Adventure Elopement in Olympic National Park | The Ultimate Guide 2024
Olympic National Park is a gem of Washington State and the most popular location for my elopements. There is never a bad time to take scenic photo sessions here, and it is easily accessible all year long.
For many couples, this place is my first recommendation - not just because I enjoy hiking here - but also because it offers a variety of elopement activities. Getting married outdoors in the off-season? It is possible to enjoy Olympic elopement without being bothered by the rain. Want a mountain backdrop for your elopement without heavy physical activity? Olympic is perfect. Consider a last-minute option? There is no permit requirement for microweddings under five people in Olympic National Park.
In this article, I share everything I know and answer the most common questions couples have when planning their adventure elopement in Olympic National Park.
If you're more of a visual person, check out these stories photographed at different locations in the park. Book a call to discuss your ideal elopement.
Why Eloping in Olympic National Park Is a Good Idea
Location: Lake Crescent
UNESCO enlisted this park as a World Heritage Site with good reason. With nearly a million acres and three ecosystems, it has the most diverse landscape of any national park in the country. You can watch a sunset on an ocean coast, run through alpine meadows, explore rainforest, and see snow capped mountains all on the same summer day here.
Here are at least five reasons why couples I’ve photographed have chosen this place for their adventure elopement:
1. No permits are required for intimate weddings and elopements under five people. This means that if you want to get married right now, you don't have to plan everything in advance. One of my couples planned their elopement here just three days before the event. Yes, they were lucky I was available, and instead of a hotel, they had to book a camper. However, this only made the experience more enjoyable.
2. The park is easily accessible all year round. You don’t need an SUV to get here. A standard sedan will allow you to visit all the best spots for spectacular photoshoots. However, there are a few 4WD roads in the park if you want to explore the backcountry. Olympic National Park boasts numerous stunning, easily accessible locations perfect for bringing family, friends, and even kids and grandparents to your adventure elopement. There are many places that offer breathtaking views just from the parking lot. It is not necessary to hike extensively to enjoy beautiful scenery.
3. It's both safe and not overcrowded. There is often a choice between crowded places and more secluded places where you can create a more intimate setting planning an adventure elopement. There is a lot of space at Olympic National Park so you don't feel crowded. However, you can always find people if you need one (for example, a witness). The area also lacks poisonous plants and venomous animals. Plant bites and rashes are uncommon here.
4. A great place for explorers. It has the most diverse backdrops for the pictures: mountains, ocean shores, rainforest, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs. If you have a multi-day elopement or honeymoon, you can take photos every day that differ from the previous days.
5. It’s a popular elopement destination. Why is it a pro? Because a whole industry has sprung up around it. For instance, you can find cozy cabins in the park. Elopement photographers in Olympic, like myself, are numerous. Seattle is nearby, and there are plenty of elopement vendors to choose from. Planning your important day here, you won’t struggle to find something that fits your needs. By the way, you’ll find my Olympic National Park wedding vendors recommendations below.
Adventure Elopement Checklist. What You Should Know to Elope in Olympic National Park
The following information will help you plan your ideal adventure wedding in Olympic National Park.
Marriage license
First of all, my assistant (husband) is ordained and would be honored to officiate your ceremony as a complementary service. However, a Washington marriage license is required if you intend to get married in Olympic National Park.
I’d recommend applying for a marriage license in King County as they have an online application and can send you a marriage license by mail (but it’s better to ask them directly about that option).
How to get it:
You can apply online, by mail, and in person.
For online process, begin it through the King County Online Marriage Kiosk.
For by mail, complete these form and send the original notarized application with a check or money order for $69 to King County Recorder's Office, 201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204, Seattle, WA 98104.
If you’d like to complete the process in person, visit King County Recorder's Office, 201 S. Jackson St., Ste. 204, Seattle, WA 98104.
For more information visit their website.
