Written by Cortlyn Adams

 

Snoqualmie Valley Intimate Forest Elopement

It may be my bias towards pine trees talking, but I truly believe a forest is one of the top landscapes for an elopement and this intimate forest elopement in the Snoqualmie Valley will prove it! In this blog, I’m sharing all of my tips and tricks for planning and achieving your dream forest elopement. From permits, weather patterns and more, I’m covering everything you need to know about forest elopements, so scroll on!

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Meet the couple from this forest elopement in Snoqualmie Valley

Eilidh and John are originally from the Pacific Northwest. After they contacted me about their elopement, I got to help with creating their timeline, scout the perfect forest location and make sure their dream forest elopement would become a reality. After they shared what they were envisioning, I knew the exact spot where to take them for their portrait photos. This deep forest is located right in my backyard because I live in Snoqualmie Valley, so location scouting for this dreamy forest elopement meant I was searching locations that I know like the back of my hand. After we captured their deep forest portrait photos, they had an intimate ceremony in a park where they had frequently visited throughout their relationship on date nights. It was like a complete full-circle day, and it was such an honor to get to capture it (I love my job!).

Is the forest the perfect spot for your elopement?

There are so many options for landscapes when you’re deciding on the best place for your elopement! The forest offers so many dynamic landscapes, from lush fern fields to crowds of pine trees. Imagine tying the knot under a canopy of pines! I mean, could it be any dreamier? Have I convinced you that the forest might just be the best place for your elopement? Well, if you’re still on the fence about saying “I do” in the forest, then maybe a quick breakdown of some of my favorite forest characteristics will do the trick!

Year-round accessibility

Eilidh and John’s forest elopement was during the winter. Typically in the Pacific Northwest winter, you can bank on experiencing snow and/or rain in the mountains. One of the reasons I love the forest floor is that they can remain snow-free all year if they are at a lower elevation. Additionally, the tree canopy acts like nature’s umbrella and shields you (and your wedding dress!) from the rainfall! 

Provides intimate atmosphere

Unlike an overlook or field that are more open locations, forests can provide a really intimate and private atmosphere for an elopement. Imagine giant pine trees being the only things that witness your vows (well, accept for me because, well, I’m taking your photos lol)! The forest truly can be the most dreamy adventure wedding venue.

Stunning vegetation makes for dramatic scenery

Are you dying at the photos of Eilidh and John? The deep, lush, emerald forest makes those two stand out so vividly! Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical rainforest floor in Kauai or a deep, moody forest floor of the Pacific Northwest, you can never go wrong with the landscapes the forest offers.

What you should keep in mind when planning your forest wedding or elopement

Are the details to consider and understand about planning a forest elopement making you sweat a little bit? Girl, you do not need to stress! That’s what I’m here for! Below, I’ve jotted down some tips to think through as you begin to dream about your forest elopement.

Book an elopement photographer who knows the trails 

Psst…I know of a pretty cool Pacific Northwest elopement photographer who would love to document your day…just saying (lol). But, truly, this is a really important step in your planning process! Of course, you’ll want photos of your day to treasure for years to come. But, you also want to book a photographer with experience in adventure elopements. In order to get those deep forest photos, you have to be aware of where the trails are to follow Leave No Trace principles. I will know exactly where to take you to find the forest backdrop you’re envisioning, so you won’t have to worry about a thing!

Pack extra shoes

If there is rain in the forecast, the trails on the forest floor can tend to become a little muddy and have some standing water. Eilidh rocked her high heels for photos and would slip on her Birkenstocks with fuzzy socks during the in-betweens. So, throw in an extra, versatile pair of shoes and you’ll be great!

Plan for a change in weather

The deeper you go into the forest, the chillier it can get. So, I recommend bringing layers for your forest elopement. The temp dropped about 8-degrees during Eilidh and John’s forest photos. Want to know what specific layers I never leave home without for adventure elopements? Click here!

Don’t forget the pack the permit

According to the National Park Service, most special events require a Special Use Permit. Depending on the place you choose to elope, you may need to apply for a permit. So, keep that in mind in the elopement planning process! As your elopement photographer, I can help you organize and gather the correct permits.

Best places to stay in Snoqualmie Valley for your forest elopement

After you have chosen the general location in Snoqualmie Valley where you’ll be eloping, you can begin booking your amenities! I have worked with couples who book cabins to get ready in and use at a post-elopement reception space. Click here to read everything you need to know about planning an Airbnb wedding. Or, you can even go the more glamorous route with a dreamy hotel that’s tucked away in the Snoqualmie forest. I’m sharing my top recommendations below.

• Salish Lodge

Salish Lodge is a resort getaway that overlooks Snoqualmie Falls. It’s an iconic escape with nods to all-things Pacific Northwest. They also have an amazing spa on-site that is to die for!

• Elk Meadows Snoqualmie River Estate

This is the Airbnb where Eilidh and John stayed and got ready for their forest elopement.

• River’s Edge Retreat

I stayed here over a weekend with some friends, and it was absolutely amazing!

• Mountain View Estate

This Airbnb is a pricier option, but the modern home is stunning with amazing amenities.

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Are you starting to envision your own epic forest elopement? Reach out to me and let’s begin dreaming up your best day yet!

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Ready to explore more elopements, weddings and adventures? Wander away below!

Between the Pine is an adventure elopement and wedding photography brand created by Mollie Adams. Based in the Pacific Northwest, Mollie travels with her camera in hand to document “I dos” in epic landscapes including Washington, Oregon, California, and Hawaii.