I always love a trip into the mountains. Beautiful, high-alpine pine trees, their slender conical shape adapted for carrying heavy snow much of the year, along with colorful, lush wildflower meadows that look like something out of a fairy tale… the endless expanse of mountain peaks and valleys, extending as far as the eye can see… and views of the Mountain, majestically towering over everything in sight… Sitting right up along the edge of Mount Rainier National Park, Crystal Mountain Resort is officially one of my absolute all-time favorite wedding venues. Yes, you can actually get married at the Crystal Mountain Resort Summit (6872 feet above sea level) overlooking Mount Rainier! You and your guests can enjoy a leisurely gondola ride that will carry you 2500 feet up from the base to absolutely stunning views! Or, if you’re an adventurous couple, it is the perfect place to throw in a little hiking to nearby meadows, alpine lakes, and scenic overlooks.
It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful place for Laura & Kevin’s intimate mountain elopement. Having skied at Crystal Mountain countless times, it was the perfect place for them to tie the knot. Kevin mentioned barreling down Cloud 9 (one of the ski runs there) at 50mph and feeling the g-force when you come back up the rise at the bottom of the valley… Sounds amazing, but I’m glad we weren’t out to experience those kinds of g-forces on this outing! Nevertheless, there can be no denying that these two – indeed, all of us there, were on cloud nine! Seriously, what an adventure! Their willingness to hike back down the mountain made for some stunning discoveries along the way, including some gorgeous wildflower meadows in peak bloom! Laura and Kevin both looked absolutely amazing! Laura wore a beautiful vintage-inspired wedding gown, complete with a beautiful floral crown and bouquet by the talented Karrie of Karrie Michell Floral Design and stunning hair and makeup by talented artist Alisha Wood of Shear Beauty by Alisha. And I also loved the stationary and signs all designed by gifted calligrapher Stephanie of Caracol Creative! After a short & sweet ceremony overlooking Rainier, we set off to explore the area and capture some amazing images of these two celebrating in the beautiful Cascade Mountains!
Congratulations Laura & Kevin! I had an amazing time with both of you! And Part II is coming very soon with more! You both rocked it out there!
