Choosing to elope in Maui
When Doris and Landon first started planning their wedding, the vision looked a little different. They had originally booked me to capture a traditional hometown celebration in small-town Nebraska. But as planning progressed and the expenses started to add up, they began to realize that a big wedding wasn’t what they truly wanted.
They reached out to me, a little nervous, to ask how changing their plans would work since they had already booked me. I immediately reassured them that I completely understood and that I’d be happy to work with them, no matter what direction they chose to take.
A few days later, they gave me the exciting update: they were eloping in Maui, Hawaii—and wanted me to come with them. My answer? Absolutely. Sign me up.
We began the day at The Westin in Maui with quiet, intentional moments—detail shots of their rings, private vow exchanges, and a beautiful first look on the golf course next to the hotel. The blue skies, tall palms, and emotional anticipation created the most magical backdrop. Their first look was tear-filled and intimate—just the two of them, soaking it all in.
From there, we captured a series of romantic portraits around the property. Doris looked absolutely stunning in her dress, and Landon was so handsome in his classic suit. You could see their connection in every photo—completely natural, deeply in love, and fully present with each other.
Then it was time to head to the beach for their ceremony. On the way there, they rode along with me, laughing and glowing with excitement. These two are high school sweethearts who have been together for nearly nine years. As Doris said, “It’s been a long time coming.”
The day before, I had scouted the perfect beach location—one with cliffs in the background, the sun dipping low, and soft blue waves gently rolling in. Their ceremony was incredibly moving: personal vows, tears in their eyes, and the soothing sound of the ocean setting the scene. After sealing it with a kiss and signing their marriage license, we spent time capturing more portraits—fun, romantic, a little editorial, and full of joy.
To finish, we took a short walk up to a cliffside overlooking the water. The light was glowing, the breeze picked up just enough to give Doris’s veil some breathtaking movement, and we created some of my favorite images of the day.
This wedding was a beautiful reminder that your day should be exactly what you want it to be—not what tradition, budget pressures, or outside expectations say it should be. Whether it’s a backyard ceremony, a grand venue, or barefoot on a beach in Hawaii—your wedding should reflect your love story. The day Doris & Landen ended up having was exactly what they had dreamed of. Doris told me later that it was her perfect wedding day. The elopement was small, sweet, and deeply personal—just the two of them.
I’m endlessly grateful to couples like Doris and Landon who trust me to follow them across the world to capture their most meaningful moments. Wherever your heart takes you, I’d be honored to document it.
