How to Elope in Washington: Everything You Need to Know from a Washington Elopement Photographer

How and Where to Elope in Washington: Everything You Need to Know from a Washington Elopement Photographer

Olympic National Park Elopement

Eloping in Washington is THE perfect choice if you love moody forests, misty coastlines, stunning mountain landscapes, or just want epic elopement photos with in sane scenery.

As a Washington elopement photographer, I’ve documented love stories everywhere from the coastline of Ruby Beach to the glowing alpine light at Reflection Lake, and let me tell you…. Washington is one of THE most wildly romantic places to elope. The variety Washington offers is incredible. Whether you want to hike miles as an adventurous hiking couple looking to elope, or want to do no hiking whatsoever, you will get amazing scenery.

Mount Rainier

But eloping here takes more than just showing up with your vows and hoping it doesn’t rain (spoiler alert: it might, and it’ll still be gorgeous). So let’s dive into everything you need to know—from tips, permits, and timelines to how to choose the right elopement photographer in Washington.

Why Elope in Washington?

Washington offers the kind of variety most states can only dream of. Within a single trip, you could say your vows in a rainforest, hike to a glacier-fed lake, and run barefoot across a rocky beach at sunset. There are some spots where you get forest on one side, and water on the other. And there are some areas that make it easy to elope with a combination of rainforest, mountain, water, and forest all in one elopement experience.

Here are just a few reasons couples choose Washington for their elopement:

• Dramatic landscapes: wild coastline, foggy forests

• Privacy + intimacy: many trails or spots feel secluded even during peak season

• Accessible adventure: tons of epic locations within 2–3 hours of Seattle whether you want to hike or not

• Mild seasons: spring through fall offers lush greens or golden tones depending on your vibe

Most Popular Washington Elopement Locations

These are the locations I photograph elopements at the most, and each one has a totally different mood and energy:

Olympic National Park

Eloping in Olympic National Park feels like stepping into three worlds at once: dense moss-covered rainforests, wild beaches, and dramatic alpine ridge-lines. Basically, it’s a choose your own adventure dreamland, and is perfect for couples who crave variety and want their elopement to feel like a movie that has three acts. You can start your morning with misty vows in the Hoh Rainforest, chase golden hour at Ruby Beach, or hike up to Hurricane Ridge for panoramic mountain views. For those looking for a mix of forest magic, ocean, and mountain drama, Olympic gives you everything, yet still feels intimate. It’s ideal for couples wanting an all-day or multi-day elopement experience that blends emotion, movement, and epic backdrops. Olympic National Park is also ideal for couples who want minimal hiking with epic views, as there are spots we can photograph an elopement experience without traveling to multiple destinations, but still get maximum variety.

🌊 Ruby Beach

Moody skies, driftwood-lined shores, dramatic sea stacks, epic sunsets glowing through said sea stacks. Ruby Beach gives romance with a blend of cinematic vibes. Golden hour here hits different when it peeks through the sea stacks and fog.

When you get a day with a golden hour, it is one of the top 5 places in the U.S. to watch the sun set, in my humble opinion. Ruby Beach is a different feel than your stereotypical sunny California beach. Ruby Beach is a forest-surrounded beach with dark sea stacks, water, logs, caves, and has the ultimate sunsets.

🌲 Hoh Rainforest

This is Washington’s enchanted forest and is covered in moss, mist, and ancient trees. It feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli film. It’s one of my favorites for quiet, intimate ceremonies. Hoh Rainforest is one of the most magical and otherworldly places you can elope in Washington, and is one of the few temperate rainforests in the U.S. The Hoh is about a 4.5- to 5-hour drive from Seattle and pairs perfectly with nearby spots like Ruby Beach (just 45 minutes away), Second Beach, or Rialto Beach, making it ideal for a forest-and-ocean elopement day. The main trailheads like the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail are easy, short, and accessible, making it a stunning choice for elopements with minimal hiking. If you want quiet, intimacy, and full fairytale forest energy, this is your spot.

🌊 Rialto Beach

If you’re looking for more space to roam by the beach, don’t care about being surrounded by forest, and want less tourists and more intimacy, Rialto Beach will give you that. Rialto also has the iconic “Hole in the Wall”, about 1.5 mile walk through natural terrain, giving you extra time and spots for photos.

