Grand Teton Elopement | Nick + Tessa
Recently, I got to capture a stunning elopement overlooking the Grand Teton’s for Nick and Tessa! Nick and Tessa's love story started in 6th grade, but it wasn't until years later that they realized they were meant to be together. Living in Tampa, Florida, the couple shares not only a deep love but also a successful business together. With their days often filled with the beach and warm sunsets, it was a pleasant surprise when they decided to have their elopement in the breathtaking setting of Jackson, Wyoming
Nick and Tessa were one one of those just immediate best friend connections for me. Tessa and I had been texting back and forth for months talking wedding shop, showing me dress photos, inspiration photos, her Pinterests boards and I was on cloud 9! As I’ve mentioned before, Jackson Wyoming became a very special place for me when I decided to renovate a truck camper, live out of it and move to Wyoming for the summers! One of my favorite parts about Nick and Tessa’s wedding weekend was their welcome party the night before at the Jackson Hole Winery. The theme & dress code was cowboy chic, and if any of y’all know me by now, I’m a wanna be cowgirl who absolutely loves horses and cowboy hats. That’s one of the perks of hiring me to be your wedding photographer is full wedding weekend coverage with unlimited hours of coverage. I can explain more in depth and let you know my process if you’re interested here
The day of the wedding, Nick and Tessa got ready at an air bnb in Teton Village. It was a slow morning surrounded by their friends and family, taking polaroids, taking shots, and just being present. (One of the reallllly cool things about having intimate weddings is being extra present on wedding day.) Their ceremony was held at the Wedding Tree, which is a big overlook farther away from the foothills of the mountains. Tessa really wanted to get some extra photos of them in the sage right infant of the Grand Teton National Park to give her gallery a little bit… extra. We did their first look, just the two of them at the Albright turn off which gave us those dreamy, emotional and iconic photos in front of the Tetons. Truly my favorite part of my day when Nick saw Tessa for the first time as she walked through the sage field.
After we drove to the next location, the Wedding Tree. I can’t begin to express enough how beautiful this spot was. It’s also a great way to avoid the $200 permit fee and paperwork that the National Park enforces. It’s dog friendly, easily accessible and just so raw and beautiful. Surrounded by their closest friends and family, Nick and Tessa exchanged vows against the stunning backdrop of The Grand Teton National Park. The couple's love for adventure was perfectly showcased in the dramatic nature of Wyoming's wilderness, creating a truly unforgettable experience. One of my favorite photos from this scene was of the guests. Their unadulterated emotions happening in real time before the camera. No posing, just true raw feelings.
Nick and Tessa, I freaking love you guys so much. It was such an honor and joy hanging out with you guys all weekend and watching one of the most heartfelt first looks I’ve ever seen.
Hands down this is the best place to elope is Jackson Hole Wyoming. Here is some great information on how to get married in Jackson, Wyoming and the best times, places to do so.
Need a destination wedding photographer to help with location scouting, acquiring permits and making sure you have the best lighting while getting married? Say Hey here!
Check out other weddings I’ve photographed in Jackson, Wyoming:
Andrea & Terrance Elopement at the Wedding Tree
Veronica & Kaylor Wedding at Diamond Cross Ranch
Kind Words
“Laura shot my boudoir, bridals, and wedding and was wonderful! She has ability to put you at ease and make you feel comfortable/ confident in front of the camera. Her work is STUNNING--she is so, so talented! We are so thankful she was about to capture the emotion of our wedding day. She was prompt to answer questions and emails, helped with timelines and shot lists, and met to discuss details. To get the perfect shot (a shot my husband and I REALLY wanted), she got inside a table. Inside a table people. Highly, highly recommend Laura!”
-Rebecca
