Meet Charlie and Kelly, two New York natives who grew to love the Shenandoah National Park. They’ve visited many national parks over the years and knew that a Shenandoah National Park elopement was the perfect scenario for them to commit their lives together.
But instead of having a traditional large wedding, they chose to make it an intimate day in a place they enjoyed most. This would be an elopement wedding with just the two of them, two best friends to officiate, a makeup artist and hairstylist, and myself to document it all.
We started together in a rustic room at Skyland Resort, which sits along Skyline Drive at the ridge of the Shenandoah mountains. I loved being able to use the dramatic light streaming through the window as Kelly finished her lipstick. Her eagerness and excitement was palpable as she finished her hair and makeup, leading into a joyful first look with Charlie!
The day was planned, yet also spontaneous and casual. They didn’t choose the exact ceremony site in advance, but wanted to find the perfect spot on the day. I had been to Big Meadows many times and knew of a less traveled area that overlooked a view of distant rolling hills. I guided them along a short path to the spot we had in mind at the crest of Big Meadows. Only a mild wind greeted us as Charlie and Kelly’s friends laid out her train, opened up their books, and began the ceremony.
Charlie and Kelly’s best friends led them through scripture readings, their tearful vows, and an exchange of rings. For them, being out in the middle of nature on a quiet day on top of the mountains made every word, every smile, and every hand squeeze feel that much more special. I loved being able to showcase them in here, cusp of spring, framing them with the mountains and the silhouetted, leafless trees.
After their ceremony we walked back to sign the marriage license on the trunk of my car and bid their friends a good trip back home. During the next hour before the sun finished setting we continued to look around Big Meadows and a few nearby overlooks, taking a relaxed approach to their time of portraits. They hiked, explored, and enjoyed the end of their first day as a married couple.
It was a day full of rich, meaningful moments that I’ll never forget. Thank you Charlie and Kelly for having me photograph your Shenandoah National Park elopement!
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