What is Hole in the Wall at Rialto Beach?

Hole-in-the-Wall is a massive natural sea arch carved into a rock formation by centuries of crashing waves. It’s located about 1.5 miles north of the Rialto Beach parking lot, accessible only by walking along the beach, which adds a mini adventure to your elopement. When the tide is low, you can walk right through the arch and explore the tide pools, barnacle-covered rocks, and hidden nooks beyond it.

Why it’s a must-see location?:

• Unique and dramatic: This arch is unlike anything at Ruby Beach or most PNW beaches. It frames the ocean like a natural cathedral and adds a cinematic focal point to your portraits.

Is it a walk or a hike to get to the Hole-in-the-wall?

• Distance: ~1.5 miles each way from the Rialto Beach parking lot (so about 3 miles round trip)

• Terrain:

  • You’re walking on sand, rocks, and driftwood the whole way, there’s no paved trail

  • No major elevation gain, but it can be tiring if you're not used to walking on uneven beach surfaces (I’m here for the adventure!)

  • At low tide, it’s a relatively flat stroll. At high tide, you may have to navigate over driftwood or wet rock areas

• Time needed: Most people take 45–60 minutes to walk there if stopping for photos and navigating tide pools

• Good news: You’re walking along the ocean the whole time, so even the journey is beautiful AF and full of photo ops

⛰️Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is Washington’s crown jewel. Mount Rainier is a moody, majestic, and jaw dropping giant that demands reverence and awe. When you elope here, everything slows down. The meadows at Sunrise or Paradise fill with wildflowers in late summer, Reflection Lake mirrors the mountain on still mornings, and trails wind through ancient forests into views that will make you cry before you even say “I do.” Rainier is perfect for couples who want that iconic mountain shot without sacrificing variety. There are hidden groves, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and open skies that make for unreal photos. It’s a favorite for sunrise or sunset elopements, especially for couples who want a more accessible adventure with views that hit like a spiritual awakening. And during the Fall season, you might just pass away with the views.

The best spots to elope in Mount Rainier National Park:

Reflection Lake

Best in summer when the water is still and you can see Mount Rainier mirrored in the lake. It’s a quick walk from the parking lot, making it ideal for elopements with guests or minimal hiking.

Paradise:

• Best for: Wildflower meadows (July–August), epic trails, sweeping views

• Accessibility: Trails range from easy to moderate

• Vibe: Iconic, lush, full of life

• Pro tips:

  • Peak bloom is late July through early August

  • Gets busy—sunrise or weekday elopements are gold

  • Can combine meadow, forest, and mountain backdrops in one spot

Sunrise

• Best for: Ridgeline views, alpine light, fewer crowds

• Accessibility: Easy to moderate hikes

• Vibe: Open, wild, expansive

• Pro tips:

  • Opens later in the year than Paradise (usually July–September)

  • More remote, so ideal for couples craving solitude

  • Gorgeous golden light in the actual sunrise hours

Grove of the Patriarchs

• Best for: Forest-lovers, emotional vow exchanges, Tolkien vibes

• Accessibility: Short, flat trail through old-growth trees

• Vibe: Enchanted, quiet, deeply grounding

• Pro tips:

  • Feels magical in fog or soft light

  • Easy for guests or quick ceremonies

  • Works beautifully as a secondary location paired with a mountain spot

Tipsoo Lake

• Best for: Sunset light, wildflowers, alpine reflections

• Accessibility: Short trail, easy walk

• Vibe: Intimate, picturesque, tucked-away

• Pro tips:

  • Great for couples who want something scenic but simple

  • Wildflowers usually bloom late July to mid-August

  • Looks insane at golden hour with Rainier in the distance

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Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest — Elopement Hotspots

• Artist Point

  • Panoramic mountain views of Mt. Baker & Mt. Shuksan

  • Road accessible mid-summer to fall (usually July–October)

