Rainy Adventure Elopement on the Oregon Coast: Lucie & Bryan’s Love Story at Elk Flats Trail
The Oregon coast is a STUNNING backdrop for any event, especially an adventure elopement! If you are looking for dramatic views of the ocean with rugged rocks, turquoise water, wildlife, forests, and stunning beaches… Oregon Coast is the place for you! You can find anything from easy walks to difficult 10 mile hikes along the coast, all depending on your preference. This blog specifically, is about a easy to moderate adventure elopement between two people in love who very much march to the beat of their own drum. Read on for their story, the timeline we created for them, planning and scouting process, and to see some of their stunning images. I promise you, if you are even thinking about an elopement with some adventure in it, this blog will help you see if it’s for you, and hopefully give you some tips on how to have your own!
Eloping is all about embracing the moment, and for Lucie and Bryan, their adventure elopement on the Oregon Coast was nothing short of magical. View there wedding video below!
Why Lucie & Bryan Chose to Elope
Lucie and Bryan had been together for nine years before deciding to get engaged and tie the knot. They were high school sweethearts, and the rest is history! When we had our first phone call together, you could immediately see the beautiful and quirky connection these two had. Bryan just returned home from performing as spiderman for some kiddo’s birthday, and Lucie was telling me all about her love of cosplay. They loved going on spontaneous trips and adventures together, which is how this band (us guys, I mean us haha), got together!
With big families and big personalities, and strong roots in 2 different cultures, they knew that a traditional wedding would end up being more about everyone else than about them. They wanted their wedding to be a reflection of their love—intimate, fun, adventurous, and completely true to who they were as a couple. They craved a day where they could be 100% comfortable to be themselves, and also loved being spontaneous… So much so that when they found out I was going to be on the west coast, they decided to take the leap and elope ONE AND A HALF WEEKS LATER. Yes you read that right, we planned an entire elopement for them in less than 2 weeks- all they had to do was spend an hour on the phone with us talking about their relationship, dreams, and love, and find their wedding attire. The rest was handled by us.
A Morning in Portland: Vows, Jenga, and Food Trucks
Their day started in a cozy Airbnb in Portland, Oregon. In the quiet morning hours, they wrote their vows and prepared for their wedding day. Writing their vows was like setting an intention for that day and remembering what brought them there. They sat on the bed next to each other, each writing their separate vows. The rest of the morning followed a similar, easy vibe.
One of their favorite things to do together was play games, so what better way to kick off the morning than a game of competitive Jenga!? Lucie won, in case you were wondering. After that, each got ready for the day at their own pace: hair, makeup, coffee, swapping stories along the way – you know, all the little things that are such a big part of your day.
During our phone call I learned that they were both quite the foodies and loved a good food truck. So naturally, we knew we had to find a food truck rodeo for lunch. Before setting off for the coast, we made our lunch stop! Each was able to get what they were craving and eat a peaceful lunch together before embarking on the next leg of their adventure.
A Rainy Coastal Ceremony at Elk Flats Trail
While planning, each mentioned their love of an epic view, just maybe not an epic hike to go along with it. That’s all I needed to hear to know of the perfect spot for their elopement: Elk Flats. After a two-hour drive to the coast, Lucie changed into her dress at the Elk Flats Trailhead, excitement building as they prepared for the next chapter of their journey together. We then all walked down to the epic lookout point together. They chatted and took in the scenery, while I photographed their journey and my partner captured the grandness of the location with the drone. The coolest part about the descent was that there was a whole herd of elk hiding in the tall grass with only a couple visible to us, but the whole group clearly visible from the sky!
The hike was about 10 minutes down, 15 to 20 minutes back up. Once at the lookout point, all you could see around you was sheer nature in all its beauty.
With my partner officiating the ceremony, Lucie and Bryan exchanged heartfelt vows, words that spoke to their deep admiration and love for one another, along with a handful well placed jokes showing their playful side.
Bryan’s Vows to Lucie:
“Lucie, I love how caring and stubborn you are, and that you help everyone you can around you without giving it a second thought. I love your willingness to work for what you want, without being afraid to lean on me when you need time to unwind and relax. You are loving, supportive, and the person I always want to come home to. I look forward to building the next chapter of our lives together and making a family. To going on adventures, trips, and to lazy nights in.”
Lucie’s Vows to Bryan:
“Bryan, I love so many things about you, and I find myself admiring your quiet strength and willingness to persevere. People recognize your kindness everywhere you go, and instantly adore you. Your willingness to drop everything in a heartbeat to help when something goes wrong has made you the person I, and many others, call first. I love that you are so willing to go on adventures and try new things with me! I’m looking forward to making a family with you, to rainy days with hot coffee and tea watching dumb movies together on the couch, and to finally getting to travel the world side by side. I cannot imagine doing it with anyone else.”
As they excitedly sealed their vows with a very wet kiss, as the rain continued to fall around them, making their elopement feel even more magical and cinematic. We captured stunning photos and drone footage, immortalizing the moment against the dramatic coastal backdrop.
