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Four years ago, my husband and I got married the way most people do. We had a big wedding, our guest list was way longer than we wanted it to be (why did I have to hug so many strangers?), and the experience was stressful. The entire day was a blur, and honestly, there was little time to actually connect with each other. As outdoorsy introverts, we found the traditional wedding experience draining.

My wedding made me realize there had to be a better way to get married. With that in mind, I began to incorporate my love of hiking, the mountains, and photography into the wedding space. Now, I help couples ditch the big wedding and go elope in the places that make them feel alive.

Here’s some inspiration that may make you think about ditching the big wedding for something adventurous.

More info: Instagram | madeinthemountainsphoto.com | youtube.com | Instagram

#1

Swiss Alps

Swiss Alps

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The couples I work with aren’t running away and getting married in secret (the old-fashioned definition of eloping). Instead, many of them spend anywhere from six to eighteen months carefully crafting an experience they know they’ll be able to cherish for years to come. An experience that puts their relationship first instead of worrying about people-pleasing. Some of them even bring a few close friends and family along for the ride.

I currently live in Southern Germany (originally from the USA) and I photograph couples all over the alps and beyond.

If you like these photographs, check out my other works I posted on Bored Panda by clicking here and here

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    #2

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #3

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #4

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #5

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #6

    Austrian Alps

    Austrian Alps

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    Annelies Stokman
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    You just can't not love the Austrian alps... such a glorious place.

    Emerald Ocean
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I hope her dress didn’t get wet!

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    #7

    Italian Dolomites

    Italian Dolomites

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    Flopsy
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I love the Dolomites but then again I love everything Italy!

    #8

    Utah, USA

    Utah, USA

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    #10

    Italian Dolomites

    Italian Dolomites

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    #11

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #12

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    #13

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    kaela rae
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    this is probably my favourite so far! :D

    #14

    Bavarian Alps

    Bavarian Alps

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    #15

    Austrian Alps

    Austrian Alps

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    Kassiopeia
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Last time i was on a high austrian mountain it was extremely hot there

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    #16

    Swiss Alps

    Swiss Alps

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    Cheryl Carter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Why is it that only the women are sleeveless and the men are nice and toasty in there long sleeves and jackets?? I notice that this is the case for most things. Dancing, concert, etc. The less the woman has on, the better?? She looks frozen poor lady. Beautiful tho. Love this one.

    #17

    German Alps

    German Alps

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    Gemini
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    This one is my favorite so far! It's so cozy and simple

    #18

    Austrian Alps

    Austrian Alps

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    #19

    Tetons, Wyoming, USA

    Tetons, Wyoming, USA

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    #20

    Italian Dolomites

    Italian Dolomites

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    #21

    Italian Dolomites

    Italian Dolomites

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    #22

    Wyoming, USA

    Wyoming, USA

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    #23

    Swiss Alps

    Swiss Alps

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    Aunt E
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Poor lady, she shouldn't have to carry that heavy skirt to feel like a bride

    #24

    Wyoming, USA

    Wyoming, USA

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    #26

    Wyoming, USA

    Wyoming, USA

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    Cheryl Carter
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Love it! pure bliss! happy and content.

    #27

    Italian Dolomites

    Italian Dolomites

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    Peter Jamson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Not a comment on any particular picture but why is that glamour show off photo so important to you? What is it meant to prove? My wife and I married in the town registry office 29 yrs ago, we had photos of us in front of the gasometer (we live in an industrial town) had our evening do upstairs in a pub run by mates a did the catering ourselves. Had a fantastic skiffle band that I randomly hired for £300 whilst in a pub talking to the singer - they were outstanding. We danced, we sang we had a terrific time and all on a tiny budget. My now grown up neices and nephews still remember how much fun it was

    Peter Jamson
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Looking back we both agree that the day was a blur but a great blur

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    Debb
    Community Member
    3 years ago

    This comment is hidden. Click here to view.

    Why is SHE carrying the heavy-looking pack while he totes a single bottle?

    Megan Boswell
    Community Member
    3 years ago Created by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Maybe because she wants to and is totally capable of doing it?

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    As I transitioned into helping couples plan elopements, I found that there's a unique joy in assisting them to marry in ways that truly resonate with their personalities. This approach not only reduces stress but also centers the entire experience on their love and connection.

    If you ever considered escaping the traditional route, you might find that re-imagining your wedding day in nature offers a refreshing perspective on what a wedding can be.