As a Grand Teton National Park Elopement Photographer, I can truly say this was one of my favorite 2025 weddings. Macey and Tom ditched the big wedding for an unforgettable day in the mountains. Their August elopement in Jackson Hole was exactly what they wanted: just them, their closest people, and the mountain views.

Cathedral View Turnout Ceremony

The couple chose Cathedral View Turnout for their ceremony, securing a small dispersed ceremony permit for their intimate gathering. With the Tetons as their backdrop on a clear, sunny August day, Macey’s brother officiated the ceremony. One of the most touching moments was when they brought out a wooden box filled with mementos from their relationship. It was a perfect way to honor their journey together before saying their vows. Their dads each had personalized ties with pictures of their child on them and I thought that was absolutely adorable!

After the ceremony, they popped champagne with their small group of family members and took some traditional family photos. But the day was just getting started.

The Unexpected Moments Make It Memorable

Here’s where things got extra fun in a very unexpected way. Another couple was preparing their horse for a trail ride nearby, and they graciously offered to let Macey and Tom take photos with the beautiful animal. Macey loves horses and even climbed on for a few shots. These are the moments you can’t plan for, and they made their day even more special.

We captured them running hand-in-hand down the middle of the road, twirling and dancing like no one was watching. This is what elopements are all about: freedom to be yourselves without worrying about what’s “supposed” to happen.

Grand Teton National Park Elopement Photographer: String Lake and Beyond

As the sun started to set, we headed to String Lake. The light was perfect. That golden hour glow hitting the background peaks while the sun dipped behind the mountains closer to us. We shot on the bridge, and the combination of soft light and dramatic mountain views was exactly what you want in this location. As a Grand Teton National Park elopement photographer, it became one of my favorite locations this year.

Of course, we had to stop at the Grand Teton National Park sign. It’s iconic, and Macey and Tom wanted that keepsake.  I had to Photoshop out several cars from the road, but the final images were worth it.

We ended the night outside The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar in Jackson, where the neon lights added a fun, totally different vibe to their gallery. Mountain peaks to western neon in one day? That’s the beauty of eloping in this area.

Tips for Your Grand Teton Elopement

Get your permit early. Ceremony permits are limited and fill up fast. If you have a large group, apply for the site specific permit. If you have less than 12, consider applying for a dispersed permit option to save larger locations for bigger groups.

Hire Local Professionals. Macey hired Trudi with La Bella Rose Beauty for her big day!

Build in buffer time. The best moments like photos with a stranger’s horse happen when you’re not rushing. Leave room in your day for spontaneity.

Hire a Grand Teton National Park elopement photographer who knows the area. Knowing which locations work best at different times of day makes all the difference in your photos.

Ready to plan your own epic elopement? Contact me, and let’s create a day that’s completely yours. No stress, just adventure and stunning photos you’ll treasure forever.