Is there anything more romantic than vows by firelight, first dances in the forest, and listening to live cello music as you share your first kiss under giant trees?! I don’t think so, and Rey + Topher’s fairytale woodland elopement at Kings Canyon National Park is here to prove it!!
Rey + Topher’s Woodland Elopement at Kings Canyon National Park
Adventure elopement or real-life fairytale?
I swear this elopement felt like something I’d read in one of my fantasy romance novels – but REAL, and a whole lot less cheesy. Although this was definitely a Happily Ever After! I met up with Rey and Topher in the parking lot at Kings Canyon, where they were putting the final touches on everything (see: FLOWER CROWNS, crochet vests, and the coolest jewelry I’ve ever seen!). I knew these two were envisioning a woodland fairy-esque theme for their elopement, but I was seriously impressed at how well they brought it to life. Rey’s gorgeous green gown with bright pink & orange underlayers, her cape covered in florals, and Topher’s olive green suit… to die for. Every little detail felt like something out of Lord of the Rings, and was not only beautiful but super meaningful to them!!
A private ceremony in the woods
I followed these two as they wandered through the woods like enchanted fairies, flower crowns on their heads and hiking backpacks on their shoulders, until we found their ceremony spot. They exchanged promises to each other underneath some of the tallest trees in the world, with nobody around but me and the cellist they had playing live music for them. It was such a special ceremony, with heartfelt words and rituals that were meaningful to them. At the end, they shared their first dance, took portraits in front of one of my fave trees (yes, I have favorite trees!), and walked through the forest like it was their very own enchanted wonderland. Which it ABSOLUTELY was, since there was nobody else around!
We managed to catch the tail end of sunset up at another one of my favorite spots in the park, with incredible views of the valley below. Moody lantern photos in front of a yellow & orange sky will alwaysss be a good idea, especially at a spot like this, with a couple like this! 10/10 recommend!.
P.S. Here’s another Sequoia National Park elopement I photographed recently, just to show you how stunning this park really is!
Vows + handfasting by firelight
But the night wasn’t over yet! We headed back to our cars, where Rey and Topher set up blankets, lanterns, and their vow books next to a fire pit. Name a more romantic setting! They continued their vows, exchanged rings, and did a handfasting ceremony. I loved that they made this super special and personal to THEM, their values, and their relationship, rather than just going with what was “traditional.”
Curious about what kind of marriage ceremony is right for your elopement? Learn about the different types here, from civil ceremonies to secular, interfaith, and symbolic/commitment ceremonies!
To cap off their amazing day, Rey and Topher popped a bottle of champagne and enjoyed slices of cake together, which had the most adorable mushroom toppers & a pair of kitties dancing. Which of COURSE I loved, as a cat mom and big supporter of including your cats in your elopement!! Dogs aren’t the only ones who you can celebrate with!
How to Elope at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park
As someone who’s been photographing elopements in these national parks for YEARS, let me tell you: I know these woods like the back of my hand! (probably even better, actually…) Which means of course I have tons of planning tips, resources, and reccs up my sleeve to share with you.
My eloping couples get first dibs on all the top-secret locations, BUT I created this amazing Sequoia National Park Elopement Guide to help ya get started. In there, you’ll find all the deetz to help you get your permits, choose a time of year to elope, and find a cozy cabin to make your stay as romantic as possible.
Orrrr if you love the giant trees but feel like the redwoods might be more your vibe, I’ve got a guide for that too!
It’s time to hire your Kings Canyon National Park elopement photographer!
Now OBVIOUSLY you will need a photographer there to document the amazing adventure you’re putting together, right?! If you’re looking for someone with firsthand experience shooting in this park, who will answer all your late-night q’s when you’re panicking over the little details… I’m your girl. You will definitely want someone by your side who knows how to navigate the tricky permitting rules at Sequoia & Kings Canyon, and can contact the park office so YOU don’t have to.
So go ahead and pick your outfits, decide what vibe you want to have on your elopement day, and break in your hiking boots! Let’s do this! Scroll down to inquire with me or click here!
If you’re eloping soon, make sure you use the resources below to help you plan your best day ever!! After all, I did put them together just for you! 😉
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