Washington Elopement Photographer
Adventure-filled weddings – Your love story artfully captured in the wildest landscapes
For the couples that are wild at heart and are looking for a personalized and adventurous wedding experience in Washington State...
HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT...We are looking for a stress-free in the moment wedding experience where we get to focus on each other.
We want to plan intentional and meaningful activities and create a day that is totally unique to us and our relationship.
We want to get married in a place that feels true to us (AKA nature). No stuffy wedding venues!
What if we told you, you can have all that and so much more!
Why have an adventure Elopement or Micro wedding?
Over the years we have been told by society what we need to buy or do to have a successful wedding…. But…when you take away all the outdated expectations of how a wedding is supposed to be, you get endless possibilities to create something that is unique and meaningful to you.
Now, picture this: Washington elopements and micro weddings are your ticket to a day that's all about you and the great outdoors. You call the shots – from the guest list to the fun activities, it's your show. And yes, you can totally have your cake and devour it too!
Close your eyes and imagine what your adventurous wedding day(s) in Washington could look like…
Plan a multi-day wedding experience where you can explore different areas of Washington. Spend Day 1 hiking, adventuring, or soaking in a stunning landscape together, and dedicate Day 2 to celebrating with your loved ones in a new, beautiful setting. It’s the perfect option for couples who want both an intimate escape and a joyful gathering with friends and family!
Always loved camping? Let’s set up your tent or park your favorite backcountry ride at a stunning campsite, share a romantic camp-cooked dinner for two, and hike to a mountaintop for your ceremony and watching the sun set.
Make your day as unique as you are by including your favorite hobby! We've seen couples fly fish in crystal-clear streams, go off-roading to jaw-dropping overlooks, paddle away in kayaks, play board games, camp out in style, and so much more. What adventure fits your love story?
Why Elope in Washington State?
5 things that we love about Washington
Mountain Views
Washington's mountains, including the iconic peaks of the Cascade Range and the Olympic Mountains, offer breathtaking vistas and unparalleled outdoor adventure opportunities. From the rugged beauty of Mount Rainier to the pristine wilderness of the North Cascades, Washington's mountains are a playground for nature enthusiasts.
2. Wildflower Season
Washington's wildflower season paints the landscape with vibrant colors, especially in the spring and summer months, as alpine meadows and valleys burst into bloom. From the iconic fields of lupine in the North Cascades to the delicate blossoms adorning Mount Rainier's slopes, Washington's wildflowers create a stunning display of natural beauty.
3. Evergreen
Washington's lush landscape earns it the nickname "The Evergreen State," thanks to its abundant forests of towering evergreen trees like Douglas firs and Western hemlocks that remain green year-round.
4. National Parks
Washington state proudly boasts not one, not two, but three national parks, each offering its own unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor adventures. From the rugged peaks of the North Cascades to the pristine wilderness of Olympic and the iconic beauty of Mount Rainier, these parks showcase the diverse landscapes that define the Evergreen State.
5. Fall Colors
As autumn arrives Washington landscape transforms into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant fall colors. The hillsides come alive with hues of gold, red, and orange as the foliage of deciduous trees paints the mountainside in a stunning display of seasonal beauty.
Convinced that Washington is the perfect location for your elopement?
Learn more about how to elope in Washington!
Not ready to dive into planning just yet? No problem! Explore our Pacific Northwest elopement resources and read stories from other couples who tied the knot in Washington State.
Washington Elopement Inspiration
Frequently asked questions about Eloping in Washington State
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The cost of hiring a Mount Rainier elopement photographer typically ranges from $5,500 to $10,000, depending on the amount of coverage you book. Unlike traditional wedding photographers, elopement photographers do much more than just take photos—they help plan and guide your entire experience to ensure a seamless, stress-free adventure.
Running Wild’s Elopement Packages & Pricing
Why Do Elopement Photographers Cost More Than Traditional Wedding Photographers?
Elopement photography isn’t just about capturing beautiful images; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience. Here’s what sets an elopement photographer apart:
Customized Location Research – We help you find the perfect, secluded spot in Mount Rainier that aligns with your vision, crowd levels, and accessibility needs.
Permits & Park Regulations Assistance – We guide you through the permit process to ensure everything is legally compliant, saving you time and stress.
Expert Planning & Timeline Creation – From choosing the best lighting to mapping out your day, we help design a timeline that maximizes your experience.
Adventure & Weather Preparation – Mount Rainier’s weather can be unpredictable, but with our expertise, you’ll know exactly what to expect and pack.
Photography That Tells Your Story – With our deep knowledge of outdoor lighting, landscapes, and natural elements, we ensure your photos are stunning, authentic, and full of emotion.
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Here’s everything you need to know to legally get married in Washington:
Obtain a Washington State Marriage License
To get legally married, you must first obtain a Washington State marriage license. Here's how:
Where to Apply: You can obtain a license from any county clerk’s office in Washington State—it doesn’t have to be in the county where you’re getting married.
Waiting Period: Washington has a three-day waiting period, meaning you must get your license at least three full days before your ceremony.
Expiration: The license is valid for 60 days from the date of issue.
Cost: Fees vary by county but typically range from $60 to $80.
No Residency Requirement: You don’t have to be a Washington resident to apply.
ID Requirements: Both partners must provide valid government-issued photo IDs.
