Jeff and Erica’s Unforgettable Mt. Rainier Elopement: A Celebration of Love and Nature

Some love stories are meant to be told beneath towering peaks and amidst ancient forests, where nature itself becomes the backdrop to something truly magical. Erica and Jeff—affectionately known as “Jerica” (though we have been calling them “Jeffica” 😂)—chose to begin their forever at the breathtaking Mt. Rainier National Park. Their adventure-filled elopement was nothing short of extraordinary, weaving together love, family, and a deep respect for the natural world.

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Elopement at Mt. Rainier

The day started at a cozy cabin, tucked away in the woods, where Erica and Jeff were surrounded by almost 30 of their favorite people. The morning was filled with laughter, the warmth of loved ones, and the anticipation of what was to come. They shared a heartfelt first look—one of those moments that makes time stand still. From there, the celebration unfolded with an incredible lunch, a joyful cake-cutting, and the kind of energy that only comes when two soulmates step into their greatest adventure together.

Then, true to their spirit of exploration, they set off in their beloved Jeep to experience the wonders of Mt. Rainier. From breathtaking waterfalls and towering forests to a historic suspension bridge, every turn in the journey was met with awe. This was their first time in Mt. Rainier National Park, and having their closest people with them—who had traveled all the way from Oregon—made the experience even more special.

But beyond the adventure and breathtaking scenery, what made their day truly meaningful was the intention behind it. Erica and Jeff made choices that reflected who they are—adventurous, deeply connected to nature, and most importantly, committed to each other above all else.

Eloping While Honoring Leave No Trace Principles

One of the most incredible things about Erica and Jeff’s elopement was their deep respect for the land they stood on. Mt. Rainier National Park is more than just a stunning location—it’s an ecosystem that requires care and preservation.

We are passionate about following Leave No Trace principles, ensuring that every elopement respects the fragile beauty of these landscapes. Erica and Jeff shared that commitment wholeheartedly. They stayed on designated trails, resisted the temptation to pick wildflowers, and made sure every aspect of their celebration was eco-conscious. They obtained all necessary permits and parking passes, ensuring that their presence in the park aligned with conservation efforts.

It’s so important to remember that these meadows, forests, and alpine lakes are not just backdrops for stunning photos—they are delicate, irreplaceable environments that future generations deserve to experience. If you’re planning an elopement in a national park, we encourage you to embrace the Leave No Trace ethos:

• Stay on marked trails to prevent damage to fragile plant life
• Pack out all trash and leave no evidence of your visit
• Keep wildlife wild—observe from a distance and never feed animals
• Obtain proper permits to ensure responsible use of public lands

By choosing to elope in a national park, you’re not just celebrating your love—you’re also becoming a steward of the land. Let’s keep these places beautiful for generations to come.

Eloping with Family: How to Include Loved Ones in an Intimate Celebration

Elopements don’t have to mean running away just the two of you—unless, of course, that’s what you want! Erica and Jeff wanted their closest friends and family to be part of their day, proving that you can have an adventure elopement and share it with the people you love.

If you’re considering an intimate wedding but still want to include family, here are a few ways to make it special:

• Start the day together – Like Erica and Jeff, you can begin the morning with family, sharing a meal, exchanging stories, and soaking in the excitement before heading off on your adventure.
• Have a first look with family present – This allows your loved ones to witness the emotional moment before you set off for your ceremony.
• Incorporate family in the ceremony – Whether it’s having someone officiate, share a reading, or hold a special moment of reflection, small gestures can make a big impact.
• Celebrate afterward – Even if you choose a private vow exchange, you can always gather for a post-elopement dinner, campfire, or casual reception to celebrate with your people.

Eloping doesn’t mean excluding—it simply means redefining what a wedding can be.

Choosing Yourselves: The Heart of an Elopement

At its core, eloping is about choosing yourselves. It’s about stripping away expectations, traditions that don’t resonate with you, and the pressure of a big wedding to focus on what truly matters—your love and your experience.

Erica and Jeff knew they wanted something different. They didn’t want a traditional venue, a long guest list, or a day that felt like a performance. Instead, they chose adventure. They chose authenticity. They chose a day that reflected their relationship—wild, free, and deeply connected to nature.

And that’s the beauty of eloping. It gives you the freedom to design a day that feels right for you. Whether that means hiking to an epic overlook, exchanging vows by a serene lake, or saying “I do” with your feet in the sand, your wedding should be a reflection of your love story—not anyone else’s expectations.

So if you’ve been dreaming of an elopement that’s intimate, adventurous, and uniquely you, take this as your sign. Give yourself permission to break the mold and create a wedding day that speaks to your heart.

Let’s Create Your Own Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

Erica and Jeff’s Mt. Rainier elopement was nothing short of magical, and your love story deserves the same unforgettable experience. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Northwest, the red rock landscapes of the Southwest, or the alpine meadows of the Rockies, we’re here to help you craft an elopement that’s as bold and beautiful as your love.

If you’re ready to start planning your dream adventure elopement, let’s connect! We’ll help you find the perfect location, navigate the logistics, and create a day that’s filled with meaning, joy, and breathtaking scenery.

Let’s make your adventure a reality. Reach out today, and let’s start planning the elopement of your dreams!