  • Ideal for sunrise or sunset ceremonies with minimal hiking

• Picture Lake

  • Iconic reflections of Mount Shuksan in a calm alpine lake

  • Easy 0.4–0.6 mile trail, wheelchair-friendly

  • Gorgeous in fall, with colorful foliage

• Heather Meadows & Fire and Ice Trail

  • Lush summer wildflowers and gentle alpine meadows

  • Offers short, interpretive “walks” perfect for low-impact ceremonies

• Bagley Lakes

  • Two alpine lakes with peaks in the background

  • Moderate 2-mile round-trip, quieter crowd

  • Great for moody, adventurous portraits

• Chain Lakes Loop

  • Scenic hike through wildflower meadows and lakes

  • More variety in terrain and backdrops—great if you want a hike + photos combo

• Winchester Mountain Lookout

  • Historic lookout with sweeping views over the North Cascades

  • Moderate 2.1‑mile hike, minimal ceremony crowd risk

  • Group size capped at 12 by wilderness rules

• Skylines Divide Trail

  • Dramatic ridgeline views of Mt. Baker and ridge country

  • Moderate hike, unplugged vibes, great for intimate elopements

• Foggy Lake (Gothic Basin)

  • Glacial lake nestled below rugged peaks

  • Requires longer, more adventurous hike: perfect for bold couples

• Snoqualmie Falls

• Majestic waterfall backdrop – A breathtaking 268‑foot curtain waterfall, consistently stunning year-round and evocative at sunrise, fall, or after winter rains

  Easy, scenic trail – A short, fairly flat 0.7-mile round-trip trail from the upper parking area to the viewpoint and nearly to the base, paved and accessible, gently sloping through lush forest .

  Wheelchair & stroller friendly – The upper viewpoint is fully ADA-accessible with paved paths and no stairs, ideal for couples with mobility concerns or guests needing easy access

  No permit needed for small ceremonies! You can exchange vows at the upper viewpoint or lower areas without a special event permit. Just plan early to avoid crowds

  Private ceremony option: With 1.4-mile access to the lower falls via less-used trails, you can have a more intimate moment away from the crowds

  Free parking and amenities: Ample free parking (upper lot), bathrooms, gift shop, observation decks, and picnic tables: everything you need for a stress-free day

  Proximity to lodging & extras. Right next to the iconic Salish Lodge & Spa, which offers upscale lodging, on-site dining, and easy photo + prep options

  Accessible from Seattle – Only about a 35-minute drive east of Seattle, making it super convenient for day-of travel .

  Cultural & cinematic significance – Beyond its natural beauty, Snoqualmie Falls holds deep cultural meaning for the Snoqualmie Tribe and has iconic ties to Pacific Northwest pop culture

• Why Choose Areas in Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest?: Variety all in one area: alpine lakes, fire lookouts, wildflower meadows, and panoramic ridgelines—all within a 2–3 hour drive from Seattle

• Accessibility options: From zero-effort locations (Picture Lake) to moderate hikes (Bagley Lakes, Winchester Lookout), there’s something for every energy level

• Permit-friendly: Under 75 people means no special use permit required, just bring a Northwest Forest Pass for trailheads

• Epic scenery = epic photos: All spots offer dramatic backdrops, moody textures, and cinematic moods that elevate every shot!

Bonus Hidden Gems:

If you want something a little off the beaten path:

• Bench + Snow Lakes Trail: Short hike, lake + alpine meadow payoff

• Fremont Lookout: Moderate hike, unreal mountaintop sunset views

• Pinnacle Peak Trail: For bold couples who want a moderate-to-challenging hike with dramatic backdrops

Travel Time From Seattle (SEA-TAC) to Elopement Locations

Here’s a quick cheat sheet if you're flying into Seattle and wondering how long it’ll take to reach these epic locations:

• Ruby Beach: ~3.5 to 4.5 hours

• Hoh Rainforest: ~4.5 to 5 hours

• Olympic National Park (Lake Crescent / Hurricane Ridge): ~3 to 3.5 hours

• Mount Rainier / Reflection Lake: ~2.5 to 3 hours

These drives are stunning. You’ll drive along coastlines, forests, and past some of the best roadside views in the country. I always recommend turning your elopement into a mini road trip or weekend getaway. You won’t regret it. I have an elopement guide for couples that hire me with more information, including which way is best for traveling, which side of the park has better cell service, lodging options, food, what the nearby cities are like, etc. I have a guide just for Olympic National Park elopements, and one just for Mount Rainier National Park elopements.

