Northern California’s stunning landscapes provide the backdrop for some of the most beautiful love stories. At MeliRae Photography, I really strive to create elopements that are as enchanting as they are eco-conscious. These ancient Redwoods where my family and I call home (and maybe you do too!) deserve our unwavering love and respect. Your special day is no exception; it deserves to be celebrated in a way that leaves no trace.

That’s why I’m wholeheartedly committed to infusing the Leave No Trace ethos into my work, doing my part to keep public lands wild and beautiful for my kids to continue to enjoy throughout their lives and for the generations to come. Not only does this commitment help to ensure that these lands remain wild and beautiful, but it also helps to ensure that you’ll have a special place to come back to for future anniversaries or vow renewals!

Keeping The Adventure Wild

Leave No Trace is a set of 7 ethical guidelines or principles serving as a gentle compass for mindful travel while out on public lands. But it isn’t a strict rulebook. The essence of Leave No Trace isn’t about finger-pointing or self-judgment. It’s a gentle nudge towards responsible exploration and recreation. Casting judgement upon others, and even ourselves, doesn’t foster the kind of impact, change and awareness that we aim for as eco-conscious adventurers. It can be off-putting and closes the door to open-minded conversations.

In reality, it’s not about a handful of photographers achieving perfect practices. Instead, it’s about a community of photographers consciously striving to uphold the Leave No Trace principles to the best of their abilities, as often as they can. This collective commitment paves the way for more sustainable and eco-conscious recreating.

So What Exactly Are The 7 Guidelines, You Ask?

1. Plan ahead and prepare
2. Travel & camp on durable surfaces
3. Dispose of waste properly
4. Leave what you find
5. Minimize campfire impacts
6. Respect wildlife
7. Be considerate of others

By following these principles as often and as best as you can, your love story will last, but your impact on the environment won’t! Let’s keep it wild and wonderful together.

If you are looking to elope in Northern California and vibe with following these moral guidelines while out in nature, please head to the “get in touch” tab and fill out a short form so we could connect and chat over the phone! I’d love to hear all about what you have in mind for your special day and to see if we’re a good fit for each other.

P.S. Check out here where the Leave No Trace organization offers a more in-depth look at each of these principles.

Happy eloping!

~ MeliRae xoxo