Lauren & Elliot ELope in New Hampshire with dogs
SWELL & STONE / ADVENTURE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER / New Hamsphire & BEYOND
Lauren & Elliot began their stunning New Hampshire small outdoor wedding day with an adventure hike. It was before sunrise when we met in a parking lot and headed up the steep trail in front of us. They exclaimed while laughing that I could have told them that although it was a short hike it was straight up. But before we knew it we had arrived at the top and the stunning view silenced any protests from minutes before. Lauren quickly changed into her dress in the forest as I got Elliot into position for the first look as their two pups ran around having the time of their lives.
Just after the first look, the sun came up and we basked in its warm rays. After some more basking and checking out all the different views we hiked down and walked over to the lake that we had just viewed from above. The sun was streaming through the mountains there was fog dancing on the surface of the lake making for the perfect early fall/late summer vibes.
We hiked over to a more secluded spot and they read their private vows to one another while the dew burned off the trees and the no one around except for the mountains and their sweet dogs.
After a morning to remember we parted ways only to meet up again in the afternoon for the main event. As they were getting ready with family to help it was clear how much those who were there loved them. Lauren’s mom was helping her get ready while friends were setting up the table for the celebration. The officiant, another friend, was practicing his speech, and there was a buzz of joy in the air.
Lauren had a first look with her dad, which was the sweetest thing ever, and we took family formals before starting the ceremony. The ceremony began with their dogs zig-zagging the aisle, which was funny and kept things light. The ceremony was beautiful and joyful. And their recession was punctuated with orange bursts which made for an awesome photo.
The celebration was laid back and lovely. They had the meal catered, which allowed everyone to enjoy each moment. Lauren’s brother tended the bar, and there were teary-eyed speeches, followed by an array of desserts, including a doggy cake. The dogs (and the humans) enjoyed their day thoroughly, and in the end, that (along with being married) is mostly what Lauren and Elliot found most important.