How Long Should a Washington Elopement Be?

This is one of the most common questions I get. Here’s the real tea: you can elope in two hours or you can stretch it into an entire weekend. It all depends on your vision. Most of our elopement packages are either 4 hours, 8 hours, or a multi-day experience.

4 Hours is perfect if you’re staying in one spot, 6 hours is great if you want mainly one spot but want some photos at your air bnb or a nearby spot, and 8 hours is great if you want to do a full day with getting ready, details, hiking, vows, and get that epic experience. We also do a lot of multi-day elopements, which are the best for maximum vibes, zero rushing, and the best photos with great scenery and lighting! Multi-day elopements are incredible, and we generally structure them with 2-4 hours the first day with a first look and sunset portraits, with most of the adventure on the 2nd day. The 2nd day we typically do vow ceremony, champagne celebration, hiking or exploring, photos, picnic or other food experience, and sometimes photos at your air bnb.

• 2 hour elopement experience: Ideal for a short hike or walk, vow exchange, and some portraits at one location

• 4 hour elopement experience: We typically do an elopement experience in one spot for 4 hours, and include first look, details, vow ceremony, first dance, and can add on a charcuterie picnic, small cake, champagne, wine, and/or beers (or non-alcoholic beverage), along with other add-ons like a tattoo artist, sketch artist, live painter, depending on the experience you want to have.

• 8 hours or full-day: Perfect for storytelling, two different landscapes (like rainforest + beach), or sharing the day with a few guests. 8 hours gives you some getting ready moments, time to explore a couple areas or do a long hike, vow ceremony, first dance, and any additional add-ons that fit the vibe you’re after. Full day elopements allow for maximum variety that can include up until sunset, or can go later into darkness for stargazing.

• Multi-day: For the couples who want to soak it all in! I LOVE multi-day elopements. Typically, we do a half day on day one, and then the next day can either be a sunrise elopement day or sunset elopement day. I help you plan and structure everything. Multi-days are great for adding on experiences like hiking, kayaking, exploring, or even doing some steamy photos together at your air bnb at the end of the day. Your experience is something that should reflect you, and should be full of scenery that speaks to you.

I help you figure out the perfect timing for your energy, photos, and story. No stress, just vibes.

How Many People Should You Invite to a Washington Elopement?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but here’s a general guide to help:

• 0–2 guests: A true “just us” elopement. Super flexible with hiking, weather, and timeline

• 3–15 guests: Still intimate! Perfect for accessible ceremony spots and a few extra chairs

• 16–30 guests: You’re in micro-wedding territory. We’ll want to choose a venue or viewpoint that allows this size (some parks limit group numbers) Most National Parks allow 15 or fewer people.

No matter how big or small, I’ll help you choose a location that keeps the day feeling personal and wild.

What to Look for in a Washington Elopement Photographer (and What They Actually Do)

Not all elopement photographers are created equal, especially in Washington, where the weather can shift in seconds and the lighting is a whole cinematic rollercoaster. A great Washington elopement photographer should be more than someone with a camera.

Here’s what I help with:

• Location scouting based on your style, accessibility, and best lighting

• Permit guidance for national parks and public land (yes, you usually need one!)

• Timeline building so you’re never rushed and always chasing the best light

• Weather prep (because “misty” and “downpour” are two very different things)

• Vendor recommendations that match your energy and values

• Calm, grounded energy on a day that can feel surreal

What you’ll take care of:

• Booking your lodging + travel

• Grabbing your Washington marriage license

• Showing up with love, intention, and maybe some muddy boots

Photography Styles You’ll See in Washington Elopement Photographers

Washington attracts a wide range of photographers, and no two styles are quite the same. Here are a few of the most common you’ll come across:

Moody + Cinematic: Earth tones, dramatic shadows, and deep emotion. Think storytelling that feels straight out of an indie film.

Ethereal + Warm: Golden light, soft colors, and dreamy softness—great for sun-kissed peaks or glowing beaches.