A marriage license can be obtained from any county in Washington State. There's a 3-day waiting period, so plan your elopement for at least three days after you got your license. Keep in mind that the license is valid for 60 days after it’s issued.
The Washington state law asks for two witnesses to sign your marriage certificate. Don't worry if you. You've got me as your first witness, and for the second, we'll just grab someone along the trail to help out. People are usually pretty excited to sign the marriage certificate.
Location: Hoh Forest
Permits
For elopements with fewer than five people, including vendors, Olympic National Park doesn't require permits. Larger weddings, however, require a Special Use Permit. The application for a Special Use Permit can be obtained online.
The application process is simple, and it only costs $50. To apply for the permit, you'll need to fill out a short application form and send it back to OLYM_Permits@nps.gov, the email address where they handle permit applications.
Once your permit is processed, you'll be provided a link to pay the $50 permit fee online. Be aware that the permit office may be slow to respond, typically getting in touch about a month before your event. The ranger recommends applying at least 4 weeks before the event, but as sooner is better.
After payment, you'll receive the finalized permit shortly. It's important to print and bring this document to your wedding, as you may need to show it to a park ranger.
For comprehensive information, visit the official Olympic National Park website’s permit section, which details everything you need to know.
Entrance Fee
Olympic National Park charges a fee to enter. You can buy it online (must be printed) or at the park entrance. There are two options: Private Vehicle Pass for 7 days ($30) or Olympic Annual Pass ($55). Alternatively, if you possess the America the Beautiful Pass, you're covered, as it grants free access to any national park across the United States.
Vendors
Here is a list of vendors I can recommend for those who plan their adventure elopement in Olympic National Park.
Location: Marymere Falls
HMUA:
Florists:
Cakes and desserts:
Catering:
The best elopement dresses:
Road time
There are several ways to reach Olympic National Park:
For those flying in from outside Washington, Seattle-Tacoma Airport is the nearest major airport. From there, it's approximately a three-four hours depending on a location withing the park.
For a scenic drive, consider taking the Ocean Shore route. The journey from Portland International Airport along this route is about four and half hours.
The Olympic Peninsula is also reachable by ferry from Seattle. The Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry, departing from the Port of Seattle, is a popular choice, with a crossing time of about 30 minutes. After reaching Bainbridge Island, it's an hour's drive to Highway 101 and the Olympic Peninsula.
Alternatively, the Seattle to Bremerton ferry also departs from the Port of Seattle, crossing Puget Sound to Bremerton. This journey takes about 90 minutes to reach the park's boundaries. The Seattle ferry terminal is located at the Port of Seattle, while the Bremerton terminal is at 211 First Street, Bremerton. Ferries to Bremerton are less frequent than to Bainbridge Island, departing every 60 to 90 minutes, with a crossing time of 60 minutes.
Minimony, Elopement, or Micro Wedding
Each site within Olympic National Park has a specific maximum capacity for guests, especially for weddings or elopements.
Most beach locations typically accommodate up to 30 people. In areas like Lake Crescent and the Hoh Rainforest, the restrictions are tighter and vary by trail, but I recommend a limit of 20 people for each.
Hurricane Ridge is accessible through a queue system from 9 am to 5 pm during peak times. For this reason, I recommend visiting Hurricane Ridge at sunrise to avoid lines and crowds. I recommend couples to go to Hurricane Ridge for a first look, private vows, or just for photos without their guests if they have any.
No matter the size of your group, you’ll find a spot in the park that's perfect for your elopement. However, for gatherings over 20-25 people, consider a dedicated wedding venue.
I specialize in elopements with up to 20 guests. If you're looking to include a larger group while also desiring private exploration of the park, a two-day elopement experience could be ideal – dedicating the first day to family celebrations and the second day exclusively for the two of you.
