Elope Shawnee

10/01/2025

While I am loving the winter weather we are having right now...I understand that many don't. (crazy) So here is a beautiful summer day at Garden of the Gods. We are booking our summer elopements now and this will give you an idea how beautiful it is in May.

Choosing to elope is choosing peace. I have never heard anyone say they wish they didn't choose to elope. However I have heard so many couples who tell me they wish they had eloped instead of a big stressful wedding.

Choosing to elope in the Shawnee National Forest = Choosing Peace. So many couples are deciding that they do not want the stress of a normal large wedding. They are deciding to focus solely on their relationship and sometimes their immediate family & closest friends. No stress, no pressure

07/01/2025

Something pretty to look at during this winter storm...One of my favorite elopements and adventures. I have so many reasons why I want and need to go back to Zion, UT. Let me know if you'd like to come along!

Intimate elopement in Zion national park

05/01/2025

If you choose not to find joy in the snow, you will have less joy in your life but still the same amount of snow.

❄️📷 If you want snow photos just let me know. If you come out to our home I’m happy to take appointments.

**Throwback to my favorite day with my husband.

26/12/2024

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

Emma 22 Just graduated Murray State
Ayva 17 Senior
Axel 15 Sophomore
Sawyer 14 Freshman

20/12/2024

The sweetest couple just hit the blog with their winter elopement. The Historic Rose Hotel was the perfect location for them & decorated so beautifully!

The Historic Rose Hotel

A Christmas elopement at the Historic Rose Hotel in Southern Illinois. The sweetest day that looks straight out of a hallmark movie.

17/12/2024

Really missing the mountains today. Check out this elopement we shot in Durango, Colorado. Remember while we specialize in Southern Illinois Elopements we also travel to some of the most amazing locations you've ever seen. Let us take you on an adventure!

Elopement Photographer shooting weddings in Colorado and beyond.

04/12/2024

Another unique stay for our couples!! The Shawnee is a true gem 💎

04/12/2024

Stay here & get some great photos before eloping! So gorgeous!

03/12/2024

NOW BOOKING 2025 elopements & proposals!

- SPRING & SUMMER DATES AVAILABLE
- FALL DATES ALMOST GONE! (BOOK ASAP)
- TRAVEL DATES NEED BOOKED ASAP
- May 26-June 1 ESTES PARK, CO

Photographer specializing in Southern Illinois elopements in the Shawnee National Forest.

26/11/2024

Someone recently asked me Why? Why am I constantly working to improve and better myself and my craft? Why did I choose this as my career path? I started this business 18 years ago. Why am I still at it?
1. I have no choice. This is how I see the world. This is how I choose to express myself. It’s just simply who I am. I’m a creative.
2. How many people get to give someone something they will truly cherish forever? To give something that no one else can give. I love to show the beauty in everyone. It can’t be replicated.
3. Four beautiful children. I want to have the chance to make my kids proud. To leave behind a legacy they can tell their children about. I want when someone asks them what their Mama or bonus Mom does to be able to proudly answer.

24/11/2024

He asked and she said yes! What a beautiful cloudy November day!
Marc + Maggie | Garden of the Gods, IL

20/11/2024

Elope here in the shawnee or even in the mountains out west. We have our boots ready to go!

Clayton & Madeline
Telluride, CO

19/11/2024

Winter elopements are booking quickly & I’m so excited! I have some great ideas to keep them cozy & romantic. Let’s start planning! 🌲🪵🍾

19/11/2024

If you are thinking about eloping just check out some of my favorite spots here...

18/11/2024

Garden of the Gods is always a gorgeous place to shoot. We have several planning their elopements and shoots this winter & spring. Don't worry about the colors changing and temps dropping! It's still gorgeous. Check out this wedding that was an early spring wedding with a hint of snow!

Spring Elopement at Garden of the Gods in the Shawnee National Forest Southern Illinois

18/11/2024

Hello! We’ve been out shooting in Colorado this past week and have so much to start sharing. While we specialize in elopements in the we also travel! Get on our schedule now!

🖤🥾
Jonathan + Laura Rush

16/11/2024

The Shawnee is perfect for proposals too! Let me know if you have a date in mind and we will get it all planned out!