By Nadia Padzensky, Venture Ever After, an Equally Wed Preferred Vendor
Laura and Jill traveled from across the country to elope in Olympic National Park. When we first chatted, they said they wanted to experience multiple aspects of the PNW, including forests, waterfalls, and ocean. They also wanted to keep the day simple, focusing on deeply enjoying the places and moments they’d share.
We started their elopement day peacefully at their cabin, where they quietly sat together writing their vows and helping one another get dressed.
We then headed to their first destination to chase some waterfalls. One of the many things I loved about this day was how Laura and Jill couldn’t get over how HUGE the trees are here. And I found myself with a newfound appreciation for these forests I love so much, but am admittedly so used to. What a gift to see them anew through these two!
After spending plenty of time with the trees and waterfalls, we headed to the ocean. Upon arrival, they enjoyed a stunning meal with incredible views, before donning boutonnières and heading down to the beach to find a spot for their ceremony.
As the sun set, they exchanged vows with the waves crashing behind them. They performed a handfasting, and the deal was sealed! Many happy tears were shed by all (yours truly included).
Of course, we ended the day with more exploration. And what a show Mother Nature put on for us! Moody skies, dramatic waves, and a rugged landscape that interplayed with it all to showcase a truly PNW energy – we really couldn’t have asked for better. And as the sky grew darker, Laura and Jill shared a first dance, lit only by their lanterns and a few twinkle lights. It was a sweet, serene end to an unforgettable day.
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FEATURED WEDDING VENDORS
Photography – Venture Ever After
Hair/Makeup – Anne Timss Makeup & Hair
Florist – Centerpiece Floral Design, Emma Warner
Food – Supreme Eatery
Suits – Kirrin Finch
Rings – Holden Rings
Boots – Danner Boots
VENTURE EVER AFTER
About
Venture Ever After specializes in adventure elopement and intimate wedding photography in the Pacific Northwest. My focus is on helping people in love have the intimate wedding of their dreams in magical outdoor spaces. I believe that love is best strengthened through meaningful, shared experiences, and what better occasion to approach with intentionality and meaning than your wedding day?
When you choose to elope, you’re choosing to get married free of society’s wedding day expectations. So go wild! Choose to spend the entire day in your favorite place, with your favorite person. Wear a fancy outfit, or wear your hiking boots. Invite your dog instead of your mom’s second cousin. Share your first kiss under the stars instead of under an altar.
In the great outdoors, you write the wedding rules. And I’m here to help make it an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
My Values
I do this work for two reasons: Because I love people and I love the planet.
People
I love all types of people, and yet all types of people are not always celebrated in the wedding industry, or in outdoor spaces.
F that.
You deserve a wedding experience you’ll never forget, regardless of what you look like, how old you are, or who you love.
Planet
I’m a Leave No Trace certified photographer, conserving energy through my personal and business choices, and continuing to lean into environmental activism.
Giving Back
Each time someone books Venture Ever After, I set aside $200 from my own revenue to donate to organizations doing work for the environment or human rights (or both). And when you book, you get to select which organization from our list gets the donation!
Gender-neutral contact form
Pronouns are understood, shared, requested and respected by all staff
Gender-neutral or gender-expansive language throughout all company communications
