A Moody North Shore Elopement at Black Beach

There’s something undeniably magical about eloping along the rugged, picturesque shores of Minnesota’s North Shore, and Erin and Colton’s moody North Shore elopement at Black Beach was no exception. With the ever-changing weather of summer blessing us with sun, fog, and rain in harmonious rotation, their elopement day unfolded like a dream—captured at some of the North Shore’s most scenic spots. Let’s dive into the beautiful, heartfelt moments of their day.

Getting Ready at Tettegouche Lodge

The morning began at the cozy and secluded Tettegouche Lodge, nestled deep in the woods with views that overlooked the forested landscape and Baptism River. Erin and Colton wanted to keep the experience intimate and heartfelt, so they surrounded themselves with only their closest family members. The lodge, with its earthy, wood-paneled walls and large windows letting in soft, filtered light, set the perfect tone for their day.

Erin sneaked away for a private moment with her mom as she helped Erin slip into her ethereal lace gown, the quiet laughter and joyful chatter creating a warm atmosphere. Meanwhile, Colton prepped in the lower level of the cabin, adjusting his tie and taking a moment by the window, lost in thought as he soaked in the significance of the day. These candid moments of anticipation were captured against the serene backdrop of Tettegouche Lodge, a prelude to what lay ahead.

Capturing Details Overlooking Baptism River

Before heading to the ceremony site, the videographer, Bobby from Redmond Digital Media and I paused to capture details that spoke to Erin and Colton’s unique story. The Baptism River, flowing gracefully just steps from the lodge, served as a picturesque canvas for these special shots. Erin’s dress, hung elegantly amongst the perfectly draped branches overlooking the waters gliding downstream.

I took the opportunity to document their wedding rings, along with their custom designed leather bound vow books—delicately placed on a moss-covered rock—with the gentle river current adding a touch of movement to the background. It was a scene that epitomized the couple’s love for nature and adventure.

First Look and Ceremony at Black Beach

The first look was one of the most tender moments of the day. Colton stood near the towering iconic red rocks at Black Beach with the sound of Lake Superior echoing in the background, waiting for Erin.  As soon as Erin approached the rocks, Colton turned around and the look of awe and pure emotion in his eyes said everything words couldn’t. They shared a quiet embrace, surrounded by the lush forest, before making their way to the ceremony site.

The ceremony itself was held in a small clearing surrounded by family, with mist from the recent rainfall drifting in the air. The couple exchanged vows they had written themselves, their words carrying across the hushed ripples from the lake. As they promised forever, a beam of sunlight pierced through the clouds, casting a golden glow over the scene—a serendipitous touch to an already perfect moment.

Couple Photos at Black Beach & Palisades Head

After the ceremony, we ventured to Black Beach, one of the most striking locations on the North Shore. The moody, dark sand contrasted beautifully with Erin’s gown and Colton’s classic suit. The fog rolled in from the lake, creating an ethereal, almost cinematic atmosphere that heightened the romance of the photos.

Erin and Colton wandered along the shore, hand in hand, as the waves gently lapped at their feet. They shared stolen kisses and moments of playful laughter, their love radiating through each frame. We captured candid moments of them skipping stones, Erin’s veil billowing in the breeze, and Colton twirling her against the dramatic backdrop of the jagged rock formations.

To add even more breathtaking views to their gallery, we drove up the road to Palisade Head for additional photos. The sweeping cliffs and panoramic views of Lake Superior offered a dramatic setting that perfectly complemented the couple’s adventurous spirit. Erin and Colton stood at the edge, the wind tousling their hair as they looked out over the endless expanse of water, their love steadfast and bold.

Private Chef Dinner with Family

With the day transitioning into evening, Erin and Colton retreated back to their lodge with their loved ones for a private chef dinner catered by 5 Course Catering. The meal was prepared with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of North Shore’s culinary offerings. Candlelight and the soft hum of acoustic guitar music set the mood, making this an intimate and warm gathering that celebrated not just the couple, but the people who mean the most to them.

Laughter and heartfelt toasts filled the room as Erin’s father shared stories from her childhood, and Colton’s best friend recounted adventures that led up to this very day. The clinking of glasses and shared smiles encapsulated the joy and closeness of the moment.

Sunset First Dance

The final touch to their perfect day was a sunset first dance on the deck of their cabin. The sky had shifted from moody grays to warm shades of amber and rose, painting a breathtaking scene. Erin and Colton swayed to their favorite song as the last rays of sunlight filtered through the trees.

As they danced, wrapped in each other’s arms, the gentle rustling of leaves and distant call of loons became their serenade. It was the kind of moment that feels infinite—a perfect blend of serenity, love, and nature that epitomized Erin and Colton’s North Shore elopement.

Their day was more than just an elopement; it was an adventure filled with unpredictable weather, heartfelt moments, and breathtaking scenery that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

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Black Beach Elopement Packages

I’m Ivy, an elopement photographer who specializes in adventurous outdoor elopements in the Northern woods of Minnesota. Take a peek below at what I include in each and every elopement package, or check out my official pricing page here.

• 4 hours – 1.5 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Minnesota
• A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
• Elopement location recommendations
• Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
• Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
• 50+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
• Customized elopement timelines
• Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
• 48-72 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in Minnesota are already included
• Starting at $3,400