Snowy Summer Solstice Elopement
Have you always wanted to get married in a winter wonderland but without freezing your toes off? Then you want to read everything about Shelby & Hugo’s snowy spring elopement at Artist Point during Summer Solstice!
When Shelby & Hugo reached out to us last year, they told us they dreamed of getting married at Artist Point on the longest day of the year: Summer Solstice June 21st, 2023. Although we were extremely excited about them picking such a cool date, we had a few small worries. As some of you might know, Artist Point is one of the highest easily accessible locations here in Washington State and has multiple feet of snow during late spring that doesn't melt until the end of July. On top of that, the weather can be very unpredictable early in the season. Despite these concerns, we were up for the challenge and helped S&H plan an unforgettable day.
After crafting the perfect timeline and making multiple backup plans in case their location was inaccessible or the weather was bad, we drove up to the area the week before their wedding day to make sure that everything was safe. The main hiking trail up to Artist Point was inaccessible due to snow, but the road up to the top was already plowed and completely snow free, although still closed to cars. A perfect trail to follow up to the top!
In the early morning hours on S&H’s special day, we met in the parking lot and started their hike up to Artist Point. We followed the windy curved road all the way to the top. Although the road was plowed, we were surrounded by snow walls up to 18 ft tall. It was a beautiful reminder of how much snowfall we get each year here in Washington State.
With no soul in sight, we captured S&H’s love for each other during sunrise. Although we didn't get all the views we hoped for, S&H enjoyed every moment and were blown away by the cloud inversions and little sneak peeks on Mount Shuksan. It was one of the most serene and quiet mornings we have had in a while.
After hiking back to their car, we drove to S&H’s Airbnb where they were greeted by their family and friends. After such a dewy and cold morning in the mountains, it was time to freshen up and get ready for their ceremony.
With the whole group, we reached the perfect ceremony spot. Their loved ones surrounded Shelby & Hugo in a circle and started one of the most special ceremonies we have ever seen. Before they exchanged their vows, they decided to pass on their wedding rings to every guest in their group. With some tears behind the camera and the whole group humming a song, we watched every loved one make a wish and a prayer for the newlywed couple while holding their rings close to their hearts.
After an emotional ceremony, the group headed back to the Airbnb for drinks and food. They sat around the campfire (non-lit because of the fire ban) and did a champagne toast and cake cutting. When they heard a loud voice yelling from inside the house “DINNER IS READY'', everyone went inside, enjoyed a home-cooked meal, and celebrated the rest of the evening.
How to elope at Artist Point during Winter, Spring or early Summer?
Seriously, if you’ve never snowshoed up to Artist Point during winter, this is your sign to do it! On a clear day when the sun is setting, Mount Shuksan and the snow slowly turn from golden tones to pinks and purples and create a cotton candy landscape. It is one of the most stunning views we’ve ever seen. But planning an elopement during this time of year comes with a lot of extra planning, worries, and a high chance of no views at all.
3 Things you need to know before planning a snowy winter, spring, or early summer elopement.
Planning a winter elopement/wedding can be a little bit tricky, but it is doable! Here are some things to keep in mind when you start planning your winter/snow adventure:
1. Winter/Spring weather in the Washington mountains can be unpredictable!
We can’t say this enough, but the weather in the mountains during winter can be extremely unpredictable! We always tell our couples to be open-minded about the weather because there is a possibility that you’ll have to change your plans last minute! We always make sure that our couples have a plan A, B, and C in case of road closures or avalanche danger.
If you want snow in your photos but without the extreme colds, we highly suggest getting married during early or late spring. Artist Point for example is still covered in snow up to late June. With the warmer temperatures, you’ll be able to enjoy your experience more.
2. Always have a backup plan
We have you covered! We’ll make sure we have a backup plan just in case the weather decides to change. Most mountain areas have beautiful, lush forest trails, or you can totally change your location and go somewhere else. We, of course, will help you every step of the way.
3. Bring layers, layers, and more layers for your snowy winter/spring, early summer elopement!
All the snowy photos might seem magical, but let us tell you a little secret… it was COLD! We definitely dont suggest a winter/snow elopement for couples who are not great with cold weather. Even though spring can be a lot warmer, the temperatures during early morning and late night can still be around 30F in the mountains and that is without wind. Make sure to bring plenty of layers like jackets, fleece leggings, thermo underwear, wedding attire with long sleeves, blankets, and other warm accessories. And of course… don’t forget to snuggle up! Also, we will make sure to bring the hand warmers! ;)
