From the very first consultation we had, I had a feeling Melissa + Denise and I were gonna do big things. Then when they described themselves as passionately awkward, I knew we were going to create the most beautiful elopement for them. Here’s a glimpse into their adventure elopement story:

We started our hike in the dark. We could all feel the excitement as we trekked up the side of the mountain in Shenandoah National Park. As the sunrise glow grew, we could feel the wind blowing all around us and the fresh, cool air was relaxing and serene.

When we reached the top of Blackrock Summit, we realized that we had the whole place to ourselves. It was so peaceful. The sunrise radiance was starting to get brighter as Melissa and Denise took some time to change into their elopement attire inside their changing tent. Melissa wanted to do a first look with Denise so we set Denise up on the side of the mountain as Melissa approached in the warm sunrise light. Their first look was so sweet and filled with beautiful happiness.

Their Breathtaking Ceremony

After their first look, we found the perfect spot for their ceremony. Denise + Melissa exchanged beautiful vows as the sun rose over the Shenandoah mountains, illuminating the golden leaves and mountain ridges all around them. The moment was absolutely captivating.

Their Stunning Portraits

One of my favorite things about Blackrock Summit (and really just Shenandoah National Park in general) is its versatility for portraits. Melissa + Denise wanted to relax, really taking their time to soak in this moment while get stunning portraits, truly capturing the Autumnal beauty of the location they picked for their elopement. The sunrise light mixed with the first bit of fall foliage made for an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Their Luxurious Picnic

After wandering around Blackrock Summit documenting their first moments together as a married couple, we made our way back down to the trailhead in the morning light. We then headed out to Dundo Picnic Grounds in Shenandoah National Park where we planned a gorgeous, luxury picnic for Melissa + Denise to take some time to relax and enjoy together.

Their Sweet Exchange of Letters

In the soft morning light, Melissa + Denise exchanged letters to each other. I felt so grateful to be able to witness and capture the magic between them. These moments were so unbelievably romantic.

The End of Their Adventure Elopement but, the Beginning of Their Lives Together

We ended their adventure elopement with some more dreamy portraits because we really wanted to take advantage of the stunning golden, autumn light. Melissa + Denise were so natural together and I absolutely love the magic we captured.

The happiness and chemistry between Melissa + Denise can be felt within seconds of being around them. It was such an honor to be able to capture this part of their love story. Together, we created a series of incredible and intentional moments to commemorate their commitment and vows to one another allowing them to be fully present and to really feel the emotions of their new found marriage and incredible adventure elopement.

Your Adventure Elopement

Are you ready to jump into your adventure elopement and create your love story in Shenandoah National Park? I promise you won’t regret it.

I can’t wait 🧡