Editorial or Fashion-Inspired: Intentional compositions, bold posing, and a strong artistic eye. Perfect for couples who want a high-fashion twist on a wild location.

Not sure what style fits your vibe best? Take my Photography Style Quiz to find out. It'll help you figure out exactly what you’re drawn to—and it’ll help your whole vendor team match your energy.

But remember, Washington weather for your elopement can vary drastically, and rainy foggy weather is better for moody vibes, while sun kissed Washington skies are perfect for ethereal warm photo vibes. Just know that whatever Mother Nature decides, your elopement photos in Washington will be UNREAL.

Things People Don’t Know About Eloping in Washington

• Permits are usually required even for simple vow exchanges on public lands

• Cell service is spotty in most locations (don’t worry, I prep you with offline plans)

• Weather changes fast - layers and backup plans are key. You cannot trust weather apps! We almost make a Plan A and a Plan B (and in some cases a plan C ;)

• Wildflower season in places like Mount Rainier is brief and beautiful (usually late July/early August)

• Golden hour at the beach can be super late in summer, think 8:30–9:30pm, and it’s 100% worth the wait

• Fall season in Mount Rainier is JAW-DROPPING, but the timing needs to be planned right, and Mother Nature is always in charge, so it could start earlier or later than planned. Fall season with peak colors in Mount Rainier is usually mid-September to early October. Typically last two weeks of September and first week of October.

Ready to Elope in Washington?

If this sounds like your thing, and you’re ready to elope in Washington, I would love to be your elopement photographer!

I’ll help you find the best spots, plan the timeline, and capture the kind of photos that feel like your favorite memory and your favorite movie had a baby.

🖤 Reach out here to book your Washington elopement with me
And don’t forget to take the quiz to figure out exactly what style fits your day best

Let’s make some magic in the wild, and congratulations on making this decision!!

Datura Photo | Washington Elopement Photographer

Getting Married at Red Rock Villa in Zions National Park

Dreamy Zions intimate Wedding with a Labyrinth Ceremony at Red Rock Villa

If you’re dreaming of a Zion wedding that feels magical, intimate, and surrounded by the beauty of the red rock desert, Red Rock Villa might just be your perfect venue. Nestled near Zion National Park in Southern Utah, this private villa offers a luxury-meets-nature experience that’s tailor-made for couples who crave something unique. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a full wedding celebration, Red Rock Villa provides an unforgettable setting, and as a Zion wedding photographer, I’ve got the inside scoop on how to make the most of it.

Why Red Rock Villa is a Hidden Gem for Zion Weddings

Red Rock Villa is more than just a wedding venue, it’s a private escape with panoramic views, luxurious accommodations, and one of the most peaceful and intentional ceremony spots in Southern Utah: the Labyrinth.

Located just outside of Zion National Park in Virgin, Utah, this high-end villa offers:

• Breathtaking red cliff views at golden hour

• Clean, modern architecture with a desert soul

• Plenty of space for both intimate elopements and small weddings

• An intentional, spiritual vibe thanks to its iconic Labyrinth Ceremony Site

The Labyrinth Ceremony Site: A Sacred Space to Say “I Do”

One of the most unique features of getting married at Red Rock Villa is the labyrinth. Designed as a meditative and symbolic space, the labyrinth is nestled into the earth with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs. It’s a beautiful location for a wedding ceremony—especially for couples who want something non-traditional, earthy, and emotionally grounded.

Couples often walk the labyrinth individually before the ceremony, as a moment of reflection and grounding before they meet in the center to exchange vows. It’s deeply symbolic and makes for emotionally powerful photos (and yes—very cinematic drone footage, if that’s your thing).

When’s the Best Time to Get Married at Red Rock Villa?

Golden hour here is pure magic. Think soft glowy light kissing the red rock cliffs, pastel skies, and a natural palette that makes every photo look like a desert daydream. I recommend planning your ceremony about an hour before sunset to catch the best lighting for portraits.

This ceremony was at 3pm at the end of May, and it was HOT. Like HOT HOT. 100 degrees with no shade, someone might pass out at any minute HOT.