Chasing the Sunset and Celebrating Love
After the ceremony, we ventured to another small beach just ten minutes away. The rain never let up, but neither did their adventurous spirits. They embraced every drop, laughing and dancing in the mist as we captured the what so clearly made their love story, theirs. Whatever the weather threw at them, the took it in stride without letting it dampen their spirits.
Their elopement was everything they had dreamed of—romantic, adventurous, and deeply personal. It was a day entirely about them, filled with love, spontaneity, and the kind of moments that truly matter.
Planning Your Own Rainy Oregon Coast Elopement
Lucie and Bryan’s story is proof that a little rain can’t dampen your elopement and is a good reason to laugh and dance with your person. If you’re considering an Oregon Coast elopement, here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
1. Embrace the Weather
Oregon’s coastal weather is unpredictable and very rainy, so plan for rain but don’t fear it! As long as you are prepared for the rain, it can add magic to your day instead of taking it away. We provide the clear umbrellas; you bring the love! And if rain is just not your idea of a good time, we can find you some epic views in less rainy climates!
2. Choose the Right Time of Year
Spring and fall often bring moody skies and fewer crowds, making them ideal seasons for a peaceful, intimate elopement. Lucie and Bryan’s wedding was at the beginning of May. It was chilly in the shade, but warm when the sun made itself known. Beginning of May is also calving season for many animals, make it the best time of year to possibly spot little ones out in the wild! Just remember it’s important to let our wildlife be and keep our distance.
3. Pick a Scenic and Accessible Location
Elk Flats Trail was perfect for Lucie and Bryan, and is perfect for couples who want epic views without an intense hike. It’s easily accessible but still feels wild and secluded. Your location may be more secluded, have a longer hike, have different scenery, etc… The truth is, there are so many amazing options along the Oregon Coast. All you need to do is let me know your vibe, and I will do the location scouting for you!
4. Make It Your Own
Elopements are all about freedom—so bring elements that reflect you as a couple! Whether it’s a post-ceremony picnic, a cozy fireside celebration, or a hike to a hidden cove, make your day uniquely yours. This is where we really come in to take the stress off of you. We have a list of activities to suggest, places to do them, and a creative mind to incorporate whatever you throw at us! Some ideas of things to do near or on the Oregon Coast:
Stop and get Tillamook ice cream right from the source… at the factory! I don’t know about you, but I will never turn down an opportunity to have ice cream with my person
Take a ride in a helicopter to get the most epic view of the coast
Hike a peak and get married at the summit
Go kayaking or canoeing on any one of the breathtaking lakes
Go ATVing for some adrenaline on your day
Let’s Plan Your Dream Elopement
If Lucie and Bryan’s Oregon Coast elopement speaks to your adventurous heart, we’d love to help bring your vision to life. Whether you’re just starting to dream or ready to start planning, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Your Comprehensive Guide to Eloping with your Pets
Our pets are so much more than just our companions, they are our therapists, our exercise partners, our snuggle buddies, and the ones that have been through all our relationship lows and highs. Pets are our furry family members that mark the bringing together of our families, oftentimes way before engagement and marriage. So naturally, it would feel disingenuous to not have them be a part of your wedding day! As a mom to my German Shepherd Davina, and step mom to my partner’s 2 Siamese cats, Ananda and Premy, I can’t imagine not including them in our elopement in one way or another. And many of our wedding clients feel the same!
This blog is a compilation of everything we’ve learned about including your pets: from what to consider, what to do and bring, to the things to avoid, to useful tidbits that will help make it stress-free! As a sister to a super successful dog trainer, I have become an expert in (1) photographing pets, and (2) learned a few tips and tricks along the way to make the day go smoother with your pups. I have also included a short section at the end about ways to include your pets without them actually being present, in case your dream elopement doesn’t quite work with pups being there physically.
Considerations to help you Decide if Bringing your Dog(s) is Best:
Before even considering bringing your dogs along, think about what you want your elopement day to look like. You may have a vision in which your pets are a part of the full day, only a part of it, or maybe just in spirit. Here are a few questions to get those hamster wheels spinning and help you find out how plausible it is to bring your furry family member with you:
Are you planning to hike to your elopement spot? Is the hike length and terrain something your pup can handle?
Are you looking to incorporate an activity – such as a helicopter ride, kayaking, fishing, etc…? Is that an activity your pup would be a part of, or would they be staying behind for that part?
What climate are you hoping to elope in- Desert, Tropical, Glacier, etc…?
Will you be flying to your destination? If so, will your pet be able to travel with you?
Does your dog have anxiety issues or any medical needs that may arise during the elopement?
If you are still in the beginning stages of your planning, you may not have the answer to all these questions, and THAT’S OKAY! We are here to help. What that means is if having your pet with you is a non-negotiable, then I’m here to help make that happen in a way that is stress-free and safe for both you and your furry family member.
Choosing a Location:
The first thing to think about is your desired climate, and is it conducive with your pet. Think husky and the desert may not mix, nor chihuahua and a snow covered mountain! The next is… how easy is it to travel with your dog? Do you want to find a location within driving distance, or would you like to fly them out with you?
