When Hannah and Nolan talked about what they wanted for their fall elopement, they said they wanted a calm and meaningful day. They imagined being in the woods, near waterfalls, surrounded by quiet and color.

So I helped them find Swallow Falls State Park in Western Maryland, a tucked-away spot near Deep Creek Lake that’s just a few hours from Baltimore. And in late September, with the leaves just starting to turn and fog drifting across the lake, it felt like exactly the right place.

Why They Chose Swallow Falls for Their Fall Elopement

When they reached out, they knew they wanted a location with mountains, waterfalls, and autumn leaves, but it also had to be within a 4-hour drive of Baltimore. They wanted something that felt like a local getaway without sacrificing epic scenery.

We looked at a few options together, but Deep Creek Lake and Swallow Falls State Park turned out to be the perfect fit. Even though the park is popular, we planned their ceremony for sunrise, and they ended up having the whole place to themselves.

And if you’d like to get married here, the park allows special events on the trail and surrounding areas. Permits are not required, but you should always double-check availability and requirements. Also, always remember to Leave No Trace to protect these beautiful lands for generations to come!

First Look at Deep Creek Lake

The morning started quietly, with Hannah and Nolan meeting on the docks at Deep Creek Lake. Fog hung low over the tree tops, creating a soft, cinematic atmosphere for their first look.

Fall Elopement Ceremony at Swallow Falls

After their first look, we headed to Swallow Falls State Park, known for its waterfalls, mossy trails, and towering hemlock trees. It’s one of Maryland’s most scenic natural spots, and at sunrise, we practically had the place to ourselves. Hannah & Nolan exchanged vows on a rocky overlook, with the river flowing below and leaves changing around them. 

They also wanted to weave a few elements of Jewish tradition into their ceremony. They included the walking circles, or hakafot, a Jewish custom in which the bride circles the groom seven times to symbolize the creation of a new, protected home. 

Fall Elopement Photos Around Swallow Falls State Park

After the ceremony, we continued wandering around, enjoying the beautiful fall foliage, waterfalls, and the forest. Nolan pictured their day to have a serene woodland vibe, and the Park really delivered!

Elopement Picnic at Muddy Creek Falls

After their ceremony, Hannah and Nolan set up a small picnic on the rocks overlooking Muddy Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland. They shared coffee, cut into a small wedding cake, and toasted to their new marriage. 

They drank champagne from their grandparents’ wedding chalice and signed a family wedding Bible that had been passed down through generations.

Why Hannah & Nolan Chose to Elope

I always love asking this question to my couples, because I believe sharing these answers may encourage other couples to let go of other people’s expectations and create a day that feels right for them.

Hannah said she felt “intimidated and overwhelmed by planning a large wedding and having to meet everyone’s various needs. I really wanted to have something that was just for me and Nolan.”

Nolan echoed that feeling, sharing that he’d never been to a traditional wedding that felt special or personal to him.

So they chose something simpler and more meaningful. A day that felt calm and connected, where they could be fully present with each other.

Thinking About a Fall Elopement in Maryland?

Hannah and Nolan’s fall elopement showed that you don’t need a crowd or a packed schedule to have a meaningful wedding. You just need a place that feels right and time to really be there together.

If you’re dreaming of a day that’s meaningful, relaxed, and rooted in nature, I’d love to help you bring that to life. Reach out here to start creating your own intentional fall elopement in Maryland or beyond.

Bekah is incredible! I cannot recommend her enough, it was truly a pleasure to work with her. She was so supportive through the entire process and always went above and beyond. I really appreciated all her help with the planning process. 

We’ve never had professional pictures taken, and she immediately made us feel so comfortable and did a fantastic job capturing every moment – both serious and silly. We had so much fun, and she made it so easy to just be present with each other. 

Not to mention the pictures themselves are breathtaking. Last minute, she found an amazing spot for our first look. And she ran back to the car when I forgot something. 

Truly the wedding of my dreams, and it’s all thanks to Bekah!

Review from the Couple

Vendors:

Photography & planning: Me, Evergreen Photo

Flowers: Two Boots FarmCake: Lunaria Cakes