Elopements for Couples Who Want  Connection, Freedom, and Adventure. 

Not stress and expectations.

Ditch the rulebook. .

Your love story deserves a day built on connection, adventure, and unapologetic authenticity

The possibilities are as endless as your imagination

Because your love story deserves to feel fully yours

Maybe a big traditional wedding never felt right. Maybe you’d rather explore a mountain ridge, hike through a forest, or say your vows where the world feels still. You want an elopement experience that feels adventurous, intentional, and true to your story, not stiff traditions or someone else’s checklist.

But planning something unique can feel overwhelming. Where do you start when you’re not following a blueprint? How do you find a photographer who gets it, someone who helps bring it all together while keeping the stress away, so your day feels more like a memory than a blur?

You don’t have to navigate it alone.

There is a way to plan a stress-free, memorable elopement that reflects your connection and your vision. You don’t have to navigate it alone.

Traditional weddings or standard planning services often prioritize appearances, guest expectations, or logistics over your connection and presence, leaving you stressed, disconnected, and wishing you had done it differently.

You deserve someone who gets you, your vibe, your quirks, and your vision for a day that's authentically yours.

My goal is to arrive as not just your photographer but as a friend on your journey. Getting to know you personally is more than a formality; it's the cornerstone of the experience I aim to create. Taking the time to understand your unique story is what allows us to have fun crafting an experience that authentically represents you

This is where I come in

I understand how overwhelming it can feel to plan something as meaningful as your elopement while also wanting it to be true to who you are.  Together, we’ll craft an elopement experience that celebrates your relationship, allows you to be fully present, and creates the kind of experience that becomes a core memory you’ll carry for the rest of your lives.


Mike Kessel owner and photographer at kessel kreations

As both your photographer and your guide, I’ll:

  • Help you find the perfect location, whether that’s a mountain ridge, a quiet forest, or a hidden spot that feels just right.

  • Create a simple timeline that balances structure with space for spontaneity.

  • Take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on being present with each other.

  • Show up not only as your photographer, but as a friend who helps you feel comfortable and free to be yourselves.

I grew up in a rural Midwest community where carving your own path wasn’t always accepted, so , I know what it means to venture into the unknown. That’s why I’m passionate about helping couples create an elopement that feels adventurous, intentional, and unapologetically theirs.

With years of experience photographing weddings and chasing adventure, I’ve learned how to blend breathtaking imagery with a stress-free, meaningful experience you’ll never forget.

Kind words from couples like you

All the fun and excitement of Elopement planning without the stress

Here’s How simple it can be

  • We start with a consultation where you tell me your vision: locations, adventure level, and the kind of connection you want to celebrate. No cookie-cutter solutions here; it’s all about you.

  • I help you map out your day with a flexible timeline, location suggestions, and backup plans. Everything is designed to keep stress low and adventure high.

  • On your elopement day, I handle the details so you can focus on each other. You’ll have the space to be fully present, laugh, explore, and soak it all in.

  • After your day, you’ll receive photos that capture every authentic moment, giving you a story-driven images that you can revisit again and again, remembering the joy, connection, and adventure of your day.

Eloping may not mean what you think…

Lets address some common misconceptions

  • An all-day elopement should not feel like a big production. 

    Nope. Your day can be full of adventure and connection without feeling like a marathon photoshoot. We’ll plan it in a way that feels natural, fun, and stress-free.

  • You’ll regret skipping a traditional wedding. 

    Not at all. Most couples are actually glad they did. Eloping lets you focus entirely on your relationship and the experience you truly want. Prioritizing your relationship gives you the space to really connect and create moments so that you’ll remember forever how it felt to celebrate your love in a way that gives you a story to tell for years to come

  • Adventure doesn’t equate to chaos. 

    Choosing an adventurous location doesn’t mean unpredictable or exhausting. With a simple plan and thoughtful backups, your elopement can be as seamless as it is breathtaking.

Your Elopement Experience Includes:

What this means for you:
With an experienced guide on your side, you can avoid the stress of planning everything alone and skip the regret of giving in to outside pressure, so that you can focus on honoring your relationship. With the right guidance, your planning feels easy, your day stays stress-free, and you get to be fully present, creating a core memory built on connection, joy, and adventure,  a story that’s authentically yours, captured in images you’ll treasure forever.

Full Story Photo Coverage
Choose full-day, half-day, or multi-day coverage so every chapter of your story is captured exactly as it deserves. Your elopement is a story full of quiet, joyful, adventurous, and meaningful moments and I’m here to capture them all from getting ready in the morning to your last adventure of the day, every part of your story is documented in a way that truly reflects your connection and personality.

Travel fees are included anywhere within the U.S., giving you the freedom to say your vows wherever your hearts lead. International travel is available upon request.

A Photographer Who Shows Up as a Friend
Think of me as your partner in adventure. I show up not just as your photographer, but as a friend, guiding you through the day, helping you feel comfortable, and capturing authentic moments without stiff poses. I’ll encourage laughter, help you explore, and make sure you’re fully present so that your photos reflect the real, joyful connection you share.