Also keep in mind certain parks may require permits to be purchased for your pup ahead of time. Also keep leash laws in mind and wherever you end up, practicing Leave No Trace is just as important with your pet as it is with us humans. Now down to some useful information when it comes to locations within the United States.
Dog-Friendly Locations for Your Adventure Elopement: What’s Allowed Where
Choosing the right location is something that we 100% help all our couples do, so you don’t have to stress about it. Think of us as your planners and personal hype team, along with your epic photographers! But here are some general guidelines of what’s allowed where:
National Parks:
Generally not very dog-friendly.
Most U.S. National Parks restrict dogs to paved roads, campgrounds, and parking areas.
Dogs are usually not allowed on hiking trails, in backcountry areas, or on boardwalks.
A few exceptions (like Acadia, Shenandoah, and White Sands) allow dogs on some trails, but always double-check the specific park’s pet policy.
✔️ Tip: If you’re set on a National Park, consider nearby National Forests for the actual ceremony or portraits with your pup.
National Forests
Much more dog-friendly!
Dogs are typically allowed on trails, in dispersed camping areas, and on most forest land, often off-leash if under voice control (check local leash laws).
A great alternative if you want epic scenery without the National Park restrictions.
State Parks
Varies by state and even by park.
Many State Parks allow dogs on leashes and in certain campgrounds or trails, but some limit access to developed areas.
✔️ Tip: State Parks can be a great middle ground — more flexible than National Parks but still well-maintained and scenic.
State Forests
Often very pet-friendly.
Similar to National Forests in dog accessibility. Dogs are usually welcome on trails and in open areas.
Fewer facilities than State Parks, but that means more freedom (and fewer crowds).
BLM Land (Bureau of Land Management)
Extremely dog-friendly.
BLM lands are often open to off-leash dogs unless otherwise posted.
You’ll find fewer developed trails but more open space and freedom — perfect for off-the-beaten-path elopements.
✔️ Tip: Ideal for couples who want a remote, private ceremony and don’t mind roughing it a bit.
Private Land / Airbnbs / Cabins
Completely up to the property owner.
Many mountain lodges, farm venues, or Airbnb cabins are dog-friendly — and often more flexible than public lands.
If you’re dreaming of a ceremony with your pup running around leash-free, private land is often your best bet.
Also a great option if you have an anxious pup! Getting there a day before gives them a chance to get comfortable in the new space, so by the time you get married they are more relaxed
States Where Pets Can Legally Witness Your Wedding
Yes, you read that right – There are states in which your pup (or kittie!) can be legally involved in your ceremony as a wedding witness! They can “sign’ it with their paw print… and I can’t think of a sweeter way to involve your furry family member.
As of 2025, the following states and Washington, D.C., allow pets to serve as wedding witnesses:
Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington, D.C
Important Consideration: Even within states that allow pet witnesses, individual counties may have specific rules. For example, some counties in Colorado have changed their policies regarding paw print signatures. Always check with the local county clerk’s office to confirm current regulations.
Make sure to purchase non-toxic pet-friendly ink!
Must-Have Gear for Bringing Your Dog to Your Elopement
Whether your pup is joining you on the trail, walking you down the “aisle,” or just hanging out for portraits, here’s what to pack to keep them safe, happy, and looking adorable.
Essentials for Comfort & Safety
A printed list of their vaccinations from your vet, along with their rabies certificate
For travel and the worse case scenario of having to go to a strange vet, you have everything they need to take care of your pup properly!
Leash + Harness (or Collar)
Use a secure harness rather than just a collar if you’ll be on trails or uneven ground. A hands-free leash can be a great option for hiking couples!
If your dog has been trained using a prong collar, slip lead, or other specific tools, absolutely bring the gear they’re familiar with. Using what works best for your dog — and what they’ve been trained with — will help everyone feel more relaxed and confident throughout the day.
ID Tags + Microchip
Make sure your pup’s tags are up to date with your cell number, and that they’re microchipped just in case they get spooked or wander off.
Collapsible Bowl
Collapsible bowls are a great way to go to take up minimal space in your pack, while making sure you have water for your pup
Food + Treats
Dog Waste Bags (if you forget these, we usually have some in random coat pockets and with our camera gear!)
Their favorite toy
Great for bribery during photos, and to keep them entertained during down time!
Kennel or an enclosure
If your pup has anxiety and tends to roam/destroy things while alone, a kennel may be a great option to bring along so you don’t have to worry about them getting into something they shouldn’t!
Pet wet-wipes or Towel
We all know how muddy our pups can get! Bring something designated for cleaning them. Dog friendly wet-wipes are always great to have as well!
Adventure Add-Ons (Especially for Hikes)
Dog Backpack (if trained)
Some dogs love having a job! A well-fitting pack can carry their own water, snacks, or booties.
