Sarah and Aybars had a gorgeous elopement at Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park!

First I want to tell you about this couple. I feel so lucky that I got to spend THREE days with them over the course of a year. We did their engagement photos last summer, they eloped in the following spring, and then they had a bigger wedding celebration with friends and family a month after the elopement.

Who says you have to divide between an elopement and a big wedding? Sarah and Aybars just did both!

This post is just going to focus on their elopement and let me tell you. It was INCREDIBLE. You could even say it was a Dream. 😉

Their Story

In their words: “We met in our high school stats class! We started dating shortly after graduating and did long distance (Maine to Scotland) for four years. We’re getting married on our 11-year anniversary! We decided to elope because we wanted to have a moment with just the two of us and have it be super intimate.”

Dream Lake Elopement

Sarah and Aybars started the day with a first look in the meadows of Moraine Park. We saw an entire herd of elk while driving in, and the meadow was coming alive for the spring. After admiring each other’s outfits (they looked SO good), the couple exchanged private vows by the river.

We took some photos in the meadow, and then it was time to hike to Dream Lake! On the drive to the trailhead, we stopped to see a moose and wild turkeys!

The trail to Dream Lake is a 2-mile out-and-back route to one of my favorite lakes in the park. In May, the trail and lake are still pretty snowy, so if you want to do the hike in the spring, make sure you have the proper gear! I recommend waterproof hiking boots, warm wool socks (my favorite brand is Darn Tough), warm layers, and microspikes.

Sarah and Aybars did the entire hike in their wedding attire and absolutely crushed it. We hung out at the lake to take photos and celebrate. Even though it was snowy, the sun was shining and it was a beautiful day.

Vendors

Hair and Makeup: Indie Bridal Co

Florist: Rowdy Poppy

Favorites from their elopement