A&R contacted me about their upcoming elopement at Samish Overlook, and I knew I wanted to photograph them right away. These two are badass mountain bikers and adventurers, who have family living all over the country. They wanted something small, but with an incredible and accessible view to showcase the beauty of Whatcom County. Samish Overlook was the perfect place for their intimate elopement ceremony.
While I met them for the first time when they arrived before the ceremony, we quickly felt familiar with one another. When photographing intimate weddings or elopements, it’s crucial to be easy going and fit in. I love the process of getting to know each couple and the people they invite to be part of their day, and matching their energy while documenting them. Being in the action and part of the ground helps them forget about the camera and instead focus on enjoying the whole experience with their friends and family- which is crucial to me.
It was a beautiful summer day in the end of June, and thankfully, about 10 degrees cooler on the overlook then about 1,000 feet down. A&R said their vows, exchanged drinks given to them by their respective parent, and sealed the deal with a kiss. And more drinks. It was perfect.
After the ceremony and a few portraits on the trails near by (which A said was perfect for them as mountain bikers) A&R informed me that they had actually been married for several years at this point, but that their parents and friends didn’t know. They planned on informing them during the cake cutting ceremony at Structures Brewing in downtown Bellingham.
We headed back into Bellingham and I met them again at Structures where everyone continued their merriment with delightful local brews, and a fantastic cake from Pure Bliss. Everything else was from the Bellingham Farmers Market the day before, including macorons from Gathered Confections and florals used to decorate the cake even further. A’s earrings were also found at the market the day before!
After cutting the cake, A&R dropped the truth bomb which had some fairly good (and positive) reactions from their parents and friends. Then it was time for me to head out, and them to continue celebrating with their friends and family.
What a beautiful day and elopement to photograph in Bellingham!
