Meredith & James’ Arkansas Summer Elopement was beautiful, indeed. But also….. insanely hot!! It was 107 degrees!! I honestly don’t know how we made it through the day. Meredith & James were in the middle of building their country homestead, so it was only fit that they start off their morning routine as usual – working on home renovations. This was one of my favorite parts of their wedding day! When something is so YOU, incorporate that into one of the most special days of your lives! Why not!? I super hope other couples will see this and know that they can have photos while building their home too!

James fired up the grill for lunch while Meredith and their pups enjoyed running through the sprinkler! We had a couple hours to kill before their next adventure, so we just sat on their porch and had epic conversation in the meantime. We discussed religion, politics, future goals, relationship lows and highs, everything under the sun. These two always make me feel safe in conversation, even for the hard hitting topics and I adore them for that.

At this point, the sun had only gotten higher and the heat had gotten more extreme, but we carried on anyways! We packed up our things and headed out to one of their favorite local spots, Natural Dam, Arkansas. Alas, the heat got the best of us less than an hour later. So we headed back home, but James being the adventurous Sagittarius that he is, just HAD to take a new route home. Turns out, that tiny little road that was maybe or maybe not a real road on Google Maps, was definitely not a real road. It was meant for backcountry four-wheeling and dirt biking. Would his jeep fit through the winding woods? One way to find out haha

Guess what? We made it back to their homestead for the final part of their Arkansas Summer Elopement! How? No idea. James is one hell of a driver when it comes to navigating tight and tricky situations. Once we got back and settled in, we spent some time trying to cool off in the air conditioning before exploring their own property for some much needed hammock time. Before we knew it, the sun was setting and it was time to hike down further for a sweeping view of the Ozark Mountains. I’m still blown away that they were able to say their vows on their own property, especially with such beautiful views!

Their vows were moving and heartfelt, as expected, but they were also very similar! Just showing how in sync these two are! They really are the most perfect match and I couldn’t be more happy for them. We ended their Arkansas Summer Elopement night with a celebratory bonfire as we reflected on all the best parts of their day. Meredith & James, you know I love you guys. I will always cherish our friendship. I wish you both the absolute best as you continue building your homestead! Next time I visit, I fully expect to see your vegetable garden thriving as well as a new addition to the family (a rescue pup, obviously haha)!