National Park Elopement

Stehekin, WA

A lot of couples choose to elope because they want to share an intimate experience with the people closest to them. Sometimes, that means flying your entire family from Oahu, HI. to Washington State and head to a town nestled deep in the heart of the North Cascades. Stehekins town slogan is: Where no roads can take you. It is a town that is only accessible by boat, plane, foot, or horseback. Stehekin is truly a gem in the North Cascades. In order to get there we had to take a 2.5 hour ferry ride (or hike about 23 miles!) The tiny town is home to about 75 permanent residents, and is surrounded by stunning National Park lands. You have incredible views of the mountains, lush valleys, and epic waterfronts. This elopement was nothing short of magical.

bride and groom kiss in front of stehekin (small town in national forest) sign

National Park Etiquette

Here are a couple of things to remember when you’re eloping in a national park:

LEAVE NO TRACE – The area should be as pristine when you leave as when you found it. We are BLESSED to live in a world where National Parks exist. Treat them with the utmost care.
Stay on marked trails – not only for your own safety, but the safety of the eco systems that you’re surrounded by
Get proper permits – every park has different rules and regulations. Some places allow you to set up small structures or chairs, some absolutely do not. Know the laws where you’re going, and make sure you (and your photographer) have all the permits necessary to shoot photos legally.
Use common sense – wild animals exist in these parks, so be alert to your surroundings. Furthermore, don’t do anything that you would be appalled to see someone else doing out in nature. A little bit of common sense goes a long way

The Big Day

This elopement was incredible. I’m still speechless thinking about it. We stayed in little cabins on the property at Stehekin Lodge. The lodge actually provided everything including all the accommodations and food for the elopement itself. Cassie handmade all of the decor. Each little crane you see – it was folded by Cassie. The personal touches were everywhere, and the entire day felt so perfectly tailored to the couple. I can’t fully explain just how perfect being surrounded by this Cassie and Alex’s family in this stunning National Park truly was. Scroll below to relive the day with me.

Cassie and Alex – Thank you for choosing me to document your love story. Cheers to your forever!