Elizabeth + Sam’s New Year’s Eve Wedding at Orcas Island
On New Year’s Eve weekend, my assistant and I made the hour-long drive and the hour-long ferry ride out to Orcas Island to photograph an intimate wedding – and it was worth every minute of the trip.
A ferry ride to Orcas Island
We stayed at the Kangaroo House, a charming bed & breakfast on the island’s north end, owned by a sweet couple who made us a delicious breakfast on the one morning we were there. Since it was a late reception, we didn’t get to try their dinner offering, but if it was anything like breakfast, I’m sure it was wonderful. It’s a place I’d recommend without hesitation if you ever get the chance to visit the San Juan Islands.
Wedding in the valley
The ceremony took place at the Victorian Valley Chapel, a small, quaint church surrounded by lush green forest. A harpist ushered the bride down the aisle, and the couple planted a new tree to honor their day. Guests sipped hot apple cider and nibbled shortbread since the reception wouldn’t start until later that evening – the ceremony itself was short and so sweet, and somewhere in the middle of family photos, we even got interrupted by a wild turkey.
An intimate dinner and reception
Dinner and the reception were held at the groom’s parents’ home, a beautiful wood cabin that felt warm and inviting from the moment we walked in. Some of the best food I’ve ever had at a wedding came from Matia Kitchen, based right there on the island. There were happy tears, a half-hour speech from the best man, and more laughs than I can count. I wish Elizabeth and Sam nothing but the best for their future together.
One of my favorite parts of photographing couples is learning their story. If an intimate island wedding like theirs sounds like your kind of day, let’s talk about yours.
Ferry, plane, long dirt road, I will get there. Here is more about my wedding photography.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Orcas Island?
Orcas Island is part of Washington’s San Juan Islands, reached by a scenic ferry ride from the mainland – a beautiful, secluded setting for an intimate wedding.
Is Orcas Island a good spot for a small or destination wedding?
Yes – its quiet forest chapels, cozy inns, and dramatic natural scenery make it ideal for intimate weddings and elopements away from the crowds.
What’s the best time of year to get married on Orcas Island?
Summer offers the mildest weather, but as Elizabeth and Sam’s New Year’s Eve wedding shows, a winter ceremony brings its own cozy, magical charm.
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