Dalton and Tanieka had originally planned for a big wedding. But when costs started to spiral and what they started to feel out of touch with what they were putting together, it was time for a rethink. They instead planned something much more intimate and much more them, built around places that already carried the atmosphere they wanted. The Hoh Rainforest and Ruby Beach in Olympic National Park, WA were the perfect spots. With moss hanging from trees and fog moving over the ocean, it was the perfect setting for their moody, gloomy ’til death’ themed day.

“We originally started looking into traditional wedding venues, but it quickly became stressful and overwhelmingly expensive”, the bride began. “Somewhere in that process, we realised we were trying to fit ourselves into an idea that didn’t feel like us at all. It’s so easy to get caught up in what a wedding ‘should’ look like. Once we focused on what felt true to us – the dark, moody atmosphere, the intimacy the quiet magic of nature – everything fell perfectly into place. There’s such beauty in creating something that reflects your soul, not anyone else’s idea of a perfect day.”

They chose to have only a small circle of family present. There was no formal reception either so so no schedule to chase and no obligation to perform. The details they did include were simply yet deliberate. Tanieka wore a black wedding dress and custom Dr. Martens hand-painted with skulls, roses in red and purple, and the words “Til Death Do Us Part.

The couple read vows privately then had a short ceremony beneath the trees. “We didn’t have music; instead, the soundtrack was the forest.” Tanika said. “The atmosphere was moody and ethereal, with soft mist drifting through the trees. We were married by a very close friend, which made the ceremony feel even more personal and meaningful, like the words were coming from someone who truly knew our hearts. And having a few carefully chosen family members there to witness our love made it felt sacred, like our own little secret tucked away in nature.” After the ceremony, they shared champagne and cut a small cake.

They spent the weekend in a cabin by a lake in Port Angeles with the family who joined them. A month later, they hosted a larger celebration with friends and extended family. “Our favourite part of the planning process was how relatively simple it was”, the bride continued. “We only had to focus on a few meaningful details: the permit to get married in the rainforest, our incredible photographers, hair and make-up, and the cosy cabin by the lake. Without the chaos of a big event, we were able to stay present and intentional, creating something that felt effortless and true to us.”