First aid kit for your pup
We always hope for the best but prepare for the worst
Bug protection
Your pup needs bug protection as badly as we do; whether it’s in the form of a bug net, dog-friendly bug spray, or something else! Also think about native wildlife in the area you are eloping that may be venomous or a danger to your pet.
Paw Protection (Boots or Balm)
For hot sand, sharp rocks, or snow. Boots take some getting used to, so do a trial run at home.
Also a great option if you are worried about your pup jumping on you and ruining your dress!
Cooling Vest or Jacket
For elopements in extreme heat or cold, a dog-specific jacket or vest can keep them comfy.
Ceremony & Photo Extras
Think any cute signs you’d like to include in photos like “My Humans Are Getting Married” or “Best Pup”. Bowties and flower crowns are also popular options!
Tips and Tricks to make the Elopement go Smoothly with your Pet
There are a few things we do to help make the day go as smoothly as possible! Here are our top tips:
Practice with your gear before the elopement! Making sure both you and your pup are comfortable with the gear makes a huge difference! This includes having them wear their boots/sign/ bowtie ahead of time as well.
If you are having a micro-wedding or an intimate wedding, assign someone in your group to be responsible for caring for your pet; think of them as the dog-wrangler! You can also hire a pet sitter in whatever location you elope in to help take the pressure off of you. Hiring someone outside of your intimate circle also takes the pressure off those that matter to you most, and allows them to be fully present with you and your partner.
Make sure your pet is up to date on all their vaccinations! Often necessary to cross borders and also keeps your pup safe
Invest in dog training or a private lesson with a trainer to go over any concerns you may have. They are an amazing resource in helping you address your concerns beforehand and giving you tips and tricks on how you can help this be smooth for your pup specifically.
If the terrain isn’t suitable for your pup, consider having them be a part of your getting ready photos at the Airbnb! They can be there with you before and after, and stay safe during the parts that aren’t so pet-friendly. Also a great option if you are doing an activity that isn’t pet friendly during the day.
✔️ Tip: Contact Bohemian K9 Dog Training for a private lesson! She is based out of New York, however she offers private lessons over video-chat. She’s helped me immensely with my super anxious pup, and I’ve had several of my wedding couples and friends use her over the years, all have had raving reviews! Check her out here!
What to Do if Your Pet Can’t Attend
Sometimes as badly as we want to include our doggos, it just isn’t feasible. In that case, here are some ways you can still keep them near and dear to your hearts during your elopement.
Video-chat with your pet!
Include them in your vows
Read a “letter” from your pet sharing their version of your love story. It can be funny or heartfelt!
Have a photo of your furry member printed on socks, a handkerchief, put into a charm to carry on your flowers, etc…! You can also have their silhouette embroidered on many different clothing items.
Bring something of theirs to include in your photos: such as a collar, their paw print, or their favorite toy. This is also a great way to include those who have crossed the rainbow bridge in your elopement.
Include them in your engagement photos
Have a professional painter create an image of your wedding day with your pet in it
Whether your dog is joining you on the trail or sending their love from afar, there are so many ways to make them a meaningful part of your adventure elopement. With the right planning, gear, and a few thoughtful touches, your furry family member can be woven into your day in a way that feels true to you. If you’re dreaming up an elopement experience that includes your pet — or simply want help navigating what’s possible — we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s hop on a call and start planning an elopement that celebrates all the love in your life — tail wags included.
Click Here to schedule a phone call with me, or text me at 585-432-0403!
Adventure Elopement with the Kids in the Adirondacks
If you’ve ever thought of eloping with your immediate little family, but still wanted it to be an adventure, you have come to the right place! There tends to be this notion that you can’t have an adventure elopement AND bring your kids, especially if they are younger, because it would be too much for them to handle. Well I am here to tell you that YOU CAN HAVE BOTH! It all comes down to making the right plans, and choosing the right location, which happens to be what this blog is about.
Maggie and Adem’s Hiking Elopement in the Adirondacks
Before you think you are far too fancy for a hiking elopement, let me set the scene for you. Maggie is a Leo (if you know, you know!). Maggie and Adem are a couple that have a hippie side, but are also the first to tell you that they have a strong bougie side as well and love to be fancy. We wanted to create an elopement that captured all of who they are, and was kid friendly for a 3 year old and an 11 year old.
Planning
These two live in Rochester, New York, and our goal was to find a location within a 5 hour driving radius. This gave them the ability to drive up on a Friday, elope on Saturday, and spend some family time together Sunday before driving back. We settled on the Adirondacks, as they had the scenery and mountain-tops we were hoping for! When we started the planning process we had to keep these main points in mind:
Locations that can accommodate kids
Locations that worked with Maggie’s stunning dress
Locations that didn’t involve a lot of driving in between each stop, so as not to lose our 3 year old with a lot of time in between
Location
Jay, NY was the perfect location for home base, with the ceremony and photo locations both within a 20 minute driving radius of the Airbnb. We found an adorable Airbnb that came with the works and was a bit more private. For the ceremony, we found a stunning field filled with golden rods (they grow predominantly in August and September), set in front of an awe-inspiring mountainous backdrop.
