A Joyful LGBTQ+ Wedding at Nxwhere California | Joshua Tree Wedding Photographer

marissaaden
Sep 20
3 min read

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels less like a production and more like an epic hangout with your favorite people, Nxwhere California in Joshua Tree is where it’s at. As a Joshua Tree wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of venues — and this one is something special. Think desert magic meets modern edge, with a trampoline and skate pool thrown in for good measure. It’s the kind of place that invites you to let loose, be yourself, and celebrate love in a way that feels authentic.

That vibe was exactly what Kassina & Cassey wanted for their wedding. From the moment they told me they envisioned their day like a house party — fun, playful, and full of love — I knew this was going to be a wedding for the books.

Kassina & Cassey’s Joshua Tree Wedding

When I finally met Kassina & Cassey in person, I caught myself thinking, “Can I please be friends with these two!?” They’re the kind of couple who radiate joy — not just with each other, but with everyone around them. Their wedding day wasn’t just about pretty details (though there were plenty); it was about connection, love, and the people who’ve been cheering them on all along.

Their ceremony was incredibly personal. A friend performed spoken word about queer love, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the desert. Kassina’s dad officiated the ceremony and gifted them a bottle of wine he had made and saved for his daughter since she was a kid. During cocktail hour, a friend played guitar and sang, giving the whole evening that intimate, heart-centered vibe.

The reception? Pure magic. Cassey’s sisters pulled off a surprise choreographed dance, and from that moment on, the dance floor was lit. I’ve photographed a lot of parties, but this one was different — it was electric. To top it off, a close friend surprised them with a documentary-style video they’d been filming for months, weaving together their story in the most touching way. I definitely cried behind my camera.

Why I Love Photographing LGBTQ+ Weddings in Joshua Tree

Being an LGBTQ+ wedding photographer means more to me than just documenting a wedding — it’s about creating a space where couples feel celebrated, loved, and fully seen. Kassina & Cassey’s wedding was such a beautiful reminder of that. From the spoken word about queer love to Kassina’s mom sharing her reflections on interracial and same-sex marriage, their day honored not just their love, but the bigger journey that got us here.

Joshua Tree naturally attracts couples who want something real and untraditional — couples who care about meaning, connection, and fun over perfection. That’s my favorite kind of love story to capture.

unique getting ready photo of bride and bridesmaids in front of tv wall at nxwhere california joshua tree wedding

bride spinning around in her dress during first look

Why Nxwhere California is the Perfect Joshua Tree Wedding Venue

Let’s talk about this venue, because honestly, it’s a gem. Nxwhere California isn’t your cookie-cutter wedding space — it’s 15 acres of desert beauty, modern rustic vibes, and unique features that make it stand out.

Here’s what couples love most about it:

A trampoline + skate pool: Yep, you read that right. Imagine wedding photos of you and your guests jumping on a trampoline in full wedding attire — unforgettable and so much fun.
Privacy + intimacy: You can rent out the entire property, which means no strangers wandering around — just you and your people.
Desert backdrop: Joshua Tree sunsets are unmatched, and this property gives you that wild, cinematic feel in every direction.
Flexible spaces: Whether you want to keep things intentional and slow or go all-out with a dance party, Nxwhere California gives you the space to make it your own.

For couples like Kassina & Cassey, it was the perfect fit — laidback, playful, and totally unique.

Planning Your Joshua Tree Wedding at Nxwhere California

If you’re drawn to the idea of a wedding that feels more like an unforgettable experience than a checklist, Nxwhere California should be on your radar. It’s the kind of space that adapts to you — whether that’s an intimate elopement or a full-on house party.

And if you’re still on the hunt for a Joshua Tree wedding photographer, hi — I’d love to be that person for you. My approach is simple: I want you to feel comfortable, celebrated, and free to be yourselves. Because the best photos come from real moments, not forced poses.