Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Dubai, UAE Elopement Photo Story Award

With the desert winds adding a touch of whimsy to the day, Ariana and Nishan clasp hands and begin their walk down the aisle. They are taking their first steps on their journey as a married couple, and it's clear that they are ready for the adventure that lies ahead.

By planning a destination wedding in Dubai at a luxurious desert resort, Ariana and Nishan were able to blend both culture and tradition throughout their ceremony and reception. Their wedding day began with an intimate Sikh ceremony at the Gurudwara Temple in Jebel Ali, which was followed by an afternoon dessert at the Bab al Shams Resort.

Both the couple as well as the guests were able to rest, relax and recover from the heat of the day for several hours before reuniting for the couple's vows, which were recited alongside the Arabian Desert sand dunes. Once the vows were said and the couple was declared husband and wife, everyone was able to dance the night away under the twinkling lights that were strung above the outdoor reception space.

The couple chose a ceremony location that was nestled between two sand dunes, which added to the intimacy and romantic ambiance of the experience.

The soft white sands and the gentle breeze created a dreamlike setting for Ariana and Nishan's vow ceremony. The couple held hands throughout the entire ceremony, completely immersed in the moment and committed to reciting the vows that they had written for one another.

The new husband and wife escape for a private moment to celebrate. This oasis in the desert provided them with a place to rest their bodies, ease their minds and absorb the moment. As their guests dine and drink on the dunes in the background, Ariana and Nishan toast one another and their fledgling marriage.

Before long, the dance floor was filled with guests who were ready to swirl and twirl with one another as the night turned into early morning.