If I had to pick just two things I love most about being a Seattle Wedding and Elopement Photographer, it would be connecting with adventurous couples who want to celebrate their love story and soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. When I first met Karen and Tevin at a local brewery to chat about their vision for a Mount Rainier elopement, they already had a clear list of “must-haves.” They wanted epic mountain views, quality time focused on each other, and a picturesque Airbnb—with a hot tub, of course. After booking, Karen suggested an incredible location, and from there, the planning for their adventurous elopement weekend at Mount Rainier was officially underway.
Adventurous Elopement in Mount Rainier National Park
Traveling to Mount Rainier never gets old. With Seattle being just 2 hours from Mount Rainer, I was able to location scout for Karen and Tevin’s mountain nuptials. While I was busy driving back and forth, Karen was busy putting together her elopement vision board. Vision boards are such a vital part of wedding planning; not only is it useful for couples to get their thoughts out, but it’s extremely helpful for wedding vendors. A couple may describe their wedding vision as “whimsical”, but a florist may have a different definition of what “whimsical” means. Vision boards help mitigate miscommunication and help meet expectations.
I personally love to have a collaborative approach with my couples — and to ensure that I can help make their vision come to life. Between myself and the couple’s videographer (Alanna), we helped plan a day that included everything that was most important to Karen and Tevin. After assisting with the permitting process and working alongside park services, we finally had what we needed to pull off a picturesque, remote elopement in Mount Rainier National Park. While not every couple is super selective on specific elopement locations, it is fun to explore a remote location.
Planning a Mount Rainier Elopement
A couple months before Karen and Tevin’s big day arrived, they asked if would accompany them on a private dinner charter the night before their big day (UHM, YES!?). It was the perfect way to kick off an adventurous elopement weekend. We set out on a quiant, privately owned and operated family boat. The owners made an incredible meal of surf and turf, salad, baked potatoes, carrots, and a dessert of creme brûlée. My mouth is still watering just thinking about it. We ended the evening with sunset portraits overlooking the sparkling water. It was a blissful foreshadowing to the following day in the mountains.
Karen and Tevin’s Mount Rainier elopement day began in a stunning A-frame vacation rental alongside their best gal, Maya. Their senior pup stole the show, and had me choking up at her wholesome interactions with her ‘parents’. Both Karen and Tevin were able to spend time getting ready alongside Maya, and even included her in their first look! After the first look, the sweet family of 3 sat down on the deck to enjoy a light lunch of charcuterie. As Karen and Tevin sat side by side, Maya snoozed soundly beneath their feet until it was time for us to head to Mount Rainier. Before heading out on the road, the couple slipped into their elopement hiking outfits. Knowing that Karen and Tevin were able to spend their wedding morning exactly as they wanted was heartwarming to say the least.
Remote Mountain Elopement in Washington
With wedding attire stashed on their backs, we started the hike up to their dreamy remote mountain elopement location. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day — the sun was shining, and Mount Rainier was bathed in golden sunshine. Once we reached the top, Karen and Tevin changed back into their wedding attire, helping each other with finishing touches. While Tevin was wearing his hiking boots, Karen had her bridal cowgirl boots on (a true Montana girl at heart). We then made our way over to the ceremony spot where my partner Kevin was waiting. Not only is he ordained, but he is always the best personal pack mule to help lug things up the mountain! Karen and Tevin affectionately referred to him as “Rev Kev”… and he’s a good one at that.
After Rev Kev gave his little speech to begin the ceremony, he stepped away to allow Karen and Tevin to exchange their vows privately. One of my favorite things about private vows is when I can’t actually hear what the couple is saying. There’s something so special about knowing that only they know what was said. After exchanging their vows, Karen and Tevin were officially married and embarking on their best adventure yet. We then spent some time taking bridal portraits, surround by epic mountain views. Mount Rainier even donned her signature halo cloud hat for us!
The newlyweds piled on their packs again as we made our way down the mountain to another location to pop champagne. We then hiked back to our vehicles as darkness took over. Karen and Tevin’s adventurous elopement weekend in Mount Rainier concluded by signing their marriage license by lantern glow. The perfect way to conclude a magical couple of days.
Seattle Wedding and Elopement Photographer | Wilder Photography
Are you recently engaged and planning a Seattle wedding? Check out the latest blog where I dive into 15 of the most unique Seattle wedding venues! Or if you’re searching for more couples to swoon over, head over to the ‘Gram (@sam_wilderphotography). But until next time, dare to be different, my friend!
Mount Rainier Elopement Vendors:
Photography – Wilder Photography
Videography – Alanna Morgan Photography
Vacation Rental – The Shady Frame
Dress – Dress Theory
Suit – Indochino