I had a hydro jug with me and chugged the entire 64 ounces during the ceremony, and the water went from ice cold to very warm during the ceremony. My cameras (which are professional grade) almost overheated, and people had jewelry burn their skin. It was gorgeous, especially when a couple of clouds rolled in, but I would recommend a bit closer to sunset. If I had built the timeline, I would’ve suggested 5pm for the ceremony, 3 hours before sunset for this style of wedding photography. (sunset time changes, so pay attention to your date!) All that said, it was still STUNNING, and the heat made it more memorable. I’m so glad I had two camera bodies with me in case one overheated. My meta AI glasses stopped working due to the heat, along with my phone.

Spring and fall are ideal seasons—temperatures are perfect, and the lighting is consistently beautiful. If you’re considering a summer wedding, be prepared for heat, but the villa’s shaded spots and pool help beat the sun.

Planning Tips for Your Red Rock Villa Wedding or Elopement

• Guest Size: Red Rock Villa is perfect for smaller weddings and elopements. It feels exclusive and personal, not overwhelming. This wedding had 58 guests.

• Getting Ready: The villa has stunning interiors and natural light—perfect for getting ready shots that look elevated and editorial.

• Vendors: Zion has a growing vendor scene, but I recommend bringing in your dream team (including your photographer 👋 hi, that’s me!).

• Timeline: Keep things loose and intentional. The desert asks you to slow down and be present—it’s the perfect place to lean into connection.

Why Hire Me as Your Red Rock Villa Wedding Photographer?

I specialize in emotional, editorial wedding photography that blends cinematic storytelling with real, unscripted moments. My work has been described as artful, adventurous, fashion-forward, and grounded in authenticity. I love working with desert light, wind, and the unique energy of Zion to create photos that feel timeless and alive.

Whether you’re hiking into the canyon, reading private vows in the labyrinth, or throwing the most stylish backyard-style reception under the stars—I’ll document it all in a way that feels elevated and you.

Let’s Create Something Wild and Beautiful Together
If you’re planning a wedding or elopement at Red Rock Villa in Zion and looking for a photographer who understands the beauty of the desert, the rhythm of a slow intentional day, and how to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, let’s chat.

🔗 Inquire about your date here

📍 Based in Utah | Traveling Worldwide

Zion Elopement Photographer | Red Rock Villa Wedding Photographer | Editorial, Artful Storytelling

Is Louland Falls a Good Venue to get Married at?

Is Louland Falls a good wedding venue? This post will answer all your questions about the mountain scenery venue in Utah.

Reasons I vote Louland Falls as one of the best wedding venues in Utah:

Louland Falls has a gorgeous backdrop with mountain scenery for your ceremony. (Win.) You not only get beautiful ceremony scenery, you also get a variety of outdoor spots for portraits. (Win.) You get to work with owners who actually love what they do and are helpful. (Win.) And you can utilize the outdoor space for everything on your wedding day, but you still have indoor space if needed. (Win.)

Vogue style portrait with fog at Louland Falls

Let’s explore more reasons why Louland Falls is one of the best wedding venues in Utah:

You basically have a whole mountain for photos at Louland Falls (kind of). If you’re wondering “is Louland Falls a good wedding venue?” One thing that makes Louland Falls a great wedding venue is the ability to take photos in numerous areas. The getting ready area, the ceremony area, the area just by the ceremony area, and up the steps to Louland Falls itself. (Win.)

Bride about to walk down the aisle at Louland Falls

Ceremony under the Louland Falls arch

Groom reading vows at Louland Falls

Bride and groom share a candid moment during golden hour

Louland Falls Waterfall backdrop

Another thing that makes Louland Falls a great wedding venue? The owners and employees who help. The owners are SO kind and helpful! As a photographer, they have always welcomed me, and are there to ensure things run smoothly. They have moved microphones for speeches for me, moved the cake for the couple, among a million other things. Seriously so sweet! (Win.)

I love that dance parties, dinner, and speeches can all be done outside with that “nestled in nature” wedding feeling. It also photographs way better!

Dinner area at Louland Falls

Louland Falls has comfortable getting ready rooms. The bride’s room is actually smaller than the guys, but longer and with mirror space. It’s a bit narrow and there is no window lighting, but with the right photographer you’ll still get great getting ready photos at Louland Falls.

