Southwest-Inspired Minimalist Elopement in Big Bend National Park
Lost Mine Trail Elopement in Big Bend National Park
When most people think of Texas, they think of ranchland, rolling plains– and the capital city of Austin. While those images are certainly accurate, when I think of Texas, I think of my favorite corner of the state: Big Bend.
Tucked against the Rio Grande on the border with Mexico is one of the most iconic landscapes of West Texas. Mountain ranges, rivers and canyons, dusty roads, and sprawling desert are just a few of the incredible landscapes that make up the Big Bend region. It’s a harsh environment that takes a bit of effort to access, but when you do, the journey is so worth it.
Jess and Bryan decided the extra effort was worth it and opted to have their wedding ceremony on the Lost Mine Trail in Big Bend National Park. The Lost Mine Trail is located in the Chisos Mountains and provides sweeping views of the recognizable Window Trail and Chisos Basin. Coming in at a total of 5 miles, it’s a pretty solid hike to tackle on your wedding day, but Jess and Bryan were up to the task.
We started their wedding day with a sunrise roadtrip on the east side of the national park, soaking in the hot springs and watching the golden sunlight rise from behind the Sierra del Carmen. We even saw some wild horses on our drive!
After the sun was up and it started to get hot, we went back to their casita at Basecamp Terlingua so that they could start getting ready for the hike to their ceremony.
Jess and Bryan pulled on Southwest-inspired details for their minimalist elopement, with Bryan choosing to wear a bolo tie and Jess wearing cowboy boots. Their rustic cake table was a standout fixture of their day–and Jess styled the whole table herself!
Before heading into Big Bend National Park for their ceremony, Jess and Bryan did a sweet first look at their casita and then we caravaned into the park and hiked the 2.5 miles up to the peak of the Lost Mine Trail.
High wind is a common occurrence in the spring months, but Jessica’s wedding dress took it like a champ. Her long train and off-shoulder sleeves handled the weather perfectly (Check out my blog post: the best wedding dresses for desert elopements) and gave a whimsical feel to the whole experience.
After a breathtaking ceremony in the Chisos, we hiked the 2.5 miles back down during golden hour and finished the day with their first dance on a dusty road in the headlights of their car. I met them back at their casita for a late-night cake cutting and champagne popping before we parted ways after an incredible West Texas wedding day.
Dress: // Florist: // Rings: // Suit: // Accessories: // Vow Books: // Hair and Make up: // Hello Flawless Artistry
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