Sara and Derek moved to the west coast a few years ago. The massive mountains and giant trees completely blew them away, and made for the perfect backdrop to their vow renewal. As they began repeating their vows, they couldn’t believe their eyes as the entire world blazed with color during sunset.
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Hiking in the Snow to a Mountaintop Fire Lookout Tower
Is there anything more romantic than a vow renewal? Weddings and elopements get all the hype, but there’s something truly heart warming about witnessing a couple – who have already experienced so much life together – pause for a moment and reflect on their love. On this particular day, we had the pleasure of exploring a magnificent overlook near Mount Rainier with a couple who embody a beautiful and sentimental kind of love. Sara and Derek chose this location because they moved from the midwest to the west coast a few years ago. Once they had relocated to the land of big trees and tall mountains, they knew they were home. In fact, Sara has fostered a personal relationship with the Washington trails system and runs a “Clean Up Washington” Facebook group.
Want to see another mountaintop session? Check out this Mount Rainier elopement!
Sara and Derek joined us in the mountains for a hike above the tree line. They brought their dog, and together the three of them ran around enjoying a sunny afternoon. In the unique way that Washington ushers in changing seasons, we were graced with clear skies and bright sun, but snow piled up amongst the shadowed forrest. Sara was all smiled in a beautiful lace dress and hiking boots, her excitement and wool socks keeping her warm. Sara and Derek sat on a blanket and looked over the valley, sharing some snacks before beginning their vow renewal ceremony as the sun began to set.
Sunset Vow Renewal near Mount Rainier
As soon as the sun started setting, Sara and Derek knew it was time to renew their vows. The hills were glowing orange and gold in the late afternoon light, and everything was perfect. Brandon began the ceremony with a few words. Then, Sara and Derek shared their vows together over smiles and laughter. A collection of letters held their words and stories. They read to each other, and celebrated all the choices they have made that brought them to this moment. Following their ceremony, Sara and Derek held each other in the fading light. I say this a lot, but this was one of the most beautiful sunsets we have ever witnessed, and it was incredible to experience it alongside these lovebirds and before the towering peaks of Mount Rainier.
Want to see the complete opposite experience to this sunny vow renewal? Check out this foggy elopement!
When the sun had set, and the light was fading quickly, a cooler breeze began to seep into our higher elevation. The snowcapped mountains behind us turned a last bright pink before fading to a deep blue. Derek gave Sara his coat and together they watched the stars emerge. Because this isn’t an opportunity you get every day, we waited for the sunlight to disappear entirely. Sara and Derek donned headlamps for the hike back, but not before we captured one last image of the lookout standing tall as a piece of history before a night sky blanketed with stars. If you’re considering a vow renewal because you’ve been married for a while, or just because you want an unforgettable experience with your partner, choose a location that you’re both in love with.
