Finding Inspiration on Pinterest

Kendall found me on Pinterest while she was scouring for wedding inspiration. After moving to Wyoming earlier in the year, they decided to elope in Grand Teton National Park. She contacted me about not only photographing her wedding day, but also helping her plan her destination elopement. Although they had about 30 guests in attendance, I still classify this as an elopement or intimate wedding. For elopements, my couples don’t rent a venue for their wedding celebration. It was the same for this family affair!

Getting a Wedding Permit for Grand Teton National Park

We had some headaches getting everything lined up for these two since they only had eight weeks to plan their wedding. Yes, you read that right, eight weeks! The biggest frustration was getting a permit back from Grand Teton National Park. Luckily after almost an entire month of back and forth with them, we were able to secure a permit for Schwabacher’s Landing. If you’re planning an ceremony in Grand Teton National Park, getting your permit should be one of the first things on your to-do list.

There can be a lot of things that happen on a wedding day and we really try to be prepared for all of them. But sometimes things just happen and you have to make adjustments. This couple had their fair share of little incidences, a missing tie, a lost item, forgetting their marriage license at the hotel, but through it all they continued to smile and we’re able to still have a absolutely beautiful day.

Wedding Day First Looks

We started with some getting ready photos with Kendall and her family, and then did first looks. I love first looks on the wedding day! It was so fun doing a first look that included their 2 year old daughter. She definitely acted like a 2-year-old and was not very interested in participating in the first look but it was still a lot of fun! Then after the daddy-daughter first look, Nick and Kendall had their bride and groom first look.

Couple Portraits at Jenny Lake

After the first looks, we headed to Jenny Lake to take some couple portraits.  Jenny Lake this time of year, in early June, is very full from all of the melted snow. This made it really tricky to find shoreline areas that we could use. But, Jenny Lake was also Kendall’s number one location choice so we knew that we had to take photos of them here. People were great to move out of our way so we could get the photos that we needed without even asking! I’m really thankful for people’s thoughtfulness when I’m in Grand Teton National Park with any of my couples. It means a lot to me that people are respectful and courteous and understand that this is a really big day for my couples.

Schwabacher’s Landing Wedding Ceremony

Their beautiful wedding ceremony at Schwabacher’s Landing was performed by Cindy Dahlin. Kendall’s aunt prayed for the wedding ceremony as well. It was a wonderful evening for their ceremony and family portraits. We were able to sneak in a few extra couple portraits at Schwabacher’s Landing as well during my favorite time of the night. After the sun has dipped behind the peaks and we have the creamiest and dreamiest lighting!

Calico Wedding Dinner

Julie at Calico was wonderful to work with their family group on creating a simple reservation on the patio deck. With fun twinkling lights and an open yard, it was the best setting for an intimate but low-key dinner. Everyone raved about the delicious steak dinner! Tiny Town Culinary delivered their semi-naked wedding cake on site! The fruit really added the most beautiful color and texture to it as well.

Planning your Grand Teton National Park Elopement

Planning an elopement doesn’t have to be difficult! If you are considering an intimate destination wedding in Grand Teton National Park, I can help you with many of the logistics! Check out our wedding guide to get started! Send us a message about photographing your special celebration under the peaks of the beautiful Teton Mountains!