Grand Teton Elopement

As a Jackson Hole photographer of over ten years, I have had a variety of locations and timelines for my couples. But Emma and Andrew’s elopement day was a perfect example of a true Grand Teton Elopement! From getting ready at a favorite local resort to taking bridal photos at String Lake. If you are looking for inspiration for a National Park Wedding, this is it!

Emma & Andrew

After dating for three months, Emma and Andrew broke up. And it was actually right after a trip Andrew took to the Tetons. But in his words, “then I did some growing up and found my way back to her.” Years after their initial relationship, Emma and Andrew got back together and are now getting married in the place that helped them get there!

Redeeming the Grand Tetons place as theirs started much before their elopement. They had been back together for about a year and a half when they were on an adventurous trip. There, Andrew was going to propose and a waterfall at the top of a hike, but decided it was too crowded and not intimate enough for the occasion. Ironically, while hiking down Emma asked him is he was ever going to propose and do the whole ring thing. Little did she know that the next day he would propose at her grandpa’s cabin.

Getting the chance to photograph your entire story is my dream! So when Emma and Andrew said they wanted their entire day captured through my lens, I was over the moon! Doing this gives me to opportunity to deliver a gallery that speaks volumes. One that becomes a novel for you and your family to enjoy for generations. I come in and document the big moments and little ones like sharing a cup of coffee, getting ready, writing vows, details of their wedding attire, calling parents, etc. And these moments create photography that sparks those beautiful memories.

Teton Mountain Resort

Emma and Andrew booked a weekend at Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, a nice hotel near the ski resort with rooftop hot tubs and a spa. Most of my couples come to Jackson Hole to not only elope but also to honeymoon. And this resort is perfect for just that! It served as a lovely space for getting ready and had all of the luxury amenities for a relaxing honeymoon.

First Look

Although I love it when my couples get ready together and share that moment of giddiness. I adore a first look! It is such an exciting and special moment that always leads to tender feelings. Emma and Andrew had their first look in a beautiful spot among the willows. This was a spot that Andrew and I chose before Emma made her appearance. And I have to say, we did good! It was perfect.

I left Andrew there, while I ran and got Emma, with bear spray just in case a curious bear wandered in. (They can be more unpredictable in the spring and I always like to be prepared). Then I brought Emma in and they stood back to back as they prayed together. Then they got a first look of each other all dressed up to get married! That was a moment that made me cry behind the lens. It was such a sacred moment to capture.

Grand Teton Elopement Ceremony

Once the initial surprise of the first look wore off, we headed into a sagebrush valley to meet up with their pastor. He and his wife are from the couple’s hometown. They flew out for this special occasion and opportunity to unite them. It was an absolutely beautiful ceremony filled with faith and love.