Vegas Elopement Photography

Big party vibes, surprising friends, party bus drinks, and getting kicked out of a casino. Could I have asked for a better Vegas elopement photography adventure?? Idk, man!

Las Vegas Elopement Photography

In June of 2024, Rheanna and Max got married in Vegas. That, however, was not their original plan. Or what their friends thought was happening when they went there.

I had done Rheanna and Max’s engagement session the summer before. It was a super cool session, I totally loved it. I was so excited to hear they wanted me to be their wedding photographer as well! At the time, they were planning a destination wedding somewhere in the Carribean.

They had a co-ed bachelor/bachelorette party planned in Las Vegas, Nevada with all of their friends. They messaged me asking if I could meet them there… because they decided to surprise their closest friends by eloping while they were there.

I had a bit of a busy schedule, but I just HAD to fit this one in. I had a 14 hour wedding day out of state the day before. Even still, I sat my little booty on a plane and landed in Vegas around 3am. Their elopement was set to start at 8, so I had a bit of time to rest. It was a little crazy, but I totally thrive on the hustle of travel. So I was kind of in my element.

Surprise Vegas Elopement

All that their friends knew before this trip was that they were going to Vegas. They are all a little tipsy at this point. There is a fun, buzzing energy. So, when they all pulled up to the Sure Thing chapel, they all go straight in. As all their friends are sitting there, Rheanna starts down the aisle and the surprise is finally revealed. A wave of shock and excitement falls over their squad. Lots of “WHAT”‘s and tears and faces of pure shock pour out. I felt like the embodiment of the smiling devil emoji being in on the surprise. 😈

Rheanna dances her way to Max and the officiant and vibes were high. The chapel gives a 30 minute time slot with a 5 minute ceremony. I snapped away during the ceremony and we used the rest of our time getting some photos in. At the little photobooth, in front of that iconic light up heart, a few with all their friends, and even in the chapel bathroom (didn’t really expect to find Elvis in there, but his portrait definitely adds an air of Vegas-ness).

Party Vibe Wedding Photos in Vegas

After the surprise ceremony, we all boarded the party bus and made our way around the city. I may never get over how much this entire elopement felt like a party. It was SO fun to be a part of. We drove to the iconic Vegas sign for some photos. There were tons of people there and it was super dark, but the flash photos slayyyyyyyed.

After the sign, we went to THE party street of Vegas: Freemont Street. We adventured around the lights and casinos of the city. Snapping photos and watching as they enjoyed the city with their friends—posing for me here and there.

We went into a casino—because how could we resist photos among the slot machines??? We were laughing as I worked my magic in the slot machine forest. I had them sitting in front of a poker machine and can you even guess what happened next?? WE WERE ASKED TO LEAVE!! Sir.

In true Katy Perry Waking Up in Vegas fashion, we shut up and put our money where our collective mouth is and left. I guess that’s what you get for waking up in Vegas.

So, we got kicked out of a Vegas casino. It was awesome.

Vegas Elopement Photographer

That kind of concluded my involvement in their Vegas elopement party. All in all, it was probably only like, 2 hours. It felt like we had lived an entire day in those 2 hours. It was such a cool less-than-48-hour trip. So many new experiences for me.

Rheanna and Max are from Michigan like I am (I’m based in Grand Rapids!). So it was so cool to get to travel to Vegas for this. I LOVE getting to travel for weddings. And what a cool way to get married??? Fly out to Vegas with all of your friends and surprise them with your WEDDING? How many people get to experience that???

If you are planning an elopement or getting married in Vegas, I would LOVE to join you! Check out details on elopement photography and inquire for your date! I can’t wait to hang out with you and commit your story to film. <3