Location: Ruby Beach
Pets
Pets are welcome in Olympic National Forest (not Park), provided they are kept under control or on a leash. In developed recreational areas like trailheads, campgrounds, and busy trails, pets must be on a leash. While saddle, pack, or draft animals are permitted, their use is limited to specific authorized areas. Keep in mind that pet restrictions apply in Olympic National Park, so be conscious of the Park and Forest boundaries.
Here's where you can bring your dog:
Spruce Railroad Trail,
Peabody Creek Trail,
Madison Falls Trail,
all Kalaloch beaches from Ruby Beach to South Beach,
July Creek Loop Trail,
and the northern stretch of Rialto Beach to Ellen Creek.
These are day-use areas only, with no overnight stays permitted.
Where dogs are allowed, they must be on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Owners are required to clean up after their pets and should never leave them unattended.
For pet boarding, several kennels are available in Port Angeles, just north of the park. Pet-friendly lodging is also an option. In Forks, you have pet-friendly lodging choices such as Kalaloch Lodge and Miller Tree Inn Bed and Breakfast.
Restrictions
Rules differ depending on the specific activity and the area you're visiting. Here are key guidelines I share with my couples:
1. Ceremonies may not impede the activities of other visitors. Areas cannot be
closed off during ceremonies and parking/natural/trails areas may not be reserved.
2. Ceremonies may not damage the natural terrain or foliage.
3. Throwing of rice, confeƫ, balloons, birdseed or any other material is
prohibited.
4. Speakers and audio equipment is not allowed.
5. On national forest lands, motor vehicles must stick to designated routes.
6. Only build fires in established fire rings, stoves, grills, or fireplaces.
7. Fireworks are always banned.
The best season for an adventure elopement in Olympic National Park
Since Olympic National Park has many accessible locations all year round (except for Hurricane Ridge, which is open only on certain days), it is a popular place for elopements.
Location: Hoh Forest
Spring (April, May, and June)
Spring in Olympic National Park is an ideal season for photography, especially with the waterfalls enhanced by melting snow and blooming subalpine flora. It's common to spot the park's wildlife from your car when driving to higher elevations, particularly in the early morning or at dusk. This season is excellent for ocean beach elopement photo sessions, offering a moodier atmosphere than summer golden sunsets. The Hoh Rainforest is a preferable choice for elopements over the summer and early fall. Additionally, May offers exceptional opportunities for birdwatching.
Summer (July, August and the first half of September)
The summer months in Olympic National Park are perfect for experiencing golden sunsets along the ocean shore. July, known for having the lowest rainfall, brings sunny days that highlight the park's magnificent mountain vistas.
All-week access to the high country areas, like Hurricane Ridge, typically becomes available in late spring. With the arrival of longer days and receding snow, the park's wildflowers start to bloom, reaching their peak around late June at Hurricane Ridge. However, the timing may change each year depending on snowfall and melting rates.
In the lowlands during summer, a variety of wild berries ripen, drawing numerous animals and birds from the rainforest to feast.
Fall (September and October)
Fall remains an excellent time for high country adventures in Olympic National Park, as snow typically doesn't arrive until October and you can enjoy Hurricane Ridge hiking.
Fall in Olympic National Park unveils an extraordinary display of beauty, particularly in mountains. The season is also known for the emergence of vivid, uniquely shaped mushrooms. As autumn rains begin, they bring snow to the higher elevations and cause the deciduous trees to burst into stunning hues of yellow and red. These captivating changes in the landscape make fall a favored time for weddings in the park.
Winter (November – March)
For a peaceful experience, consider a winter visit to Olympic National Park's rainforest. Apart from the busy Christmas and New Year's weeks, you'll find ample lodging options and the flexibility for last-minute plans based on the weather. Winter brings the rainforest to life with maximum precipitation, transforming waterfalls dramatically from their summer state.
Winter is ideal for snowshoeing, sledding, skiing, and snowboarding in the park. The road to Hurricane Ridge is open Friday to Sunday and on holiday Mondays, weather permitting, and typically during the winter holiday season, including around Christmas and New Year's.
