Black River Retreat » Fall Elopement

Black River Retreat is a location that took my breath away the first time I went there! I photographed Erica and Matt’s beautiful Tweed elopement there in 2018 and it felt so great to be back!

I came to this elopement a little differently than others. Lisa’s friend reached out to me to arrange a surprise for them with photography coverage of their elopement day. When couples elope, sadly, many of them believe that the day become *less* than a traditional wedding. There are some things that are less – less guests, less money, less formalities – but that doesn’t mean that there are less moments, less emotions or less meaning! I truly believe it is just as important, if not more important, to have elopements photographed in full. Some couples are worried that having a “stranger” there can make things feel less personal. I work hard to make sure that I blend into the background most of the time, and I pop in for some guidance here and there. One of the biggest compliments I received after their elopement was how happy they were with how I fit with their small little group.

Lisa and and Rob were married at the arch by Black River in Tweed. The tears started flowing right at the procession! This elopement had one of the most heartfelt vows I have ever heard. The vows were incredibly intimate and the history that they have shared as a couple is unreal. When I tell you that we were all in tears, I mean we were ALL IN TEARS. Like practically sobbing. But the most beautiful thing about it is that you could tell they were in their own world, only focused on each other. What an honour it was to witness.

After the emotional elopement ceremony, they had some celebratory drinks before we went around the property for some romantic photographs. I loved how black the river looked. Black River definitely lives up to its name!

Black River Retreat is a hidden gem. it is perfect for outdoor-loving couples! After 2021, they will no longer be hosting full-sized weddings. If you’d like to head there for a couples retreat (or maybe even an elopement), reach out to Trevor and tell him what you’re dreaming of!