HELL NO to planning a big wedding, huh?
So… you’ve decided to say
I’ll be the first to say it:
I’M SO PROUD OF YOU.
You said “this marriage is about us, so let’s kick it off with a wedding we absolutely love.” That’s huge!!
(This is how you should feel about that decision)
You have earned the right to a wedding day that’s 100% about you and your story.
Meet your photog’.
I’m Van, and I’m here to make this shit easy. I have a ton of experience making couples feel like their elopement was a total breeze.
Not only have I been in the biz’ for over a decade, I only photograph elopements now. Wanna know why?
Because I believe with my entire soul that eloping is the way to go. I want this day to be the most YOU thing you’ve ever done.
And I’m ready to do that for you, too!!
queer-owned
woman-owned
leave no trace aware
How do I make this happen for you?
Expert guidance
I’m here to walk you through all the wild, wonderful stuff you’ve probably never done before:
Snagging that all-important park permit so your dream ceremony is totally official.
Finding the perfect ceremony spot that takes your day from amazing to AMAAAAZING—views, vibes, and all.
Figuring out when and how to get your marriage license so you’re fully ready on the big day.
Packing like a pro so you stay comfy, fueled, looking incredible, and ready for whatever the outdoors throws at us.
Timing the light perfectly so your photos capture those “wow” moments you’ll never forget.
PLUS the tiny but crucial stuff: prepping your guests to unplug for the day, attaching your garment bag to your backpack so your outfit stays wrinkle-free, planning for curveballs like long park entrance lines or road closures, having backup locations ready to pivot to instantly… basically, everything you need to feel calm, confident, and totally stoked for your adventure day.
This isn’t just a wedding-it’s a full-on adventure, and I’m here to make sure it’s as epic, effortless, and unforgettable as possible.
A stress-free experience
When I say I’m Type A, I mean it-I come prepared. I’ve got checklists ready to send you, a database of hundreds of hand-picked locations I’ve scouted and fallen in love with, a trusted list of vendors, and a ton of behind-the-scenes prep that you won’t even have to think about.
One thing my clients rave about is Basecamp-your personal portal that keeps everything organized in one place. Checklists, location recommendations, vendor links, contracts, questionnaires, important dates… it’s all there, easy to access whenever you need it.
I also schedule regular email check-ins to make sure you’re on track and checking things off your list without any stress.
And on your elopement day? I’ll be there keeping us on schedule, moving us seamlessly from one part of the day to the next, so you can stay fully present and just enjoy every single moment.
photos that feel like you
If you’re looking for stiff poses, trendy edits, or cookie-cutter wedding photos, I’m probably not the photographer for you. What I care about most is capturing photos that feel true to you-not the other way around.
You’ll get an incredible gallery that goes beyond just portraits of you and your partner. Expect shots of the landscape, the little moments, the details, and all the in-between magic. Every photo is meant to capture the emotion and energy of your day-that’s intentional, not accidental.
I’ll never make you pose in a way that feels off or force a smile. Instead, I focus on the little authentic moments you already share: how you hold hands in the car, the way your hand rests on the small of their back, that cheeky kiss on the cheek whenever you’re close enough. These are the moments that will fill your gallery.
And because life’s more fun with a little movement, I always sneak in a few .GIFs to keep things playful and memorable!
“Anyone can find a photographer, but have you had Van as yours? You can tell that she truly loves what she does.”
An All-Day Elopement?What’s that?!
It might sound absolutely wild, but an all-day elopement could be the way to make your wedding truly your biggest adventure yet.
Eloping isn’t just a quick ceremony.
It’s an intentional day that you’re meant to experience fully. Imagine your wedding day as a full day excursion with beautiful sights, seeing the sunrise or sunset, slowing down and stepping away from everyone and everything, and doing something you love together. There’s room for spontaneity, spending time in a new area, creating memories together, or even something as awesome as a power nap in the middle of the day.
So why not go big?
What about my dog?
Can’t imagine your elopement without your pup? Then they should absolutely be there! Whether they’re rocking cute wedding accessories, joining you for your vows, or just trotting along for the adventure, I’ll help plan all the ways your dog can be part of your day. From treats to photos to snuggles and paw prints, they’ll be your ultimate wedding sidekick.
The Van Gachnang Elopement Experience
No matter what package you book, you’ll get all this good stuff:
A gallery of stunning, high-resolution photos
Images that are yours to download and keep! You can share the gallery with friends and family and print however and wherever you like
One-of-a-Kind location recommendations
I’ve spent tons of time researching, exploring, and fully vetting locations that are beautiful and less-traveled. Plus I’ll help you get the proper permits to get married!
Personalized guidance and suggestions
Think of me as your elopement expert - I’ll share advice and tips that will make your day fun, stress-free, and exactly what you’re hoping for
A seamless timeline designed just for you
I’ll take timeline planning completely off your hands (I kind of rock at it). I’ll make sure we’re not rushing AND that you have time to slow down and just be with each other
A database of vendors I love and trust
These are high-quality, queer-affirming, and completely badass vendors. They know their shit and I’d trust them with my own elopement!
Help with posing and feeling comfy
Oh, and these things, too:
Lean on me to get gorgeous, candid photos that really show off your love
Officiating services
I can sign as the officiant on your marriage license and make things legit!
Travel within Washington included!
2026 Washington elopement pricing
Here's what’s included in every package:
Elopement coverage that feels fluid and covers everything you need without feeling like you’re at an all-day photoshoot
No additional travel fees! If you’re saying ‘I do’ in Washington, it’s included. Contact me for out of state pricing (I’ll meet you and your boo anywhere!)
A final edited gallery of stunning, versatile images that include a mixture of prompted and totally candid photos, both color and black and white photos, all delivered in an online gallery with high-resolution files to download. They’re yours to keep!
The ability to share your gallery with your loved ones and print the photos wherever you like
Expert guidance from start to finish - this is where I put my planning hat on and am right next to you every step of the way. We’ll craft the most perfect elopement day you can imagine.
4 hour packages start at $6,200
On average, my couples invest ~$7,900 for their day.
You get aaaaaaall that cool stuff above, plus tons more.
Interested in an engagement session, proposal, or other type of session? I’ve got you. Inquire for more info!
Packages start at $2,400 for a 2 hour session