Celebrating the anniversary of their first year as a couple, these genderqueer (they/them) sweethearts opted for an elopement styled shoot - not a full, legally binding wedding like the majority of the elopements I photograph, but a fun opportunity to dress up in the trappings of marriage and look gleefully together into a possible shared future. Having both moved to Northern California to be closer to the state’s natural splendor, the ancient redwoods around California’s Redwood National and State Parks - an area which includes the tallest trees in the world - was the perfect setting for the couple to enjoy a lively and imaginative hiking adventure.
![Hiking Elopement in the Ancient California Redwoods: A pair of genderqueer young lovers sets off into a redwood grove](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/9a9764fa-728a-4593-8a58-c00517485ecd/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_105_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
Having chosen a date in the area’s cool-but-not-freezing off-season, we were able to explore the area extensively without bumping into many other people. Our packs loaded up with water and snacks, and carrying warm layers in case of rain, we set off on a gentle trail through the ancient redwoods to a secluded trailside spot where the two could have a private experience uninterrupted by other hikers, surrounded by wild huckleberry bushes, giant ferns, and towering thousand-year-old trees. Under the lush forest canopy, the two sweethearts took a quiet, ceremonial moment to speak tenderly to each other about the meaning of their relationship and the love that they shared.
After this emotional experience, the return hike was more solemn, with low-key breaks for rest and shared contemplation on benches alongside the trail. But the hike itself was revitalizing, and by the time we had returned to the road, the couple celebrated the end of the day’s adventuring with a final burst of energy, dancing in the empty street surrounded by forest (though keeping a careful lookout for the occasional vehicle).
![They turn towards each other as they walk between towering redwood trees. Under warm jackets, they are both wearing jaunty little white wedding dresses. They carry brightly-colored bouquets and practical hiking backpacks](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/9c4abc24-7b06-4466-bb12-d45062d01e2c/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_106_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![The sweethearts pause where a fallen redwood has been cut away to clear the path, its massive trunk wider than they are tall. They look up at the tree canopy above](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/e9dc4a09-427d-40c4-8619-bb7de9320f63/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_108_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Hands clasped and eyes closed, the two pull in tight for a kiss](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/5bf53854-484b-4963-b213-e04c4458c81d/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_109_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Walking along the path, one of the sweethearts pauses and turns back to wait for their partner](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/f11170f2-bc31-49bc-bb67-ad28ca12e9f2/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_111_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They smush together in a hug as they walk, laughing](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/3ab91313-39ad-47cc-af32-6ec19181b4cc/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_112_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![The two sweethearts playfully nudge each other around on the path](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/abc28cef-850f-40a9-be3d-91e076be1282/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_113_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![One of the sweethearts lifts their bridal bouquet high in the air as they run through the trees, laughing](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/c26fad43-c193-46ea-af3a-ae39e565522c/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_114_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They pause for a quiet moment among the ferns, holding each other close as they glance up at the rays of sunlight glowing through the trees](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/2db1f8d1-987f-4ba0-93ce-55e443e013a1/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_115_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Huddled close together, they gaze at each other lovingly](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/3217e584-54c6-4509-9ecf-388aaaaf23e6/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_116_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The pair of sweethearts laughs with nervous excitement over the adventure they're sharing today](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/6f749fb5-a3ef-4a09-8213-035a980ccb55/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_118_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They press their foreheads together and close their eyes, savoring the experience and their closeness](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/b623cf21-99f5-4b87-968d-2d8e83aeefa6/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_117_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The sunlight glows through the canopy, leafy trees wet with rain and lush ferns growing from below](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/bab95024-1095-4ca3-9a26-227d0e6004c2/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_119_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![The pair walk deeper into the forest, their rain jacket hoods raised against dripping water from the trees. Below their jackets, little white bridal skirts poke out](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/22af675b-0b04-44ec-995a-c9d0f6e6b836/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_122_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They continue along the trail. In the background, we can see the base of a massive redwood tree, its trunk easily twenty feet wide](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/ed24df2d-a8ad-4514-8683-5f7768650d74/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_123_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Each bend in the path brings new delights in this rich and varied ecosystem. In addition to ancient redwoods, the path winds through sword ferns, huckleberries, California bay laurel, rhododendrons, douglas firs and redwood sorrel](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/34b33537-7b4f-422c-aefa-a50a1e788c13/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_124_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![The sweethearts stop at a bench to rest and snuggle against each other, the wild greens of the forest and red of the trees complimenting their white dresses and colorful jackets](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/17251660-d10d-4238-8ebb-0c8523b5a067/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_121_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![As the day warms and the hike warms the sweethearts, they remove their warm leggings and hike through the redwood grove with bare legs and stompy hiking boots peeking out underneath their lacy skirts](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/08c5d269-2c82-4885-a9e6-849083a9d504/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_131_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They laugh and chat as they walk through the forest, holding hands](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/b8dad7af-b63f-42e7-a045-693d18bffa36/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_132_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Old-growth redwoods tower above them, and the giant sword ferns are as tall as they are](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/11156f45-036c-46a6-9675-cab842bfee2e/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_133_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Fully warmed up, the eloping sweethearts take off their jackets and run through the forest in their bridal dresses and hiking boots, bouquets in hand](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/e2e70cf7-1d4f-4a09-93ad-3f6e7e9bf789/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_137_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They hold hands as they adventure boldly