About Marla Manes | Washington Elopement Photographer

YOUR RESIDENT

ELOPEMENT EXPERT

And photographer, advisor, hype-woman, hiking partner, dress fluffer, hair smoother, boutonniere pinner, and friend whose love language is acts of service -`♡´-

Hi! I’m Marla, and I’ve found the best job possible to put my people-pleasing skills to use: as the artist that’s there to capture your best moments on your best day. As the photographer by your side on your wedding day, I’m there making sure it all goes smoothly so you can focus on what you’re really there for– the vows and the views.

Photos are the most precious thing in the world to me, so rest assured, I’m here for way more than just the pretty pictures.

I eloped, too!

So I know exactly where you’re at right now– I was there, too.

SO excited, but also so nervous! Thrilled with all of the possibilities, but also a bit overwhelmed. Intimidated trying to pick a photographer. Wondering if I could possibly look as good as the photos I saw online, or if I could possibly have as good a time as those people looked like they were having. Was this for me, or was it out of reach?

I knew I loved elopements– I just couldn’t truly understand how much until I went through the experience myself. Until I was the one standing amongst the mountains, reciting my vows, promising to love my partner forever. Then I got it. Then I knew what my clients had been going through. And I knew I would never stop trying to give that kind of experience to other eloping couples, because everybody deserves that amount of joy and wonder!

My Values

Elopements that honor your love and the land

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

I got my bachelor’s degree in sustainability, so from the beginning, my care for the environment has informed the way that I do business. I’ve co-founded a sustainability organization for wedding professionals here in the PNW called Emerald Hour, and in addition to my efforts there to spread sustainable practices throughout the industry, I’m also a Leave No Trace certified aware photographer and a carbon neutral business.

INCLUSIVITY & EQUITY

Inclusivity is something I take very seriously, in a way that goes far deeper than a simple, “All are welcome here!” This is a safe space for all members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and somewhere where all skin tones, body shapes, ethnicities, religions, and abilities are celebrated. No matter what you look like or what you believe in, I will do everything in my power to give you an incredible experience and beautiful photos.

AUTHENTICITY

Authenticity is a bit of a buzzword these days, so let me be clear: my version of authenticity goes beyond candid photos. It is my goal to aim to tell the story of your day in a way that is not just beautiful, but also honest. I want you to remember your day as it was, which affects everything from the way I photograph your elopement to the way I edit each photo, and the way I support you and your partner throughout the day. I want your experience to be authentically yours.

If you are searching for the best elopement photographer, Marla is it! She is personable, communicative, professional, and so incredibly talented. 100% recommend eloping and hiring her!

– Oksana & Jay