Sunrise, Sunset, and 12 of Their Favorite Humans – A Mount Rainier Elopement Story
When Nikki and Keith drove in from Michigan with a dozen of their favorite people, they weren’t here for a “big wedding energy” weekend. Nope. They wanted adventure, intention, and the kind of day where you can actually remember what happened (wild concept, right?). That’s where the perfect Mount Rainier elopement comes in…
Morning Vows, Mountain Views
We kicked off at sunrise. If you’re going to say your vows at Mount Rainier, you might as well have the place to yourself. Picture this: chilly mountain air, the smell of pine, coffee still in hand, and the first rays of light spilling over the peaks. Just the two of them, promising forever while the world was still waking up. Sounds cheesy but if you had the view I did, that’s the only way to describe it. I’ve lived around here my whole life and just have never experienced anything as beautiful as that hour before sunrise, hiking Mount Rainier. We took my all time favorite trail for these Sound of Music views: Skyline to Alta Vista and then back to Skyline on the way down. It’s not easy (there’s about a 10 minute straight incline) but it’s worth it.
I brought a pop up tent so that Nikki could change and share a true first look at the top of the hike. Nikki had her hair and make up done at 1:00am- total commitment to the day.
Midday Magic (and Snacks)
After the morning happy tears, the crew headed back to Packwood for a chill afternoon. Think sitting by the river, lunch, and swapping “remember when…” stories as they were getting ready together. It wasn’t rushed, it wasn’t performative. Honestly, this in-between time is where so many of my favorite moments happen- the sideways glances, the bad jokes, the “oh my gosh, we’re really doing this” grins.
Golden Hour “I Do’s”
By sunset, everyone was dressed and ready for the perfect night. One of the best chefs I’ve ever encountered was preparing her four courses. Nikki and Keith rented the cutest little A-frame air bnb by the Cowlitz River. They also brought in all their own rentals for the perfectly styled table scape. They shared the sweetest ceremony outside on the deck with Millie, their beloved chocolate lab, front and center.
Dinner, but Make It Cozy
The day ended at a private cabin dinner, with candles flickering, wine pouring, and a private chef who made everyone forget they ever owned a microwave. She prepared the most amazing courses which was insane considering the lack of kitchen and oven space in the A-frame. After dinner, a few pictures and cutting the cake, the couple shared their first dance. To make things even better, they shared a group dance with their guests and finished up with Smores by a campfire.
Why Mount Rainier for Destination Elopements
Don’t get me wrong, there are so many amazing places to elope in the Pacific Northwest. See my no-frills list here. Mount Rainier just slaps if you want an epic adventure elopement. It’s breathtakingly beautiful and fairly accessible in terms of elopement vendors and resources.
Packwood Hit List for Your Own Adventure
- Ohanapecosh Hot Springs – Nature’s hot tub.
- Packwood Mercantile – Cute souvenirs and fun modern gifts with vintage vibes.
- Packwood Flea Market – Antiques, art, and the occasional taxidermy surprise.
- Silver Falls Trail – Easy hike, big waterfall energy.
- Mountain Goat Coffee – Perfect on your way out to the trail.
- Packwood Brewing Co. – For when vows are done and you deserve a beer. Or tacos and margs. There’s a cute ice cream airstream outside too!
- White Pass Scenic Byway – Road trip playlist required.
More resources:
M & J’s day was proof that less really can be more. When you strip away the extras and keep what matters – your people, your promises, and one epic backdrop – you get a wedding you’ll remember forever. And isn’t that kinda the point?
Vendors at Keith and Nikki’s Elopement
Photography: Ronny and Rene, Florals: Golden Rod Floral, Hair and Make up: Anne Timss, Private Dinner Catering: Supreme Eatery, Cake: Butter Half Seattle, Rentals: Amber Lilly Rentals
