Laura & Nate – November 11th

When you think of a winter elopement in Lake Placid, you probably imagine snowy mountain vistas, cozy celebrations, and love warming even the chilliest of days. That’s exactly what Laura and Nate’s elopement near Lake Placid delivered—with a few surprises thrown in to make the day even more memorable. Their November 11th celebration was intimate, adventurous, and completely theirs, proving once again that eloping is about doing things your way.

A Cozy Start at Their Airbnb

Laura and Nate kicked off their day at a charming Airbnb tucked away in the Adirondacks. With just a handful of close family and friends present, the weekend already felt intimate and special. The crisp November air hinted at snow, and the forecast promised a mix of rain and flurries later in the day—classic Upstate New York vibes! While Laura prepped to become the most radiant winter bride, Nate shared an emotional first look with his mom. The sweet moment was just a preview of the heartfelt connections to come.

Once Laura was ready, Nate’s jaw officially hit the floor when he saw her for the first time in her wedding dress. It’s safe to say their love lit up the chilly morning.

A Mountain Hike to Private Vows During their Winter Elopement in Lake Placid

Laura and Nate knew they wanted their vows to be shared privately, away from the buzz of everyday life. So, after their first look at their Airbnb, they grabbed their hiking boots and headed up a nearby mountain—wedding attire and all! Throughout a few parts of the trail we were able to see the season’s first hints of snow, which Laura was extremely excited about! Their determination (and sense of adventure) paid off when they reached the summit to a jaw dropping mountain view.

Think snow-dusted peaks and sprawling valleys! The kind of scenery that reminds you just how magical the Adirondacks are, even in the Winter. It was the perfect backdrop for their heartfelt vows, shared with only the mountains and sky as witnesses. The wind may have been chilly, but their love was anything but. The portraits we captured here are a dreamy mix of romance and rugged nature—a true reflection of Laura and Nate’s adventurous spirits.

An Outdoor Ceremony with a Side of Rain During a Winter Elopement in Lake Placid

After their private mountaintop moment, Laura and Nate returned to their Airbnb for their official ceremony. Their family gathered outside, ready to watch these two tie the knot. Just as they began, the rain decided to join the party. But let’s be real—what’s a little rain when you’re marrying your best friend? The drizzle only added to the charm, making their ceremony feel cozy and even more unique.

Once the ceremony concluded, we took some family photos in the misty outdoors before focusing on the newlyweds. Even with the rain, Laura and Nate radiated joy—the kind that not even a soggy forecast could dampen.

Dancing, Cheesecake, and Letters

The celebration continued indoors, where warmth and laughter filled the space. Laura and Nate shared a romantic first dance that had everyone teary-eyed (yes, including me). Their catered dinner was nothing short of delicious, and the couple’s decision to serve cheesecake instead of a traditional wedding cake was an absolute hit. (Cheesecake lovers, take note!)

One of the most special touches came at the end of the night. Laura and Nate, who have a tradition of writing letters to each other for life’s big moments, wrote new ones to read on their first anniversary. This heartfelt gesture was the perfect way to close out their elopement day, blending tradition with their own unique flair.

Why They Chose to Elope

Laura and Nate’s decision to elope wasn’t about skipping out on a big wedding; it was about creating a day that felt authentic to them. As college sweethearts who met at Ithaca College and got engaged at Taughannock Falls State Park, they’ve always valued moments that are intimate and meaningful. Eloping allowed them to focus on what truly mattered—their love and the people closest to them.

“We wanted it to be special and personal,” Laura said. “We believe love should be celebrated in a way that makes you feel comfortable.” And that’s exactly what they did.

A Love Rooted in Adventure

When they’re not writing letters or planning their epic wedding day and honeymoon, Laura and Nate love hanging out with their two dogs, laughing together, and finding new adventures. Their winter elopement in Lake Placid was a perfect reflection of who they are as a couple—joyful, adventurous, and deeply connected.

Plan Your Own Winter Elopement in Lake Placid

Inspired by Laura and Nate’s story? Lake Placid and the surrounding Adirondacks are brimming with possibilities for your dream elopement. Whether you’re envisioning a snowy mountaintop ceremony or maybe you want to be surrounded by the lush green trees in the summer or even a colorful fall elopement, this area offers endless options for couples who want to do things their way!

Not sure where to start? Check out these resources:

• Best Places to Elope in the Adirondacks
• Lake Placid Hiking Trails
• Marriage License Information for New York State

Ready to capture every moment of your elopement? As a Lake Placid elopement photographer, I’m here to help you plan and document a day that’s as unique as your love story. Reach out here to get started—let’s make magic together!