Sunrise North Cascades Elopement
Ivy + Matt
This morning, as the first light touched the peaks of Mount Baker, Ivy and Matt shared the sweetest, most intentional wedding day. Their elopement was stripped down to its purest form—just the two of them, fully present with each other, focused on their vows, their love, and the adventure of beginning their marriage together.
At first, Ivy and Matt had imagined including their daughters and a few family members in their elopement, but as they planned, they realized what they wanted most was a “just us” experience. No distractions, no outside pressure—just the freedom to celebrate in a way that felt deeply true to them.
Choosing the North Cascades
When we first started dreaming up locations, they knew they wanted somewhere in Washington that had both mountains and lakes. The North Cascades offer so many incredible landscapes, but we ultimately chose the Mount Baker region. It has stunning views with relatively low-effort trails, which meant Ivy and Matt could experience multiple locations without spending hours in the car or on long hikes.
The decision to plan a sunrise elopement was a game-changer. Not only did they have the soft golden light for their ceremony, but they also had the privacy that comes with being up on the mountain before the crowds arrived. It gave them the gift of a full day together as a married couple, soaking in the joy of it all.
Their Sunrise Ceremony
We met up at 4:30 a.m. at Artist Point, a spot known for jaw-dropping views of both Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Ivy and Matt found a quiet corner of the trail, completely to themselves, where they read their vows as the sun broke over the horizon. There were tears, there was laughter, and there was the kind of stillness you only find in the mountains at dawn.
Afterward, they celebrated with champagne, a little music, and some exploring. We captured portraits with the shifting light on the peaks before heading down to explore the nearby alpine lakes.
A Celebration with a Cold Plunge
One of the best parts of their day? A spontaneous cold plunge into one of the lakes. Ivy and Matt ran hand in hand into the icy water, laughing the entire time, before warming back up by skipping rocks along the shoreline. It was playful, untraditional, and completely them.
The entire morning was such a reminder of what an elopement can be—free, flexible, and rooted in the joy of the couple’s connection.
Tips for Planning a North Cascades Elopement
If you’re dreaming about your own wedding day in the North Cascades, here are a few tips inspired by Ivy and Matt’s experience:
1. Consider Sunrise or Sunset.
The light is dreamy, the trails are quiet, and you’ll have more privacy for your ceremony. Sunrise also gives you the full day to celebrate.
2. Choose Accessible Locations.
The North Cascades offer epic views without needing to trek miles into the backcountry. Artist Point and other Mount Baker trails are perfect for couples who want variety without too much travel.
3. Bring Layers.
Even in summer, mornings in the mountains can be chilly. Pack jackets, blankets, and even a thermos of coffee or tea to keep warm.
4. Add Playful Traditions.
Whether it’s popping champagne, jumping into a lake, or bringing along your favorite music, little rituals make your elopement feel uniquely yours.
5. Work with a Photographer Who Knows the Area.
A local guide ensures you get the best locations, timing, and insider tips to make your day stress-free.
Ivy and Matt’s day was proof that an elopement doesn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable. With just two backpacks, a sunrise wake-up, and a sense of adventure, they created a wedding day that felt like them.
If you’re recently engaged and dreaming about a wedding day surrounded by jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and wild mountain air, the North Cascades just might be the place for you.
“Sally was the best choice we could have made to photograph our elopement. These photos have left me speechless; they are everything we imagined and more.She made sure to check in constantly throughout the process of booking with her, ensured we are comfortable with everything we planned on doing, and really took the load off of what can be a really stressful day making perfect. You could not convince me there is anyone better at what they do and I am so happy we got to share our special day with her!”
READY TO START PLANNING YOUR ELOPEMENT? REACH OUT NOW!
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
