Planning an intimate wedding or elopement? Whether you’re exchanging vows on a mountain trail, in a quiet courthouse, or somewhere in between, you probably have a few questions about how it all works, especially if this is your first time doing something outside the traditional big-wedding blueprint.

Over the years, I’ve helped dozens of couples navigate their way through both cozy courthouse ceremonies and full-on adventure elopements, and I’ve learned which questions pop up most often. So here it is, your go-to guide for what to expect when you’re planning a small but mighty wedding day.

Great question! Both are beautiful, it really just comes down to the kind of experience you want. Courthouse elopements are short, sweet, and deeply personal. You’ll say your vows at the Jefferson County Courthouse, which has beautiful architecture and a surprisingly heartfelt atmosphere. Then we’ll head outside for portraits around downtown Charles Town, where the old brick sidewalks, historic buildings, and cozy corners create a stunning backdrop.

Excursion elopements are a little more adventurous. These take place somewhere meaningful to you, maybe on a trail, near the water, or in a wildflower-filled field. We plan the timing around the best light and build in time for a relaxed, connected experience. It’s like a wedding and a photo session had a baby… and that baby wears hiking boots and cries happy tears.

I always encourage couples to wear wedding clothes! Yes, even for the courthouse or an outdoor elopement. A wedding dress and a suit or tux add a sense of celebration and give your photos an instantly iconic, romantic feel.

That said, feel free to make it your own. Some couples go formal, others add creative twists like boots, heirloom accessories, or a more casual clothes that reflects their story. The most important thing is that you feel like you.

Yes! Most people assume they’re just hiring me for portraits afterward, but the Jefferson County Courthouse is very accommodating, and I’m always allowed to quietly photograph the ceremony from inside the courtroom itself. I’ll capture the exchange of vows, the ring moment, and that forever kiss! It’s a beautiful space, and I’m honored every time I get to be there documenting your “I do.”

We don’t reschedule weddings for rain, we embrace it! If it rains on your elopement day, we tell that amazing story. I’m always prepared with clear umbrellas, weather-resistant gear, and a whole mood board’s worth of inspiration for rainy-day portraits. Rain brings emotion, intimacy, and a little magic to your photos.

Plus—fun fact—it’s actually considered a sign of good luck when it rains on your wedding day. The idea is that a wet knot is harder to untie, symbolizing a strong and lasting marriage!

Absolutely. Pets are family too, and I love when couples include their dogs, cats, or other four-legged family members in their day. Just let me know ahead of time so I can help choose a location that works for everyone. I recommend bringing a helper to wrangle your pet during the ceremony or formal portraits, plus treats and a leash that fits the vibe.

Short answer: Yes, but only the things that need it. Your final photos will be polished and natural, with thoughtful edits like blemish removal, basic nips & tucks (if needed), and color adjustments. But I don’t believe in changing who you are. I won’t erase a baby bump blessing, smooth out every line on your face, or Photoshop you into a different version of yourself. Your wedding photos should feel like you, on your best day, not like someone else entirely.

This is a creative process, not an instant one, and I take great care with every phase. After your session or wedding, I start by reviewing all the images and selecting the strongest ones. From there, I go through multiple editing steps: global adjustments, fine-tuning each image, Photoshop polish, and a full gallery review to make sure the whole collection flows beautifully. Each of those steps takes time, and I pace myself to make sure I’m bringing fresh eyes and energy to every part of the process. Even once everything is ready, I wait one extra day before delivering the gallery so I can review it again and make sure it feels right. You deserve that kind of care.

Don't even stress about it! Blemishes are incredibly easy to remove in post-production. You don’t need to cover it with makeup or worry about editing requests, I’ll handle it seamlessly.

No big deal! Elopements are meant to be low-stress. I always build in flexibility, especially for travel time, weather shifts, or last-minute nerves. If we need to adjust the plan a little, we roll with it.