Brandon + Derek | Central Oregon Elopement

When I first dreamt up this little project, my goal was to show couples that your elopement can be anything you want it to be. For Brandon and Derek, that meant poppin’ champagne with a view.

I set out in June of 2021 to work with some local vendors and put together a fun weeknight photoshoot. I wanted to create something simple, intimate, and fun to really prove that an elopement can be anything! It can be an evening of snacks and vows and dancing in the desert. It can be a simple hike ending in private sunset views.

First I made sure to find the perfect models. June is Pride Month so I was thrilled when Brandon and Derek happily agreed to join me! They recently started modeling for lots of local shoots and you can see more of their work here.

Next, I snagged a box of donuts from Kristina at Chalk to Flour bakery, a beautiful bouquet-and-boutonnières from Petals Flowers by Katie, and rented suits from Bella Brides (yes they do suits too). We set out to our location in the afternoon and took our sweet time talking and chatting.

The photos turned out better than I ever could have imagined and I know it wouldn’t have worked out so well if it weren’t for such a lovely vendor team. It was so much fun and we spent the evening completely uninterrupted, sharing laughs and stories. The perfect way to spend a real elopement too.

So if you’re dreaming up a simple vow exchange with your love in the desert, here is proof it can be done, and I can help make it happen.

Send me an email and let’s get started.