Best locations for elopement in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse national parks in the US, offering stunning elopement locations. As an adventure elopement photographer, I enjoy helping couples choose the perfect spot that reflects the unique style of their big day. Below are some of my favorite places, which I recommend
The Best Beach Elopement Locations
Location: Ruby Beach
Ruby Beach
Known for its dramatic scenery, Ruby Beach features moody waves in winter and cool summers. The beach is adorned with tree-topped sea stacks and offers spectacular sunsets. The coastline, with its black pebble , stretches and red sandy areas, provides a stunning backdrop for beachcombing. Don't miss the view of the distant Destruction Island Lighthouse.
Kalaloch Beach and the Tree of Life
Comprising five beaches, Kalaloch is pet-friendly and includes the easy Kalaloch Nature Trail, perfect for experiencing the local ecosystem. Just north of Kalaloch Lodge, near the Kalaloch Campground, you'll find the "Tree Root Cave" with the “Tree of Life” – a natural wonder. This unique tree has roots visibly extending and thriving without any soil. Despite erosion stripping away its traditional source of sustenance, the tree continues to flourish on the coast, captivating and leaving visitors in awe.
Rialto Beach
Famous for its natural arch, Hole-in-the-Wall. This beach is lined with towering sea stacks, driftwood, vibrant tide pools, and is a favored spot for surfers.
Second Beach
This beach trail is very walkable and picturesque at sunset. Driftwood is plentiful here, perfect for photoshoots.
Salt Creek Recreation Area
Among tidal pools, this one may be the most spectacular. At sunset, the views are beautiful.
Shi-Shi Beach
Hundreds of bleached logs litter the sandy beach, stripped and battered by the sea. Watch waves crashing on the offshore stacks. A beautiful view and plenty of tide pools to explore during low tides.
Cape Flattery
Located on the most northwestern point of the contiguous United States, Cape Flattery Trail is a must-see bucket list destination. Rain forest trails that descend through scenic landscapes.
The Best Mountain Elopement Locations
Resembling the Alps, this location offers forests, meadows, and snowcapped mountains in summer, and serene snow-covered valleys in winter. You will find the following trails at Hurricane ridge:
Hurricane Hill Trail
It’s one of my favorite trails! Starting from the parking area, this hike presents views of the Bailey Range. The path, initially through open pine forests and shrubs, promises a visual feast.
Sunrise Point
One of the easiest hiking trails with panoramic views of Olympic National Park.
Klahhane Ridge
With its views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca, Klahhane Ridge is easily accessible by hiking trails. The hiking trails to the scenic location offer a range of difficulty, from easy-moderate trails to more challenging trails that require advanced hiking and climbing skills and experience.
Obstruction Point
This is a moderate trailhead with spectacular views. Initially, the terrain is bare mountain, followed by forests and meadows. A colorful display of wild flowers occurs during the summer.
The Best Forest Elopement Locations
Hoh Rain Forests
Location: Tree of Life
The rainforest offer a mystical setting with lush greenery and tranquil ambiance. its tranquil, ancient forest surroundings, the valley provides a romantic, secluded setting for an intimate ceremony. There are three trails in Hoh Rain Forest: Hall of Mosses, Spruce Nature Trail, Hoh River Trail.
The Best Mountain Lakes Elopement Locations
Lake Crescent
Lake Crescent, with its crystal-clear, deep blue waters, is a jewel of the park. Surrounded by towering forests and offering stunning mountain backdrops, the lake is perfect for those seeking a serene lakeside elopement. Its natural beauty and tranquility create a magical, intimate atmosphere.
Lake Cushman
The temperature of this crystal clear lake never rises above 72 degrees. You can enjoy it year-round and there are no crowds. In summer, it's ideal to cool off in the lake after a long hike.
Lake Sutherland
In this small lake, there are lots of Airbnbs nearby and some even on the water with private beaches and piers.
