Laura (she/her) and Ted (he/him) chose Tanners Ridge Overlook in Shenandoah National Park for their intimate elopement. They exchanged vows with sweeping mountain views and a stunning ancient tree as their backdrop. Their wedding day perfectly captured their love for nature and adventure.
Starting the Day Off of Skyline Drive
Their day began at Tanners Ridge Overlook, where they got ready together. The wind was crisp and the early fall leaves were just beginning to show signs of changing. Laura wore a beautiful sage-green dress with her trusty Chacos while Ted kept it classic with a black suit paired with his hiking boots, a nod to adventure. I really enjoyed Laura’s simple yet meaningful necklace; a small pendant featuring the engraved numbers 26.2, which represented a marathon they ran together in Fort Collins, Colorado that was 26.2 miles long. Finley, their lovable dog, stuck close to his humans, excited to be part of the day.
They decided to keep things simple and stress-free. No big production—just the two of them, finishing up those last little touches side by side. It was the perfect start to an intimate and adventurous day.
Ceremony at Tanners Ridge Overlook
When it came time for their ceremony, the wind picked up, bringing a bit of a chill to the air. Despite the gusts, Laura and Ted faced each other beneath the sprawling branches of the ancient tree at Tanners Ridge Overlook, its wide and beautiful silhouette framing the moment. They exchanged heartfelt vows, keeping things deeply personal and true to who they are as a couple. With Finley quietly by their side, they exchanged rings and sealed the moment with a sweet kiss. The combination of the wind, the tree’s grandeur, and the quiet intimacy of their vows made it an unforgettable and perfectly “them” kind of ceremony.
Portraits at Tanners Ridge
After the ceremony, we took some portraits with Finley before proceeding with the next part of their day at Dark Hallow Falls. Finley was excited and happy to stay by their side as we explored the overlook area for more candid and posed shots. With his tan leash blending into the earth tones of the surroundings, he fit right in with the natural beauty of the mountains. Their laidback attitude made the whole portrait session feel easy and organic. No rush, no stress—just genuine love and connection.
Hiking Dark Hollow Falls
Next up was Dark Hollow Falls, a trail that was new for Laura and Ted, but they were excited to explore it. While Finley couldn’t join this part of the adventure, we made sure he was comfy back in the car with plenty of shade, the windows down for fresh air, and some frozen treats to keep him happy. Since the hike is fairly short, we knew he’d be fine while we explored.
Laura and Ted made some quick outfit changes for the trail. Laura kept on her sage-green dress from the ceremony but swapped her Chacos for a pair of sturdy blue hiking boots. Ted kept his white button-up shirt but switched out his slacks for khaki shorts and traded his hiking boots for Chacos, embracing the perfect mix of formal and adventurous. They also strapped on their hiking backpacks—Ted with his green pack and Laura with her blue one—and we set off for the falls.
The trail was lively, with other hikers around, but everyone was friendly and patient, giving us space when we stopped for photos. The real highlight was when Laura and Ted decided to get a little spontaneous—they climbed up on a rock together, crossing over some stones with the water roaring below them. It was by far the most adventurous and fun part of their day! Dark Hollow Falls may be a popular spot, but for Laura and Ted, it became a special, thrilling moment that added a bit of extra excitement to their elopement.
Picnic at Big Meadows
After the hike, we headed to Big Meadows, where they had packed a picnic lunch. They found a spot off the trail, tucked into a peaceful part of the meadow. Out came their favorite vegan sandwiches and chips, and in true laidback fashion, they cracked open cans of PBR and toasted to their wedding day.
They also had vegan cupcakes from their favorite Richmond bakery, Minglewood Bake Shop. Ted and Laura brought three cupcakes, and to my surprise, the third one was for me! Let me tell you, that French toast cupcake was out of this world! The maple syrup and cinnamon flavors coming from the cupcake were chef’s kiss.
After lunch, they relaxed and soaked in the day. Laura and Finley cuddled up on the blanket while Ted pulled out his guitar. He serenaded them with a few songs, including “Free Bird” and “Wagon Wheel.” The scene felt peaceful and easy, like a quiet afternoon with old friends. Once they felt ready, we packed up and headed back to the car.
Laura and Ted’s Love Story
When Laura and Ted first met on Hinge back in May of 2022, it didn’t take long for them to hit it off. Both avid marathon runners, they connected quickly over their shared passion for fitness and the outdoors. After a few days of chatting, they decided to meet up in person at Random Row Brewery in Charlottesville. They ended up talking at the brewery until well after closing time! Their relationship took off with adventures hiking with their dog, Finley, and traveling for marathons. They also enjoy finding new vegan spots in Richmond. A little over a year after they met, Ted proposed to Laura at Glacier National Park. It was an epic proposal in a breathtaking place that matched their bond.
Laura and Ted’s Wedding Day
Laura and Ted’s elopement was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. From the windy vows at Tanners Ridge Overlook to the hike at Dark Hollow Falls and the picnic in Big Meadows, their day showed everything they love about each other. And having Finley there made it even more special! This was a day of love, laughter, and lots of vegan cupcakes. Laura and Ted, here’s to many more adventures!
If you’re reading this and you’re newly engaged, the traditional wedding scene isn’t your vibe, AND you want something way more exciting than a courthouse visit, you’re in the right place! My name is Cameron (she/her) and I’m a Virginia elopement photographer and partial planner; I’d be absolutely honored to help you plan and document your elopement day. Fill out an inquiry form to start planning your elopement in Shenandoah National Park (or anywhere else in Virginia) or check out my pricing to learn more about my philosophy, practice, and packages. I offer elopement packages starting at four hours!
Check out other couples who said ‘eff it’ to the traditional wedding plans and chose an elopement in Shenandoah National Park instead. Read their stories and feel inspired by the magical and stress-free days they’ve created for themselves: Laura and Ted’s Tanner’s Ridge Overlook Elopement and Hunter and Troy’s Blackrock Summit Elopement.
Feeling inspired but need some help with planning? I’ve got you covered! Check out some of my elopement planning resource blogs below:
