A Beautiful Destination Wedding Weekend in Taos, New Mexico
Destination weddings aren’t something I normally take on these days, but when my sister asked me to photograph hers, the answer was an easy yes. With her living in Texas, my parents in Kansas, and me in Colorado, meeting in Taos, New Mexico for a long wedding weekend felt like the perfect way to bring everyone together. It turned out to be one of the most meaningful weekends we’ve had in years.
She chose a gorgeous goji berry farm tucked right into the mountains as her venue, and it couldn’t have been more perfect for an intimate ceremony. The retreat offered everything you could want for a small, peaceful celebration — lodging, hiking trails, animals, cozy New Mexican cabins, even the option to sleep in a tipi. It was the kind of place where you instantly feel grounded and connected. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VENUE
A Mountain Ceremony and the Most Beautiful New Mexico Sunset
The ceremony took place against a stunning New Mexican mountain backdrop. The landscape was quiet, warm, and full of that soft desert light that makes Taos feel magical. My sister and her husband exchanged vows surrounded by family, with the mountains rising behind them and the goji berry fields stretching out around us.
Right after the ceremony, the storms rolled in — dramatic, moody, and very New Mexico. But just before sunset, the clouds opened and gave us the most breathtaking sky. Pink, orange, gold, and deep blue all layered together. It was the kind of sunset photographers dream about, and we took full advantage of it for their formal portraits.
A Weekend Filled With Family, Quiet Moments, and Celebration
One of the best parts of photographing this wedding was simply having uninterrupted time with my family. Life gets busy, and we’re all spread across different states, so spending a whole weekend together felt rare and special. Between the ceremony, the small reception, the hikes, and the slow mornings in the cabins, it was exactly the kind of gathering we all needed.
The reception was simple and sweet — good food, good music, and the people who matter most. The venue was perfect for a small group, with plenty of space for the kids to explore and the adults to relax.
Why I Still Love Photographing Small Weddings
I photographed many weddings when my kids were younger and life was a little less chaotic. Now that they’re older and involved in every activity imaginable, my weekends are more precious. I don’t take on many weddings anymore, but I do love photographing the occasional small, intimate event — especially ones filled with meaning, family, and beautiful scenery.
If that sounds like the kind of wedding you’re planning, I’d love to talk.