The Best Waterfalls Elopement Locations
Marymere Falls
With its close proximity to Lake Crescent Lodge, this waterfall is easily accessible. It can be reached by walking along a wooden plank trail. There are steps leading to an elevation gain, and a bridge to cross to reach the waterfall.
Madison Creek Falls
As nice as Marymere Falls, if not better. A wheelchair accessible paved flat trail leads to Madison Falls.
Sol Duc Falls
Set in the lush temperate rainforest of the Olympic Mountains, Sol Duc Falls is one of Washington's most photogenic waterfalls, where the Sol Duc River dramatically splits into up to four channels before plunging 37 feet into a narrow canyon.
The Best Places for Your Elopement Ceremony in Olympic National Park
There are no limits to where you can hold a ceremony for an intimate wedding with only the two of you. During the summer season, the mountains are an excellent choice for two-person elopement ceremonies. The entrance to Hurricane Ridge is difficult with guests since there are queues and a limit to how many cars can enter.
If you have up to 10 guests, you can have your elopement ceremony anywhere.
For large groups (up to 20 guests including a couple and vendors), I recommend the beaches (Ruby beach, for instance), which are very accessible to guests and allow many people to attend.
When the number of attendees exceeds 20 - I recommend a private venue such as Fern Acres, Lake Crescent Lodge, Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort, Log Cabin Resort, or Kalaloch Lodge. There are also campsites with group sites: Hoh Rainforest Campground, Kalaloch Campground, Fairholme Campground.
The Best Places to Stay in Olympic National Park
Here are some tips and tricks how to choose a cabin for your elopement (especially, with guests):
1. When booking through Airbnb, keep in mind their policy regarding celebratory events on the property. While it's generally not allowed, hosts may grant permission if you inquire directly. VRBO, on the other hand, doesn't have such restrictions.
2. Think outside the box when booking a fun place to stay. You’re not just limited to a hotel room. Booking somewhere fun and unique can level-up your overall elopement experience (and it would be a super fun place to take “getting ready” photos).
3. If finding a single Airbnb for your group size proves challenging, consider the option of renting two or even 3 smaller ones. For instance, you could explore combinations like 10+4, 4 + 4 people, 6 + 2 people, or 6 + 4 people etc
4. Book lodging as close to your chosen locations as you can, so you don't spend a lot of time driving, however, if you have some difficulties with finding a suitable cabin, expand your search radius beyond your chosen location to areas within a 1-hour drive. For Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent: Options near Lake Sutherland, Port Angeles, Sequim, and others might offer suitable accommodations. For Ocean shores and Hoh Rainforest: Forks, Kalaloch
For my couples, I recommend following lodgings:
Cabins
2. Lakefront cabin Port Angeles
3. A-frame cabin with a hot tub
4. A perfect home for 18-20 guests that allows events
5. Glamping
Lodges
Lake Crescent Lodge
Kalaloch Lodge
Lake Quinault Lodge
Woodsy Port Angeles treehouse
The Best Elopement Activities in Olympic National Park
My top-10 activities that I recommend to my couples are:
1. Hiking.
2. Renting a boat or kayak at Lake Crescent or bring your own.
3. Guided horseback trail riding.
4. Having a picnic.
5. Visiting one of the lavender farms at Sequim. My favorite one: Jardin du Soliel Lavender Farm.
6. Visiting Olympic Game Farm near Sequim.
7. Bonfiring with marshmallows on an ocean beach.
8. Starring night pictures at Hurricane ridge
9. Wine testing.
10. Relaxing in a hot springs.
Location: Hoh Forest
How Much Does It Cost To Elope in Olympic National Park: Elopement Budget Checklist
The following is an estimate of the budget:
Plane tickets to Washington within the USA: You can expect to pay anywhere from $600 to $1000 for two plane tickets, depending on the season and how early you book them.
