Devils Lake State Park Elopement

On the way up to their Devil’s Lake State Park elopement, the clouds were gray. When they began their vows at Pride Rock  it was sprinkling. BUT WHEN THEY SHARED THEIR FIRST MARRIED KISS..the sun broke through the clouds ⛅️.

We worked with Jess and Aaron to craft the perfect plan for their intimate Baraboo elopement – and as long as it was safe to hike, going up to Pride Rock was the plan! 

Ps- Bryan was the ring bearer 💍 😉

The day began with getting ready at Sundara Spa in Baraboo. To keep the surprise of a first look but also the fun of getting ready together, Aaron sported a blindfold. While blindfolded he buttoned up Jess in her dress.

Baraboo Wisconsin Intimate Wedding

What was your Devil’s Lake State Park Elopement inspiration? 

“We met while camping and love to camp and hike. We wanted to say our self-written vows privately, just to each other, not in front of a whole crowd of people. Of major importance, we wanted a space where we could engage in the ritual of sharing a cigar, which is thing that is filled with symbolism for us!“

One of the most important parts of Jess and Aaron’s elopement was a cigar and bourbon ceremony. Sharing in the smoking of a cigar is considered to bring luck to a newly married couple. Celebratory cigar smoking originally began as a custom in Indigenous ceremonies, specifically within the tribes of the Pacific Northwest, called potlaches. 

After reciting their hand-written wedding vows to each other, they performed a ritual of cutting a cigar and partaking as partners! Far below, the waters of Devil’s Lake splashed dramatically. There was no spot more perfect than this to celebrate this awesome tradition and beautiful marriage! 

Devil’s Lake State Park intimate wedding

Tell us about your Devil’s Lake State Park Elopement vision! 

My vision for our Baraboo Wisconsin elopement is that we get to capture our adventurous spirits and our love for each other and for just having an absolute blast together.

Can you give a piece of advice to couples who’re currently planning their intimate wisconsin weddings?
Find ways to inject your self into traditions or just break them entirely. Make it all about you two. Don’t worry about anyone else.

Devils Lake State Park Wisconsin Photographer

What was most important to you in finding a Devils Lake State Park elopement photographer?

“When we met to discuss photography for our somewhat unusual marriage plans, I knew immediately that Bryan and Olivia were going to be the perfect photographers for us. We hit it off right away. They have been incredibly helpful and supportive throughout the planning process, answered my silly questions about how to phrase our wedding invitations, and comforted me when I called crying about the stress of it all. They even signed our marriage license from the front porch and witnessed our signing through the window when we had to reschedule our elopement due to covid.“

“In the end, they’ve captured our engagement photos, our elopement, and our ring-warming/reception event. I can’t imagine anyone else in the world making us feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Olivia’s excitement and delight over creating beautiful images is utterly delightful and Bryan’s supportive energy makes you feel like they’re there for you 100%, from holding your drink while you pose to being your impromptu ring bearer. And they are. They really are THERE for you.“

“All of this on top of the fact that the photographs are better than I could have possibly dreamed. I have absolutely no regrets and no complaints. Honestly?

If they aren’t available on the day of your event… Consider rescheduling.“

Also highly recommended- Being total baddies and hiking in your wedding dress up to Pride Rock to exchange vows and (safety and responsibly) share celebratory cigars and bourbon 🥃

Non traditional beauty ❤️ and so perfectly every bit Jess and Aaron.

Sunset Elopement at Devils Lake State Park in Baraboo Wisconsin Vendors: 

Photography: Us! O & B Photo Co
Getting Ready Location & Accommodations: Sundara Inn & Spa
Elopement Location: Devil’s Lake State Park 
Wedding Gown: Brides by Young
Rings: byAngeline (Jess); Cavalier Jewelers (Aaron)
Groom Apparel: Men’s Wearhouse