Vow renewal in the Sahara Desert
Alli & Ryan
Sahara Desert
Out of the numerous weddings we’ve photographed around the world, there is something about shooting in the desert that feels deeply humbling.
Our last experience with a desert wedding was at Burning Man in 2018 (check out those unique photos here), and I thought nothing could ever compare… until this life changing journey in the Sahara desert with Alli and Ryan.
To be completely honest, it was a very difficult experience. I don’t normally share my personal story when shooting weddings, but this one had a powerful impact. Not only are the images we captured other-worldly, but this story felt like a divine unfolding.
Journey to the Sahara Desert
The journey started with a 12 hour intense bus ride from Marrakesh to the edge of the Sahara, which we continued on camels to reach our camp as the sun was starting to set.
We had waited over two years for this moment (and in Alli’s case, her entire life) and traveled all the way from Austin, TX to reach the place where they had dreamed of celebrating their love. So many compromises were previously made, as their original plan to do a destination wedding in Morocco had been reinvented to a vow renewal to still honor their vision. So when we finally arrived to the camels, it was go time.
Alli rushed to get into her wedding dress, while I desperately attempted to communicate to the desert people that Jess, the videographer, and myself, the photographer, had to be grouped together with our clients. That unfortunately failed, and Ryan and I were placed together on camels in the front while Alli and Jess were all the way in the back. It was my first time on a camel, but I somehow managed to do whatever backbends necessary to still get some shots of Alli.
Then all of a sudden, my camel decided to throw me off! Stunned and anxious about the situation, I decided to continue via foot to capture some closer images of Alli as the light was almost disappearing. I underestimated how fast camels actually move and had to run on sand and rocks to keep up with the group. Needless to say, it was the most stressful shooting experience of my life but I was relieved to know that I still managed to capture some moments.
Desert Camp
When we finally arrived to the camp, we were eager to relax and enjoy the evening. The desert people lit a bonfire and everyone cozied up with some fun live music. But the night was far from over, as we realized that nobody’s luggage had been delivered to the camp.
Fortunately, Jess and I were able to safely venture out of the desert at night to retrieve everyone’s bags (although it first appeared that were getting kidnapped by our jeep driver). Jess and I let out the biggest sigh of relief for surviving that traumatic episode, and spent the last hours of the night gazing at the star filled sky in awe and gratitude.
There was also a scary sandstorm that almost swept up our tent and a giant desert beetle that lived in our shower. None of this was shaping up to be the experience we had hoped for!
However, I promise that there’s a reason I’m sharing all this context.
Desert Magic
Exhausted from shooting all week in Marrakesh (check out those images here) and from our stressful journey into the desert, I motivated Alli and Ryan (and myself) to wake up at the break of dawn so they could finally do their vow renewals and have the images they had longed for.
And it was magic.
Despite being worn out and tested over and over, there was something about showing up for the soft morning glow over the barren landscape that was a total soul level reset. We were filled with deep presence and divine appreciation. It was as if all expectations and obstacles were no longer relevant, and all that was left was ourselves and infinite possibility. The desert has that kind of power, it seems.
As does love…
Looking back at these images now, I can easily say this trip changed our lives. It recalibrated priorities, helped us connect with ourselves and each other on a deeper level, and switched gears to tackle life more consciously.
Often the hardest journeys are the most transformative ones. I feel extremely fortunate to have had this deeply humbling experience and the path it opened up for me since. It also helped me realize how much I care about my clients, and that I’m blessed to have found a meaningful way to be of service.
Despite all the challenges, Alli and Ryan accomplished their dream together. They renewed their vows with more conviction, more evidence and strength in their partnership, and memories they will treasure for the rest of their lives.
If you’re planning the trip of a lifetime, it helps to have the right people sharing the journey with you. We’d love to hear about your exciting plans, help elevate your adventure, and celebrate your union. Feel free to reach out, our passports and hearts are ready for you :)