Big Bear Elopement | Kaisa + Devin

Most 2020 engaged couples have faced the wrath of Covid and chose to postpone but when you have a deadline, postponing is no longer an option. Kaisa and Devin’s story has been one I couldn’t wait to share because of all the hurdles and uncertainty they went through due to state guidelines and travel bans placed due to the virus.

Let’s start first with some of their history as a couple. Devin is a fireman based out of San Francisco and Kaisa, up until this Summer, lived in Estonia. Yes you read that right! There were thousands of miles between them but their love and admiration for each other helped them beat the odds of a long distance relationship. For years these two grew together through countless phone calls, Facetime chats and trips meeting up in different spots around the world and I have such a respect for them and their dedication to one another.

Kaisa and Devin originally planned to have a full wedding on June 26th but like everyone else, that wasn’t able to happen due to the restrictions placed by the state for large gatherings. Due to the uncertainty of when those restrictions would be lifted, these two weren’t sure when the best time would be to reschedule to, but this wasn’t the only uncertainty they faced. Since Kaisa was still living in Estonia and with the travel ban placed, they were unsure of when and if Kaisa would be able to make it to California. Fortunately she was able to but this did put a time restraint on when they needed to get married by in order for Kaisa to stay here in the US.

After looking at some dates, Kaisa and Devin decided on August 20th and asked if I could be of some help with finding a location to elope at. With only 4 guests attending their elopement, I suggested renting an AirBnB that provides enough room to set up a small ceremony space outdoors and since Kaisa’s family was unable to attend, the Air BnB’s WiFi gave them the opportunity to stream the ceremony live overseas for everyone to watch.

Since the couple were streaming their ceremony, everything started at noon so the family could be in attendance online. Kaisa looked so breathtaking walking up the stairs to the altar while being escorted by her soon to be brother-in-law. Once she reached Devin, his reaction was one I will never forget because he was so happy seeing his Bride that he laughed with excitement. After saying their personal vows, braiding of the rope and exchanging rings, these two were finally officially married!

We all made a quick trip to Devin’s mother’s AirBnB down the street for some cake cutting and a quick whiskey drink (and no I didn’t partake even though that whiskey looked really tasty) and then we traveled 30 minutes away to a secluded lake for their gorgeous romantics. The drive there was a rough one because it's all dirt and rocks but totally worth it because it was phenomenal out there.

I am beyond happy that I could help these two make their wedding officially happen. After all the hurdles and speed bumps placed in front of them, I’m glad they are now married and enjoying their new life together.

Congratulations again you two and thank you for letting me be a part of telling your story!

Watch Kaisa and Devin’s highlight video below as well as some of my favorite photos from this gorgeous day!