One of my favorite things about PNW elopements is all of the gorgeous outdoor locations that couples can choose from. From forests to lakes to mountains, Washington scenery never disappoints!

For their elopement, Michelle and Derek planned for two different locations. We started off at a secret spot in the forest at Rattlesnake Lake. The couple brought their Labradoodle along as a witness and he definitely photobombed during the ceremony making for the most adorable first kiss photos!

After they exchanged vows, they held a Chinese tea ceremony to symbolize the union of their families and we took some portrait photos in the woods. I couldn’t get over how stunning these two looked together. Michelle was really elegant in her crepe wedding dress and Derek never made a tux look so good!

Later that afternoon, we headed to their second location – Diablo Lake – for more portrait photos. Diablo Lake has got to be one of my favorite elopement locations in the PNW! Located in the North Cascades region, this area offers a stunning lookout of the lake’s gorgeous green-blue water surrounded by pine trees and snow-capped mountains.

Michelle and Derek’s elopement took place in October 2020 which was also when Washington was experiencing some forest fires so the smoke was really thick in the North Cascades that evening but it resulted in these gorgeous intense colors of pink, orange, and purple in the sky. Despite all the wildfire tragedy around us, we witnessed an epic sunset at the lookout over Diablo Lake.

This PNW elopement with Michelle and Derek was so much fun! These two were super easy going and really rolled with the punches on their wedding day.

For more elopement weddings check out this North Cascades micro-wedding here!