2020 has truly been a strange year. But one thing that has been so beautiful is that couples get to be really creative about how and where they’re celebrating their love. For so long, we’ve had traditions that create boundaries and borders for us to simply fill in. With Covid-19 being such a monkey wrench in wedding planning, I’ve actually found that elopements and smaller celebrations are just as significant, and sometimes even better!

We headed into the Cascades to reach a forested spot so gorgeous and quiet that Melanie & Carson couldn’t help but focus on each other and just be present in the beautiful nature surroundings for their bridal session. Mountaintops get a lot of love, but the forest floor is so lush and green, and even better if you’re not up for a giant hike to reach your destination. (Me, hi!)

A few tips for the perfect forest session:

Bring a different pair of shoes so you can get to the hard-to-reach spots!
Bug spray. BUG SPRAY! Dang it!
Make sure to coordinate EXACTLY where you’re meeting in areas where cell reception is shoddy. We didn’t have any problems, but a little planning ahead is well worth the effort.
Bring a friend! Their sister/sister-in-law was SO great at helping hold, primp, etc. There’s so much extra fabric and veil and all when it comes to wedding photos vs. an engagement session. Sometimes having a person there that you know and love can help set you at ease, too.

If you’re loving these vibes, please reach out to coordinate your own perfect micro-wedding or elopement!