This Desert Harbor Retreat elopement was pure magic! Cassie + Morgan planned a southwestern desert elopement in New Mexico expecting sunny skies and warm spring weather. But a few tiny snow flakes early in the day turned into a full-on snow storm that turned the red rocks at Desert Harbor Retreat into a winter wonderland. The giant snowflakes added an air of magic to the intimate elopement ceremony with Morgan and Cassie’s family. The soft sound of snow falling, the warmth of the fire, and the couple’s vows echoing off the red rocks made for a magical moment.
The unexpected weather didn’t keep Cassie and Morgan from eloping, and they actually were super excited for the snow! Growing up in California, Morgan had actually never seen snow in person and had so much fun with Cassie making a tiny snowman and having a snowball fight. After their ceremony and a brief break for cake and champagne, they explored the desert hills at Desert Harbor. They ended the day with a sweet “first dance” by candle light – the perfect end to a snowy elopement day!
Elopement Vendors:
Location | Desert Harbor Retreat
Hair + Makeup | Genica Lee
Flowers | Floral Fetish
Cake | Carole Kozak
Officiant | Raymond of Desert Harbor Retreat
Photography | Julie Haider
Ready to plan your elopement?
Hey, I’m Julie — I’d love to help you craft an elopement day full of peace, enjoying nature, and deep connection with each other and document every moment! 📸
Most couples lack the time and expertise to plan an epic elopement day. And that’s why I’m here to help you create a meaningful celebration with ease. ✨
This winter wedding is absolutely gorgeous. Their connection is beautiful. You told their story so well
Omg the baby goat and the snow and the red rocks!!! Soooo magical! You captured this desert elopement perfectly! Really beautiful wedding.
Surprise snow on their wedding day?! Talk about magical! What gorgeous photos!
Could you ask for any more magical weather? I don’t think so. These are so so so good. I can’t believe it snowed and I love how they just embraced it. Looked like a fantastic day and you really captured it beautifully, it was almost like being there myself. Beautiful photos <3
From never seeing snow to becoming a Snow Queen on her wedding day – so incredibly special! Can you ask for a more memorable day? They are so lucky that you captured their once-in-a-lifetime day so beautifully.
I’ve never loved snow so much!!
I am just in awe the bride rocked her dress…in that snowy winter wonderland! Beautiful
the contrast of the red rocks and the snow is just stunning! what a beautiful day!
Amazing work. Big respect, these are great.
Your work is absolutely gorgeous!!