Rachel + Mario Mt Hood Proposal and Engagement Session
Getting Ready
Erika and Dan’s southern Oregon elopement day began at their gorgeous airstream Airbnb overlooking the Pacific Ocean. While it was a small space, it had beautiful light and was so unique to photograph. I love Erika’s personalized “till death do us part” Moto jacket so I just had to pose her with it for a few photos!
As the couple got ready, I took their rings and vow books for some details photos around the property. Once dressed, the couple sat together at the small couch and dining table to write out their vows.
The Redwoods
Next, as we were about to head to the Redwoods for the second part of the day we quickly realized we had a tiny problem! On a whim, the couple had decided to rent a Tesla but there are no fast charging stations in Brookings and the Tesla was already on low battery!
Luckily, I knew of a smaller redwood trail closer to town, so we quickly pivoted! Elopements with just the couple are the best scenario for when things like this come up because you aren’t re-organizing a large group of people and it’s easy to make a change in plans like this! After walking through the new redwood location, Erik and Daniel agreed everything couldn’t have worked out better. Although the second location had smaller trees, it was also completely private- definitely something you don’t experience at this time of day in the larger parks!
Picnic and Ceremony
Our redwoods adventure completed, we returned to the coast for a picnic and sunset vows! I don’t like to bother the couple too much while they are eating- giving them a few photos of the moment and then letting them relax and enjoy each other’s company in private!
As the sun began to set, it was time for vows!
From the moment Erika had first contacted me to plan their Brookings elopement, this was one spot I had in mind because I knew the light was going to amazing at this time of year.
It can be hard to delay your wedding vows until the very end of the day, but if you’re looking for stunning golden hour photos this is a great reason to wait!
After they were married, it was time to get messy! I love when couples are down to jump and splash in the waves. Letting go of “perfect posing” ideas means your REAL smiles and laughter can be captured in photos. These are always my favorite images.
Blue Hour
Once the sun was totally gone, we marveled at the nearly full moon and its reflection on the water. It was the perfect compliment to our lantern photo time during blue hour.
From the redwoods, to the golden sunset, to a stunning blue hour, Erika and Dan’s adventure elopement had everything a photographer dreams of- and most importantly Erika and Dan had a blast getting married! I’ll leave you with their own words!