After the ceremony we drove to 15
minutes to a lesser known trail near whiteface, that ends with 180 degree view of the Adirondack mountains sprawled in front of you. This is where we watched the sunset and got some stunning photos.
Their wedding day was all about family and making memories. Outside of hiking, we wanted to include some family fun! We started the day by baking rice krispie treats. This was such a fun (and tasty!) activity for the whole family.
Maggie also wanted to have some quality one-on-one time with her step-daughter, who loves yoga. So the next day we started the morning off with a little bit of yoga. I don’t know about you, but some yoga after a day of hiking just seems like the perfect way to wrap up a beautiful, heart-filled elopement weekend!
Timeline
For all of our couples, we create a timeline based on your vision and wants. You give us your vision and what’s important, and we plan the day for you. We make sure that there is plenty of time in between activities, that there are ample amount of meals scheduled in there (because we all know how important food is!), and to work around your kiddo’s sleep and feeding schedules. Here is the timeline we created for Maggie and Adem:
1:00 pm: Lunch and Rice Krispie treat making 2:30 pm: Getting ready and writing vows 4:15 pm: Leaving for ceremony 4:30 pm: Ceremony 5:00 pm: Intimate session 5:30 pm: Head out to trailhead 5:50 pm: Arrive at trailhead 6:00 pm: Hike 1.1 miles 6:30 pm: Arrive at summit and have a snack 7:00 pm: Photos 7:56 pm: Sunset 8:00 pm: Hike back to car and head to Airbnb
Next day: 9:00 am: Breakfast 10:30 am: Yoga
Gear we Provided
As part of working with us on your wedding day, we provide gear you may not have on hand, especially if you are more adventurous at heart than in real life haha! Here is a list of gear we provided so that our couple didn’t have to purchase it for just one day:
Headlamps for everyone
Lanterns for the blue hour photos
Vow books
Snacks
Hot tea at the summit (we carried all the gear to make it)
To get an idea of all the other gear we provide, and gear we strongly recommend you have, checkout our gear guide here! → Basic Gear for a Hiking Elopement
Is having an Adventure Elopement with your Kids right for you?
If you’re up for the adventure, the answer is abso-freaking-lutely! There is no reason you shouldn’t be able to have your whole family unit together during your celebration of love if that’s what you want! That being said, there is also nothing wrong with eloping without your kiddos, however my goal is really to show those interested that not only is it DOABLE, but it can be just as, if not more, special to include them.
Usually the biggest reason couples leave the kids behind is because the extra layer of planning, and the stress that comes with it, makes it a not-so-viable option. We get that, and that is exactly why we take that burden off your shoulders and do the planning for you.
Do your little ones absolutely NEED to keep their structured nap-time or all hell breaks loose? Are there dietary restrictions that require us to either bring the food or find a very specific restaurant (or are your kids just in that “we will only eat chicken nuggets” phase?) Do your kids easily get over stimulated with a lot of people around?
All the reasons above are why eloping is a perfect way to be able to accommodate your children’s needs in a way that is so difficult to do with a traditional wedding. These are also all types of scenarios we are used to handling and making sure we tackle in the planning process so you don’t have to stress about it.
So if any of this blog, or Maggie and Adem’s store resonated with you… let’s connect and have a chat! You lose nothing by asking questions and dipping your toes into the what-if of considering an adventure elopement with the your whole family unit <3
We LOVE elopements in the Adirondacks! One of our favorites is a fishing vow-renewal in the same area (but with a very different feel) as this one was taken. If you’d like more inspiration, check out our blog on this fishing-filled vow-renewal → Fishing Elopement in the Adirondacks
Yep, you read that right! And in case you are wondering… Yes! The photos are STUNNING! Let me tell you all about what a fishing elopement/ vow renewal looks like. And if along the way this helps inspire you to experience your own elopement adventure (with or without the kiddos), then I have done my job 🙂
Will & Faith’s Sunrise Vow Renewal Elopement with their Children
These two beautiful humans are celebrating their 10 year anniversary, and wanted to do something special. Will & Faith wanted to celebrate this milestone with the people most important to them: Their 3 beautiful children.
Their main priority was to have a kid-friendly activity and be in a location where they could get some stunning images. Neither were too thrilled with their original wedding photos, and found this to be the perfect chance to create images they are excited to hang on their walls.
Planning
Planning- If you’re like most of us, that word on its own can cause your blood pressure to go up. The reason most of my clients elope is to avoid the stress and anxiety planning can cause. This is why we take care of this step for you! Let me walk you through how we planned this stunning fishing elopement with the family.
Faith and I worked together on finding the perfect outfits for the whole fam. I knew her favorite color was olive green, and that she preferred a natural color palette. From there we looked at the colors that would be in their environment for photos, and based on that chose to go with burnt orange, greens, beiges, and blues (for the sky). Faith texted me her ideas for clothing, and I helped her narrow it down to the best shirts and pants for each family member. Of course, kids will have their favorite throw-overs, like a bluey sweatshirt and purple flannel, that we just couldn’t deprive them of. After all, those choices show their personality right!? Scroll down to the family photo to see how amazingly they matched their environment, while still standing out!
