A. & T. | Romantic June Elopement at Picture Lake, PNW

When I prepared for this early summer elopement, I had plans A, B, and even C. In plan A, my optimistic vision included the road to Artist Point being plowed and open to vehicles by late June. However, after days of hopeful waiting, reality set in, and it was time to pivot and create an alternative timeline.

The new plan centered around a ceremony at Picture Lake, one of the most enchanting sparkling lakes in Washington State. I was confident this plan would come to fruition, but being fully prepared, I crafted another one as a backup.

Our elopement day kicked off in a cozy cabin near Deming, WA, setting the stage for an emotional getting-ready photo session. The preparations were nothing short of magical, with the brides exchanging heartfelt gifts and assisting each other with their makeup.

Our next destination was the picturesque bank of Picture Lake, with the majestic Mount Shuksan gracing the background. Despite the snow-covered ground, creating a scene more reminiscent of winter than summer, the breathtaking views of the mountain and lake added an ethereal touch to the entire experience.

The ceremony, conducted by my assistant (who also happened to be my husband:) Pasha, took place on a small wooden deck over the lake. Worries about fog messing up the view of the mountain during the vow exchange disappeared thanks to the excellent weather. This let us take some really pretty pictures with Mt. Shuksan in the background.

Following the ceremony, a small picnic and cake-cutting ceremony unfolded at Bagley Lakes. From there, we headed to nearby waterfalls for a sunset bridal shoot, culminating in a romantic dance for the newlyweds amidst the ferns.

The weather, pleasantly cool, proved to be ideal for this celebration of love. Being a part of this magical day was a joyous experience, with each carefully planned moment unfolding seamlessly against the breathtaking Washington State landscape. From snow-covered lakeshores to cascading waterfalls, this elopement was a testament to the beauty of love and the flexibility required when nature decides to surprise us:) . Cheers to love and the enchanting memories created on this unforgettable summer day!

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HERE IS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ELOPEMENTS

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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.