A Dreamy Hocking Hills Elopement: Sam & Zac’s Intimate Wedding Day

There’s something magical about an elopement in Hocking Hills. The quiet forests, the dramatic cliffsides, and the feeling of being wrapped up in nature with the person you love most. Sam and Zac’s intimate wedding day was the perfect example of how meaningful, personal, and beautifully simple an elopement can be.

Getting Ready in the Heart of the Woods

The day began in a gorgeous rental cabin tucked deep into the woods of Hocking Hills. Morning light filtered through the trees as Sam and Zac got ready together, surrounded by rustic wood textures and the peaceful sounds of the forest.

Sam crafted her own bouquet, an arrangement of warm, natural tones that matched the earthy color palette of the day. Watching her put the final touches on her flowers added such a personal touch to their story. Meanwhile, Zac prepared for the ceremony with a calm excitement that made every moment feel genuine and heartfelt. Sam and Zac read their vows privately before having a first look in the outfits they would be married in.

A Ceremony at Conkles Hollow

Their ceremony took place on top of a hillside at Conkles Hollow, one of Hocking Hills’ most breathtaking locations. With panoramic views behind them and a gentle wind moving through the trees, the setting couldn’t have been more perfect.

This day was extra special for me, too! I photographed the elopement, but I also had the honor of officiating the ceremony as an ordained minister. Toby was alongside us capturing video, documenting every laugh, tear, and vow. The combination of photos, video, and a deeply personal and private ceremony made the experience feel incredibly intimate.

As Sam and Zac exchanged vows, the moment felt like their own little world, just two people declaring a lifetime of love on a quiet ridge surrounded by nature.

Portraits at Cedar Falls

After the ceremony, we made our way to Cedar Falls for their portrait session. The cascading water, mossy stone, and towering trees created a dreamlike backdrop. Sam and Zac moved through the space effortlessly, still wrapped up in the emotion of their vows, still laughing and taking in the beauty of their surroundings.

The handmade bouquet, the glow from the sunlight peeking through the canopy, and the texture of the waterfalls all came together to create some of our favorite images from the entire day. Toby captured sweeping, cinematic video shots while I focused on soft, intimate portraits that showed exactly who they are as a couple.

Why We Love Elopements in Hocking Hills

Days like this remind us why elopements hold such a special place in our hearts. There’s no rush, no pressure, no performance, just real moments with real emotion. Sam and Zac made the day entirely their own, and it was such a privilege to help document it from every angle.

From their cozy cabin in the woods to their hillside ceremony to the quiet magic of Cedar Falls, their wedding day unfolded exactly as it was meant to: naturally, beautifully, and full of love.

Sam and Zac, thank you for sharing this incredible day with us. We’ll never forget it.