Milford Sound Hiking Elopement - Justine & John

This was a special one. Justine and John travelled over to New Zealand’s south Island with their family to elope in the stunning Milford Sound area.

When I heard their plans to elope in an alpine area and do a hike post ceremony for photos, I got more than a bit excited as not only do I love mountains but also hiking. I suggested they check out one of my favourite spots, Knobs Flat, a low key area in the middle of the Milford Sound valley. After a long planning process they decided that New Zealand and Milford Sound was the pick.

The morning started with a Chinese Tea ceremony followed by their marriage ceremony, hike and photoshoot. They embraced their natural surrounds to the fullest, finding a secret little hill (knob) to hold the ceremony which was an adventure for their guests to get to but well worth the hike. Post ceremony we hiked up to Key Summit (1.5-2hrs return) for some epic views. I loved that they just put their hiking shoes on and went for it, outfits and all. They wanted to get to a stunning mountaintop area for photos whilst doing something they loved, hiking.

The following day we went to Wanaka for a helicopter shoot, offering an entirely different view and experience.

I wish I could just shoot hiking elopements from now on as there really is something special about them. Thanks Justine and John for having Dave and I along for your adventure.

Dress ~ Jennifer Gifford Designs

Bouquet ~ Crimson Wedding Flowers

Celebrant ~ Rachel Williams

Helicopter ~ Aspiring Helicopters