Louland Falls is an especially beautiful wedding venue when you time your wedding around the best lighting. The colors will pop, you’ll look nice and even, and the venue looks stunning at night.

Top reasons I’m obsessed with Louland Falls

• Louland Falls venue is stunning. You will get such gorgeous photos! That’s an important one, but as a wedding photographer, I may be biased

• The pricing is super reasonable! However, they book up FAST, like more than a year in advance all Saturdays will be gone. So get on this one QUICK if you’re interested.

• The owners are extremely helpful and have been just as helpful at the first wedding I photographed there in 2014 as they were at my recent 2024 wedding I photographed. That tells me they love what they do and want things to go well for your day. Everyone deserves that kind of care.

• Ceremony, dinner, and reception can all be done outside in the stunning mountain landscape

• Unique portraits can be taken up by the falls

• Make sure your photographer has the right equipment for the vibe you’re after (if you dig this wedding vibe, fill out a contact form!!)

Cocktail hour at Louland Falls

This couple loves moodier wedding photos, so I helped them curate a timeline that gave them gorgeous lighting from start to finish, with a mix of warm and filmy images along with moodier photos and nighttime portraits.

Golden hour candid portraits of bride and groom at Louland Falls | Datura Photo

Night portrait with marquee sign

To summarize, I absolutely think Louland Falls is a great place to get married! Especially if you’re adventurous, want an elopement vibe but in actual wedding-form, love nature, and want great photos that aren’t boring. If you want to see more of the best outdoor venues in Utah, take a look at this post for more of my favorites.

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Photos and post by Jules at Datura Photo: Utah wedding and elopement photographer and videographer

A Redwoods Wedding at Waterfall Lodge and Retreat

Redwoods Wedding Tips from a Redwoods Wedding Photographer

If you're dreaming of a wedding surrounded by towering redwoods, dappled golden light, and the magic of a forest straight out of a gd FAIRYTALE, “Waterfall Lodge and Retreat” is a stunning venue you should consider. As a redwoods wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of incredible venues—but this one feels like stepping into a secret world where time slows down and you can breathe a little easier.

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

Nestled in Ben Lomond, California, Waterfall Lodge is tucked into the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s a place where sunlight filters through ancient trees, guests sip cocktails under string lights, and vows are exchanged with the scent of pine and earth in the air. The ceremony site is wrapped in redwoods that feel like natural cathedral walls. They feel grand, intimate, and effortlessly cinematic. I absolutely LOVE photographing weddings in the Redwoods. There is something so romantic and carefree about Redwoods weddings.

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

I recently photographed a wedding here that stole my heart. The couple chose soft pastels for the wedding party, which popped against the earthy tones of the forest. They leaned into the natural beauty of the space with minimal decor, letting the redwoods take center stage. And the vibe? Emotional, whimsical, and just the right mix of elegant and laid-back. But if I had to pick one word, it would be: ethereal. And they pulled it off SO WELL.

Wedding Photo by Datura Photo

As a redwoods wedding photographer, one of my favorite things about Waterfall Lodge is how versatile it is for capturing different moods. Whether you're going for ethereal and romantic, moody and editorial, or bright and joyful, the forest here gives you the dreamiest backdrop. The Redwoods for your venue feel ancient and alive, and it adds depth and story to every frame.

Wedding photo by Datura Photo

What Makes Waterfall Lodge and Retreat Stand Out:

The Ceremony Site: They call this area the “Redwoods Cathedral”, which is an outdoor manicured area surrounded by Redwoods. You can make your decor simple or extravagant, as the Redwoods forest adds so much already.

The “Redwoods Cathedral” spot at Waterfall Lodge and Retreat

The Reception and/or Dining Area:

Open-air with twinkle lights, wooden tables, and plenty of room to dance under the stars.

The Reception Lodge:
Indoor space with accent lighting, a cozy barn feel, and space for dancing.

On-Site Lodging: Perfect for making your wedding a weekend retreat with your favorite people.

The Light: From golden hour glow to soft overcast skies, the light here is a dream for natural, emotional photography.

