When Simone and Garrett reached out about their mountain lake elopement in Siskiyou County, I was instantly excited. These two are adventurous souls, so when they chose me to document such a unique and meaningful day, I knew it was going to be something special.
They traveled all the way from San Diego to celebrate their love surrounded by the mountains, their closest people, and some of the most breathtaking scenery Northern California has to offer.
Their day began at a cozy Airbnb in Mt. Shasta, with an incredible view of the mountain as the backdrop for their intimate ceremony. Their family gathered to witness them exchange handwritten vows and promise forever to each other.
And you could feel the love.
The support and joy from their family was so beautiful to witness. There is something incredibly special about intimate weddings where every person present is there because they truly matter to the couple.
After their ceremony, they popped champagne, hugged their families, and celebrated before heading out for the adventure part of their day, epic newlywed portraits!
We started at Sisson Meadows in Mt. Shasta, which is such a beautiful location when the skies are clear. From there, we made our way toward Castle Lake and began the hike to Heart Lake in the Trinity Mountains.
And these two were absolutely up for the adventure.
They strapped on their hiking boots, grabbed their backpacks, and headed up the trail with a small group of their favorite people. (And yes, the “just married” backpack signs were absolutely necessary. )
The entire hike was incredible, with stunning views along the way, but the moment we reached Heart Lake… wow.
The view from the backside of the lake with Mt. Shasta towering in the distance is truly one of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever photographed. It was the perfect place for these two to celebrate the beginning of their marriage.
And then they made it even more special.
They brought along a Bluetooth speaker and shared their first dance on a rock overlooking the lake. Just the two of them, surrounded by mountains, fresh air, and the people who love them most.
It was such a sweet, unforgettable moment.
This is exactly why I love photographing elopements. They allow couples to create a wedding day that feels completely true to who they are—whether that means hiking into the mountains, exchanging vows somewhere meaningful, bringing along a handful of loved ones, or making memories in a place that feels like an adventure.
Simone and Garrett, thank you for trusting me with such an incredible day. I will never forget this adventure, your handwritten vows, your mountain-top dance, and the obvious love between you two.
Congratulations, you two! 🤍
Vendors:
Hair + Makeup: Enhance Artistry
Catering + Cake: Bee Kind Catering
Dress: David’s Bridal
Rings: Blue Nile
Florals: Handmade by the bride
