the hassle out of choosing your entire vendor team. Making sure that these packages will complement your desert wedding theme can help you to save time and effort when planning your desert wedding.

Along with your desert wedding venue, a number of other factors can play a role in the cost of your wedding:

Desert Wedding Planners: 

Selecting your ideal wedding planner is often the key to success in finding the right vendors and making the best possible decision for your wedding. Your wedding planner can provide you with helpful desert wedding ideas, including desert wedding dress ideas and options for desert wedding decor that will create the magical environment you want for your once-in-a-lifetime event.

Desert Wedding Dress: 

Wondering what to wear to a desert wedding? For starters, finding the perfect desert wedding dress and other fashion elements can be challenging and, in some cases, costly. Bridesmaid dresses and other desert wedding attire should reflect your desired theme and be comfortable (especially if the temperature is at an all-time high!). Think about your desert wedding theme and color palette before you start looking through potential styles. Choosing a palette of desert wedding colors and providing guidance for your invited guests on the appropriate desert wedding guest attire can be helpful for those wondering about the dress code.

Desert Wedding Flowers:

Working with an experienced wedding florist to create your desert wedding bouquet will allow you to create a unified look that encompasses your desert wedding decor, theme, and the environment as a whole. Your desert wedding bouquet can pick up color cues from your desert wedding dress or other elements of décor to create the most elegant look for your desert wedding in California or Arizona, an exotic desert wedding in Morocco, and anything in between.

Desert Wedding Caterers and Cake Bakers:

After the cost of your desert wedding venue, the price of caterers and wedding cake creators is often a close second. Finding practical ways to lower these costs can help you and your partner to stay within your desert wedding budget.

When planning your desert wedding, you can count on our directory as a source for desert wedding ideas and answers to your questions. The photos of real-life desert weddings can offer all the inspiration you need to find the perfect desert wedding bouquet or to show you more examples of what to wear to a desert wedding. Whether you are considering Sedona wedding venues or looking at pop-up weddings in California or Las Vegas, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect spots to host desert weddings.

What are popular destinations for desert weddings?

In Arizona, Sedona wedding venues are among the most jaw-dropping, and the location offers a variety of activities for you and your guests before and after you say, “I do.” You can also plan your desert wedding in Las Vegas, Nevada, known for Elvis impersonators and gambling galore. And desert weddings in California are also in high demand, particularly due to venues in Joshua Tree or Palm Springs. But these are just a few of the most popular desert wedding venue options. If you are looking for even more details, these options may make sense for you and your partner:

Desert Wedding Venues in Arizona:

These options include Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Sedona wedding venues that offer stunning views and gorgeous architecture. Many Sedona wedding venues also have easy access to accommodations and dining facilities, which can make planning your desert wedding reception easier too. Temperatures can be seriously high in the summer months and dip after the sun goes down, so plan your desert wedding attire for Sedona wedding venues accordingly.

Sedona Wedding Venues:

Sedona wedding venues are particularly popular because of all that this Arizona town provides for couples and their guests. There’s plenty of hiking trails, wineries, and so many other activities that Sedona wedding venues might provide directly too. Located near the Flagstaff area, Sedona is a short drive from the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport. Keep in mind that the closest international airport is in Phoenix, which should be about a two-hour drive from any of the Sedona wedding venues.

Desert Weddings in California:

In California, there are plenty of Palm Springs desert weddings and the ever-popular Joshua Tree National Park is constantly on couples’ radars. Whether you are planning an elopement in Joshua Tree or a more formal wedding in nearby Palm Springs, your desert wedding in California will be an event you and your guests will always remember. In general, costs for desert weddings in California can be more expensive than those in other areas. Keep this in mind when planning for your desert wedding in California. Temperatures for your desert wedding in California will typically be mild, but keep in mind that summer months (June, July, and August) are scorching. With these weather concerns in mind, you should be able to figure out the ideal desert wedding attire for you, your partner, and your wedding party.

Death Valley Desert Weddings:

Death Valley desert weddings comprise a special subset of desert weddings in California. Death Valley is located on the edge of the Great Basin Desert and is known for being one of the hottest and driest places on Earth. During the summer months, high temperatures routinely reach into the triple digits and remain very warm during the night. If you are planning a Death Valley desert wedding in California, taking precautions to avoid issues with the heat is recommended for you and your guests.

Permits are required for weddings in Joshua Tree and Death Valley. If you plan to get married at a desert wedding venue in these areas, you should check online to find out more about restrictions, required permits, and other factors that could have an impact on your special day. Desert weddings in California may have more stringent requirements and restrictions than a desert wedding in Las Vegas, Nevada, or in other areas of the United States and beyond.

Desert Wedding in Las Vegas:

Las Vegas desert wedding options include elopements as well as traditional weddings. If you are planning a desert wedding in Las Vegas or the surrounding areas, it is worth noting that temperatures can rise into triple digits during summer days and can fall close to freezing at night during the winter months. Including information about the appropriate desert wedding guest attire for your Las Vegas desert wedding reception can help your guests to feel more comfortable during every season of the year.

What decor do you need for desert weddings?

Many venues for desert weddings include decor that complement the look of Sedona wedding venues or any other location you choose. Feel free to bring in classic desert wedding colors to inform your design plan. Wherever you plan to marry your partner, it is worthwhile to look at examples of decor for desert weddings to find the perfect options for your upcoming celebrations. Some questions to consider when planning your décor for Sedona wedding venues or for a Las Vegas desert wedding, among many others, include the following:

  • Will your wedding be held indoors or outdoors? Your options for decorating Sedona wedding venues may vary depending on whether they offer indoor halls or an outdoor area for your desert wedding. You should also check with your Arizona, California, or other wedding venues to determine whether bathroom and kitchen facilities are available on-site.
  • Most desert wedding venues (and any other spots, for that matter) should allow you to add your own decor and other essentials to the desert setting. Make sure to check with your venue to confirm if chairs and tables need to be sourced. If they are not already available, however, you will need to rent them and transport them to your venue at your own expense.
  • If you are planning a desert wedding in Las Vegas, you may have easy access to wedding décor vendors who can deliver the right flowers and tablescapes for your reception as well as other elements of decor to complement your wedding theme.

Whether you are considering elegant Sedona wedding venues or looking for desert wedding ideas, the right decor can help you make your venue and your special day as unique as possible.

How do you start planning a desert wedding?

One of the best places to start the planning process for your desert wedding is by looking through our directory of real couples. You and your partner can see real-life weddings close to home or around the world to help you find the perfect venues and vendors for your desert wedding. By taking in this inspiration, you can take notes on all the desert wedding ideas and start planning the big day of your dreams right now.