Why They Eloped in the Dolomites:

Elopements, like life, are most beautiful when you embrace the journey – with all the highs and lows.

Caitlyn and John dreamed of starting their marriage in an intimate setting, surrounded by nature and their closest loved ones. While planning a mountain wedding in the USA, they faced unexpected challenges but stayed determined (and so did we) to make their dream elopement happen.

Inspired by their love of mountains, we suggested the Dolomites in Italy, the most stunning alpine paradise. They loved the idea and turned their elopement into an unforgettable family adventure, exploring Italy with their 4-year-old son and parents.

Their journey was already about making the most of life’s twists, and every part of their elopement reflected that spirit!

Their Elopement:

Day 1: Moody Sunrise at Lago di Braies + Change of Plans

The day began before sunrise, with Caitlyn and John getting ready in separate hotel rooms. John took a quiet moment to write his vows, while Caitlyn slipped into her stunning Rue de Seine dress and read heartfelt letters from her best friends after her mom styled her hair.

John grew up on family boating trips, which sparked a lifelong love for the water—so we took them to Lago di Braies to explore the alpine lake in charming wooden rowboats. The early mist and light rain made for a magical setting, and John beamed with joy during their first look.

They shared peaceful moments on the lake, completely alone. Their boat was number 12—their favorite number and wedding date! (The first of many special coincidences!)

Soon after, heavy rain, lightning, and freezing temps swept across the Dolomites, making it impossible to continue with the day’s plans. After warming up in a cozy café, we decided to reschedule most of the elopement for the next day.

We attempted a backup hiking location, but the cold was too intense, so we confirmed new plans for tomorrow and parted ways. We all embraced the journey—and it turned out better than we could’ve imagined!

Day 2: Family Ceremony + Cadini Di Misurina Hike

We began the day in a stunning alpine meadow full of wildflowers—a dream Caitlyn had always envisioned for her wedding. By embracing adventure and adjusting our plans, we found the perfect ceremony spot. With their son as ring bearer, Caitlyn’s father officiated a heartfelt ceremony filled with tears and laughter. After family photos, we made a quick stop to fulfill another of Caitlyn’s dreams: visiting some alpine cows in a beautiful pasture!

A major reason Caitlyn and John chose the Dolomites was to see Cadini di Misurina — mountains that look straight out of a fantasy book, with their jagged shape and otherworldly beauty. As we hiked up, their excitement grew with each step as the dramatic 360-degree views came more into view. Along the trail, we spotted a heart-shaped rock formation with “C + J” inside—an emotional sign that this was all meant to be, it was such a little gift from God, and Caitlyn couldn’t help but cry with joy.

At the end of the trail, the clouds held back just long enough to capture the shot — Caitlyn and John standing at the edge of the viewpoint with the breathtaking Italian Dolomites behind them. It’s one of our favorite photos we’ve ever taken.

But the magic wasn’t over. At the end of their elopement hike, a kind Italian couple congratulated them and shared that they had also married on this very mountain—over 30 years ago! Even more incredible, they had champagne—and exactly four glasses. Toasting together, Caitlyn and John celebrated not only the beauty of the day but also the deep, timeless connection to this enchanting mountain range.
Being with Caitlyn and John from the start of their planning all the way to photographing their elopement was so wonderful. Their story is a powerful reminder of what we tell our couples: the best adventures are sometimes found in the unexpected.

Being with Caitlyn and John from the start of their planning all the way to photographing their elopement was so wonderful. Their story is a powerful reminder of what we tell our couples: the best adventures are sometimes found in the unexpected.

Elopement Vendors:

• Elopement Photographers: The Chaffins
• Dress: Rue de Seine
• Suit: Men’s Warehouse
• Bride’s Boots: Blundstone
• Accommodation: Alpine Nature Hotel Stoll
• Hair Stylist: Brides Mother

Want to start planning your elopement or intimate wedding?