through the underbrush](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/411cfdb8-7833-4770-a362-e9768d91b9ab/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_136_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![The couple look at the natural splendor that surrounds them, deep in the California redwoods](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/abefbf05-75f1-4489-957d-b15773452aff/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_138_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![One sweetly twirls the other under their raised arm, their lacy bridal gowns twisting around them as they dance](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/a2b5bc71-ea6b-433e-86fe-91a722ff2a18/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_128_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Glowing under the brilliant green canopy, the two sweethearts grin and lean in towards each other for a kiss](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/66be661b-8a40-441d-88c0-d44a832a3ce7/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_126_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![We see the redwoods towering above them as they walk together through the ancient forest](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/4fbe872d-cb11-4f51-ab94-af6d2aea67d3/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_134_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![As they walk, the taller bride leans in to kiss the other's cheek](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/27588620-d7e8-4058-8c88-2ea0c78ff374/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_135_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Surrounded by the lush greens of the redwood ecosystem, the two lean together and gaze out at the forest around them;](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/bfa80975-76b3-4ddb-8712-b7be623799e9/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_139_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![though they have lived in this area for years, they have never before visited this path or this grove of trees, which are astounding in their beauty](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/b2412a01-4d39-4cea-96db-da0e9fe7f0c8/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_140_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![the two sweethearts both twirl each other, dancing in the redwood grove](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/dfb832e4-414f-4d89-bd5b-246b97538c77/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_142_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![they lean in for another delicate kiss](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/eb19e075-f9a2-4cf4-8c3c-fdf7b065a07a/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_141_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![they run through the trees and laugh, elated](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/1b1416af-e1df-47d8-902a-244601abd3eb/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_143_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![One bride pulls the other into a hug from behind, kissing them on the cheek](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/b0a1344d-8994-479d-9e58-7d541ab20afa/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_144_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They turn towards each other and look into each other's eyes, excitement welling up inside them](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/9e6c73bd-31c1-4e9b-9821-7c58a93af8e1/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_145_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They take hands again as they adventure through the forest](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/5af3dee9-eed9-4e15-b092-7ebf0fbb4728/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_146_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The two run hand in hand down the path, lifting their feet and leaping over sticks and branches](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/b975a855-80fa-479f-a2fc-964196457181/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_148_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Sunlight glows through their hair as they run through a dappled clearing between redwoods](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/e8774e5a-603d-4436-9fb2-8aa59f908eaf/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_150_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They laugh and glance at each other as they run; their hair flying in the wind behind them](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/a567a234-0645-48a1-9726-02c7283941eb/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_154_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They grin at us, laughing](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/9908093a-2fed-4b35-a954-a187b430b90a/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_155_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![As the eloping pair runs further down the path, one of them leaps high over a branch](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/291b003c-224f-4083-ac5c-5aa82451cc22/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_147_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Further down the path, the pair have reached a quiet nook under the redwood trees where they can focus on each other with no outside interruptions](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/ac7977e9-9937-4719-b753-c13e3c6e8912/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_159_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![This is the ceremonial portion of their day; though they aren't legally marrying, they've chosen this moment to speak directly to each other from heart to heart](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/228ba495-9a33-4889-91a2-2be041fa8ea8/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_156_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They face each other under the trees and look directly into each others' eyes](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/744c3b2f-d71d-441d-83ba-388b9bd24b48/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_157_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They speak deeply of their love for each other, alternating between moments of seriousness and laughter](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/c753689a-5a85-4a68-82fb-48d5f5b1de9c/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_160_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Their giggles ring through the trees; they hold their bouquets between them](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/f1cca307-087b-4ed5-9fe4-8dde3c550db5/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_161_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![In the length and breadth of their relationship, this is a unique moment, in a unique and amazing redwood forest, where they can relish the beauty of their connection](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/0960a7cf-9c72-4790-8ef7-6b3a683a55c9/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_162_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They lean in towards each other and laugh](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/cda3acae-ff8c-40ff-a3fd-a3c10c4ad822/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_163_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They gaze into each others' eyes and smile](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/07eb036f-fc95-4deb-a576-cf95d8dd01c9/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_164_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They pull apart to say something serious, then grin again](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/6fe66664-8287-4d0c-a8f3-d11a27272fd4/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_165_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Behind them, the sun glitters through the trees](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/8d873c8d-8163-408a-8d69-4907c2765df4/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_166_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They come in close for a hug, heads nestled up against each other](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/1ddeb3cb-70d8-425b-ab95-9eee5c96028e/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_167_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They pull apart briefly to look in each