Scenic Elopement at Stanley Lake, Idaho
Saying your vows on the banks of a spectacular alpine lake is always a good idea, and one that Cheyenne and Tyler felt was just right for their special day. Throughout their Stanley Lake elopement, we ventured into the mountains, across meadows, and along dusty roads, exploring all that the Stanley area had to offer. They’re undoubtedly one of the sweetest couples I’ve ever worked with. They shared so much genuine love for each other, and were beyond excited to get married in the Sawtooth Mountains!
Cheyenne & Tyler’s Scenic Stanley Lake Elopement
A day focused on the beauty of nature
When couples come to Idaho to elope, it’s usually because they have some sort of love for adventure, and the scenery Idaho has to offer—and Cheyenne and Tyler were no different. Tyler’s work as a traveling nurse brought him to Idaho for several years, and he spent time exploring Stanley. Cheyenne and Tyler both share a love of all things outdoors, including hiking, fishing, and camping, so it only made sense to get married where those activities were accessible. When they decided to get married they knew an extended vacation to Idaho that included their elopement was the ticket!
Cheyenne and Tyler are both private people, and they connected with the idea of having a day completely to themselves. Originally they had planned to invite a few guests along, but eventually they decided to keep it just the two of them. I think everything turned out just as it was meant to, providing Cheyenne and Tyler the opportunity to simply be present with one another on the biggest day of their lives. They were right when they told me that weddings shouldn’t be a stressful experience, but one that they could soak up for many years after. They spent their wedding day enjoying each other and the scenery around them, and their photographs couldn’t be more beautiful. Eloping truly allows you to get married in a way that creates amazing photographs with little effort!
Stanley Lake elopement vows at sunrise
They chose to exchange vows on the banks of Stanley Lake at sunrise. With the Sawtooths standing tall behind them, the two read their handwritten vows, exchanged rings, and shared their first kiss as husband and wife—all before the sun was even fully risen.
Wondering if you should invite family to your elopement day? Read through this guide for my best advice.
Post-ceremony couple portraits with mountain views
Cheyenne and Tyler were the type of couple who really just enjoy being together—no matter what they’re doing, they never fail to have a fun time. The two didn’t need anything more than each other and beautiful scenery on their wedding day; the dramatic peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains provided an unbeatable backdrop for their post-ceremony couple portraits. I loved the custom denim jacket that Cheyenne brought along with them, featuring her new last name on the back—the perfect way to add a fashionable layer of warmth for chilly sunrise photos.
Panoramic elopement portraits
In the afternoon Cheyenne and Tyler rented a side-by-side, and took a ride to a location they had found while exploring the area the day before. Their spot offered beautiful views of the Sawtooths and the surrounding Salmon Challis National Forest. We lucked out with a little bit of sunshine and blue skies, the clouds having cleared out since Cheyenne and Tyler’s sunrise ceremony, and were able to get spectacular panoramic views of the mountain peaks in the distance. They snuggled up on the rocky point, sharing those cherished moments when you feel so small in the world, yet so loved and happy. . . and this is exactly what eloping should feel like.
An evening hike to a lush alpine meadows
Tyler and Cheyenne concluded their wedding day with an evening hike to a meadow. We spent time exploring the area at sunset, and then brought their day to a close with lantern photos. I love when a wedding gallery has both sunrise and sunset in it!
Is eloping in Stanley right for you?
Curious if an outdoor Stanley elopement like Cheyenne & Tyler’s would be a good fit for your dream day?
A wedding in nature might be right for you if you. . .
- Feel at home in the mountains
- Want to adventure on your wedding
- Want a scenic place to exchange your vows
- You value spending time together in nature
Eloping in Stanley gives you the opportunity to say your vows in a variety of diverse landscapes— in a mountain meadow, on the banks of an alpine lake (like these two did), on a white sand beach, or even on the very top of a mountain. It’s a no-brainer for couples who dream of a celebration focused on stunning landscapes, rugged wilderness, and the peace and quiet of the great outdoors.
Stanley, Idaho Elopement Photographer
Scenic mountain elopements in Idaho are my thing! They are perfect for couples like Cheyenne and Tyler who are looking for a way to get married that feels as wild and adventurous as their life together. If you’re looking to create an unconventional wedding day in the mountains, meadows, or lakes of Idaho (or all of the above!), I’m the Stanley elopement photographer for you—learn about my Stanley elopement packages here, and inquire here to begin crafting a one-of-a-kind wedding that turns into your best day ever.
Searching for further inspiration for your Stanley elopement? I’ve got a few galleries below that I know you’ll love.