These couple of days I got to spend with Chloe + Will and their stormy elopement in Zion was nothing short of unforgettable. Nothing makes me happier than two people doing exactly what they want for their wedding day.  Not only that, but to have their family support that. These two always knew they wanted to elope— and Zion National Park was a place they were always drawn to. They turned their elopement into a few week long vacation through the to hit some of the worlds greatest treasures.

St. George and the surrounding areas has always had a little piece of me and a special place in my heart because it’s where I grew up! I lived there until I was about 11, and I grew up there with one of my best friends (my cousin Madison, whose a videographer by the way!). Even though I was super young and honestly don’t remember a lot haha, it always feels like home when I go back there. So when Chloe + Will reached out to me about their elopement in the Park, of COURSE it was a no brainer. Not only is it one of my favorite places, but these two were so freaking sweet from the very beginning.

Day Before Session

Zion and the surrounding areas were getting a MASSIVE desert storm the week of their elopement. While it was a bit of a downer— they didn’t let it affect them at all. They were so easy going and knew that no matter what, it would work out and they were there to get married! I met up with Chloe + Will in the park the day before their elopement to hang + do a shoot.  We hiked to an overlook and just spent time getting to know each other, taking pictures, and just having fun even though the storm clouds were rolling in and the rain was starting to fall.  I always love when my couples add on a “day before” session to their wedding days, because it’s a chance for us to just hang out without stress. It’s a chance for them to get comfortable with me, without my camera being the main focus. Not only that, but if you’re traveling to a place that you may not be able to go back to for a while, or ever, why NOT spend even MORE time exploring the land and making memories?

The Elopement

These two were staying at Under Canvas Zion (the most epic place to stay in Zion and I’m obsessed!!), and it’s where they got ready! The most laid back, relaxed, getting ready morning spent just enjoying the place they are in and writing vows to one another. As Chloe was putting on her dress, the clouds rolled back in and there was a TORRENTIAL downpour. Rain or shine, this day was happening! Will chilled in my car waiting for his bride and waiting for the clouds to part. We waited it out and as the clouds broke, we ran outside and they had the sweetest and prettiest first look.  We then took off to their Ceremony location outside of the Park.  The sun was shining again, they exchanged vows, cut cake, and popped champagne. Laura from Forevermore Events made this day absolutely PERFECT for them. This team for their elopement was an absolute dream to work with and I loved it all so much.

We spent the remainder of the evening running through open fields with red rock backdrops as the clouds rolled back in, rainbows appeared and the storm started up again. Even though the weather wasn’t perfect, it honestly fit Zion so well. Zion is this rugged, magical place that in a way feels so strong— and the crazy storm added to it, and we felt so small in comparison. Such an incredible place, such an incredible day.

My Job, always.

All in all, no matter the weather or other hurdles that are thrown in the way, it’s my job to still create and capture. To tell my couples story exactly as it happened.  At the end of the day I want to hand them their moments in tangible form so it can take them back to that time and place.  So they can look at their pictures and it can take them back to those memories. I was challenged this year to really remember why I am doing what I’m doing.  I am there to serve my couples, and to make it an unforgettable experience no matter what.

Love these two!!
Check out their incredible film by The Arroyos!

www.vimeo.com/308449867/fea72c8e2b
xx

Video: The Arroyos
Venue: Under Canvas Zion
Event Design: Forevermore Events
Florals: By Bloomers
Dress: Martina Liana and BHLDN
HMUA: Chantry Wagstaff
Officiant: Michael Foley
Cake: Cupcakes by Julie
Rentals: St. George Party Rentals
Grooms Attire: Enzo Custom
Jewelry: BHLDN