Pioneer Park Elopement | Alisa & Melissa

Small elopements are quickly becoming my favorite things. Last year, I was given the honor of photographing Murphy and Dustin when their family session changed to a last minute elopement. It was their elopement that brought Alisa and Melissa to me.

Alisa contacted me only a few days before their Pioneer Park Elopement in Steilacoom. Thankfully, I was available that day and she booked me right away. I only had a few days to learn about these two before I met them on their wedding day. Alisa and Melissa found each other after previous relationships gave them families. They met through work when Melissa hired Alisa to work for her. When Alisa was injured, Melissa visited her every day to check on her and help her out. They bonded, created a wonderful friendship and fell head over heels in love with each other.

Their families joined them for their celebration that day. Watching this group blend together officially as one brought tears to my eyes. Alisa and Melissa are so in love, and their families make one incredibly happy unit.

Their elopement is one of my favorites. We met down at the park for photos, and after a quick, heartfelt ceremony, we all headed back to their home. Pizza was eaten, wine was drank, and the kids played on the slip-n-slide in the backyard. It was a beautiful yet casual celebration, resulting in a wonderful, blended family.

Elopements are special in a way most people don’t understand. They’re a chance for two people to give each other their wedding vows, without the social pressure of a huge wedding. Whether they’re marrying in secret, planning to announce it later, or everyone knows beforehand, each one is incredible. It’s always an honor to photograph an elopement, and I look forward to many more years of them.