A stunning sunset elopement in Shenandoah National Park (just some words here for that silly SEO algorithm!) But onto now for the good stuff below..
October in the Appalachian Mountains is something magical. Any anyone who has experienced Autumn in all its colourful glory has been swept into the goodness. It’s when us East coast photographers are the busiest, trying to fit in “all things Fall”! And it’s exactly why when Alesia and Josh asked if I could capture their sunset elopement in Shenandoah National Park during the craziest week of my busiest season, I said–ABSOLUTELY!
They were visiting the Washington DC area and wanted to get married somewhere beautiful without the wedding stress. We tossed around lots of ideas from funky spots in downtown DC to some of the nearby parks in MD and NOVA, but they gravitated to catching sunset in Shenandoah National Park. (Insert internal belly tingles from me!) Little Stony Man Overlook was new to all of us but it’s short hike distance and online reviews sealed the deal. With a very cushioned timeline for all the unknowns (e.g. line to get into the park, finding a parking spot, actual hiking time, etc.), we met at a cute cafe just outside the park and were three very excited people off on a little adventure! We had all elements in our favour–open parking, easy hike, cool but dry weather, and best of all, Alesia and Josh had the overlook all to themselves!
After dressing behind a sheet I had brought, they wandered the rocky outcrop to find the best spot to share their hand-written vows, trade rings, and kiss as the last bit of warmth left the sky. The blue hour that followed was so magical and Alesia and Josh made sure to soak it in as they danced to music playing from her phone and cuddled on the edge of the cliff. Uncomplicated, whimsical, and incredible! Well done, Alesia and Josh, and thank you so much for asking me to capture your stunning sunset elopement in Shenandoah National Park!