Elopement on Cannon Beach

Mr. and Mrs. Yarber

June 2025

What do you think of when you hear the word elopement? Romantic? Daring? Impulsive? While this was not an impulsive decision for our couple featured today, photographing their special day taught me a lesson or two about the daring romance behind slipping away to blissfully prioritize the most intimate of ceremonies.

I had always dreamed of a church wedding, myself, with loads of friends and family around, steeped in tradition. But as I hiked alone on a trail proceeding my bride to come to the the overlook where the groom and pastor waited... something in me shifted. The pure simplicity, intimacy, the beauty of God's creation surrounding us in stunning display... no microphones were needed. Just sweet whispers and bold declarations of covenant commitment, under God, for their three closest friends (and photographer) to hear.

It was slow. Relaxed. Adventurous. Haystack Rock is a famous Oregon landmark that holds special significance for many - especially my couple! They wanted to take a few hours to explore the area together as newlyweds, rejoice in their love and capture some special moments to remember forever and share with their loved ones back home. It was honestly wild to me that I got to spend so much time romping around with them. I never take this flippantly when I say: I am so honored. I really am. So honored to be sitting in the back seat holding the bouquet, running on the dunes, prompting dip kisses in the forest and dances on old bridges. Honored to be strolling the streets together looking for her favorite flowers. Honored to help shake the sand out of a well loved dress. Being there to welcome them home with their friends as they eat and drink together. Honored to be welcomed in to partake and celebrate, myself. My job is to be present for the most precious moments in life. It is a high privilege I don't take lightly. Of all the people in the world, I was present to make sure everyone they loved could take part visually.

And you know what? Maybe "running away together", to use the old romantic phrase, isn't for everyone. Tradition is beautiful in her turn. But Tradition's adventurous sister is for the Dreamers. If you can do it, I remember overlooking the tide and the caves, the crystal blue sky and water, surrounded by ferns and then a sheer drop... I remember the simple intimacy and thinking they got something right.

Love, Sarah