HOW TO ELOPE IN EASTERN WASHINGTON

I have had the pleasure of living in beautiful Spokane, Washington for 20 years now. I scouted out Spokane over 25 years ago and fell in love. Manito park with The Park Bench Cafe and the rose gardens. The South Hill with all the 100-year-old houses and tree-lined streets. And of course all the hiking and outdoor adventure that the Inland Northwest has to offer.

After relaunching my photography business to focus more on the outdoors, nature, and the intimate experience of elopement weddings, I have finally found my niche.

Last month I had the pleasure of photographing Ben and Danielle.

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MEET Ben & Danielle

I met Ben and Danielle in a location I had been scouting out and thought would be a magical forest to take photos in. It turned out to be just that. The sunlight through the trees gave everything a beautiful glow. I was able to capture some images of Ben and Danielle before they changed into their wedding attire.

DANIELLE & BEN'S DAY

With the dress on and bouquet in hand, the session just flowed perfectly. They were so playful, vibrant, and easy to photograph.

Of course, we had to include this cute pup in a few of the photographs.

After spending time in the forest we drove to a look-out location, where we captured more images and they shared sweet words, exchanged rings, and sprayed me with Champaign as they poped the cork for their toast. I stayed back as they shared their special words with each other, they looked so sweet and sincere, then Ben made a funny joke and we all cracked up. There was such a variety of emotions that were shared, all of which I was able to capture.

Leaving the lookout, we headed to a new destination to catch the sun as it set. While waiting on the sun to set we caught some really fun moments of Ben and Danielle sporting some styling shades. Of course, more laughter was shared.

As the sun was setting we captured some romantic images of this sweet couple hugging, kissing, and laughing. As the sunset behind the mountain, we called it a day. And what a perfect day it was.

RESOURCES FOR ELOPING

APPLY FOR A MARRIAGE LICENSE

Download and TYPE information on the Marriage Application before printing. Each spouse fills out separate forms.

Each spouse signs their application in front of a notary public. Many banks and credit unions provide notary services.

Payment of $62 by check, cashier's check or money order, made payable to the Spokane County Auditor. They cannot accept payment over the phone or by electronic transfer. ($59 if either applicant is active military).

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CHOOSING WHICH SEASON TO VISIT

Something to consider about the seasons is the popularity of trails and traffic you may run into. Summer generally has higher traffic due to the warm weather, while you may see fewer people during the colder seasons. Another thing to consider is what day you want to have your elopement. Weekends typically see higher traffic, not only on the trails but also with vendors. Vendors get booked up on the weekends rather quickly, so choosing a weekday might provide the most flexibility.

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SUMMER

Summer is the season for hiking in this area. And the sunsets and sunrises are always spectacular.

Hiking is easier in the summer, so if you are planning on trekking up mountains, this may be the easiest time of year to do so.

FALL

Beautiful fall colors sweep this state in the fall. Be prepared for jaw-dropping yellow and orange backdrops. Shimmering aspen trees and waving meadows.

WINTER

Gorgeous snowy backdrops

Cloudy days can make for AMAZING, dramatic backdrops in the winter, you can do fun activities such as build a fire, roast s’mores, have a snowball fight, enjoy a sleigh ride, and more!

It may be cold, but there is something about winter photos that are just pure magic.

SPRING

Springtime in Eastern Washington is all about new life, and the flowers that grow here grow in an abundance. They will create a fairytale-like backdrop for your special day.

Another thing to consider about spring is trails will be rather mucky due to the melting snow and rain. Something to keep in mind when planning out your elopement.

HIKING LOCATIONS

SO MANY TO CHOOSE FROM!

Eastern Washington is abundent with trails galore. You can find a location with a mountainous backdrop, or fields of green. There are forests to explore, and rivers and lakes to cross!

If you know what kind of scenery you want for your elopement, then get in touch with me! I will send you a list of trails and locations to help you find the perfect place for your elopement!