Earthlight Villas is tucked into the vast hills between Lake Chelan and Wenatchee, perched above the gorge. While it’s a hefty drive to get out there, I do love that my couple decided on doing a longer elopement booking. We’ve had so many amazing weddings this spring! Give the day four unrushed hours and it stops feeling like a long photo shoot. It becomes an experience you get to savor. Nathan and I were excited to be a part of this day!
Why Longer Elopements Feel Better
I am a big fan of four hour elopements. With more time, your day feels like an experience, not a long photo shoot. You get breathing room to be present, enjoy the people and pets you bring along, and let the day unfold without a rush. We got the see that with my couple at Earthlight Villas. We had the time to do getting ready, a tea ceremony, portraits with their pups, their ceremony, a little big of reception and cake cutting, and then evening portraits. We were able to fit in so much in the time they booked for a longer elopement.
Flexibility for Weather and Light
PNW weather likes surprises. Extra time gives us the freedom to pause for a passing shower, wait for better light, or step outside when the sky finally opens up. On this day, the wind kept showing up at the perfect moments. We joked it was a paid actor. Later, the sunset arrived and we had space to step out again for a totally different look. None of that would have fit into a sixty minute plan.
Space for Meaningful Moments
Longer coverage lets you include the parts of your story that matter. Maybe that is a Chinese tea ceremony before vows, a first look with your pups, a quiet meal, or reading letters from family. These pieces take time to set up and enjoy. When we plan for them, you are not watching the clock. You are actually in the moment.
Variety Without Changing Locations
You do not need to drive far to create variety. With four hours we can use simple transitions. Indoors for getting ready and a toast, outside for vows, back inside for cake, then a short walk for evening portraits. Your gallery will feel complete, with calm candid moments and a few hero shots when the light is right.
A Sample Four Hour Flow
- 45 minutes: getting ready details, flat lays, pets, or a first look
- 30 minutes: cultural or family moment, like a tea ceremony or gift exchange
- 30 minutes: travel or a short walk to the ceremony spot, guest arrivals if applicable
- 30 minutes: vows and group photos
- 45 minutes: a simple reception, cake cutting, first dance, or a shared meal
- 60 minutes: golden hour and evening portraits, plus a few minutes to breathe
How I Help
I build a timeline that fits your priorities, watch the weather, and plan small buffers so you never feel rushed. I also share guidance on outfits, wind friendly styling, pet plans, and simple decor that sets the mood without extra stress. The goal is a day that feels easy and honest, with photos that look like you.
If you want an elopement that gives you time to settle in, honor your traditions, and enjoy whatever the sky gives us, four hours is a sweet spot. Reach out and we will design a plan that feels natural, flexible, and memorable.