A Sunset Sky Railway Wedding in Santa Fe

Rae and Josh's destination wedding in Santa Fe was unlike anything I've photographed before. Their celebration combined a relaxed wedding weekend with one of the most memorable ceremonies imaginable—exchanging vows aboard the Sky Railway as the sun set over the New Mexico desert.

Welcome Party at Herve Wine Bar

The weekend began at Herve Wine Bar in downtown Santa Fe, where family and friends gathered for dinner, wine, and heartfelt toasts. Rae and Josh also created a custom crossword puzzle about their relationship, giving guests a fun way to connect before the wedding day.

Getting Ready in Santa Fe

Josh spent the morning getting ready at his mother's home, surrounded by family in a beautiful courtyard filled with blooming roses. Rae and her closest friends prepared at Piñon Court by La Fonda, just a short walk from the historic Sky Railway station.

A Sky Railway Ceremony

Rather than a traditional ceremony, guests boarded the Sky Railway and traveled through the New Mexico landscape together. Each vintage train car featured live music, handcrafted cocktails, and beautifully restored details that made the journey part of the experience.

As the train stopped in the desert, everyone stepped off to watch Rae and Josh exchange vows on a flatbed train car with the mountains and sunset stretching across the horizon. It was quiet, emotional, and unforgettable.

Reception at Legal Tender Saloon

The evening ended at Legal Tender Saloon & Eating House in Lamy, a beautifully preserved historic building dating back to the late 1800s. The warm interiors, western artwork, and historic character created an incredible setting for dinner, speeches, and a dance floor that stayed full all night.

A Natural Approach

From the beginning, Rae and Josh wanted photographs that felt candid and true to the day. Rather than directing every moment, I focused on documenting the celebration as it naturally unfolded—from conversations on the train to the desert ceremony and the energy of the reception.

If you're planning a wedding in Santa Fe or anywhere in New Mexico, I'd love to hear more about your plans.