Redwoods Wedding Photography by Datura Photo

If you're planning a wedding among the redwoods and want a photographer who knows how to work with the light, textures, and tones of the forest, I’d love to be there to capture it for you! Every couple deserves a visual story that feels personal and cinematic—and there’s nothing more cinematic than a wedding deep in the woods.

Want to see what a full gallery looks like at Waterfall Lodge and Retreat? Contact me here and I’d love to send some!

You’re gonna have the prettiest wedding photos in the Redwoods, babes.

-Jules, redwoods wedding photographer

Datura Photo

Find a Utah Elopement Photographer

So you’re looking FOr a Utah Elopement Photographer…

YOU’RE ELOPING!!! (Can I get a HELL yeah?)

I’m so excited for you, and so proud of you for doing this, because let’s be real… eloping is about your LOVE, and less about proving your love with a big SHOW. (Don’t get me wrong, we love both… but something about elopements screams genuine, beautiful, lasting love, and I am HERE FOR IT.)

So you’re at the next phase, looking for someone to join you and document this thing. How do you find the best elopement photographer for you?

Well, first of all, you’ve come to the right place if you like moodier, emotional elopement photography. Second of all, if that’s not your thing, that’s ok. I’m here to help you with your next steps, regardless of what kind of elopement photographer you’re looking for .

What qualifies someone as a great elopement photographer?

• Experience with elopements in various climates, weather, and lighting

• Has business insurance and ability to prove said insurance to the area you are hoping to elope

• Experience obtaining elopement permits

• Knows how to make their clients feel comfortable, and provide a great elopement experience

• Knows the area you’re eloping at, and helps with planning steps along the way

• Has a contract, and is prompt with emails and staying connected with couples

• Has a photography style you resonate with

If you are looking for a Utah elopement photographer, you have lots of options! There are various places couples love to elope, and the scenery in Southern Utah is very different from Northern Utah. You’ll want a Utah elopement photographer who is familiar with the area you’ll be eloping, and can help you with the planning process, as well as obtaining permits for your elopement.

Are you hoping to elope during a busy time in the summer? You’ll want an elopement photographer who knows where to go and at what times to avoid huge crowds.

Are you hoping to elope at a Utah National Park? There are restrictions throughout the year, and some can be challenging to get a permit for. Make sure you find a Utah elopement photographer who knows the ins and outs and is willing to help you make the process smooth.

Planning your elopement

• Find an elopement photographer who is familiar with your lodging options, dining options, and vendors who are close by. If you’re not familiar with Utah, you may think you’re hiring a wedding vendor who is close to your elopement site, only to find out they live 3 hours away and can’t travel to your destination, or charge a hefty travel fee.

• Collaborate with your elopement photographer to make sure both of your expectations are clear for how your elopement will go, and what moments are important to you.

• Can your elopement photographer officiate or do you need to bring someone who is ordained to officiate?

• Are you doing a symbolic elopement or eloping and also obtaining a marriage license? Your elopement photographer should be able to help you with these questions, and should know beforehand if you need the ceremony officiated, or if it is symbolic only.

Deciding on a Style

• What elopement photography style do you resonate with? Do you like bright and airy and creamy tones? Do you like moodier images with deep tones and emotive storytelling? Do you like something more rustic and country feeling, with warm sepia-like editing?

• Ask your elopement photographer if you can view several FULL galleries of elopements they have photographed, ideally in similar places to the one you’re eloping at. Some photographers choose to only advertise styled photoshoots, and use paid models to advertise their wedding photography, and it’s important to see what their work looks like for their paying clients. And if it matches your expectations and resonates with you.

Come up with a Budget

• You’ll be saving SO much money on a venue and catering by eloping. So focus on your love story and what is important to you. I may be biased, but I recommend splurging on elopement photography and videography, as well as your experience and location. Then work your way through the list of details you need. Trust me, the permit for eloping is SO much less than any venue I have photographed weddings at. You can afford to splurge a bit on your elopement. Make it special, because it truly IS special.

If you are eloping in Utah and are on the hunt for an experienced elopement photographer, and you like candid and emotional photos with personality, fill out that inquiry form babes, and let’s chat!

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Datura Photo (Jules) is an award winning wedding and elopement photographer in Utah, the PNW, and worldwide.