Sunrise Hike to Bridal Veil Falls | Elopement | Index, WA |

Feb 19

Sunrise Elopement at Bridal Veil Falls

When I say I was elated to see Kylie’s name pop into my inbox after a few years, that is truly an understatement. She reached out with the happiest news she was engaged!!! We quickly reconnected over the phone, and it was immediately clear how radiantly happy she was.

Kylie shared the story of her and Jean-Luke: meeting in North Dakota, moving back to Washington, finding the perfect vintage wedding dress, and dreaming up an intimate PNW hiking elopement. From the very beginning, their vision was rooted in connection, adventure, and meaningful moments…and I was all in.

Planning a Hiking Elopement in Washington State

Their plan was a sunrise hike to Bridal Veil Falls in Index, Washington, complete with a surprise wedding dress reveal at the top of the hike. As a Washington elopement photographer, I love helping couples plan experiences that feel authentic to them, and this one was especially magical.

We carefully timed the hike to beat the crowds and capture soft morning light. The anticipation was real, and I couldn’t wait to see Jean-Luke’s reaction when he saw Kylie for the first time in her dress.

Intimate Wedding Vows Beneath Bridal Veil Falls

The morning arrived PNW style: perfect crisp air, clear skies, and calm weather. The trail was nearly empty, with only one other hiker passing by, which made their ceremony feel incredibly private and peaceful.

Standing beneath Bridal Veil Falls, Kylie and Jean-Luke exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by towering trees, flowing water, and the quiet stillness of the forest. It was exactly the intimate, adventurous elopement experience they had envisioned.

Celebrating With Family Along the River

After the ceremony, I refueled with burgers and even squeezed in a relaxing riverside nap, fully embracing the slow, joyful pace of the day. Later, we met up with their families along the riverbank to celebrate together.

They shared additional vows, hugs, laughter, and meaningful moments with loved ones, creating a beautiful balance between private elopement and family celebration. It was the perfect way to honor both their relationship and the people who mean the most to them.

A Meaningful Washington Elopement Experience

Kylie and Jean-Luke’s elopement was a reminder that weddings don’t have to be traditional to be deeply meaningful. Their day was filled with adventure, intention, connection, and pure joy and it was an absolute honor to capture it.

If you’re dreaming of a Washington hiking elopement, PNW waterfall ceremony, or an intimate outdoor wedding experience, I’d love to help you plan and document your story.