Not every couple dreams of a big wedding — and for Stacey and Welmen, that realization came after starting down that very path. What began as a plan for a large celebration slowly turned into something that felt more like an obligation than a joy. As the guest list grew and the pressure mounted, they paused and asked themselves: What do we really want this to feel like?

The answer led them across the country to the lush, rainy forests of the Pacific Northwest — and into one of the most beautiful days I’ve ever had the honor of capturing.

A New Vision: Eloping in Olympic National Park

Instead of sticking with tradition, Stacey and Welmen chose to do something radically personal. They traded a ballroom for a forest, a reception for a hike, and a crowd for just each other and the bride’s parents. Their elopement took place in Olympic National Park in November, when the air is misty, the leaves are golden, the crowds are long gone, and the whole landscape feels like it belongs in a fairytale.

They embraced the weather, the wild, and each other, and it was absolutely magical.

A Rainy Sunrise First Look

We started the morning before the sun had fully risen, with soft rain falling as the sky slowly brightened around us. Wrapped in jackets and quiet excitement, Stacey and Welmen shared a first look out on a dock surrounded by still water and foggy skies. The moment was peaceful, raw, and so full of love.

As Stacey walked down the dock to do the first look with Welmen tears began to fall and it was so intimate and special as the ran fell around us.

Waterfalls, Forest Trails, and So Much Green

From the dock, we ventured deep into the forest, hiking across moss-covered bridges and along rivers that sparkled in the soft morning light. The trees were glowing with autumn color and the rain only made everything feel more vibrant and alive.

Stacey’s dress swayed with every step, and the way these two laughed together through the drizzle and mud reminded me exactly why elopements like this are so special. It’s not about looking perfect, it’s about feeling something real.

Midday Pause and Driftwood Adventures

After a warm midday break to eat and rest up, we met back up for the next part of their adventure: the beach. With the tide schedules checked and boots laced, we hiked out across massive piles of driftwood to reach the shore. Waves were crashing in the distance and massive rock formations stood like sentinels in the water.

Here, with only the sound of the ocean surrounding them, Stacey and Welmen exchanged private vows, just the two of them. No audience, no pressure, no distractions. Only the sea, the wind, and each other.

An Emotional Ceremony in the Rain

After their private moment, we made our way to the final beach where Stacey’s parents were waiting. The rain began to pour harder, but spirits were high. With wind whipping around them and the surf crashing behind, they said their official vows in front of family, sealing the day with laughter, happy tears, and so much love.

It was cold. It was wet. It was absolutely unforgettable.

There was something almost cinematic about how the rain fell during that final ceremony. It was a real, raw, deeply personal day that reflected exactly who they are.

Why This Day Was So Special

Stacey and Welmen’s elopement is a reminder that your wedding day doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. You don’t need perfect weather or a packed guest list. You just need to follow what feels right for you, even if it means flying across the country to hike through a rainy forest with your person.

And when you do that? Magic happens.

Thinking about planning your own adventure elopement?
I’m here to help you create a day that feels meaningful, stress-free, and unforgettable — no matter the weather. Let’s plan something incredible together. Reach out here to plan your own perfect adventure!

View their full gallery here:
👉 Olympic National Park Elopement Portfolio

Want a full guide to plan your own Olympic National Park Elopement? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Olympic National Park