We decided to elope because we wanted our wedding day to feel peaceful, meaningful, and true to us. Instead of navigating the stress and pressure of a large event, we chose a day that would allow us to be fully present with each other—free from expectations, timelines, and social overwhelm. For us, that meant being outside, surrounded by nature, doing something we love. Hiking has always been a special part of our relationship. There's something deeply grounding—and almost spiritual—about standing on a mountaintop together. It felt only fitting to mark this chapter in a place that reflects the kind of love and life we’re building. Eloping also allowed us to be intentional with our resources. Rather than investing in a single day, we're choosing to save for shared adventures, experiences, and the future we're dreaming up together. This wasn’t a decision made lightly, but it was made with a lot of love—and a deep sense of peace that we’re doing things in a way that feels right for us
We’re keeping our day simple, meaningful, and rooted in what we love most: adventure, nature, and each other. We’ll be waking up around midnight to begin getting ready, with headlamps and sleepy excitement guiding us through the early hours. Around 3 a.m., we’ll arrive at the trailhead and begin a quiet, starlit hike toward the summit. If all goes to plan, we’ll reach the top before sunrise, with enough time to change into our wedding attire and share a special “lantern look” (our own version of a first look, lit by lanterns instead of spotlights). As the sun rises, we’ll begin a unity ceremony—something simple and spiritual, like setting our breath together or pulling a tarot card—followed by exchanging our vows at dawn. Afterward, we’ll spend a little time exploring the summit, taking photos, and sharing our first dance in the morning light. Then, we’ll hike down to a lake for a champagne toast and a charcuterie picnic. If we’re lucky enough to have the lake to ourselves, we’ll finish the day by jumping in together—our version of sealing the deal. It won’t be traditional, but it will be deeply us. Just the way we want it.