Snowy Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee Elopement | J. & D.

Why Leavenworth Became a Desired Location for This Couple's Elopement

J. & D. traded Florida sunshine for a winter wonderland, and wow… did they get what they wished for! These two wanted snow for their big day, and Washington delivered in the most magical way.

What made this day extra special was that the groom had never experienced snow before! Originally from a warm Latin American country and having lived in Florida for the past 12 years, seeing snow was a dream come true for him. This is why Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee were the perfect choice for their winter wedding. 

We planned the elopement for early December when the town was beautifully decorated for the holidays, but we cleverly avoided the holiday crowds that typically fill Leavenworth during Christmas and New Year's. We selected a weekday for their elopement (I always suggest Monday through Wednesday to my couples: it's my little secret for ensuring more privacy and fewer tourists in the background of your photos).

Leavenworth and Lake Wenatchee Elopement Timeline

J. & D. began their important day with getting ready in a charming cabin in Leavenworth, followed by a stunning lakeside ceremony with their closest family members present. The bride was escorted down the aisle by her father, where my husband and the best assistant Pasha was waiting for the couple to officiate the ceremony.

One of their relatives handled a Zoom broadcast that connected 150 friends and family members who couldn't attend in person! This turned out to be the largest ceremony Pasha had ever conducted (thankfully, he only discovered the viewer count afterward :) !).

The ceremony included some beautiful traditions: a handfasting ritual (performed by the bride's mother) and a unity candle ceremony where the couple lit their individual candles from one main candle that Pasha held. Afterward, we gathered around a cozy fire pit where, instead of the traditional s'mores, they enjoyed melted cheese—honestly, a delicious choice! 😉

Next came a delightful sleigh ride through the snowy landscape with a character of a driver whose colorful outfit you'll appreciate in the photos. Upon returning to the cabin, J & D shared a private moment on the porch exchanging personal vows before cutting their cake.

Speaking of the cake—here's a wonderful story! Just one day before the wedding, J & D realized they needed a cake but couldn't find one they liked. In a remarkable display of love and talent, the bride's stepmom baked and decorated a gorgeous red velvet cake right there in the cabin! She even adorned it with leftover flowers from the bride's bouquet. It was truly a heartwarming save that left me speechless.

The celebration continued with heartfelt toasts from both mothers, followed by the couple's first dance. To cap off this magical day, J & D changed outfits, and we headed into downtown Leavenworth for an evening photo session among the holiday lights. The groom had mentioned wanting photos reminiscent of Hallmark Christmas cards, and I'm pleased to say we delivered—his face lit up with pure joy when he saw the results!

Leavenworth Elopement Photographer

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to J & D for allowing me to capture their enchanting day. It was truly an honor to witness the groom's first snow experience coinciding with his wedding day. Your genuine happiness was absolutely infectious, and the way you included your virtual guests while maintaining an intimate atmosphere was remarkable. From the meaningful ceremony to those magical evening photographs in Leavenworth's holiday lights, each moment was truly special. Thank you for entrusting me with documenting your beautiful winter wonderland love story!

I'd be thrilled to help create your perfect wedding! Whether you're dreaming of snow-covered mountains, twinkling holiday lights, or an intimate ceremony shared with loved ones near and far, let's make it happen. Your elopement should be as unique as your love story, and I'm here to capture every magical moment. Don't wait—the most beautiful winter dates fill quickly! Contact me today to start planning your unforgettable day in Leavenworth, Lake Wenatchee, or another stunning location.

Everything you need to know two plan a PNW elopement