Filming this Olympic National Park Elopement for Kaitlin and Derek was SO much fun!! Kaitlin and Derek are some of the most chill and kindest couples I’ve ever gotten to work with. They’re all about enjoying each other’s company, and I seriously got all the feels while creating their film.
The funny thing about planning this elopement was that leading up to it, we were expecting rain and gloom. However, it ended up being the most perfect weather! We had blue skies and sunshine all day, which was perfect because it was an adventurous day for sure!!!
Kaitlin + Derek’s Olympic National Park Elopement
The day started around 12:30pm, where the couple was getting ready in their AirBnb. Kaitlin was downstairs getting her makeup and hair done, and Derek was upstairs getting ready. During this time, something so so beautiful happened… Derek found a dime in one of the rooms and I noticed him getting emotional. He explained to me that when you find a dime, it means a loved one who passed away, is leaving you a message, and that they’re watching over you. He also shared that he lost his grandparents a few years ago, and finding this dime meant a lot to him. It was amazing that this just so happened to be on a day as special as his elopement with Kaitlin!! It was such a precious moment, so I knew I needed to include it in the video.
After prep time was done, we went to the dock where I captured the first look. Again, the weather was beautiful, and made everything look extra gorgeous. The water around us was sparkly and blue, and just magnificent! Immediately after, Kaitlin and Derek exchanged gifts. Derek was emotional, so Kaitlin comforted him and I thought it was an adorable moment between them.
Why Have an Olympic National Park Elopement
Next, we went on a hike and reached a lake where their photographer, Kathleen, led an intention exercise by the lakeshore. I thought she did such a great job, and now I’m convinced every photographer needs to do this with their couples.
This walk was a gem!! If you love the outdoors, I think you’ll love coming here. I was captivated by all the moss everywhere, how the sun peeked through the trees, and of course, the epic waterfall we were looking for.
After the walk, we headed back to our cars and then drove an hour to Ruby Beach. There, we walked up and down the coastline and ended up finding a spot where Kaitlin and Derek wanted to have the ceremony; so, we set up the environment for the ceremony to start! 🙂
After the ceremony, we walked to a little cave to get some more video and photos taken. Then we went back to where the ceremony was, and they had their first dance to “You Are My Reason” which was playing on my phone in Derek’s pocket. It was simple, but so meaningful!
We then went to chase some waves, and enjoy the water for a little bit. After that, we came back to the shore where Kaitlin and Derek enjoyed their first cake and wine as newlyweds, seated on a giant log and candles around them.
To end the night, we all sat by a little bonfire and got to see the stars.
Get to Know Our Couple
How did you guys meet?
Derek and I met in high school. Our best friends were dating and they set us up together and we’ve been together ever since!
What are your favorite things to do together?
We are huge foodies and love going new places to eat. We like to hike and camp and we’re just starting our travel bucket list!
How did Derek propose?
Derek and I were a part while I was completing an internship for Disney World and when he came to visit he proposed to me in front of the castle while getting our pictures taken.
List of Vendors
Photography by Kathleen Elizabeth Photography
Hair & Makeup by Magdalena from Urban Weddings
Cake by Wildflower Cake
Olympic National Park Elopement Film
Overall, spending the day with these two and filming their elopement was a super epic day and could not have been more perfect in my opinion!! The little moments like engraving their initials into a rock, their vows, and the adventures were all something I’m so grateful to have witnessed. Kaitlin and Derek have grown up together since being teenagers, and have grown a deep and genuine love over the years; and I truly hope you can see that in their video.
Looking to have your Olympic National Park elopement filmed? I got you! You can inquire here to see if I’m available!
