Jared & Jean’s Rain-or-Shine Elopement at Stonegate Glass Chapel

I don’t often blog elopements at Stonegate—not because I don’t love them, but because we have so many (and truthfully, it can start to feel a little repetitive if I shared them all!). Plus, with most elopements lasting about an hour, I don’t always get the chance to really connect with each couple.

But Jared & Jean’s wedding was one of those rare, quietly powerful days that reminded me why I do what I do.

When Nothing Went to Plan…

From a logistical standpoint… nothing really went “right.” They arrived early but realized they’d forgotten the marriage license back at their lodging. So we had to delay things a bit. Then we had music issues—twice. And at one point, we all thought the rings were missing.

But through it all, they were just so happy. So focused on being there, together, and starting their marriage. The little stuff didn’t matter.

A Global Love Story

Jean is originally from England, and she and Jared had been together long-distance for nearly four years. They looped in family from across the globe via Zoom, which made the ceremony feel even more meaningful and connected—even from far away.

And about those “forgotten” rings? Turns out, they were in Jared’s pocket the whole time. They didn’t realize it until the last five minutes. So yes, they exchanged vows with my dad’s ring (he officiated!) and mine, just for formalities’ sake. We all had a good laugh once the real ones were found.

A Reminder of What Matters Most

What made this elopement special wasn’t the timeline or the location or even the photos—it was the way Jared & Jean looked at each other. The joy that carried through every unexpected twist.

It was one of those days that quietly reminds you: it’s not about perfection. It’s about love. And this day had it in full.