These two adventure families became one in the most epic ways possible. Amanda and Nakean wanted to have a sunrise elopement with their kids at one of the most beautiful places in their back yard – Mt. Rainier. And they wanted to do it at sunrise! The adventure that ensued was one for the books.
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A sunrise elopement with kids at Mt Rainier
When Amanda and Nakean reached out to us to photograph their elopement, they already had an incredible game-plan for their day. Being Washington locals, they had a favorite trail already picked out for elopement. It happened to be one of our favorites as well, so we were immediately psyched to join them and capture their day. They wanted to elope at Mount Rainier on a moderate hiking trail so their kiddos could tag along too. However, after seeing these kids hike, I’m pretty sure we could have climbed Everest and they would have been fine! Seriously, these kids can hike!
Not only was it a decent hike to the elopement ceremony spot, but we were doing it at sunrise. And being there for sunrise means leaving the car well before sunrise. Our favorite HMU artist, Anne Timss, camped the prior night in her car just to be there early enough to style Amanda! In fact, we all spent the night in our respective cars and vans near the trailhead parking because this day was getting started at 3am! When we arrived, Anne and Amanda were already set up in the women’s bathroom doing hair and makeup. Hey, it had the best light haha!
Want to see another epic sunrise elopement? Check out this sunrise elopement at Mt. St. Helens
When we finally hit the trail, stoke levels were high and we made great time. We arrived at the summit just before sunrise, where Amanda, Nakean, and the kids changed into their wedding outfits. With the soft morning light kissing their faces and holding hands with their kids, they said their vows to each other. We love photographing elopements with kids, there’s just something so special about seeing the two families come together. And this is one special family 🙂
After the ceremony, we partied to some soul music, popped champagne, watched Marmots and Pika run around, and gazed wide-eyed at the up close and personal view of Mt Rainier. By the time we started hiking down, the first hikers of the day were just starting to arrive at the summit. Sunrises can be tough to get up early for, but they are always, always worth it. Such a special experience in one of the best spots at Mt Rainier!
For more Mt Rainier Elopements, Check out our Mt Rainier Elopement Archives