Bailey and David’s intimate summer wedding in Shenandoah National Park was the perfect example of how to make the most of a June wedding in the mountains. They live in Florida but have roots in Virginia, and knew they wanted mountains as their backdrop. As outdoor lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Shenandoah was the natural choice, and I was so excited to help them bring this dream to life. Discover if Shenandoah National Park is the perfect elopement location for your summer elopement or intimate wedding as you look through these details and moments of the couple’s day!
Getting Ready at Sunrise and Elopement Details
Their day started at sunrise with getting ready photos and sweet moments at their Airbnb, which had the most beautiful view of the mountains. It was super important for the couple to include their dog, as well as Bailey’s childhood pup that her parents brought with them. It made their morning feel so full of love.
Even in an elopement, the details matter. I always check in with my couples about personal touches they want captured—things like vow books, heirloom jewelry, perfume, and other meaningful items. These little details tell the story just as much as the big moments do.
A Private First Look and Vows
Then we had a sweet first look out in the Airbnb’s yard, with a beautiful view of the mountains behind them. After taking in each other for a minute, we went back up to the deck upstairs, where they exchanged personal gifts and shared private vows.
This is such a great option if you want to keep your vows just between the two of you, and still include guests later during the ceremony. You get the intimacy and the tradition—your day, your way.
An Intimate Summer Wedding Ceremony With Family in Shenandoah
Then we caravanned into Shenandoah National Park to one of my favorite overlooks. Since it was a cool June weekday morning, no one else was around, which made for a private ceremony. This location had everything: open space, a romantic tree, and a sweeping view of the mountains. It was easily accessible for their parents (no hiking required!), which was important since we planned to do a longer hike later with just the two of them. Bailey’s dad officiated, the dogs were happily sniffing around, and the cool mountain air made for the perfect ceremony setting.
If you’re looking for more information about all the legalities of eloping in Virginia, check out my blog here!
After some family photos and newlywed portraits, the rest of the group headed back to the Airbnb while we stuck around for more photos at the overlook. From there, it was time to hike!
First Elopement Hike and Newlywed Portraits at the Stony Man Trail
Our first trail of the day was Stony Man Trail—an easy, beautiful hike with incredible views, and it was especially quiet on a weekday morning.
There are tons of short trails (1-3 miles) in Shenandoah, and as part of your planning process with me, we’ll talk through your vision and how active you want to be on your elopement day. Some couples love a challenging hike, while others prefer scenic spots that require minimal walking. The best part? Your elopement day is truly 100% customizable.
After taking our time at the top of Stony Man, with the sun shining and the mountains rolling out in every direction, Bailey & David shared their first dance on the mountaintop. It was quiet, romantic, and absolutely unforgettable.
Want help planning your elopement in Shenandoah? Check out my full guide here: My Elopement Guide to Shenandoah National Park Weddings
Second Elopement Hike to Dark Hollow Falls
Then it was time for the second hike—because yes, they were that adventurous! They really wanted to experience both the mountain and waterfall sides of the park, so we made our way to Dark Hollow Falls. Normally, I recommend choosing one or the other, since there aren’t super easily accessible waterfalls in Shenandoah unless you really go out of your way. But I talked with Bailey and David at length to make sure they were up for it, and they really loved the experience of hiking down to Dark Hollow Falls.
This is a more popular trail, so it was definitely busier, but still worth it. That’s why we planned the more private moments earlier in the day before the crowds picked up.
A waterfall hike is such a fun way to end your elopement—whether you’re dipping your toes in or jumping in fully dressed (where swimming is allowed!), it’s a great way to cool off and soak it all in. Or bring a picnic and enjoy a quiet moment by the water.
After exploring the falls, we hiked back up and made one final stop!
The Sweet Ending at Big Meadows Wayside
Our last stop was Big Meadows Wayside. It’s a little gas station and store, but Bailey & David had the cutest tradition of picking out a mug from every place they visit—so of course we had to end the day there.
