We left home as the sun rose, anxious and excited that my husband and I got to partner on this elopement. Knowing the couple already, he was asked to officiate their wedding. We’ve partnered quite a few times for elopements and it remains my very favorite experience together.

Nervous about the forecast, we drove into thick fog for miles and miles as we neared our destination. By the time we reached the lake, we were greeted with brilliant morning sun over the water, a herd of grazing elk, and then back to fog. I grew even more nervous, as I put a lot of hope into a beautiful sunlit day and had endless photos in mind that did not include dark, moody weather.

The most beautiful thing about an elopement with six total people in attendance, a full day ahead of you, and multiple destinations, is that we were able to drive around to find the perfect spot to get ready, have lunch, and wait for the sun to emerge. We got incredibly lucky by ending up at one of our collective favorite spots and settled in for a meal prepared by the groom. Getting to lounge, talk, and soak in the beautiful outdoors was the best feeling and left me full of gratitude.

As the guys headed down river to fish, Meghan and I wandered through a lush grove of alder trees to find a spot for their first look. We hung the dress halfway up a tree, took photos of just her, and called the men back in. They caught one small trout and were happy as can be! The lack of having to rush for a timeline felt like pure gold, and I was able to really experience their day with them.

This time we were given to connect with one another, to feel appreciation for where we were and why we were there was everything. I’m so thankful to have gotten this adventure in!