Jess Hopkins Jess Hopkins

Un-believable Mountain View Elopement

Un-believable mountain views during a golden hour Elopement here in North Carolina.

Eagle Rock, Black Mountain, NC

This day started with all of us filling our gas tanks, grabbing snacks for the road, and making one last bathroom break. The scenery on the way up teased us with its beauty. I’m lucky that I got to gaze out the window scarfing down trail mix and sour gummies while my husband drove us. The roads were windy, the scattered buildings were peoples homes, and the nature was untouched.

Eagle Rock, Black Mountain, NC

After a little more than an hour, we made it to the parking lot. We grabbed all our gear, a few water bottles and headed toward the trail. It was my first time at this location and I was filled with excitement, anticipating what I would get to see.

We all stopped for short breaks as we pushed forward to make it to the top. Each time I got to “ooooo” and “ahhhhhh” at some fiddlehead ferns and wild mushrooms. There was a gap in the trees that gave us a peak at how high up we were.

Eagle Rock, Black Mountain, NC

It only got more and more beautiful as we continued on the path. Then, I saw the first giant rock formation and yelled “THIS IS AMAZING!”. Amelia shouted back, “Oh you just wait!”.

Then came the second giant rock formation. My mind raced with thoughts of how in the world it was even possible for them to be up on this mountain. I pictured enormous waves of water rushing through the gaps between the mountains, carrying trees and boulders with them. “A flood, maybe?” I whispered to myself as I gazed at the scenery with amazement.

Amelia shouted, “We are almost there!”. “To what?”, I thought to myself, “This is already so spectacular!”. There it was. A break in the forest where you could gaze out for miles. “This is it, this is where I want to say I do.” Amelia said.

Eagle Rock, Black Mountain, NC

We all went quiet as we shared the same breath-taking view. The blue ridge mountains seemed to stretch out endlessly. It was absolutely perfect. It couldn’t be more perfect. I captured Amelia and Jeff sharing their vows and saying there I do’s with the most beautiful backdrop.

We then explored the boulders and found a magical spot. I placed Amelia and Jeff in this hidden oasis where you could see a sliver of the sun’s golden hue.

Not only will they have these documented moments for the rest of their lives, but I, also will have these incredible memories.

Eagle Rock, Black Mountain, NC

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Jess Hopkins Jess Hopkins

Tattoo’s and Mountains

The blue ridge mountains, blue hair, tattoos, and above all, their love. This couples session was so beautiful from the vibrant ferns in the pine forest and the abundant foliage on top of black balsam knob. Adventuring to these places is a dream come true.

Black Balsam Knob off the Blue Ridge Parkway is always beautiful, but especially when it is at its peak lushness in the summer. I met Laura and David at the bottom in the Pine Forest. The greens were so vibrant with the sun’s golden glow highlighting the ferns.

I couldn’t be more excited that Laura was rocking her teal | blue hair with the blue ridge mountains behind her. It was a sight to be seen. As sunset began the moon begged to be documented. I am so glad we made it happen with this couple’s session.

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“Jess is a captivating spirit and made me and my husband feel so comfortable during our shoot. We went to a semi popular waterfall, so I had some anxiety about being in front of others but Jess washed that away as soon as we arrived. Her gentle and warm encouragements during the session allowed us to embrace the nature around us and just focus on each other so that we could show our most authentic selves. There was no posing, just casual movement and love. I hope hope everyone can experience an afternoon with Jess as she captures your true essence and opens herself up to create a magical space just for you.” - Amber