2020 has been a difficult year on so many fronts. And as I wrap up my last wedding of 2020, finishing up what turned out to be a rather dizzyingly busy fall (after an abysmal first seven months), I’ve finally had a chance to reflect a little bit. Weddings were different this year, that is for certain. But with so much stagnation in the world today, born out of the endless uncertainty from the virus, from politics… elopements and intimate weddings have become a way for couples to celebrate and find joy when there really has been very little to celebrate this year. And they have become a way to move forward. “Elope now in a beautiful outdoor setting and then have the big celebration later with family and friends when this is all over” has become my mantra for 2020, especially as we got into summer and it became clear that this wouldn’t be all over anytime soon. I absolutely enjoy elopements and I think couples all over are starting to rethink the idea of their dream wedding, recognizing all of the flexibility that elopements have.

And with that, I’d like to give a very big and warm congratulations to Cara and Chris! They eloped at the beautiful Rein Fire Ranch in Ravensdale, a small town in the Cascade foothills. With its rustic farm setting, complete with horses, pastures and surrounding hills, Rein Fire Ranch provided a picturesque backdrop for their intimate ceremony with just two close friends, myself, and their officiant who also happens to co-own and run Rein Fire Ranch. It was a chilly, but sunny late fall day as we had their beautiful intimate ceremony in a nearby grassy field. And when that sun dipped lower in the sky, we had some gorgeous light peaking through! I loved Cara’s dress and cape! It was the perfect way for her to keep warm, especially as it cooled off towards sunset. These two actually live right here in Snoqualmie and got engaged at nearby Snoqualmie Falls! I always love getting to work with local couples!

Thank you both so much for the opportunity to photograph your beautiful elopement! It was such a pleasure working with you! Enjoy a sneak peek at a few of the many highlights! Part II – the celebration and photoshoot after the ceremony is coming tomorrow!