Under a cover of foggy mist along the winding mountain roads that lead to Mount Baldy, Rachel and Lucas embarked on a new chapter together. They celebrated their love surrounded by tall pine trees, fresh mountain air, and family and friends from all around the country. YMCA Camp ELK was the perfect backdrop for a weekend filled with love, laughter, and lifelong memories.

The original plan was to get married at Camp Wasewagan near Big Bear, but mother nature and Hurricane Hilary had other plans. After a hundred phone calls, Rachel and Lucas found YMCA Camp ELK, and it turned out to be a perfect fit. The summer camp was a perfect complement to the couple’s adventurous spirits. Ten cabins surrounded by towering trees provided accommodation for their guests while fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie.

YMCA Camp ELK came fitted with all the decor the couple could have dreamed of to capture the essence of a summer camp themed wedding. From hand painted canoe paddles encircling the dining hall to a massive stone fireplace, the magic that can only be found at camp was ever-present there. Tables were set with twinkling hurricane lanterns and wildflowers in recycled glass bottles. The ceremony site was an amphitheater carved into the side of the box canyon overlooking the camp below, offering a stunning backdrop for Rachel and Lucas to exchange their vows.

A campfire was set up for a cozy evening of storytelling and laughter, creating the perfect ambiance for building new memories. The couple roasted s’mores together instead of cutting a cake and treated their guests to a supply of Girl Scout cookies. The groomsmen did a good job of keeping a canoe well stocked with ice and beer from local Southern California breweries.

Rachel and Lucas's summer camp-themed wedding in the Southern California mountains was a celebration of love, nature, and the joy of being surrounded by cherished friends and family. The laughter, the crackling of the campfire, and the echos of marriage vows will linger in the mountain air forever.

Vendors:

Venue: YMCA Camp ELK

Planner: Happily Ever Adventure Co

Photographer: Megan Faith Photography

Videographer: Narrative Exposure

Catering: YMCA Camp ELK

Florist: Fresh Flower Society

DJ: DJ H-Rod & Company

Painter: Amber Marie Art

Makeup Artist: Glam by Chelle

Hair Stylist: Hair by Jenna Liz