Tettegouche State Park Sunrise Elopement on the North Shore
Being based in Colorado currently, Chuck and I don’t get the opportunity to photograph a couple’s engagement session and their wedding too frequently. Usually, it’s one or the other since couples are usually just visiting. So it felt extra special getting to document Anna and Michael’s Tettegouche State Park sunrise elopement on the North Shore of Minnesota, after having captured their dreamy winter engagement photos in Colorado! One year ago, they traveled from Minnesota to Loveland Pass, Colorado with their pup Samwise in tow. Flash forward to September, it was Chuck and my turn to travel to them!
Sunrise Elopement on the North Shore
Anna and Michael are one of those couples that take delight in rising before the sun is up, and watching the sunrise bloom over Lake Superior. While the sky was still a deep blue, Anna and Michael were spending their wedding morning getting ready at the Bell Sheep Homestead. While Michael got ready with Samwise, Anna had assistance from her sister, Marley. As soon as everyone was ready, Anna and Michael drove to Tettegouche State Park separately to share their first look.
To this day, I can’t say who was more excited to see Anna — Michael or Samwise. But regardless, it was so sweet watching the ‘boys’ see just how beautiful Anna looked as she strolled down the path while the sky was still drenched in navy. As we made the hike out to their ceremony spot, the golden sunshine made its appearance sparkling over the gentle waves crashing to shore. While Marley officiated the ceremony, Samwise lovingly stood guard watching his mom and dad say, “I do”.
After Anna and Michael’s ceremony, we soaked up the beautiful morning glow on the shore. They exchanged their private vows, embracing every peaceful moment of the morning and gentle waves of Lake Superior gently kissing the rocks below. While the sun continued to rise over the water, we then explored the area, taking frequent stops for newlywed bridal portraits. The photos truly speak for themselves with the golden sunshine and towering pines. Of all the places Chuck and I have been lucky enough to visit, the North Shore will never get old.
Tettegouche State Park Elopement | Midwest Elopement Photographer and Videographer
Once we wrapped up at Tettegouche State Park, we made the short scenic drive to Black Beach. Upon arriving, the newlyweds perched on a picnic blanket to sip mimosas and eat bagels. I can think of no better way to enter into marriage than exactly that. While Chuck and I love photographing traditional weddings, the amount of pure elation and stress-free-vibes that always accompany our elopement couples is just beautiful. Anna and Michael exuded so much happiness as sat on the black sand, reflecting on their morning, and reading letters from loved ones.
Anna and Michael’s sunrise elopement on the North Shore concluded back at their Bell Sheep cabin with a first dance. In the middle of the property’s lawn, with emerging fall foliage in the backdrop, and clear blue skies overhead, the newlyweds began the next chapter in their love story. And it was perfect.
Whether you’re saying “I do” in the Midwest, the mountains, or somewhere beyond, we would love to help tell your love story! Connect with us here. In the meantime, be sure to keep up with us on the ‘Gram (@chuckandshiloh) for our latest adventures. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being here.