Application Process: Some counties allow you to apply online, but you’ll usually need to pick up the license in person.
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The best time to elope in Washington depends on the experience you want. Summer (July–September) offers the most accessibility to high-elevation locations like Mount Rainier, the North Cascades, and the Olympic Peninsula, with wildflowers in bloom and long daylight hours. Fall (September–October) brings cooler temperatures, golden larches in the mountains, and vibrant autumn colors in lower elevations. Winter (November–March) transforms the state into a snowy wonderland, perfect for couples who love cozy, intimate settings or dream of a winter elopement in places like Mount Baker or Snoqualmie Pass. Spring (April–June) features lush greenery, rushing waterfalls, and fewer crowds, though weather can be unpredictable. Each season has its own magic, making Washington a year-round elopement destination!
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Washington is home to three stunning National Parks, each offering unique landscapes and incredible backdrops for an elopement. Mount Rainier National Park is famous for its towering volcano, vibrant wildflower meadows, and breathtaking hiking trails. Olympic National Park is one of the most diverse parks in the country, featuring lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and snow-capped mountains. North Cascades National Park is a hidden gem known for its dramatic alpine scenery, turquoise lakes, and remote wilderness.
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Whether you need a permit for your Washington elopement depends on the location. Most National Parks and State Parks require a special use permit for wedding ceremonies and professional photography, but the rules vary by park. For example, Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks all require permits for elopements, while some national forests and public lands may not. Even within the same park, certain areas may have different requirements, so it's important to check with the park office well in advance. If you're eloping on private land or a venue, permits typically aren’t needed, but some scenic overlooks or trailheads managed by different agencies might have restrictions. Planning ahead ensures you have the proper permissions and can enjoy your elopement without any unexpected issues!
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In Washington State, you need two witnesses to legally sign your marriage license. These witnesses must be at least 18 years old and present during the ceremony. If you're planning a secluded elopement with just the two of you, you can ask your photographer, officiant, or even friendly hikers nearby to serve as witnesses. Some couples also choose to bring a close friend or family member to fulfill this requirement while keeping their elopement intimate.
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Yes, but only within a 2-hour radius of Seattle. My favorite locations for engagement sessions are Mount Rainier National Park, Snoqualmie Pass, and Deception Pass. Let me know if you'd like recommendations based on the season or specific vibe you're looking for! Our Adventure Sessions are $1,800 before taxes and include two hours of coverage and a boatload of beautiful photos.
Hi! We are Sanne, Brooke, Janelle, Alanna & Kristi
So, what do we exactly do? It’s very simple! We specialize in helping couples with a shared love for nature celebrate their union in the great outdoors! No obligations, no cookie-cutter wedding templates—just you two, your love for each other, and the beauty of nature. Maybe throw in a few friends and family members too!
Of course we do a lot more than just that! We are your wedding planners, coordinators, photographers, and trail friends!
MEET YOURWashington Elopement Photographers
Awards & Features
We are honored to have won a few awards and to be recognized for the artistry and thoughtfulness that go into creating our photographs. Each image we capture reflects our passion for storytelling and our commitment to preserving the most meaningful moments in our clients' lives.
Best of the Best Destination Wedding Photos 2024
International Wedding Photographer of the Year
Elopement Legend Award for outstanding storytelling
We don’t just take award winning photos—we curate experiences and capture the heartfelt moments that make your wedding day unforgettable and your photos timeless!
Lillie & Nathan
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We had the most incredible wedding day thanks to the Running Wild team! From the planning process to running the show the day of, Sanne was communicative, thorough, and professional. We had a very unique vision for our day, and RW helped us fill in the gaps and develop our plan, get everything booked and ready, keep things on time and easy, and then capture everything beautifully. The pictures are simply astonishing and, beyond that, tell the story of our day and love for one another, the outdoors, and our loved ones. I cannot even count the number of times we've heard "these are the best wedding photos I've ever seen." Overall, we cannot recommend them enough for any couple who wants a unique wedding experience and stunning pictures. Thanks Sanne and team for everything!!
Rebecca & Wendy
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My wife and I had the pleasure of being photographed by Janelle. And let me tell you, she did an INCREDIBLE job. She helped us capture our very special and intimate day. My wife and I eloped, just the two of us, so having photos to share with family and friends was very important. Our photos are forever on our walls to cherish, thanks to her. She was such a great addition to our day. She was so genuinely happy for us and had such a positive energy. We felt so comfortable. I’m forever grateful that we were photographed by Janelle. She’s a true artist and an all around kind and creative person.
Alex & Ryan
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We cannot recommend Running Wild Studio enough! We prioritized photography for our wedding, and we’re so glad we did. The photos turned out absolutely stunning, capturing every special moment with such creativity and attention to detail.
Their value is just unreal! They gave us other great vendor recommendations, created the timeline for our day, and most importantly, captured the most beautiful pictures possible. Additionally, they proposed multiple location options based on our wants, group mobility, and group size. We had guests that could not do any long or inclined walks, and they helped us plan perfectly. They made having a destination wedding so much easier than we previously had thought!
Reach out to start planning your dream Elopement or Micro Wedding in Washington State
No stress—most couples who reach out haven’t finalized any plans yet! We love turning loose ideas into an unforgettable adventure.