About the couple and their reason for choosing Franklin Falls
So, truth be told… I actually “met” this couple on Facebook! We were both in a Pacific Northwest (PNW) Bride group and I offered my services to couples in the area, as I’d be traveling solo for two weeks to both Washington and Oregon. Annie commented on my post that she’d love to book with me and take her photos with her (then) fiance. I had yet to travel in the PNW, but knew of some quirky areas through suggestion and research, that would be the perfect balance between adventure and intimacy. The couple is native to Washington and although I asked if they had any place that was special to them, they ultimately gave me full reign of finding the perfect location to elope. That is how we found good ol’ Franklin Falls. When meeting the couple in the Franklin Falls parking lot, I could already see the love and excitement for the adventure that awaited them.
How did you guys meet?
Annie & Brandon explained they met through mutual friends and had been with each other for five years before getting engaged. They’ve been through all the “high school drama, sports games, house moves & all of that fun stuff”, Annie explained. Their love for one another shines through their photos and ultimately loved the experience of adventure eloping.
More about Franklin Falls:
The best time to visit Franklin Falls is between April and July. Although we visited the falls in early October and noticed the water was not as strong as it was pictured online, we still had a great time and it was sunny the entire day!
Franklin Falls is about an hour’s drive east of Seattle and is approximately a 2-mile round trip hike. The parking lot is quite accessible and easily found on Google Maps. The location is nothing short of amazing. As we walked along the path from the parking lot, the beautiful woods presented fresh air, and lush vegetation, and welcomed us with the sounds of distant, active water. As we reached the end, we noticed the formations of the trail becoming more distinct and rocky with each step. Please be careful as you descend towards the falls, as the rocks are gouged on the side and become slippery and wet. The falls are located between two aqueducts and give lots of room to roam and take photos in appealing areas. This is a great location for couples who want epic views, but an easy hike to bring friends or family along.
Quick things to know if considering Franklin Falls for your elopement:
-Closest airport: Seattle International Airport.
-Drive from the airport: approximately an hour’s drive, by taking the I-90.
-Elevation gain: about 400 feet
-Hike difficulty: easy
-Shoe wear: light tennis shoes if in the Summer, light hiking shoes if in the Winter.
-Parking lot: easily accessible, no pass needed.
-Height of waterfalls: 70 feet.
-Dogs allowed? Yes, but must be on a leash!
-Pass needed?: Although we didn’t purchase one (and really should’ve), a valid Recreation Pass is required at Franklin Falls Trailhead, and be purchased online here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/mbs/passes-permits/recreation
How the couple chose me as their photographer:
Why did you take a chance and choose me specifically, a photographer on a Facebook page?
Annie & Brandon said they trusted me because of the professionalism displayed on my website and Instagram. “We fell in love with the way you photographed and your style of photography was exactly what we were searching for your personality was such a beautiful bonus!” they exclaimed. It was definitely a rather nontraditional way for them to find a photographer and take a great leap of faith. But since then, we’ve texted and all became good friends from this experience! They definitely made an impact on my life and work, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that!