Eloping with Kids
We LOVE having kiddos join in on such a beautiful part of life…. Just think of the core memories they are building seeing their parents show their love for them and one another through joint activities.
Keeping in mind there would be a 2.5 year old, a 4 year old, and an 8 year old, we made sure all our plans were kid friendly. Our biggest goal was to give the kids a chance to be kids… run around, fish, explore, and spend quality time with their mom and dad. Having an elopement makes this possible, since a lot of the structure and time crunches you find at big weddings is taken away.
Their oldest loved fishing, and was all about it. He spent some time just fishing with dad, while momma cuddled the youngest. The youngest just enjoyed sitting and watching everyone around her, while the middle kiddo took off exploring, lantern in hand! In his words, he was off to build a house, and planned out where each room would be!
These moments of kids being kids are what made the whole experience so special. And the time the kids were doing their own thing gave us an opportunity to capture Will and Faith together.
Location
They knew they wanted to do something in the Adirondacks. From there, they really didn’t have a preference. I knew they loved fishing, so I suggested renewing their vows with a fishing trip to the ADK. It was a hit!
We found a beautiful Airbnb (Black Bear Lodge) in Jay, NY that had everything we needed. It was a short walking distance from a scenic pond, 15 minutes away from Keene Valley, and 20 minutes away from Whiteface Mountain. We wanted to keep travel down to short bursts to minimize the little ones falling asleep in the car between locations.
The area itself provides stunning views of the mountainous area, has wildflower fields, and plenty of water access. Between all the rivers, ponds, and lakes, it is the perfect location for everything outdoor related!
Distance to Jay from major Airports/ Cities:
I know it can be difficult to judge how far this location is if you aren’t familiar with the area. So here are the distances from all the major (and minor) airports and cities around:
Outside of fishing being best in the early mornings, we wanted to choose a time that worked around the kid’s napping schedule (tired kiddos make for cranky kiddos, and we wanted to avoid that haha). Sunrise also offers cooler temperatures in the summer, and gives us the opportunity to be all set by noon, so everyone could nap and then enjoy the rest of their day.
Also, sunrises are just STUNNING to experience. The world around you is just waking up. You can hear the birds chirping, the bugs haven’t come out yet, and the water has a serene stillness to it. Sunrises are also less busy in regards to other people, so 90% of the time you will have your location all to yourself even if it’s a public spot. Just as we were leaving the first people showed up!
Timeline
For adventure elopements, we come up with a rough timeline of how we want the day to go, however we leave lots of wiggle room and are super flexible with it. We never want the day to feel rushed or stressful. Since there are so few of us, we are able to pivot and adjust the day as we see fit to capture everything you are looking for; yet keep it fun, relaxing, and leave space for spontaneity. Here is a timeline of how our day went, including a few pivots and unplanned stops:
4:30 am: Getting ready 5:20 am: Leave Airbnb and head to the pond 5:30 am: Start fishing on the dock, while we document the moments 6:01 am: Official Sunrise time 7:00 am: Leave pond and head to Diner 7:15 am: Have a relaxing meal at a local diner 8:30 am: Head to Keene Valley 8:45 am: Arrive at Keene Valley. Kiddos took a nap while Will & Faith renewed their vows in a wildflower field, with the backdrop of all the mountains 9:30 am: Headed to Whiteface mountain for photos 9:50 am: Arrived at Whiteface. The weather took a turn for the worst and the summit had to be closed. We ended up checking out a few views on the way down instead 10:30 am: We spotted a local thrift store, something Faith loves to do! We made a stop there before heading back to the Airbnb. And yes, we found some treasures!!
All done by 11:30 am!
Is an Adventure Elopement right for you?
Let’s start with the biggest question first… is this type of an elopement right for you and your fiancé? Here are a couple of things to consider:
Are you adventurous OR Adventurous-at-heart? – If you love the idea of eloping like this, that’s all you need to know for it to be a yes! You don’t need to be able to hike miles or do outdoorsy activities on a regular basis to be able to elope outdoors. Sometimes we are more adventurous-at-heart than in real life, but that in no way should stop us from experiencing the beauty of nature- especially when marrying our partners.
Is there an outdoor activity you enjoy together? As long as it’s something you and your partner enjoy.. That’s all that matters; even if you don’t do it regularly. Some ideas outside of fishing: hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, picnicking, etc..!
Do you want an Experience when you elope? – I strongly believe that eloping does NOT mean tying the knot should be minimized or be less important than a wedding. And because of this, I am all about making elopements a full experience that is tailored to you and your partner. For me it is super important that your elopement is set up in a way that elicits a strong emotional connection between you and your partner. Having an experience that you share strengthens your connection, and adds an extra element of togetherness to your elopement.
If this sounds like something you’d like to experience, an adventure elopement is for you!
