Laura & Justin’s beautiful Shenandoah National Park Wedding included everything from their dogs to a winery to an intense little hike! It was such a privilege to take their Virginia Elopement Photography for them – keep an eye out for the special little guest who tagged along to watch their ceremony! 

It’s rare these days that couples elope without telling anyone what they’re going to do, but that’s exactly what Laura & Justin did. Of course, this meant the day was incredibly personal and special for the two of them, but I know Laura was a little nervous to tell her family the day after. Thankfully, we were able to create some beautiful photos to help her share the news, that even included her & Justin’s two dogs! And in the end, Laura’s family were nothing but excited for her & Justin and their beautiful Shenandoah National Park Wedding.   

SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK WEDDING

Virginia Elopement Photography

More often than not, when people imagine adventure elopements in the US they think of mountain tops in Colorado, the dizzying views over Yosemite National Park, or bohemian desert elopements somewhere like Joshua Tree. Don’t overlook Virginia Elopement Photography though!! This beautiful state not only has a little bit of everything – think waterfalls and beaches, forests and mountains – but it’s also a great way to avoid a crowd. Of course, Shenandoah National Park is one of the best spots for an adventure elopement in Virginia, but there are plenty more places you could consider. Some of the Best Places to Elope in Virginia include:

• Great Falls Park 

• Grayson Highlands State Park

• Virginia Blue Ridge Parkway

• One of Virginia’s many beautiful beaches

Shenandoah National Park Wedding

Let’s just start by saying, Laura & Justin definitely earnt their adventure bride & groom title!! But before we get to that, let’s start from the beginning.

Laura & Justin knew they wanted to have an adventurous elopement, but they also wanted to include their dogs and do a little sightseeing. So, to kick off the day, they rented a gorgeous little cabin where they could get ready and take some photos with their pups. It was the perfect start before we headed off to DuCard Vineyards to indulge in a glass of wine or two. Just because you’re having an adventurous elopement doesn’t mean you can’t also enjoy life’s finer things! The team there were so lovely and accommodating, and it was perfect timing because we arrived the day before the grape harvest was due to begin. Finally, we made our way to the park, stopping along the way to make the most of their Shenandoah National Park Wedding Photography. 

Laura & Justin chose a pretty intense trail – it wasn’t long, but it was quite steep – and they handled it like pros. I was especially impressed by Laura who did the hike in her beautiful wedding gown! We met their celebrant at the starting point, and he hiked up with us cracking jokes and chatting away. By the time we reached the top, it felt like we were all old friends, and the stunning view from one of Shenandoah’s highest points was more beautiful for it. Even more special – the small bird who spent the ceremony by my side, watching on as Laura & Justin shared their vows. 

How to Tell Your Family You Eloped

How you choose to get married is an incredibly personal thing, and this is especially true if you choose to elope. Some couples choose to share their exciting news with their families before the day, but others prefer to elope in secret. In this case, deciding how to tell your family can be quite nerve-racking! Laura & Justin decided to take photos with a gorgeous sign that said, ‘We Eloped’, and I was able to send them some sneak peeks of those images to share with their family the very next day. 

As your elopement photographer, I’m all for you getting married your way, in whatever shape or form that takes. I also want to support you through the process though, so if you choose to elope on the downlow, and you’re nervous about letting your nearest & dearest know, here are a few tips:

• Tell them before you post on social media

• Explain to them why you chose to elope as you’re letting them know – this will help them to understand! 

• Record a video on your phone for them on the day so they know you were thinking of them

• Let me know in advance so we can think of some nice photos for you to share with them 

In the end though, the most important thing is that you marry your love in a way that is meaningful and honest to the two of you and who you are, just like Laura & Justin did. 

Are you planning your own Shenandoah National Park Wedding? I’d love to help you plan and photograph your incredible day. Contact me now to check availability and find out more!

Did you love Laura & Justin’s Virginia Elopement Photography? Or perhaps you have questions about How to Tell Your Family You Eloped? Either way, let me know your thoughts & questions in the comments below!