“And you know we could do better than anything that we did
You know that you and me, we could do anything
You and me together, we could do anything, Baby
You and me together yeah, yeah”

We were midway through November when I received Grace’s email. Her and Brian were looking to elope before the end of 2020 and they had their hearts set on doing so in Cook Forest State Park. Grace was even hoping for a little snow, it was a wish that was granted. Two days before we were set to drive up north, our area of Western Pennsylvania got 13 inches of fresh, beautiful snow! When we arrived it was as if we had been picked up and dropped into a magical winter wonderland. It was truly so unique to have a winter elopement in PA with this much snow as we are lucky to get 4-6inches at a time. Though we were in PA, the scenery felt like something out of a snowy mountain scene in Colorado!

Grace and Brian met almost 10 years ago at a charity run while wearing red dresses. What a first impression! Throughout the day Grace could tell Brian was “eyeing her up”. After a while of what Grace calls “hovering”, Brian struck up a conversation and they exchanged emails. A few weeks into emailing each other back and forth and a few subtle hints from Grace about an extra hockey ticket, Brian finally asked, “Grace would like me to come to the game with you?". The catch was that Grace’s dad was also going to be there! Because of this, they didn’t really consider the game to be a first date but it did spark up a connection which would lead to a trail run in the rain. While out on the trail Brian recalls Grace swearing, and her being instantly worried about it. This is when Brian promptly said “fuck no, I don't trust people who don't swear.” Followed by the two of them sharing a relieving laugh. Grace was struck at how easy it was to talk with him, how he was always ready with a smile and a joke!

When they initially started dating Brian was clear that he didn’t plan on getting married again. Grace was accepting of this and never pushed the subject. So nine years later when Brian proposed it was truly a surprise! They had just closed on their new house. Brian set up his phone on the kitchen counter and set it to record. When he pulled out the ring, Grace was shocked and let out a “What. The . Fuck?!” And then exclaimed “yes!” preceded with lots of happy crying. Seriously, I watched the video and it was the sweetest most genuine answer...and not going to lie I teared up at their happiness!

When they decided to elope, they chose December 18th as a way to honor Grace’s late mom on her birthday, which added a very meaningful and heartfelt sub-context to the entire day. Grace made sure she brought her mom’s dinner plates for their meal that evening and she displayed a handmade quilt and pillow sewn by her mom. These thoughtful items allowed her mom’s spirit to surround them on their elopement day.

The day began early at their cabin, getting to know them and their precious dog Roxy. Once they were finished getting ready, they read letters from each other and then stepped outside for a first look together. I loved that they spent the morning leading up to this with one another. Jp and I did the same thing and it eased our stress so much! When you’re best friends why wouldn't you spend your wedding morning together?

After this we hopped in the Subaru and drove to a trailhead in Cook Forest. With snowshoes on and vow books in hand we set out to the spot they chose to exchange I do’s. With just the two of them and the snow covered forest, they expressed their true love for one another. It was one of the most beautiful moments Jp and I have had the honor of photographing. After this we hiked along the trail, seeking out giant uprooted trees and other snowy backdrops by the Clarion river.

We broke the day up into sections allowing us to stay warm and fairly comfortable. We returned to the cabin so Grace and Brian could read a letter from a dear friend and get some play time in with Roxy. Once we were done with our short break at the cabin we headed out to another trail for golden hour. It did not disappoint! The way the light reflected onto Grace and Brian, with the snow illuminated in a warm glow was purely stunning. We climbed up a rocky trail for a view of the forest below and admired the large boulders dotted among the trees. We were freezing but the setting was incredibly serene and fully worth it!

We finished their day by heading back to the cabin for their “reception” with Roxy. They spent their first dance barefoot swaying with each other in the living room, with the quilt made by Grace's mom laid on the couch in the background. They cut an Oakmont Bakery cake that friends had sent with them and shared a toast with another friend’s fresh cider in champagne flutes gifted from Brian’s mom. Though they chose to elope alone, the entire day had pieces of joy added from those they love most. The supportive energy was felt, even with them being far from home.

The night ended with time spent cozied up around a campfire and a delicious fresh meal they cooked together, sharing generously with us. We truly loved spending the day with Grace and Brian. We shared so many laughs and good conversation over a wonderful meal. And hiking in over a foot of snow, among pristine landscapes, with a couple who truly cares for one another was the absolute best way to have ended our 2020 wedding season!

Congrats Grace+Brian! You are such good hearted, goofy people who truly care about the right things in life. We are so happy to have made this connection with you and are so honored that you invited us to be a part of such a meaningful day in your relationship. We wish you nothing but love for the years to come!

Vendor Love:

Dress: BHLDN
Bouquet: GreenSinner
Snowshoes: 3 Rivers Outdoor Co.

Grace+Brian | Cook Forest Winter Elopement