MACAYLA LOTT
Hey, I'm Macayla! An avid indie-music consumer *cue Lord Huron + many more*, serial National Park adventurer and aspiring future dog owner. Big enthusiast of adventures, child-like wonder, slowing-down and romanticizing the things that bring joy in our lives. Most importantly, a big enthusiast of preserving your moments intentionally as ART. Honest imagery with feeling and depth.
Maribel and Leon’s wedding day was wonderfully adventurous, thoughtful, and completely them. Their story began when Leon came to the U.S. from Scotland on a soccer scholarship and met Maribel in college. When it came time to plan their wedding, they knew exactly where they wanted to celebrate. They dreamed of a North Cascades wedding, surrounded by loved ones and some of the most unreal mountain views in Washington.
The Key to Elopement Happiness: Staying Flexible
One thing I’m reminded of constantly with adventure weddings is how important it is to stay flexible. Locals had warned us that Blue Lake (their original plan) could still be pretty snowy in mid-June, so we chose Rainy Lake as a backup just in case. The day before the wedding, I went to scout Blue Lake with a photographer who was shadowing me, and people coming back down confirmed that it was still completely covered in snow. Without the right gear, it just didn’t feel like the safest or most enjoyable option. I texted Maribel and Leon that day, explained the situation, and they basically told me, “We trust you. Make the call.” That kind of trust means SO much to me, and I’m so glad we changed plans. Instead of worrying about snow and gear, we got to hike Rainy Lake in beautiful sunshine and actually enjoy the morning.
Details from their North Cascades Wedding Day
We met at the Après Cabin (their Airbnb and home base), while they finished getting ready and connecting with family and friends. After our hike, we headed toward Washington Pass Overlook, where they wanted to have their ceremony. They exchanged vows on a rock overlooking the pass, with Maribel’s mom walking her down the “aisle” and a live violinist and violist playing. The mountains were dramatic, the weather was incredible, and somehow the whole thing still felt incredibly intimate and sweet.
There were SO many personal details woven into their day, but one of my favorites was Leon’s suit. He didn’t want to wear a traditional kilt, so instead he chose a full tartan suit made from 100% wool. His cufflinks, watch, and tie clip were even more meaningful: made from gold melted down from his grandfather in India! It was such a cool way to honor both his Scottish and Indian roots while still choosing something that felt like him. Wedding details don’t have to be elaborate or traditional just for the sake of tradition. Sometimes the smallest things carry the most meaning and incorporate your family history into the day!
Closing moments
Afterward, we headed back to the Après Cabin for local pizza and dinner around a gorgeous table they had set up for their closest friends and family. Maribel and Leon were so intentional about making everyone (including us) feel like part of the day and giving us a chance to sit, eat, and take it all in with them. From there, everyone made their way down the road to a red barn venue that was basically made for dancing.
I absolutely loved watching these beautiful people prioritize fun and flexibility throughout their day. Leon’s tartan suit, changing our hiking plans at the last minute, and eating pizza with their favorite people…every detail was carefree and full of joy. It felt so personal, relaxed, and effortlessly adventurous. It was such an honor to capture it all! If you’re dreaming of something similar, I’d love to connect. Head here to start a conversation!
