Lori & Ben’s Tucson Elopement Tucson Elopement under the Blooming Ironwood Trees of the Sonoran Desert
Lori and Ben chose a Tucson Elopement surrounded by delicate Ironwood Tree blossoms and some of the largest saguaros in the world. A Sonoran Desert spring wedding, with all the new life that spring rains bring.
These two beautiful souls had been dating for two years when the pandemic hit. They spent many days seeking refuge hiking in the Ironwood forests near their home in Tucson. They embraced nature and each other as the world went through a massive shift. Their love grew deeper, and they knew they wanted to plan an intentional elopement in the place they had found peace in a tumultuous time.
Lori and Ben’s wedding day was a perfect blend of rustic desert met with intentional elements lovingly brought together.
As a local artist, Ben’s attention to detail and incorporation of subtle meaningful elements in his attire were on display. From his belt buckle of a “steady ship in a storm”, to his hat and cowboy boots as a nod to Lori’s ranch roots back in Wyoming.
Lori embraced a mix of vintage vibes wit her classic lace dress and bright red leather boots, combined with a whimsical flower crown and wildflower bouquet.
They enjoyed an emotional first look before walking over to their chosen ceremony site with the desert hillside in the distance. It was nestled between two intertwined saguaro cacti to one side, and a beautiful blooming ironwood tree on the other.
As the sun started to near the horizon, they exchanged private vows and exchanged rings surrounded by the desert breeze. After one of the most emotional ceremonies I’ve ever witnessed, we moved back over to the hill overlook to watch the sunset. They played some of their favorite songs, dancing and laughing as the moon rose in the distance.
When the light was beginning to dim into twilight, we drove back over to their campsite where Lori set up a beautiful picnic spread. They enjoyed champagne and a mix of gourmet cheeses, jellies, fresh fruits and crackers in celebration.
As the cool chill of a desert night started to creep in, Ben created a fire in the camp ring for warmth and light. They snuggled in to read letters from their loved ones to the music of the crackling campfire. We ended our evening with a dance next to the fire, and they stayed to camp for the evening.
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Hi! I’m Shannon Durazo
A former project manager turned your Arizona elopement photographer, go-to problem solver, and Adventure Buddy
Are you ready for a nature-filled wedding or an epic elopement adventure? I’m here to do more than take photos—I’m here to help you create a day that feels as incredible as it looks. From scouting jaw-dropping locations and sharing vendor recommendations to crafting timelines that capture the golden-hour magic, we’re building more than just a wedding day; we’re creating art while putting your experience first. Whether it’s hiking a mountain, off-roading to a secret spot, or chasing sunsets, we’ll make memories as unique and extraordinary as your love story.
I specialize in capturing both intimate elopements and weddings in Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and Northern New Mexico.