Takeaways
After each elopement, I like to take a moment and reflect on the day, the connections I had the privilege of capturing, and the experience we all had together. Will and Faith’s vow renewal elopement was exactly what my soul needed. These two embodied everything we love about not just photography, but about life in general: Family, Love, Experiences, and Human Connection.
The experience was WHO THEY ARE through and through, and it’s all I could ask for. Their vows were full of love, laughter, and the Taco Bell menu; their kids got to be authentically themselves and their personalities shine through in the images; and most importantly- they had the opportunity to spend a breathtaking morning together as a family building memories they can all cherish for the rest of their lives.
I want every single one of my clients to look at their photos and be in awe of seeing their connection, being able to feel it through the photos, and laugh at how well the photos represent who they are as a couple and as a family <3
And in case anyone is wondering what Whiteface Mountain looks like as a storm rolls in…. this is it! The elevator was under maintenance when we got there so the only way up with the kids was the rocks and stairs. With the high winds and rain coming in, this was not a safe option. Before we could even make it to the top, the rangers were ushering everyone back down for safety, so this is all we were able to get in terms of photos without it being unsafe.
So your elopement includes a small (or long) hike of some sorts…and now you’re wondering what in the heck you need to pack!? Well first off, I am SO excited that you chose to elope (or have a micro-wedding!) that involves a hike. To me, it is one of the best and most beautiful ways to start off this new chapter in your life. And second, we’ve got you covered on what you need!
A quick disclaimer and a note: This list is intended for hikes of up to 4 miles total. Anything over that we do recommend extra gear. This is also a general list, and depending on where you are hiking, there may be additional needs. Some parks require you carry certain gear with you, while some terrain may have must-have gear not on this list!
Shoes:
Shoes are probably the most important thing to get right. They are the difference between feeling stable and grounded, vs slipping and feeling hesitant with every step. I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but that’s because it should. Bad shoes will make any experience unpleasant.
So, with all of that- what do we recommend? Check out our top options below. Make sure no matter what shoes you end up wearing, that you break them in before your hike. Nothing is worse than dealing with blisters on your wedding day. Also, remember that you can always bring shoes with you to change into at the end of your hike if you have a different vision in mind for your wedding photos!
Hiking Boots-
These are your best option. Good hiking boots will have an outsole (the bottom of the shoe) that has solid traction, which is key. There are so many different types of boots you can get: ankle support, isolated, waterproof, etc… REI has a fantastic, in-depth guide, on helping you figure out the best hiking boot for you (we really didn’t want to reinvent the wheel on this with such an impressive guide already out there!): https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hiking-boots.html Whatever hiking boots you decide are right for you, make sure to have proper socks to go along with them!
Some of our favorite brands for hiking boots:
Keens Merrells
Oboz
Colombia
Sneakers:
What if you don’t own any hiking boots, and don’t want to buy them just for your elopement? That’s not a problem! A good pair of sneakers can do the trick as well, as long as it’s a fairly easy hike. Here are the main things to check out about your sneakers to make sure they will work:
The sneakers fit the curve of your foot (they aren’t the slip-on type that have a completely flat insole)
You can bend the shoes a bit (grab the heel area and the toe area and push in towards the shoe to see if they bend!). If they are completely stiff and have no bend, this means that you have less control on uneven ground, which is the opposite of what you want when hiking!
They have good traction and the outsoles are made of a solid rubber, not a cheap plastic
When you tie them up, they have a snug fit
They are NOT slip-ons. Anything that easy to put on means it’s that easy to come right off again
Sneakers are fine for most light hikes, however if you plan on hiking terrain full of roots, rock crawls, and uneven ground, you may want to consider hiking boots that provide more ankle support. Remember we are there to help you plan your whole adventure, down to which shoes we think will be best for your hike! So if you aren’t sure, don’t hesitate to ask!
Hiking Sandals
Hiking sandals are a great option if you are hiking in hot and/or wet surroundings. If you will be walking through streams and in tropic temperatures, hiking sandals are the way to go. You don’t have to worry about trudging through water, and they are breathable! As with sneakers though, you have to be sure to get the right ones:
Make sure the outsoles are made of rubber, not a light plastic. A lot of cheap sandals are made of plastic on the bottoms that will easily puncture with the first sharp rock you step on. These do not provide substantial traction or protection from the environment.
Buy closed toe sandals. Most hiking paths have roots and rocks sticking out, and the last thing you want to do is stub your toe/ or worse. This is especially important if you plan on starting or finishing your hike in the dark.
Make sure they fit well and are broken in! Having a sandal that your foot slides around in will only make you less steady, which leads to bigger chance of injury.
Gear:
When it comes to hiking, it is easy to go gear crazy and bring too much…. Or the opposite, not bring enough. I tend to be the “not bring enough” person, while my partner is the “bring too much.” We do our best to use this to our advantage and balance each other out.
Here is a list of gear that we can both agree on being essentials!
