Sam Starns is a TEDx speaker, author, elopement expert and movement leader in adventure elopement photography. After regretting her own traditional wedding, she began her mission to empower individuals to become unapologetically themselves by creating a wedding day and life that they can be uniquely proud of.
Licensed
Insured
5 Years
Woman-Owned Business
LGBTQ+-Owned Business
WHAT COUPLES ARE SAYING
“Our day was so kickass. It wasn’t stressful in the least, and the few loved ones that witnessed our ceremony had a great time too! Working with Sam was SO easy, she made us feel super comfortable in front of the camera and her resources were everything we needed. Looking to elope? Congratulations! Now go see Sam LOL!”
PACKAGES
Destination Adventure Elopments
(Outside the United States)
Starting at $6,800
Domestic Adventure Elopements
(Inside the United States)
Starting at $4,900
Adventure Sessions
Starting at $1,500
For couples & single sessions, and surprise proposals (I’ll bring the champagne!).
Taken on a very limited basis.
AWARDS + AS SEEN ON
OUR STORY
Based in the PNW, I, along with my “Elope Your Life” team, help free-spirited and fun couples craft enthusiastic elopment days in dramatic places.
CURSES LIKE A SAILOR. READY TO HIGH FIVE YOU FOR YOUR ELOPEMENT DECISION. WILL TRAVEL.



Sam Starns
What’s up?! I’m Sam. Rachel and I might be consummate elopement professionals, but we’re far from formal. When you work with me, you’re working with a friend. One who signs an email “xo”, not “Regards”, and one who considers you not just clients or a couple, but MY people. When we’re out hiking, there are just as likely to be funny (or lame) jokes/puns as there are epic sunsets, wildlife, and spectacular memories.
Yes, there might be poop jokes. Yes, we’ll be laughing at inappropriate things. Yes, I will likely have a Diet Coke in my car fueling me on the big day (just let me know if you want one too, so I can grab you one!).
I believe elopement experiences come down to relationships. Not just between you two, but between all of us. It allows for connection, comfortability, exploration, and ultimately a kickass adventure.

Rachel
What’s up?! I’m Rachel (call me Rach). I’m passionate about travel, advocating for kids with special needs and reading novels (esp. anything Austen or LeGuin). I’m a big believer in living and loving authentically, and I had my own adventurous elopement (in Belize). I am excited to serve as a guide and photographer on a couples’ most magical day.
Whether you work with me or Sam, your images and experience will be in line with the same style, composition and edits.
Featured Articles
Articles
A beautiful forest elopement that captures the spirit of the PNW
Sam Starns Adventure Elopements captured the unique spirit of Reilly and Cory's relationship AND the PNW in these beautiful forest elopement photos.Wedding Professionals: Photographer: Sam Starns Adventure Elopement PhotographerHMUA: Fleurt Beauty CompanyAttire: BHLDN...
“Budget” Shouldn’t Be A Four-Letter Word
By Beverly Luke
One of the most critical and often stressful components of wedding planning is setting an established budget and sticking to it. Although some couples might balk at the idea of discussing finances at a time when love and romance reign supreme, the fact remains that everyone has a budget. Regardless of your financial situation, a financial plan is critical…
In Memoriam – How To Include Loved Ones Who Have Passed Away
By Sam Starns
Your elopement is a memorable day. Your “best day yet” as I like to call it. And whether you have a few close loved ones present for your vows, there might still be someone missing who has passed away. But take heart, it can be really easy to incorporate them into your elopement! All it takes is a little preplanning and …
Adventure Elopements – A Chat with Sam Starns
By Lauren Allee
When you live in the Pacific Northwest you can’t help but LOVE the amazing opportunities to be one with nature. I have to admit, I was not aware before I started researching weddings in the PNW that “adventure elopements” were even a thing… now I’m a bit obsessed. Sam Starns the genius behind Sam Starns Adventure Elopements and author of Elope Your …