Famous for its turquoise lakes, inspiring mountains, and an array of breathtaking scenery and wildlife, Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful and unique places to elope. Canada’s first national park, Banff captivates the imagination with miles and miles of hiking trails, trees, and relaxing hot springs to create a stunning place to say I do. Most of the National Parks allow elopements and ceremonies to take place within their boundaries, but many of them have rules/suggestions when it comes to getting married in their specific park. 

There are some places in this amazing country of ours that are so beautiful, they bring tears to our eyes. They’re so captivating, we’re moved to silence, just standing in awe of the incredible vista before us. Zion National Park absolutely fits into that category, which is why so many people are inspired to elope there. Surrounded by its towering red rock walls, or standing on top of a mesa looking down on the Virgin River, there are so many possible places to elope and start the next chapter of your love story. Most of the National Parks allow elopements and ceremonies to take place within their boundaries, but many of them have rules/suggestions when it comes to getting married in their specific park.

Melissa had always dreamed of saying, “I do!” in a castle. Living in lower Michigan, she didn’t think that would be possible, until she came across Castle Farms in Charlevoix. It was the absolute perfect venue, and the canvas on which she could create the perfect wedding day.

Melissa and Kirk’s love story has been evolving for a number of years. They met, briefly dated, went their separate ways, and then found their way back to each other. They realized how great they were together, and the beautiful family they could have together.

Friends, 2018 has come to a close, and what a year it was. 21 weddings. 9 engagement sessions. 20 boudoir sessions. 29 other sessions. Not to mention all of the amazing memories with friends and family. I think it’s safe to say that 2018 was the best year of my life thus far. There are so many incredible people that made this year one for the record books, and I just want to say thank you:

Andy, you are my love and my best friend. I am so freaking excited to spend the rest of my life with you, to snuggle our puppies together, and to always adventure together while loving each other deeply and honestly. I love you to the mountains and back.

Jen and John’s paths first crossed when they met in high school years ago. They reconnected recently and found there was an undeniable connection between them. Their love for one another and their children is what fuels their fires. It’s so beautiful to see how they’ve brought their families together in such a cohesive and loving way.

They decided to wed on our grandmother’s beautiful lakefront property in the northwoods of Wisconsin. Jen and I are cousins, and hearing that she chose the Misty Moors property (our affectionate name for our land) as the backdrop of their wedding was incredibly exciting and special.