A North Shore Love Story: Intimate Elopement at Temperance River
Alison reached out to me with a simple, beautiful vision for her wedding day — something small, intimate, and completely centered around the two of them. She and her fiancé Jack wanted to get married somewhere along Minnesota’s North Shore, surrounded by nature and with their closest family by their side.
After going through a list of location ideas I sent over, they landed on Temperance River State Park — one of my all-time favorites for its wild beauty, forest trails, and cliffside views over the gorge. It was the perfect spot for what they had in mind.
When their day arrived, I met them at their cozy suite at Bluefin Bay Resort, where they got ready together with their moms. The morning was peaceful, full of laughter and love, and one moment especially stood out — Jack’s mom gave him a pin to wear inside his tux, with the words “I love you — Love, Dad” in his late father’s handwriting. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room, including mine. It was one of those moments you don’t forget.
Once they were ready, we all made our way down the road to the trailhead. Family members gathered, some carrying chairs and everything needed to make sure grandparents were comfortable. The hike was short but scenic, leading us to a stunning cliffside spot overlooking the river near the gorge. It was the kind of place that feels tucked away, peaceful, and perfect for saying “I do.”
Their ceremony, led by Marry Me in the Northland, was heartfelt and personal — just the way they wanted it. Afterward, we started family photos, but in true North Shore fashion, a little burst of rain rolled in. Thankfully it didn’t last long, and we picked up right where we left off, capturing moments with their people before the group split up to relax back at the resort.
From there, Alison, Jack, a few of their family, and I set off on a short hike along the Superior Hiking Trail. Along the way, we took our time, stopping at favorite spots for photos, and eventually found a quiet spot by the river where Alison and Jack read their personal vows to each other — just the two of them, away from the crowd. It was peaceful, raw, and real — one of those moments that perfectly sums up what elopement days are all about.
After that, the three of us continued on to Carlton Peak, where we hiked up to take in sweeping views of Lake Superior in the distance. The light, the view, and the love between these two made every step worth it.
We wrapped up the day by meeting back with their family at the Bluefin Grille, where they celebrated with a relaxed wedding dinner, surrounded by love, laughter, and good food.
Alison and Jack — wishing you both so much happiness, love, and adventure in the years to come. Thank you for letting me be part of such a meaningful day.
