The Midwest doesn’t just have flat cornfields everywhere so if you want an epic Midwest elopement, it’s possible! Your Midwest elopement can have a stunning backdrop and we’ve made it our mission to discover gorgeous spots in Indiana that don’t feel like Indiana. One of those epic spots: DePauw Nature Park.
DePauw Nature Park in Indiana
DePauw Nature Park was originally the site of a limestone quarry from 1917-1977. In the early 2000s, the land was donated to the campus and the park transformed to what it is today.
It houses 10 miles of trails open to the public as well as multiple buildings that can be used for various events. The campus also uses the nature park for classes, research projects, and the like.
DePauw Nature Park allows for spaces to be reserved for elopements/weddings. Cost varies depending on the areas reserved. Whenever using outdoor spaces for elopements/weddings, each park has their own rules and guidelines. Check out this link for that information.
Leaving No Trace at Your Elopement
If you’re thinking of checking out this area or other outdoor spaces, please remember to leave no trace. Jonathan and I are Leave No Trace Aware photographers and we talk about these principles in our blog if you want to give it a read.
Refrain from using glitter, confetti, or things that would hurt local wildlife or plants. For more details about sustainable photo practices, you can read our blog about this.
As always when you are in nature, be sure to pack everything you brought with you. These beautiful outdoor locations are places we share with wildlife and plants and they should be kept pristine. Be kind and leave the Earth better than how you found it.
Midwest Elopement Portraits
Jonathan and I wanted to find a couple to photograph at DePauw Nature Park and we knew a couple who was available when we were. It also happened that this was close to their 5th wedding anniversary so they could use the photos to celebrate! This evening outdoors with Ming and Anne was one to remember.
We drove about an hour from the west side of Indianapolis to DePauw Nature Park. All day the weather was gloomy and rainy. On the drive over it was pouring down rain.
When we pulled into the park, miraculously the clouds parted, the rain ceased, and the sun came out. The sky was moody, the puddles were scattered among the rocks at our feet, and geese were making all sorts of sounds around us in the water.
The scene made our jaws drop as we found this little gem in the middle of the Midwest. We loved the quarry pond in the lower part of the park. It was surrounded by the quarry walls towering and purple trees flowering in the height of spring.
Jonathan guided us on one of the rim trails that led to the upper part of the quarry where we watched the sun set. The golden light perfectly awaited us as we reached the top of the rocks and brought with it warmth and comfort.
Ming and Anne are a beautiful couple—inside and out—and were natural in front of the camera. They ran, laughed, and explored the nature around them. It was peaceful and genuinely sweet watching them. Moments like these leave us speechless because of the beauty we get to capture.
“When it comes to photo sessions, I always get really nervous about posing, feeling comfortable, and knowing what to do. Working with Ashley, all those fears melted away from the moment we stepped out of the car at our location. Ashley made me feel so comfortable and natural! It was like we were hanging out and she happened to be taking pictures too! My favorite part of the session were the scenarios and prompts that we were given. It was so fun to play and be silly! The location was also stunning, a perfect match for our personalities! 10/10 I would definitely work with her again!”
-Anne F.
Midwest Elopement Photographer
DePauw Nature Park in Indiana is a perfect location for adventurous elopement portraits in the Midwest! The opportunities at this park are incredible for outdoor enthusiasts who want nature as their photo backdrop.
Capturing real authentic moments in a setting like this allows for exploration and adventure. It’s something that Jonathan and I love documenting for couples. No rushing, just exploring and capturing your elopement day as it unfolds.
Does this check the boxes of what you and your partner are looking for on your elopement day? Then all you have to do is pick an adventure that fits the two of you and we will help you narrow down your Midwest elopement location search.
Adventurous Activities for Your Midwest Elopement:
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Horseback riding
- A picnic
- Stargazing
- Roasting marshmallows over a campfire
- Rock climbing/bouldering
- Going camping
Midwest Elopement Packages
Inquire with Jonathan and I here if you’re interested in photo or video of your adventurous Midwest elopement. We also have details about our Midwest elopement packages here.
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Indiana Elopement at Sugar Creek Retreat