Car rental: $250-500, but it all depends on how many days you need it and the type of vehicle, whether it's an 2WD, SUV, 4WD, or something else.
Cabin rental: For a cabin rental, prices typically range from $400 to $2000, depending on factors like the number of days you're staying, the number of guests, and the level of luxury you're after.
Photographer: $4000 - 7500, with costs varying depending on the amount of photo coverage you require. Services can start from as little as 4 hours and extend up to 2 full days of elopement experience.
Officiant: $0. My assistant is ordained and would be delighted to officiate your ceremony as a complimentary service. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can ask one of your guests to do the honor.
HMUA: $ 0-800. When it comes to hair and makeup, you have options. You can handle it yourself and save some cash, or you can opt for a professional hair and makeup artist. Prices for professional services typically range from $600 to $800.
Florals: $50-800. If you're feeling crafty, you can handle your bouquet yourself by ordering materials from Etsy, which might cost you around $50. Alternatively, you can opt for the convenience and expertise of a professional florist, with prices typically ranging from $500 to $800.
Cake: $50 - 500. You can bake it yourself, which might cost anywhere from $30-50, depending on ingredients and decorations. Alternatively, you can leave it to the pros and order from a professional cake or dessert maker.
Catering: $30-800 for two persons. If you're on a budget, a low-key picnic would cost about $30 to $50 to put together yourself. For something special, you could hire a private chef to come to your Airbnb and work their culinary magic. Prices for a private chef typically range from $500 to $800.
Marriage license: $69 for King County.
Location: Lake Crescent
The Best Elopement Timeline
As an example, here are a few ideas for your elopement timeline. As part of my service, I create a schedule tailored specifically for you based on your preferences and needs.
4-hour Elopement Timeline
4.15 pm: Photographer arrival time to the cabin at Lake Crescent Lodge
4.20 pm - 4.40 pm: First Look at the lodge
4.40 pm - 4.50 pm: Buffer time before the hike to Marymere Falls
4.50 pm - 5.50 pm: Hike to the waterfall + pictures while exploring the forest
5.50 pm - 6.15 pm: Exploring waterfall + pictures
6.15 pm - 6.45 pm: Hiking back to the Lake Crescent Lodge
6.45 pm - 7.00 pm: Buffer time before the ceremony
7.00 pm - 7.45 pm: Ceremony + vow’s exchange +letters from the family +signing papers
7.45 pm - 8.15 pm: Small picnic at the lake
8.15 pm: Photographer departure time
8-hour Elopement Timeline
11.00 am: Photographer arrival time to the Hoh Rainforest campsite
11.15 am - 12.45 pm: Getting ready pictures at the campsite
12.45 pm - 1.00 pm: First look
01.00 pm - 1.15 pm: Travel from the campsite to the Hoh Rainforest
1.15 pm - 1.30 pm: Hike from the Hoh Rainforest Parking lot to Hall of Mosses Trailhead
1.30 pm - 3.15 pm: Ceremony+ Exploring the Hall of Mosses trailhead after
3.15 pm - 3.30 pm: Hike from the Hall of Mosses trailhead to picnic area (just near the parking lot) for cutting cake and champagne
3.30 pm - 4.00 pm: Cutting cake and popping up champagne
4.00 pm - 4.15 pm: Buffer time before leaving the Hoh Rainforest
4.15 pm - 5.15 pm: Travel from the Hoh Rainforest to Ruby Beach parking lot
5.15 pm - 5.30 pm: Hike from the parking lot to the beach
5.30 pm - 6.45 pm: Couples Portraits
6.45 pm - 7.00 pm: Hike back to the car
7.00 pm: Photographer Departure Time
12-hour Elopement Timeline
9.45 am: Photographer arrival time to the cabin at Port Angeles
10.00 am - 11.45 am: Getting ready, details shots
11.45 am - 12.00 pm: Buffer time before the first look
12.00 pm - 12.15 pm: First look at the property
12.15 pm - 12.30 pm: Buffer time before leaving the cabin
12.30 pm - 1.15 pm: Travel from the cabin to Lake Crescent Lodge
1.15 pm - 1.45 pm: Private vows by the lake + pictures at the pier
