How to Include Family in Your Elopement Without Losing Intimacy
September 23, 2026
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Photos by Outshined Photography
North Cascades, Washington — When Cara and Alan began planning their day, they knew they wanted something personal. Their vision was simple: a golden larch vow exchange in the North Cascades at sunrise, along with photos they could use for their wedding announcements.
Larches, one of the few deciduous conifers in the United States, transform into brilliant gold each fall. In Washington’s North Cascades, they create a short but stunning season that draws hikers from all over. For Cara and Alan, who already loved spending their time trail running and hiking together, it felt like the perfect setting.
They started their day hiking under the stars, arriving at a turquoise alpine lake just before sunrise. After quickly changing into their wedding attire, they exchanged private vows surrounded by glowing larches as the first light hit the peaks. The morning continued with a hike to a nearby tarn, where they made breakfast with their favorite trail meals and beers from the bar they visited on their first date. Even their two kittens were included in the experience, in the form of playful cutouts they carried along for photos.
After races, it had become tradition to celebrate with Taco Bell, something so meaningful to them that they planned their official ceremony at the Taco Bell wedding chapel in Las Vegas later that spring. To tie it all together, they brought Taco Bell along on the trail!
Choosing to exchange vows privately gave them the freedom to be fully present without the pressure of an audience, while also allowing them to create meaningful imagery ahead of their wedding day.
See more from Outshined Photography:
• Winter Cape Flattery Elopement
• A Pacific Northwest Adventure Wedding For A Couple Who Found Love Later In Life
See this wedding and more inside Adventure Wed Magazine!
Photography: Outshined Photography, an #AdventureExpert
Location: North Cascades Region
Makeup Artist: Skagit Bridal Hair and Makeup
Dress: Evergreen Bridal Studio
Food: Taco Bell
Cat Cutouts: Fathead
Suit: Sean Alexander from Men’s District
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