The Howards || Rick + Megan

In early February, I hopped on a flight from Dallas to Palm Springs, California. And while I didn’t have a dream and a cardigan like Miley Cyrus, I did have my camera and a game plan to ensure that rick and Megan would experience one of the best days of their lives during their elopement in the high desert. the day of their elopement was beautiful and sunny - although if you’re familiar with that part of Southern California, you know it doesn't often come without it’s wind!

While these two opted to celebrate their love with just the two of them, it didn’t mean their family wasn’t with them in spirit. the day truly wouldn’t have been complete without the dozens of FaceTime calls and family heirlooms. it was so special to see their family so excited and supportive of their decision to elope!

following their stunning and simplistic ceremony at a private estate near Palm Springs, we hopped in the car and made our way to one of my favorite places - Joshua tree national park. There, we pulled off on the side of the road and braved the now-chilling air. Rick and Megan were total troopers despite the cold and wind! I’m so grateful that they trusted me with the process of documenting this special time in their lives. It was always so evident that they were so grateful to have me there - and I was so grateful to experience their elopement!

on our way back, they were the sweetest and bought me coffee. if you know me at all, that is the way to my heart lol. On this drive, I also shared with them my biggest surprise of all - I was gifting them a little wedding highlight video! As soon as I have that film uploaded to YouTube, i’ll be sure to drop the link here.

We finished up the night with some super fun flash bridals at the estate they were staying at. Sometimes, there are clients we just click with - rick and Megan were that for me. while I always have amazing clients, they truly were some of my ideal couples to work with. Forever wishing them all the best in the world!!

Photographer: Hailey Nicole creative

venue: private estate

hair stylist: Nanci stephine @nancistephine

dress: Martina liana

tux: indochino