Memorial Day Elopement at Ferne Clyffe State Park

Thay and Fatima traveled from Chicago to Southern Illinois for a Memorial Day weekend filled with adventure, relaxation, and the start of their marriage. They stayed in a cozy nearby cabin, explored the beauty of the Shawnee region, and exchanged vows on a quiet Memorial Day morning at Ferne Clyffe State Park.

One of my favorite parts of photographing elopements is getting to know incredible couples like these and hearing the stories that brought them together. There’s something special about elopements because the focus stays on what truly matters. Couples are simply excited to marry their best friend, without the pressure of putting on a performance for anyone else. They are more calm, grounded, and overall very genuine in everything they do.

Their intimate ceremony among the towering trees and natural beauty of Ferne Clyffe was the perfect reflection of what an elopement can be: meaningful, intentional, and completely centered on the couple & their vows. Whether you're traveling from Chicago or anywhere in the Midwest, the Shawnee National Forest offers the perfect escape for a romantic and unforgettable elopement experience.