First, it all starts with dreaming up the perfect day. I always recommend to my couples to have fun with this part- it’s the beginning of your elopement journey and such an exciting time!

So go on a date night to your favorite restaurant, curl up on the couch in front of a fire and some wine, go on your favorite hike, or simply go on a walk in your neighborhood and talk about how you two envision your day. Jot these ideas down and that is all you need to start!

Once you have an overall vision for what you two want out of your day, it’s time to make the biggest decisions that will affect your elopement experience the most: who are you inviting, when you are going and for how long.

What type of scenery do you and your partner feel connected to? What views fill you with a sense of happiness, inspiration, and peace? Where would feel the most “you” to say your vows? Is it in a quiet meadow? Are you hiking up a gorgeous cliff view? Or are you enjoying the sites from above on a mountain top?

Next decide on who.

For some couples, this is a super easy question to answer—and for others, it’s more of a debate. The truth is—an elopement doesn’t have to be just two people.

You can definitely still have an intimate elopement experience and a day that’s fully centered on your relationship with your closest friends and/or family involved. And they can be involved as much as you want them to.

However, if you do decide to invite family or friends along, whether it’s just a celebratory meal, the getting ready portion of the day, just the ceremony, or the whole day, make sure they’re fully on board with your vision and understand that you’re not having a big traditional wedding—but a unique celebration that’s authentic to your relationship. Remind them that this is for you, not anyone else.

Finally, decide on when.

If you’re getting married in the late spring, summer or early fall you will be in the warmest season of Zion; however it tends to still be a bit chilly in the spring and fall.

If you’re eloping in the middle of summer, this is the highest tourist season so just be mindful that there may be a lot of other people around.

Whenever you decide to elope, embrace the natural elements and live in the moment!

One of the things I hear the most is, “We are so awkward in front of the camera, we don’t know how to pose at all”. With me, you don’t have to worry about awkward or forced poses.

I capture natural and candid emotions easily by first ensuring you two are having a great day; because when you have a great day and are in a good mood, emotions naturally follow.

More than just your photographer

Hey there!

Congrats on deciding to elope- that is pretty badass! With all of this newfound freedom- planning an elopement may seem a bit overwhelming; that’s when I come in!

I am here to help guide you throughout the entire elopement process from start to finish. There is so much you can do and it is my job to fuel you both with ideas so you may cherry pick what you want to do on your big day!

My services include:

• Finding your exact ceremony location & other locations to shoot at.

• Officiate your wedding while still capturing everything. Click here to see how I do it.

• Locating local vendors for you (florists, hair & make-up artists, rentals)

• Building your elopement day timeline & figuring out travel logistics.

• & more!

Scroll down to see how to get started!

I’m happy you’re here!

ELOPEMENTS & INTIMATE WEDDINGS PHOTOGRAPHER

• I’m new to this- what is an Elopement?

  Elopements have evolved so much from the days of running to the courthouse on a whim. Adventurous Elopements are planned months in advance and are a couples wedding day that is completely custom to them. From going to an epic location to doing all of your favorite things, elopements are your way to have your perfect wedding day all about you two.

• When is the best time to go to Zion? And what are some of your favorite spots?

  Zion is definitely the most beautiful in the Spring, Fall and the outer ends of Winter. The weather is gorgeous, the trees are changing and the wildlife is active. The highest tourist season is definitely the summer; Zion actually has a trolley in place for this as the parking lots get full fast and it is hard to find parking. I recommend going just before or right after tourist season when the weather is getting better and the roads are open.

• Are we allowed to invite guests to our Elopement?

  Contrary to popular belief- yes you absolutely can! Elopements can have under 20 guests and can be involved in your day as much as you want them to. However, if you do decide to invite family or friends along, whether it’s just a celebratory meal, the getting ready portion of the day, just the ceremony, or the whole day, make sure they’re fully on board with your vision and understand that you’re not having a big traditional wedding—but a unique celebration that’s authentic to your relationship. Remind them that this is for you, not anyone else.

• What airport do we fly into? Where do we stay?

  The closest major airport is McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nevada, about a 3hour drive. The next biggest airport and the closest is St. George Regional Airport; only an hour away from Zion’s entrance.
  There are a few options for your lodging; if you stay in an Airbnb or hotel you will most likely stay in Springdale which is the closest town. For a more immersive stay- check out Under Canvas Zion or Open Sky Zion.

• How far in advance should we book you? What’s the process like and how many photos

  Elopements are typically booked the same amount of time as a traditional wedding (8-10 months in advance). Although, depending on location, permits, and your situation- you can book anytime.
  A deposit/retainer is due upon signing the contract to lock in your elopement and date. The remainder will not be due until 1 month prior to your elopement. I will send an electronic invoice and friendly reminders are sent letting you know when payment is coming up!
  Filling out the contact form is your first step! After I receive your inquiry I will reach out within 48 hours and we will set up a phone call to talk about your elopement day. Don’t worry if you don’t have a lot planned or a solid idea- that’s the best time to begin!
  You will receive upwards of 400 final images. Of course, the more to the elopement day (excursions, multiple locations, activities, etc.) will result in more images. There is no maximum cap but you will receive a minimum of 400. All images are fully edited and fully sized; whether you want to blow up a photo on a canvas or just post it to Instagram, it will be good for both.

• What is Zion like? What do we need to know before going there?

  You will absolutely love Zion if this is your first time visiting! Here are some helpful tips to know before your visit this amazing National Park:
  You will need to get a permit in order to get married in the park; while making the reservation for the permit- make sure to tell them that you are not having a traditional wedding and only plan on bringing x number of people with no set up (most national parks put restrictions on set ups or even chairs). You may not be able to explore the Narrows if the water flow is not to regulation (call ahead to gather more information from the park rangers). Zion has a super handy shuttle to take you to the major trails so you don’t need to worry about parking. And finally, you will need a permit to hike Angels Landing and while it is gorgeous, it is very difficult if you are not an avid hiker or used to the heat in the warmer months.