As an elopement photographer, I love the atmosphere created at a small wedding. You get to focus on the most meaningful moments when you have a tiny guest list and make your own rules for the day. Misty and Michael’s Leavenworth elopement, which included a group of only their closest friends and family, had all the intimacy and emotion that make small weddings so wonderful.

A couple exchanges at their Leavenworth elopement

A Leavenworth Elopement

Leavenworth, Washington, is located just over two hours west of Seattle in the Cascade Mountains. A Leavenworth elopement has a lot of perks! For adventurers and nature lovers, there are outdoor activities year-round. You can hike, do white water rafting, or cross country ski. Whether you want to elope amid the wildflowers or vibrant fall colors, it’s possible in Leavenworth.

Details of an invitation suite for a Leavenworth elopement

Although many people understandably have a Leavenworth elopement for the landscape, the city is also known for its Bavarian village. As the logging industry declined in the 1960s, the city decided to build a Bavarian village to attract tourists. It’s quirky to say the least. Still, who doesn’t love Oktoberfest and a Christmas village?

A bride spins in a field before her Leavenworth elopement

A couple laughs during their first look at their Leavenworth elopement

Nevertheless, the incredible natural beauty of the area is what makes Leavenworth so great for weddings. Just because it’s inland doesn’t mean you have to miss out on a beachy ceremony! The Wenatchee River runs through Leavenworth, and parks line a good section of the shore.

Portraits of the bride and groom on a lake shore at their Leavenworth elopement

Misty and Michael’s ceremony on the water was a windswept dream. Their wedding party dressed in neutral colors that fit perfectly with the sand and rocks on the shore. The water reflected the rolling clouds, which swallowed up the mountain tops. It was the epitome of Pacific Northwest beauty.

A lakeside Leavenworth elopement ceremony

A wedding party watchees a Leavenworth elopement

A bride embraces friends at a Leavenworth elopement

The evergreens on the mountains were lovely, but I was really excited to take portraits among the fiery gold of fall. There’s something so warm and romantic about these photos. The bright colors reflect the intense joy of the day, but at the same time, they’re timeless. Future generations can look at them and feel the love and excitement. I even loved the textures of Misty’s lace among the fallen leaves.

The bride walks with her mother through the woods at her Leavenworth elopement

Portraits of a bride and groom in an autumn forest for their Leavenworth elopement

A Leavenworth Lodge Dinner Reception

Everything about Misty and Michael’s Leavenworth elopement was focused on special moments with their loved ones. That included the dinner reception at Leavenworth Lodge. Because they kept the guest list so small, the venue was able to arrange the tables so that everyone could see one another. It felt like a big family meal with lots of laughter and hugs.

Guests enjoy dinner at a Leavenworth elopement

The reception details were simple but elegant. Lush floral arrangements wove through candles, casting a romantic glow. Even the warm tones of the plates and cups made the dinner feel simultaneously special and cozy - definitely a goal of an elopement!

A couple cuts a cake with pink and white flowers at a Leavenworth elopement

Small touches kept guests entertained without adding stress to the day. People mixed drinks at a cocktail station then wandered over to the guestbook. Misty and Michael brought a Fujifilm INSTAX Mini so guests could take pictures to go with their messages. Misty had fun walking around and taking pictures too.

A bride takes photos of guests at her Leavenworth elopement

Misty and Michael’s focus on community made their Leavenworth elopement such a pleasure to be a part of. Their family and friends obviously valued them so much, and expressed that throughout the day. Their wedding managed to be a reflection of their relationship rather than a big stressful production.

A desert table with cake and cupcakes at a Leavenworth elopement reception

Misty and Michael’s Intimate Wedding

Misty and Michael originally planned to elope in 2020, but the pandemic changed their plans. Although the delay wasn’t ideal, they were all the more excited when their wedding day finally arrived! Weddings are always full of excitement, but Misty and Michael’s was exceptional. Happy tears flowed all day.

A bride smiles at guests during her Leavenworth elopement dinner reception

The pandemic wasn’t the only challenge Misty and Michael have overcome in their relationship. While finishing school, the couple had a long distance romance. They were so supportive of each other the whole time. Their wedding was wonderful to witness!

I always try to make my clients feel cared for throughout the planning process and wedding day. Misty and Michael returned that care by treating me just like family. In fact, everyone did! They made sure I took breaks and got coffee. It was really special to share that closeness with them.