Rainy Turkey Run Elopement // Indiana Elopement Photographer

It was a warm and sunny morning full of birdsong when Jake and I met Bethany and Ben at their cabin for their rainy elopement at Turkey Run and Shades State Parks. They had a slow and relaxed time getting ready and writing vows together on the deck while absorbing the beauty of the forest around us. And Bethany had the prettiest vintage and personal touches to all the details they included in their day, including a sixpence, and their passports to commemorate their time spent long distance. Then we set them up for the first look in front of the cabin, and of course I had to get a few Wes Anderson inspired shots as well! We then loaded up into the cars to head to Shades State Park for the first hike and portraits of the day.

Morning Elopement hike at Shades State Park

The sun was still streaming through the trees when we arrived at Shades and began the hike. We listened to The Lord of the Rings soundtracks softly, the only interruption being the babbling creek and the wind gently blowing through the trees as we explored the canyons. We saw butterflies, little frogs and toads cooling in the mud along the creek, and the spray from the waterfall was deliciously cool. These two were so sweet, tying each other’s shoes and holding hands while pointing out different birds. After exploring and relaxing, inky dark clouds began to cover the sun, so we started to make our way back to the trailhead and cars before the rain hit. We couldn’t have timed it better, with the sky unleashing a torrential downpour the moment we got back inside the airbnb. We spent some time enjoying the rain pattering on the trees and windows, and ate some snacks while taking a few indoor portraits. Then we headed back out as the rain died down, for part two of their rainy elopement at Turkey Run and Shades State Parks.

Moody Rainy Elopement Ceremony at Turkey Run State Park

The rain had softened to a light drizzle by the time we arrived at Turkey Run State Park for their private elopement ceremony and hike. The rains had completely cleared out the park, so we had all the trails to completely to ourselves. A heavy mist hung over the tree tops as Bethany and Ben exchanged rings and vows, immortalizing their love for each other forever. After their sweet ceremony, we began the hike across the suspension bridge and through the mossy canyons. We followed the creek until it turned into waterfalls, and with the sun hiding behind clouds, it was the perfect opportunity for using lanterns to light our paths. We saw little frogs, butterflies, a little mouse, and a racoon peeked out to say hi along the way.

After clambering over rocks and splashing through the creek, we looped back around to Sugar Creek, where Bethany and Ben danced, laughed, and skipped rocks together, soaking up the last of the evening light. They then walked out to a shallow area of the creek, where they had a private letter reading, followed by a Celtic handfasting ceremony with no shortage of tears or laughter. After that, we made our way back to the picnic areas, to sign the license. Then to end the evening, we shot the prettiest moody, foggy blue hour photos in front of their car.

Bethany and Ben, it was an honor to be a part of your rainy elopement at Turkey Run and Shades State Parks, and such a beautifully moody, rainy day! Jake and I wish you both all the love and best with bird watching, reading, and sharing in life together!

xoxo Corinne & Jake