Tiffany & Dave Elopement

A story about photography for a Deception Pass Elopement

When Tiffany messaged me about eloping to Deception Pass, I about passed out. I had been wanting to shoot there for a few years now. Whidbey Island in itself is pretty wonderful, but going to Rosario Beach was the cherry on top. It was a surprisingly warm April day. I had rode the ferry over from Port Townsend at 8:30 that morning. I however was not meeting Tiffany and Dave until 3:30, so I had plenty of time to kill and explore, and scout out locations.

Little did I know that fate was waiting me in the form of a unique fallen tree in Washington Park just outside of Anacortes. I had parked my car in the park, shimmied down a small embankment, and climbed out onto the log. I had seen the photo I linked above and thought “let’s see what it looks like from a different angle in case I want to shoot here!” WELL, that was a bad idea. The moment I touched my foot to the rock below that tree SLIP! Down I went.

Screaming in pain and yelling for help, alone with no one around, it dawned on me, this was NOT good! It took a few minutes to gather myself and my thoughts. I had to climb BACK up the huge rocks, throw myself onto the tree, climb back up the embankment, and drag myself back to my car. Bleeding and dirty and in a shit ton of pain.

Trying to catch my breath some teenage kids were driving through the park and saw me. Called 911 and told an ambulance to come. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive and older couple always spotted me and were trying to help. I told them I was doing any elopement at Deception Pass and needed to be there for my couple! They were all quite surprised I was still willing to do it.

Once the ambulance arrived and my vitals were taken the lady of the older couple offered to drive my car to the local hospital. I don’t even remember her name but I am so very thankful for the kindness of strangers. I got to the hospital, got x-rayed, 2 stitches, given painkillers and released within an hour! That like NEVER happens!

I got back to Rosario Beach by 3pm, just in time to meet the Tiffany & Dave. The whole time I was texting her letting her know what had happened. She was very understanding of course. Thankfully, I also had my friend Olimpia second shooting for me that day. Which I don’t usually bring second shooters for elopements but wanted to hang out with her and get to know her better. She is second shooting for me this weekend too! But boy am I glad I decided to bring her along! She helped me with photographing while I limped around all day.

Through all the mishaps, the pain, and limping. Tiffany & David got married in the most sweet and adorable intimate ceremony at Rosario Beach. With only his parents and brother in attendance they said their vows overlooking the ocean on some beautiful cliffs.

We then, slowly, went back over to Deception Pass to get some photos of the famous bridge in the background. Lastly, we went over to Deception Pass State Park for sunset photos. Since they weren’t doing a reception they would be missing out on a lot of the traditional items, like a first dance. So, having brought my little JBL bluetooth speaker, I played their song for them while they had their first dance right there in the rocks.

I make sure my clients have the best experience possible, and with elopements so much get’s set aside so it’s up to me to make sure it’s magical. A first dance is one of those things that in my book, is a must.

The day was wonderful and sweet, even with the issues we had. I am so very happy with the photos I got and am excited to share them with you all. Please enjoy!