Exclusive Planning Resources
Planning an elopement can feel overwhelming but you don’t have to do it alone. I provide resources designed exclusively for my couples, helping you brainstorm, explore ideas, and make confident decisions. From choosing vendors to organizing your day, these tools give you everything you need so that you can plan an elopement that feels fully yours, without unnecessary stress.

Customized Timeline & Location Planning
I’ll help you discover the perfect locations, whether it’s a hidden forest, mountaintop, lakeside retreat, or somewhere completely unexpected. Each spot is tailored to your vision and adventure level, ensuring your day feels intentional, authentic, and unforgettable.

Equally important is the when. A thoughtfully crafted timeline makes sure you arrive at each location at the right time for the best light, the fewest crowds, and the most seamless flow. This way, your day feels natural, unhurried, and full of space for presence and connection.

Tailored Adventure & Activities
Whether it’s hiking to a scenic viewpoint, paddleboarding on a quiet lake, enjoying a picnic, or taking a helicopter ride, your elopement can include any experience that makes it meaningful to you. I’ll help you plan and brainstorm activities that feel natural, fun, and uniquely yours, so that every moment is memorable and adds to your unforgettable experience.

Personalized Online Gallery
Your elopement memories should be easy to enjoy and share. You’ll receive a personalized online gallery with sneak peeks in just one week, full-resolution images, and professional lab-quality printing options. Every image is thoughtfully edited to highlight the emotion, light, and atmosphere that made your day unforgettable. With a few simple clicks, you can download, share with friends and family, or order prints, making it simple to relive and celebrate your story for years to come.


Destination Elopement Collections

How a couple chooses to celebrate their wedding day can look many different ways. You deserve an experience tailored to your dream day!

We all have a unique story to tell.

Let’s write yours today!


Weekend Elopement

This collection is perfect for the couple planning a more adventurous elopement, or who want images of every last expression and beautiful detail. 

 

This collection is perfect for couples planning a destination or adventure-filled elopement and who want every expression, detail, and landscape beautifully documented. With 18 full hours of coverage spread over two days, you’ll have the freedom to celebrate without feeling rushed. Multi-day coverage means we can capture everything: from a sunrise hike or intimate vows on day one to a cozy campfire or a second-day celebration with loved ones without the pressure of a packed schedule and with more opportunities for adventure and activities.

Here’s what you’ll get: 

  • Free consultation

  • 18 hours of coverage spread over 2 days

  • Timeline creation

  • Location Scouting & permit assistance

  • Sneak peak photos within 1 week

  • Professional editing & retouching

  • Personalized online gallery

  • Digital & print rights release

  • Travel Included

Investment starting at $6400

Full day Elopement

This collection is perfect for the couple wanting coverage of more activities beyond the ceremony.

 

This collection is ideal for couples who want their elopement day to be more than just a ceremony. With 10 hours of coverage, we’ll have the flexibility to capture a full range of experiences: whether that means a longer hike to an epic viewpoint, exploring multiple locations, sharing unhurried family time, or weaving in fun activities and excursions that make your day unique. Full-day coverage ensures your story is told in a natural, unrushed way while leaving space for spontaneity.

 

Here’s what you’ll get: 

  • Free consultation

  • 10 hours of coverage

  • Timeline creation

  • Location Scouting  & permit assistance

  • Sneak peak photos within 1 week

  • Professional editing & retouching

  • Personalized online gallery

  • Digital & print rights release

  • Travel Included

Investment starting at $5200

Half Day Elopement

This collection is perfect for the couple planning a smaller to mid sized wedding.

 This collection is perfect for couples looking for coverage of the key moments of their elopement. With 5 hours of coverage, we can document your ceremony and capture some portraits during a short hike or at a scenic location. It’s ideal for intimate elopements with minimal travel or simpler adventures.

 

While this package covers the essentials, full-day and multi-day options allow more flexibility for extended hikes, multiple locations, and capturing the full story of your adventure without feeling rushed.

 

Here’s what you’ll get: 

  • Free consultation

  • 5 hours of coverage

  • Timeline creation

  • Location Scouting  & permit assistance

  • Sneak peak photos within 1 week

  • Professional editing & retouching

  • Personalized online gallery

  • Digital & print rights release

  • Travel Included

Investment starting at $3400


Your wedding day should be (and I can’t stress this enough)…

Whatever you want it to be!

I thrive with all of the unique, weird, & alternative couples. Life is more fun when you show up as who you are authentically and try new things.

If your vision for your day doesn’t fit into the packages listed above, I would love to hear about it!

DSC00793.jpg

Add-Ons & Customized Collections Available

Ready to plan a day that’s unapologetically yours?
Let’s ditch the pressure and create something that feels true to you.

Custom Destination Collections for couples that don’t fit the mold!


I'll say it again (because it's true): your big day is about creating your dream day, your way. If my standard collections don't quite match your vision, we've got endless options. I refuse to confine your day with limitations; let's explore all possibilities together.


If you can envision it, I'm here to curate and capture it.

Testimonials Celebrating Memorable Moments

Siouxland Choice awards best artist winner
Lgbt Friendly photographer
Leave to trace certification

I’m thrilled you're considering me to capture your moments.

Your vision matters. I can’t wait to meet you and bring it to life

 

Phone
(712) 204-2885

E-mail
kesselkreation1@gmail.com

We all have a unique story to tell.

Let’s write yours today!