Raina & Jared’s Mountaintop Elopement

Everyone made their way up the side of the mountain, kicking up dust and holding hands with those they loved, one after the other. The facade of the cliffs was completely shaded as they hiked, Raina holding the white train of her dress in one hand, and the hand of her son in the other. Everyone smiled and talked and they climbed, avoiding jumping cholla and slowing every once in a while to catch their breath. Jared hovered back to make sure everyone was getting up ok, filled with excitement as we all neared the top. Coming over the hill, the sun cascaded over the city, leaving a blanket of orange on everything it touched. The cacti glowed in the warm light, and Raina’s dress illuminated as she kicked it up with every step she took. The journey up the mountain to their wedding is such a representation of their journey to get to where they are today, and it’s so worth it to make it to that glowing cliffside where they said their “I Do’s.” Nothing safe is worth the hike (or risk of getting spined by a cactus!), and these two are the epitome of untraditional in the best way possible. They even signed their marriage license on their best man’s back! Their day was so relaxed and it flew by because they weren’t the least bit concerned with the theatrics a wedding day can bring. I loved every minute! Raina and Jared, it was such a privilege to capture your maternity photos years ago, and your elopement now. I wish you two all the happiness in the world and I hope to document more of your big moments to come! Cheers friends!