others' eyes](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/4f6172dc-a5c0-4db9-a49e-5b9d749eaaf5/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_168_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They seal the ceremony with a kiss](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/074b0e7a-566a-485b-9218-bedf54a18402/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_169_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The two sweethearts lose themselves in the moment, the sunlight glowing through the redwoods behind them](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/eb481dd9-fd4b-460b-b9e0-dff98329adad/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_170_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![After separating briefly, they go in for a second kiss, savoring the elopement experience](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/768ad5af-ef06-4aff-b13c-e6cc50f37280/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_172_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They grin, their faces inches away from each other, full of exhilaration](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/680603e9-9780-423b-b915-78b70443fe63/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_173_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They laugh and stare lovingly at each other](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/8c57e646-9dd2-48c1-b85e-30070e994ab6/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_174_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They lift their hands, held together](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/c064a509-73e0-41b3-bf49-3ed6ea985c88/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_175_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![One bride kisses the other's hand sweetly](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/29e0970e-589a-4eee-942b-f07d807ae6c6/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_176_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The second bride runs a finger gently down the other's face](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/093add54-04ea-46ff-bdc3-25458b81e583/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_177_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They grin and laugh with excitement](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/83fcca19-524f-4eca-b4ad-893a54b04a7e/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_178_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Though they've already kissed, they continue this special moment in the trees, speaking softly to each other](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/8a7506c1-5a08-4616-b4c4-76d98b69c23d/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_179_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They express their love and their visions for the future](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/e315df88-9ab2-47e0-86db-d645f215a31a/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_180_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The two smile as they speak](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/f9b1cd39-fb42-4667-b4a6-84feb4bbef13/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_181_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They embrace tightly in a hug](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/e82b5993-ea65-440f-a124-bf341922ce1c/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_182_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Their arms still around each other, they pull apart just far enough to gaze into each other's eyes](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/a41b5c47-076a-4023-9cdf-07880df1977a/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_186_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Then come together again for another kiss](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/aa2ea8ed-993f-46d2-a193-44c47f4b3fc9/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_187_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They separate their faces just slightly to breathe, gentle smiles on their lips](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/75393928-1858-44a4-931b-6f33f5d0c56e/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_188_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Then embrace in a kiss again](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/5792c773-33d4-4eb5-af8a-d985b3f575ca/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_189_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The two bouquets sit in a beam of light on the forest floor, showing their bright colors - rich greens, pale pinks, vibrant oranges and soft blues](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/18d4146c-8867-4ca2-bf09-e1dda65ad75c/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_192_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The two sweethearts don their jackets again and hike out of the clearing](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/7e7a3d50-2ae0-403b-858b-b2b4c1b458fe/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_193_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They sit on a bench near the path; though they're tired from the hike and the experience, a dreamy look has entered their eyes](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/7758c155-cb51-456a-bd71-fe78f181e450/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_194_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They snuggle together and laugh](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/23bea497-7550-43a7-a839-ed3b75b56d8b/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_197_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![One of them gently places a flower from the bridal bouquet in the others' hair](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/d92a0428-c3b4-43fe-8ffa-f5969076a86f/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_199_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![They laugh and adjust their flowers](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/764c1d13-b168-48b8-b97a-935630f073b2/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_200_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![As they snuggle in for a kiss on the bench, our view zooms out to show the forest around them, late rays of golden light pouring through the trees](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/6b290e16-e84f-4bfc-9227-071fafc99cf4/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_201_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![Back at the trailhead, the pair walks down the road for a few final elopement portraits](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,2500,1669,2500,1200/0-0-0/5ac76bba-b711-4194-bf91-dab45207f07e/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_209_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=b2f88f92824da0c04326670d345438eb0d019ab8faf5eac2256b93f8472e3511)
![The pale grey road winds through the tall ancient trees, imbuing each moment with a sense of adventure](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/a2223033-c86c-4863-94bb-fb44b0bd3206/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_205_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![As they walk down the road, they pull apart playfully, holding hands...](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/1e2170de-fe1a-4939-94ab-566c1a25d923/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_208_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![... then pull back together with a twirl](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/265eb55f-0c55-46fd-a58e-d1c9c0397fb6/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_211_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![They laugh and skip down the road, savoring the last few moments of their elopement experience](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/bcdf7ce6-ee28-4f47-9462-51aeaa384707/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_214_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)
![Then pull together into a deep kiss, eyes closed, before they return to the trailhead and depart from this magical moment](https://format.creatorcdn.com/85ce62c6-26ae-437d-ad19-60fe16a4fa85/0/0/0/0,0,1669,2500,1600,2500/0-0-0/82ac78e4-395c-4d92-9cd1-a6d07053fc71/1/1/redwood_national_park_area_elopement_216_byKateWatermanRose.jpeg?fjkss=exp=2037504927~hmac=785059735fdda3c33241a2f9192d4db8b8b504e74e9c69ce88f4d1dc4723834f)