This may be the most beautiful elopement I've ever photographed...
How it all started...
I'd known Ari and Samuel for a little while. I'd taken senior photos for Samuel's younger sister, and then met them both for his family's session to update their family photos. So when they asked me to photograph their engagement session, and later, their elopement, I was honored! (I would later go on to photograph their maternity photos as well.)
These two lovebirds were sure that they wanted to do something exciting for their wedding day - they wanted to go hiking, they wanted to see a mountain, and although their date was set for December, we hoped for a sunny day! I don't think any of us realized how perfect this day would become.
On that cold December day...
We drove over to the Trillium Lake entrance, hoping that we could drive all the way to the lake. Unfortunately, we were not so lucky! The road was closed off, and although we didn't see much snow on the ground at first, we grabbed our boots, Ari grabbed her wedding dress, and we set off for our little hike!
...The hike was not little. About a quarter of a mile in, we started to crunch over deep and icy snow covering the road. It was absolutely beautiful, once you got past the slipping and sliding part. :)
Once we got to the lake...
It was time for everyone to get changed. I let the men do their thing, and stuck around to help the ladies as needed, as well as capture some 'getting ready' photographs. Ari looked STUNNING! She chose details specifically with this vibe in mind, selecting a gorgeous crown and veil with beautiful jewelry details.
If you scroll down further, I'll also show you some of my favorite flat lay photos that I captured during this time, featuring some important items and gifts from their day!
They chose to do a first look!
Ari was SO excited for Samuel to see her in all of her wedding attire. She stood with her back towards him at first, and he closed his eyes as I walked him towards his future wife. Once we made it to her without falling in the snow, I spun him around so that they were back-to-back. They held hands for a moment, shared their excitement, and then spun around with a flourish!
This photograph captured Ari showing just how "Snow Queen" her wedding dress was!
Their ceremony featured Mount Hood as the backdrop!
Together with their closest friends, they said their vows at Trillium Lake in Oregon.
We were so thankful that the mountain decided to join us for this elopement, and that we got to enjoy the sunny day.
Finally, it was time to celebrate!
Whiskey and wine warmed them up as they slid on the lake, laughing and dancing with one another.
For the record, let me say that while I am quite adventurous, I never would have walked onto this frozen lake if the boys didn't do it first. One groomsman tested it out, kept walking further (while I managed my heart attack), and it seemed apparently safe, so everyone else joined him!
If you need a PNW elopement photographer...
