Most couples who meet online connect through one of the many dating apps. For Kimberly and Steve, their online love story began a little differently. Instead of swiping right on each other, they met while playing Valorant, a first-person shooter game. (As a gamer myself, this is one of my favorite online dating stories!) They became gaming friends, eventually trading social media handles and playing together every day. With a 16-hour time difference, this was no easy feat! But as they fell for each other, they adjusted their schedules to make time for one another. After four years and many trips back and forth, Kimberly finally made the big move to California! Soon after, they made it official with an intimate Big Bear Elopement.
Kimberly and Steve’s elopement was something straight out of a daydream, and not just for them. As someone who lives for snowboarding at Big Bear, photographing an elopement here felt like my two worlds colliding. One minute I was documenting vows underneath the canopy of trees, and the next I was catching glimpses of a favorite resort in the background of their photos. It was surreal, magical, and one of those days that remind me why I love what I do!
Spring elopement in Big Bear
Juniper Picnic Area at Big Bear Lake is a gorgeous setting for an elopement. Tucked away just enough to feel secluded but still super accessible, it gives you those dreamy forest vibes without hiking for miles. We took our time exploring the trail together, letting Kimberly and Steve get a feel for the space before choosing their ceremony spot. There was no rush, just a chill, intentional evening filled with fresh mountain air and “ooh let’s check that spot out” energy.
They picked a location that gave them a little bit of everything you could want for a Big Bear Elopement: the twisty juniper trees, views of the lake, and snowcapped mountains in the distance. It was the kind of setting that just felt right for their day. It was peaceful, beautiful, and totally them.
Planner and Officiant: Let’s Get Married by Marie
Chelsea Stratso is a Big Bear Elopement photographer based in Orange County, serving all of Southern California. Head to the contact page to start planning your elopement photography.
