Of all the locations I photograph, Lake Crescent weddings are some of my favorites. For couples like Alex and Zach who love adventure but also want to prioritize having a stress-free, fun day, it’s perfect. Theirs was an adventurous, laid back elopement day focused on being present with each other in nature.
Choosing an Olympic National Park Wedding
After 9 years together, Alex & Zach began planning a destination wedding in Mexico with their closest friends and family to celebrate. After more thought, however, they decided they wanted an intimate elopement in the PNW for just the two of them first. While they are from Milwaukee, WI, they lived in Tacoma for a few months this last year. The special memories of the area prompted them to choose Olympic National Park, and it was a beautiful choice!
Olympic National Park features multiple stunning locations, perfect for couples planning an intimate wedding or elopement. Of those locations, Lake Crescent remains one of my favorites. From crystal clear water, deep mossy forests, beautiful mountain views and the option to add on a short, easy going waterfall hike (like Alex and Zach), it provides so much variety all in one spot. Otherworldly views aside, there’s the added bonus of being an easy elopement destination.
Getting Married in Olympic National Park
With any national park elopement, a little research is required because every site is different regarding permits and paperwork. With Lake Crescent specifically, permits aren’t required for groups of 5 or less. However, if you want to bring guests along, the permit process is very easy going. The lake shore can accommodate enough space for larger groups and its proximity to Port Angeles gives you tons of options for lodging and restaurants. (You can even minimize crowds to keep things private by planning for a weekday). Alex & Zach’s elopement is a great example of why I recommend this area so frequently!
Alex + Zach’s Intimate Lake Crescent Wedding Day
The day began on Lake Sutherland, just a 15 minute drive from Lake Crescent. Alex and Zach got ready for their elopement at their lakefront Airbnb with the help of their moms. When my elopement couples are getting ready at the same location, I encourage them to take first look photos at their lodging. Oftentimes, a drive to the ceremony location or trailhead is required, so I recommend getting those initial, heartfelt reactions while we’re still at the Airbnb. Zach and Alex shared a quiet, emotional first look on the dock overlooking Lake Sutherland followed by a gift exchange. From there, we made our way to one of my favorite hidden spots along the Lake Crescent shoreline for their private ceremony (which I had the honor to officiate!) They exchanged handwritten vows set against golden sunlight and serene lake views; it was a perfect day.
PNW Elopement Photos
Following their Lake Crescent ceremony, we wandered into the forest where they shared their first dance surrounded by moss covered trees. Afterwards, we headed out for the short hike to Marymere Falls. There, we shot portraits nestled in among the ferns and the waterfall while Alex and Zach shared a celebratory drink together. Back at the trailhead, they signed their marriage license and reunited with their moms for a champagne toast.
They wanted a laid-back day so that they could be fully present with each other, and they succeeded! We finished off the evening out on the dock with lanterns in hand for some incredible blue hour photos. After some hugs and heartfelt goodbyes, Zach and Alex headed back to their airbnb to spend the rest of their night making homemade pizza together. It was an honor to assist them with their special day and capture the beginning of their marriage!
PNW Elopement Vendors
Makeup- Liz Kellerman
Hair- J Ryan Salon
Florals: Farm and Flower
Cake: Simply Sweet Cupcakes
Officiant and planner: Tessa Marie Collective
Olympic National Park Elopement Photographer
Hi, I’m Tessa, an intimate wedding and elopement photographer serving the Pacific Northwest and beyond. If you’re an adventurer with deep love for the rich, green outdoors here in Washington and you want to preserve the small, meaningful moments of your big day, you’re in the right place. Capturing your love for each other, completely immersed in this world’s awe-inspiring beauty is where my true passion lies. If this sounds like you, you can take a look at the packages I offer and all they entail here. Ready to embark on your greatest adventure yet? You can inquire here to get the journey started!
