This adventure elopement in Lander, Wyoming was one of the most fun, spontaneous elopements I’ve ever been a part of!
The adventure started when I met up with Yesenia, Brian and their small group of friends in Lander, Wyoming. I drove out with the beautiful couple to their breathtaking location. Once we arrived, the couple’s close friends joined us, so they could witness this special moment.
But, that’s when a curve ball was thrown our way. Brian realized he had forgotten an essential piece to the ceremony back in town! So he quickly drove back into town to get it. He was in such a rush to get there and back, that he was stopped by the sheriff for going too fast! Brian explained that his rushing was due to having to get back to his own wedding! The officer happily sent him on his way with the warning that he better arrive on time! Right from the get-go, this elopement started off with tons of laughter. (Well, maybe not for Brian at first, but it’ll be a great memory for years to come).
Hiking to the Elopement Ceremony
It was a crazy hot and windy day in Wyoming. It was so windy that Yesenia and Brian decided against setting up any decorative details, as it seemed hopeless with the relentless wind. But no celebration is complete without some drinks, so their friends made sure to supply the goods!
We started off with a short, 30 minute hike, which was the perfect opportunity to get to know everyone. I heard about how they had all met in college, and the stories were so sweet! I also heard of how Yesenia and Brain were actually roommates before they started dating!
As the group chatted about their college days and where life had taken them, I learned just how special this group was! They gathered in this one place from all across the country to hike and celebrate the love of their best friends. They even made sure that the only friend who couldn’t make it (currently residing in Prague) was included by calling him during the ceremony. This is the type of friendship that comes once in a lifetime, and my heart was so touched.
Eloping in the Wyoming Hills
The hike went by quick and before we knew it, we arrived at a beautiful spot with a breathtaking view. Everyone changed into their outfits, and we scouted the best spot to ensure the photos were of the best view!
Luck have it, there was just enough cell service to get ahold of their friend overseas! We tried to video chat but, unfortunately, a voice call was as good as it was going to get! So, Brian tucked the cell phone behind his pocket square and the ceremony started.
Each Elopement is So Unique
It was a non-traditional ceremony full of laughter, personalized vows, and a few happy tears. There is nothing more intimate than a couple reading their personalized vows, and it will forever be my favorite part of each ceremony. This is the part where personalities really come out, and the love between two people is witnessed by all.
The ring exchanging, the first kiss, and endless cheers finished out their ceremony. Brian helped to make drinks, which was a tradition for their group over the years since he was a bartender in college! Then, the celebration of the couple ensued.
As I left their happy little party, I could hear their laughter caring over the hills, and it hit my heart more than any other elopement. No matter what life brings you, love and celebration is always with us and we must embrace, remember, and cherish those moments.