1.45 pm - 3.00 pm: Hike to Marymere Falls + pictures while exploring the forest
3.00 pm - 3.30 pm: Pictures while exploring the waterfall
3.30 pm - 4.00 pm: Hiking back to the Lake Crescent Lodge
4.00 pm - 5.00 pm: Picnic at the lake + cutting cake+ first dance
5.00 pm - 5.15 pm: Buffering time before leaving to Ruby beach for the ceremony with friends and family
5.15 pm - 6.45 pm: Travel from Lake Crescent to Ruby beach parking lot
6.45 pm - 7.15 pm: Hike from the parking lot to the beach, finding the exact spot for the ceremony and buffer time for proper set up
7.15 pm - 8.00 pm: Ceremony with friends and family
8.00 pm - 8.30pm: Group pictures
8.30 pm - 9.30 pm: Couples Portraits at Ruby Beach
9.30 pm - 9.45 pm: Hike back to the car
9.45 pm: Photographer Departure Time
What to learn choosing an Olympic National Park Elopement Photographer
Choosing an adventure elopement photographer isn't easy, but here are some tips based on my experience.
To begin with, choose a local photographer for your elopement. Local photographers know the most picturesque spots for photo shoots in Olympic and can help you locate them. Moreover, you don't need to cover their transportation costs. It saves money.
Next, hire a vendor who can provide planning assistance and can give you advice about local vendors.
Make sure the photographer's style meets your expectations and reflects your vibe.
Make sure the contract does not contain any hidden fees, and you are aware of the full cost of eloping before you transfer funds.
Olympic National Park Elopement Packages
I have a few packages for couples who elope in Olympic National Park.
Each package includes complimentary officiating services.
You'll get beautiful, sincere photographs that you can treasure for a lifetime.
You have:
Coverage from four hours to two full days
Edited, full-resolution photos
Password-protected online gallery with unlimited downloads
A sneak peek within one week of your elopement day
Personal printing rights
A pleasant surprise: travel fees are included!
The price varies between $4000 and $7500 based on the duration of your elopement photo session.
Fill out the form to learn more about the prices.
I’M VALERIE, YOUR ADVENTURE ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHER
My style is called “candid photography.” The idea is to preserve moments as they were, not as we wish they looked.
Before we speak, I ask you to fill out the contact form. It helps me better understand what you want to get from your elopement. Knowing precisely what you want, I can offer you the best locations, activities, and vendors. Don’t worry if you don’t have a concept for your event. Together we’ll find the best solution. What I really won’t do is force you to accept something that I suggested. This is your day, and I just help you to turn your thoughts, ideas, and dreams into reality.
Friendship is not something you can buy, but here you will get a real friend. Yes, I’ll be pretty much invisible during the elopement, but as with any intimate event, the elopement goes better when you are surrounded by people you trust. I’ll try to become that kind of person for your couple. I’ll help you to spend this day in a relaxed atmosphere. One of the most popular reasons why people choose to elope is the desire to spend the wedding day without haste and fuss. Your elopement will be adventurous but stress-free! I'll be your rock, your shoulder to lean on.
Finally, when we discuss all the details, and you choose everything from location and date to clothes and champagne, I’ll get my camera. At that moment, my purpose will be to capture your real feelings and emotions. I’m not going to tell you what to do and how to pose. Our common goal is to save these brilliant moments of your love story, not to do posed photography.
This May elopement in Olympic National Park will be remembered for a long time. Not just for its beauty and emotion. A few weeks after the ceremony, the groom sent me a photo of his arm—a large tattoo of one of my photos on his shoulder. That message made my day.