That’s the beauty of an elopement day like this. You’re not stuck to a script. You can chase mountaintop views, share private vows at sunrise, hike to waterfalls, and still stop for a souvenir mug on the way home. And their day truly was perfect from start to finish!
What Bailey & David Have to Say
“Spark notes: book her immediately.
Long story: it’s hard to put into words how perfectly Juliana fits into her profession. It’s a rare and beautiful thing to see someone find their calling. She is caring, passionate, and easy-going during a potentially not so easy going time. I’m not someone who enjoys being in front of a camera. I was tempted to have a court wedding and just go through the motions. But the one thing I’ve always wanted were epic elopement photos with my now husband. I wanted to go on an adventure with my best friend and just happen to be in a white dress.
I found Juliana pretty easily as her style and talent stood above the rest for me. I was never really nervous about the process because it was easy to trust her. She is extremely intelligent, meticulous, and prepared for anything. Thank goodness we found her. Admittedly I could still use some work practicing how to laugh in a pretty way, but she captured such pure moments. No matter how many chins I may have had in the photos, you can’t unsee the joy. The photos brought tears to my eyes and I’m really not one to be very emotional. I felt like I made a friend during the process as well.
Juliana has an amazing soul, and it is no doubt this is her calling. Ask her questions, be curious, and tell her what you’re looking for because she will make it happen. My entire family is raving about how gorgeous the photos are. So please, if you ever, for once, want to take a stranger’s advice on the internet, at least shoot Juliana a message. She will shock you in ways you never thought.
To Juliana: David and I are deeply thankful for what you did for us. We appreciate you more than we can put into words. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”
Tips for Planning Your Summer Wedding or Elopement at Shenandoah National Park
Summer in Shenandoah National Park is breathtaking, but it’s also the most popular time to visit, so a little planning goes a long way to making your elopement experience smooth and stress-free. I recommend eloping on a weekday to get the most privacy, like Bailey & David did.
If you’re eloping in June, you’ll enjoy lush greenery, nice warm temperatures, and blooming wildflowers. Mornings tend to be cooler (especially at higher elevations!), and afternoon storms can pop up, so I always recommend starting early and packing light layers and rain gear—just in case.
Also, you DO NOT need a permit for portraits in Shenandoah National Park! This includes engagement sessions, proposals, or wedding couple photos. And for weddings and elopements with under 16 people in the park, you DO NOT need an elopement permit.
If you have any questions about what the permit process looks like as you plan your Shenandoah Park wedding, let me know! I am here to help.
Ready to Plan Your Shenandoah Summer Elopement?
If you’re dreaming of an intentional, nature-filled elopement day like Bailey & David’s, I’d love to help you bring it to life. Whether it’s a private mountaintop vow exchange, a waterfall hike, or simply finding the perfect peaceful spot to say “I do,” I’m here to help you plan and document every meaningful moment.
I believe your wedding day should reflect who you are, not what tradition says it should be. Let’s create an experience that feels like you, filled with joy, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
You can learn more about me here. If you think I’d be the perfect photographer to capture your Shenandoah elopement, fill out the inquiry form here, and I will be in touch with you soon!
Juliana Wall Photography | Virginia & Washington DC Elopement Photographer
Get more planning tips and Shenandoah National Park elopement inspiration in these blogs:
Shenandoah National Park Elopement: An Adventure Wedding in the Virginia Mountains
How to Plan an 8-Hour Elopement in Shenandoah National Park
Intimate Fall Shenandoah National Park Wedding
The Vendors From This Intimate Summer Wedding in Shenandoah
Dress: Anthropologie
Shoes: Red Wing Boots
Wedding Rings: Govind and Sons (in Florida)
Suit: State and Liberty
Tie: Dazi Ties
Watch: Seiko
Flowers: Trader Joe’s
Food: Momma Mia Italian Restaurant in Shenandoah
