Bohemian White Sands Elopement: Malia + Derrik

White Sands Elopement

Malia + Derrik sat down to spreadsheet (that’s right, spreadsheet!) what their wedding would look like if they invited all the individuals needed to avoid offending or disappointing someone. That number was humbling. Deciding a large midwestern wedding was not for them, it was clear they wanted to elope + they chose to do so somewhere they’d never been: White Sands National Monument in New Mexico.

Their photographers, Colagrossi & Co. and The Kismet Collective, tell us, These two wanted a place unique, surreal, quiet and elusive. The guidelines for White Sands weddings severely limits decoration – fresh flowers and greens are not allowed and candles are useless against the high winds and blowing gypsum minerals. The best part about White Sands is the sunset. When the sky turns pink and the white dunes turn blue – its almost impossible to know which way is up!

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

Because fresh flowers were not allowed in the park, Malia creatively decided on a dried bouquet of air plants, king protea and eucalyptus to carry. She + Derrik wanted a ceremony backdrop to not only withstand the high winds but also to mimic the surreal landscape, so a stark canvas tipi that just blended into the peaks of white gypsum was an ideal solution. We love that Malia + Derrik decided against shoes, going barefoot for the entire evening. A detail that definitely went with the feel of their day!

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

Major love for Malia’s Dreamers and Lovers two piece dress!

Dreamers and Lovers Dress

White Sands Elopement

Dreamers and Lovers Dress

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

Such gorgeous, gorgeous portraits!

White Sands Elopement

Dreamers and Lovers Dress

airplant bouquet

White Sands Elopement

White Sands Elopement

We’re so glad these two followed their heart and went for a wedding that was exactly what they wanted!

Congrats to you, Malia + Derrik, and best wishes from Team GWS!

photography: Colagrossi & Co. and The Kismet Collective // venue: White Sands National Monument, New Mexico // florals: Be Married // wedding dress: Dreamers and Lovers // styling: Fixx Salon // groom’s attire: Banana Republic // rings: Van Horne Jewelers // teepee: Amazon

Explore: