Intimate elopement by Powell River with a couple exchanging vows in a breathtaking BC backdrop. — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

Not every Powell River elopement starts at 2:15 AM with a backpack full of flowers and a paddleboard… but that’s exactly how C + J’s sunrise waterfall wedding began.

C and J are one of those couples you meet and immediately think, “Wait, can we be friends in real life?” They are kind, warm, grounded humans with hearts of absolute gold. From the first Zoom call, I knew this day would be special—not just because of the stunning location or the sunrise timeline (although, yes, both of those were epic), but because they are just genuinely wonderful people who chose to get married in the most intentional, beautiful way.

Why They Chose Powell River for Their Elopement

C is a travel nurse who’s been coming to Powell River for a few years now. So when she returned this time, she wanted to get married to the love of her life here before heading home. To make it happen, J flew in the night before their elopement, landing in Comox and hopping on the ferry to meet her. Talk about dedication!

J and C originally met while working at Cold Lake Hospital; she was a nurse and he was a peace officer. J says he noticed C right away, but it took her a little longer to notice him as she was head-down, hardworking while on shift. When they finally did have their first date, they just clicked! C called her friend right after, “I’m going to marry this man.”

Their relationship is full of tenderness and deep admiration. J says C is one of the most compassionate, gentle, and caring people he’s ever known. C says J is endlessly kind, thoughtful, and full of love. The way they see each other is incredibly moving.

Couple embracing on the shore of Powell River during their intimate, adventurous elopement — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

Why They Eloped

They wanted something simple. Intimate. No guests, no pressure. Just the two of them surrounded by nature. (Fun fact: J’s parents had also eloped, so it felt like a full-circle moment.) Instead of spending months planning a traditional wedding, they chose to get married in a way that gave them space, freedom, and a peaceful morning they could call their own.

And I was honoured to help make it all happen.

Romantic flat lay of elopement keepsakes telling the love story of a bride and groom in a nature-inspired setting — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

The Plan: Waterfalls at Sunrise

During one of our Zoom calls, I suggested the falls, and from that moment on, we were all in. C and I scouted a path down to the base of the waterfall the week before, and we knew: this was the spot. Surrounded by lush forest, flowing water, and soft morning light, it was peaceful and powerful. Just like their love.

My team came up to Powell River the night before (sunrise elopements = early wake-up calls!). I picked up their florals from Nicole at Bloom Therapy and tucked them safely into my fridge. Refrigeration is key during summer weddings! Powell River in July can be warm, so this tip goes for any summer BC elopement.

Hanna, our hair and makeup artist, met C at her Airbnb at 2:15 AM (yes, you read that right) to get her all glammed up. By 5:45 AM, we were all gathered at the trailhead: J, Sarah (photographer), Cody (officiant and dear friend of mine), and I. Wearing her trusty Blundstones, C followed close behind with me, with her flowers in hand and dress packed up.

A Sunrise Waterfall First Look

C + J wanted to do their first look down at the waterfall, so that’s where we headed first. J got changed quickly and stood facing the rocks while C slipped into her wedding dress behind him. When they turned to see each other… the moment was magic. J teared up instantly. The sound of the rushing falls behind them made it feel cinematic, even surreal. A quiet, sacred little moment in nature.

J wore a rich burgundy-brown suit, and C paired her boho-inspired wedding dress (a gift from her mom that they had picked out together) with pearls. Her whole look felt timeless and earthy, totally in tune with the vibe of the day.

Pro tip: wedding dress shopping with your mom, grandmother, sisters, or close friends is such a lovely way to include people without inviting them to the elopement. Check out our blog “How To Include Your Loved Ones in Your Elopement” for more ideas like this!

Romantic Powell River wedding ceremony for an adventurous couple in a scenic coastal mountain setting — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

An Emotional Ceremony at the Falls

Then came their ceremony, officiated by the always amazing Cody. C and J read personal vows that had all of us (yes, me included) wiping away tears. Then Cody read them letters from their parents. Cue more tears. They exchanged rings, signed their registry (Sarah and I got to be their witnesses!), and sealed it all with a kiss.

They even shared a spontaneous first dance and FaceTimed their parents to share the big news. It was intimate, emotional, and full of joy. (Reading letters from your parents and facetiming family are two more great ways To Include Your Loved Ones in Your Elopement without having a big guest list!)

Bride and groom sharing a moment on a paddle board in Powell River, BC — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

Epic Paddleboard Wedding Portraits

Now for the adventure portion: I blew up the paddleboard while Sarah captured portraits. Then, C + J changed and paddled out to the base of the waterfall for what turned out to be the most EPIC set of waterfall wedding photos ever taken. We even had a reel on Instagram about these photos that went viral!

The plan was for them to push the paddleboard back, but it didn’t quite make it back. So naturally, I dove into the water, fully clothed, to retrieve it. (If I’m not willing to get wet for the shot, how can I ask anyone else to?!)

Once I got the board, I paddled back to pick up Sarah and her camera so we could get even closer to the falls for the dreamiest photos ever. It was so worth it.

After the portraits, we all dried off, packed up, and hiked back to the vehicles, damp and glowing from the magic of the morning.

Adventurous couple kissing beneath a cascading waterfall during their intimate BC elopement — *Photography by* *Unspoken Photography*.

Powell River, You Stunner: Powell River Elopement Packages

This sunrise elopement was a day to remember, and I’d love to do more elopements here. Powell River is packed with hidden gems, epic views, and peaceful forest escapes. It’s honestly one of BC’s best-kept secrets for elopements, and I’m here for it.

Fun Fact: starting at $5,845, Powell River elopements are the same price as our Lower Mainland ones! If you’re dreaming of a Powell River elopement with waterfalls, paddleboards, and sunrise light, let’s make it happen. I’ll handle the logistics so you can simply show up and live your best day. Contact me today to start planning your BC elopement adventure.