Water bottle- Water is a must. The amount of water you need depends on the length of the hike. One 16oz bottle per person is fine for up to 2 miles round trip. After that you would want either a bigger bottle or more than one. A couple of tips: Platypus bottle are great because they collapse once you have emptied them, but they don’t protect the water from getting warm. If you are hiking in hot temperatures, an insulated bottle may be the better way to go. Don’t bring a regular bottled water. The tops tend to be flimsy and they will burst open in your bag (ask me how I know!).
Small Backpack- Having your hands free while you hike is a must, so having a small backpack is the way to go! Pro-tip- grab a backpack that has a chest and hip strap. These help distribute the weight on your back and make the bag much more comfortable to wear. Also remember these bags will be in photos, so if you are going for a certain aesthetic, make sure your bags match it. And lastly, bags with MOLLE webbing on the side are great because you can attach things right to the outside of you bag, such as sunhats, your wedding dress, your wedding shoes, or a just married sign!
Sunglasses: This one is pretty self explanatory 🙂
Headlamps: These are a must, even if you don’t plan on hiking in the dark. Having light outside of your phone is crucial. Cellphone lights are not very bright, and also phone batteries tend to be drained right when you need them. Make sure to get a headlamp that has a red light option as well, which is good to use because you don’t blind anyone with it when you are in a group.
Small Med Kit: Cuts, blisters, insect bites, and other small injuries can happen at any time on a hike. Also, having Tylenol and IBUProfen can be a lifesaver!
Medications: If you are on any medications, or have any severe allergic reactions that you need an EPIpen for, make sure to bring your medications with you!
Sunhat: Protecting your face and head from the sun helps you not overheat!
Sunscreen: The last thing you want is to be burnt by the time you reach your destination! I don’t know about you, but looking like a lobster in my wedding photos doesn’t quite make my list of to-dos!
Bug Spray: Depending on your location and time of year, bugs can be BRUTAL! Make sure you have good bug spray to not only help you not get eaten, but to also help prevent bites from ticks and other insects that can carry diseases
SNACKS!: Okay this may not be gear perse… but it is just as important! We are ALL about the snacks over here. We recommend fruit that isn’t squishable (apples, pears, peaches, etc…), Dark chocolate (or an alternative for some quick energy), some nuts and granola, and something with protein (like a sandwich). We personally love the simplicity of un-crustables, a nut mix, and apples!
Clothing:
Dressing for the weather… and anticipating weather changes, is key! Remember that it gets cooler at night, and that in many places rain can happen unpredictably. Clothing recommendations, however, will vary greatly based on where you are in the world. We will keep this list to the bare necessities, based on mild weather conditions.
Good socks and an extra pair in case the first ones get wet. Make sure the socks are at least ¼ or micro-crew in length to protect your ankles.
Waterproof jacket: Even if it’s not supposed to rain, the weather can change in an instant. Also a waterproof jacket can double as a windbreaker and extra layer!
Shorts: Shorts that are at least mid-length to protect your thighs from chafing are key for hiking
Pants: Types of pants will differ based on the environment you are in. For example, in the desert I prefer thick overalls to protect my legs from all the thorns. In upstate NY, I prefer yoga-type pants that I can move in comfortably.
Base Layers: If you are in a colder climate, base layers are crucial!
Clothes to stay away from:
Jeans– unless it’s a short hike, most jeans don’t have much stretch to them and can be uncomfortable for longer hikes
100% Cotton– Cotton is not good for any type of moisture, whether that is rain or sweat. However cotton blends with other materials are usually fine!
Anything that is super tight– It’s important you are able to move your legs and arms freely, without any restrictions!
What we Provide:
We know that packing and finding everything you need can be overwhelming. Because of this, we have a gear closet and bring certain things for you. These are the items we pack for our couples for our adventure elopements/engagements:
Headlamps
Bug Spray & Sunscreen
Med Kit
Gear to make coffee/tea on the summit
2 clear umbrellas
Picnic Needs – If you are having a picnic at the final destination, and it is less than a 3 mile hike round trip, we will pack all the necessities for your picnic, including food and drinks
Blanket to sit on
Garbage bag
If you are a fan of the Hookah (tobacco-only), this is something that can be requested to be brought along as well!
2 Lanterns for photography
Elopement Items: We do also have “Just Married” and “Future Mr/Mrs & Mrs/Mr” signs, vow books, fake flowers, and a couple other small items to personalize your hike for your elopement if needed!
Where to Shop:
Most of what you need you can easily get on Amazon. I do, however, like to be able to physically see items when it comes to camping, so here are a couple of our favorite spots to shop anything outdoors:
Sierra Trading Post: This is my favorite place to shop. It is like a Marshalls (owned by the same company actually!), but more outdoorsy!
REI: My partner’s favorite is REI. They have the super high quality items, along with a 1 year return policy. So if you don’t end up using something, or you don’t love it like you thought you would, you can return it!
Hiking boots and sandals are the one item I would make sure to buy from a reputable store, and get in person so you can try them on and see what fits your feet the best!
Conclusion:
If you ever considered an elopement that includes a small hike, but aren’t sure where to even begin, I hope this packing list helps! We will be with you every step of the way to make sure you have what you need to make your elopement memorable for all the right reasons.
