Jaw. Dropping. That is really the only way to describe Kevin and Raquel’s elopement.

These two are already crazily gorgeous, and then you add sweeping mountaintop views in Etna, California, golden evening light, a beautiful family property in Scott Valley, and a handful of their favorite humans and dogs… well, I was pretty much in photographer heaven.

Kevin and Raquel chose to keep their wedding day intimate and meaningful, getting married on family property in Scott Valley surrounded by the people (and pups!) they love most. There is something so special about celebrating in a place that has personal meaning, and their day felt incredibly warm and genuine because of it.

And you know I was thrilled that their floofy dogs were included throughout the day. 🐾

They were part of the getting-ready time, hung out during the ceremony, and basically got to experience the whole celebration right alongside their humans. I absolutely love when couples include their pets in their wedding days. They’re part of the family, so why shouldn’t they get to be part of the memories?

And then there was the fashion.

Kevin’s wine-colored suit was SO good. It was unique, rich, and looked incredible against the landscape. I love when a groom steps outside of the traditional black or navy suit and chooses something with a little personality, and this color was absolutely perfect for the setting.

Raquel’s beautiful lace dress was the perfect complement. Classic, romantic, and timeless—it looked stunning against the rugged mountain backdrop.

After their intimate ceremony, we headed up to the hilltop for newlywed portraits as the sun began to sink. And WOW.

The views were absolutely breathtaking.

Etna and the surrounding Scott Valley landscape are already beautiful, but watching the mountains glow as the evening light rolled in was something else entirely. It gave us the most incredible backdrop for portraits of these two soaking in their first moments as newlyweds.

And they absolutely soaked it in.

Kevin and Raquel danced. They giggled. They loved on each other. They wandered around together and just enjoyed being married. There was so much genuine joy between them, and it was an absolute dream to photograph.

That is what I love most about intimate elopements. There is room to slow down and actually experience the day. Room to laugh, dance, hug your favorite people, snuggle your dogs, and then disappear together for a little while to watch the sunset from a mountaintop.

This day had everything I love: beautiful people, dogs, mountains, golden light, a killer suit, a gorgeous lace dress, and a whole lot of love.

What a dreamy day this was.

Kevin and Raquel, thank you for letting me be part of such an unforgettable chapter. Your elopement was every bit as beautiful, joyful, and wildly romantic as the two of you are.

Congratulations, you gorgeous newlyweds! 🤍