Madison and Garth’s North Cascades wedding was one of the most FUN days of the entire summer!!! I loved seeing how much laughter and joy these two brought to every single moment. A memorable first look, lakeside ceremony, and sunset hike to one of Washington’s most iconic fire lookouts made for an absolutely unforgettable day.
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FIRST LOOK: BANANA EDITION!
Of all the first looks I’ve photographed, this one took the cake. Madison kicked the day off by surprising Garth with a handmade Adventure Book inspired by the Pixar movie “Up”! He had the biggest grin on his face as he flipped through the pages packed with photos and love notes from his bride. As he wiped away a few tears and handed the book back to me for safekeeping, Madison crept up the hill, ready for the first look. Garth turned away and little did he know, but the fruit-shaped costume from their first meeting 6 years ago was about to make a reappearance!!
M & G met on Halloween on Garth’s first day of work (they were coworkers at a restaurant!) and she was dressed up as – you guessed it – a banana. Garth was instantly intrigued and knew he had to know this hilarious girl. If that’s not a 21st century love story, I don’t know what is 😉 Madison HAD to bring the banana back for their elopement day to surprise him, so when she tapped him on the shoulder, he turned to find the yellow-clad woman of his dreams. They hugged and laughed, reminiscing on their fateful first meeting, then Garth turned back around so Madison could show off the dress on its own. Their “second look” was sweet and emotional, a great way to start the day before heading back down to the lake for the ceremony.
Love mountains and alpine lakes? Check out our “Best Places to Elope in Washington” for more breathtaking mountain destinations!
A LAKESIDE CEREMONY SURROUNDED BY LOVED ONES
A beautiful campsite by the lake made for the perfect ceremony spot! Madison’s dad walked her down the “aisle” to where Garth was waiting, the lake shimmering behind him. Above us loomed the mountain peak that we would be summiting later that evening! The two shared heartfelt vows surrounded by their fams, and their daschund pup, Gilbert, stole the show as ringbearer. After the ceremony, we snacked, sipped champagne, and the couple surprised their parents with Father-Daughter and Mother-Son dances. Such a sweet way to incorporate a more formal wedding tradition!!
Related: Read our Unique Eloping Ideas post for more elopement inspo
SNOWY SUNSET HIKE TO A FIRE LOOKOUT
As the sun started to dip in the sky, we said goodbye to M & G’s family, packed up, and headed up the trail for a sunset hike! We trekked through wildflower fields, enjoying epic views of the lake below. After some steep sections, we all were huffing and puffing when we reached the top!
M & G changed back into their wedding attire and we snapped a few photos at the historic lookout before venturing off to find some cool viewpoints. We found a massive snow patch and OF COURSE we had to play in it!! The bride and groom took turns pelting each other with snowballs. What better way to celebrate your marriage than with a celebratory snowball?!
We explored the peak a bit more and took in the views of Mt. Baker and Mt. Larrabee as the last rays of sunshine faded. Then we bundled up, strapped on our headlamps, and played some fun music as we headed back to the cars As I waved goodbye to these two cuties and drove home, I was already counting down the days until I could be back up in the North Cascades again!!!
Related: Check out this epic North Cascades elopement at an alpine lake!
Planning an Elopement of your own? Check out these elopement planning resources:
Unique Eloping Ideas while you plan your dream day
Elopement Essentials: 3 Things Every Elopement Needs
Elopement Dress Style Guide for Adventure
