New Mexico Wedding Photographer Ginger Russell

Fun Facts… Denver has a reputation for being the “mile high city” but Santa Fe and Albuquerque are actually higher in altitude. Santa Fe is 7,000 feet above sea level and Albuquerque is at 5,300 feet. Most people don’t realize that our altitude in northern New Mexico is well above a mile. And being so high up means that our air is rarefied and thinner.

Here’s a few tips so that you and your guests can safely enjoy your destination wedding in the Land of Enchantment!
Drink lots of water! – It usually takes about 48 hours to adjust to our altitude and staying hydrated helps. Before your trip to northern New Mexico, and while you are here, drink plenty of water, at least a gallon of agua per day. This is the best way to help your body easily adjust. Northern New Mexico is considered high desert and that means our low humidity level keeps the air dry, so you need about twice as much water here as you would drink at home.

Watch your alcohol intake – Save yourself for the wedding reception! I know it’s tempting to have a little too much fun the night before the wedding but limit how many cocktails or other alcohol you consume and you’ll have more energy and enjoy your wedding day more. Remember it will be a beautiful but very long day, especially for brides who will be getting up early to get ready. Staying hydrated and limiting your alcohol consumption will help you to look and feel your best!

Wear layers – No matter what the season, prepare to dress in layers. The sun and wind are powerful forces in New Mexico. It can feel much warmer than the actual temperature during the daytime, but then become very chilly after the sun sets. So remember to pack your favorite wrap, shawl or scarf for the evening reception.

Sunscreen & moisturizer are musts! – In northern New Mexico we have over 300 days of sunshine and much less water vapor in the air because of the high altitude. We are higher up and closer to the sun so that means less protection for your skin from damaging rays and wind. Remember, you’ll want to protect and preserve your skin for all those amazing wedding photos! So don’t forget to wear your sunscreen, sunglasses and apply lots of hand moisturizer and lip balm throughout your stay, especially in the winter months.

Monitor your physical activity – Even if you’re in shape, you might find yourself huffing and puffing as you climb a flight of stairs here in the City Different. The effects of physical exertion are more intense at high altitude. If you normally workout for an hour daily at home, you might try keeping it to 30 minutes during your vacation in the Land of Enchantment.

Enjoy your trip! – Here’s wishing you a wonderful wedding and enjoy your time in our high desert mountains of northern New Mexico.