Intimate Ceremony at Houghton Falls

Some love stories don’t need a crowd. They just need a quiet forest, a couple of best friends, and a kind, strong love. Emily & James’ elopement at Houghton Falls was the perfect blend of romance, fantasy, and intentional simplicity, all wrapped up in an early May morning. The day felt like we were transported into a a Tolkien novel. Quiet & serene, we escaped from the hustle & bustle of the world. And held space for this sacred moment between Emily & James.

They said “I do” at 8am in the Houghton Falls Nature Preserve, just outside of Washburn, Wisconsin. And even though the air was a little crisp, it was like they barely noticed. They were just existing in the precious present moment.

Tucked along Lake Superior’s shoreline, this trail winds through towering sandstone cliffs, mossy forest floors, and trickling creeks before spilling out to panoramic views of the water. It’s the kind of place that feels a little bit secret. The perfect place to press pause and enjoy your elopement together.

Emily & James are both lovers of fantasy worlds (hello, Lord of the Rings fans!), and this specific location brought all the ethereal, woodsy magic they were dreaming of. With every step along the trail, the mood felt like wandering through a fairy realm. You know how books describe it as dappled in light… winding through the trees… the sound of water dancing over stone? Well… this was that.

They were joined by two of their closest friends, making the whole morning feel intimate, relaxed, and full of heart. There were no distractions, no pressure.

Just two people grounding into the moment and into each other. 10/10 recommend Houghton Falls if you are looking for these vibe for your big day.

Emily wore a sleek, elegant gown that moved beautifully through the forest path, and James wore a deep green suit that looked like it was made for their location. And can we talk about their flowers?! Wild Hollow Farm created a dreamy, textural bouquet full of romantic blooms in soft pinks, creams, and citrusy pops that felt fresh and wild. It almost gave the impression they were gathered from the forest itself.

Every detail of the day felt true to Emily & James. From the way they helped each other over rocky trails, to the way they paused to touch the water and take it all in… it was less about posed photos and more about capturing their connection and the emotion of the day. There’s something sacred about letting your wedding be about you.

No performance, no rushing… just real, grounding, soul-deep love.

Their vows were shared in a quiet pocket of the preserve, nestled beneath the canopy of trees. Lace and Brass did a beautiful job officiating and helping plan this moment. They also planned the Beltane elopement I did recently. They have been a dream every time we’ve worked together.

It’s clear how much thought Emily & James poured into this experience. Not just into the aesthetics (which were incredible), but into how it felt. And that’s what eloping is all about.

Later, we made our way down through Houghton Falls to the edge of Lake Superior. Wind tousling Emily’s veil, waves crashing behind them. It was giving cinematic moment.

To couples who feel most alive in the woods, who find peace in quiet places, and who dream of a wedding that’s more intentional than traditional: this is your sign. Your love deserves to be celebrated in a way that feels like you. Whether that’s barefoot in the forest, sharing vows at sunrise, or just sneaking away to a secret spot with your person… this is your permission to do things your way.

Emily & James, thank you for letting me witness your beautiful, wild, and deeply you elopement day at Houghton Falls. You reminded me (yet again) why I love being a Minnesota elopement photographer. I wish you two nothing but the best.