Caitlin and Ryan’s elopement at the Washington County Courthouse in Hillsboro was a beautiful blend of intimacy, sentiment, and celebration. Before gathering with friends and family, the two shared private vows beneath a tucked-away gazebo wrapped in green vines and framed by elegant concrete columns. The secluded moment gave them time to breathe together before the big moment—and was so surreal to have the entire place just to themselves.

Afterward, they made their way to the courthouse, where nearly 25 loved ones waited beneath the redwood trees just outside. It was a hot summer afternoon—soaring into the 90s—but the joy and excitement among their guests more than made up for the heat. One of the sweetest guests in attendance? Their baby son, who got to be there for this milestone moment with his parents.

I first met Caitlin and Ryan a year ago when I volunteered to photograph for the Wish of a Lifetime program at their scuba center while Caitlin was still pregnant. To now see their son in her arms and capture their wedding day was an incredibly full-circle and special moment. From quiet vows under the vines to heartfelt “I do’s” beneath towering redwoods, this courthouse elopement was the perfect reminder that simple can be deeply meaningful.