About
Hey! I’m Kirsten Fraude, owner of Kirsten Alexandria Photography & your North Carolina Elopement & Wedding photographer.
I’m an Asheville-based photographer who specializes in adventure elopements and weddings. My love for nature, hiking, and adventure runs deep, stemming from my childhood spent exploring the great outdoors with my dad. 🙂
After earning my BFA in photography, I hiked the majority of the Appalachian Trail & fell in love with the mountains and natural beauty of Western North Carolina.
I am passionate about helping couples create meaningful and memorable experiences in the most beautiful places on earth, whether it be on a mountain, desert, beach, under a waterfall or at a gorgeous venue.
The Appalachian Trail is a HUGE part of my life
The Appalachian Trail holds a special place in my heart as my father hiked it in 1980 and shared stories of his adventure throughout his life. His tales inspired me to hike the AT as well.
I feel fortunate to be able to witness these same mountains become an important chapter of my couples’ lives too, as these majestic peaks provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
Meet my family
Meet JJ, my biggest supporter and the person who encouraged me to chase my dream of becoming an adventure elopement photographer. We first met on the Appalachian Trail, where we were both attempting a thru-hike. We hiked together for over 1000 miles until I had to leave the trail for the holidays and he continued on to finish the remaining miles. Nine months later, he came to visit me in North Carolina and decided to move here too.
We have two fur-babies, Roxy & Ruger. & they’re the best little hiker pups ever.
At many of my elopements & sessions you’ll find JJ working as my assistant behind the scenes. From holding your adorable pup’s leash to signing your marriage license, he’s happy to help. 🙂
So, How am I different?
I’m different than other wedding and elopement photographers because I put YOU first. I’m not worried about whether a certain pose or photo idea would look perfect for my portfolio. I am a firm believer in capturing real, genuine moments between people who are head-over-heels in love with each other. No awkward prom poses, just the two of you being yourselves! I promise to do everything I can to make you feel comfortable and relaxed.
I care about your experience as much as you care about your photos.
I’m not the type of photographer who just shows up on your big day and then leaves. You can count on me for vendor recommendations, must have shot lists, helping choose the best images to put in your heirloom album, & so much more. I’ll help you in any way that I can.
As an ally of the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, I want you to know that you are not only welcomed here but also celebrated. 🏳️🌈🖤
TRAVEL ELOPEMENT
BUCKET LIST
Special discounted pricing for any of the places on this list! 😉
Antarctica
Joshua Tree, CA
Glacier National Park, MT
Utah
Jackson Hole, WY
Alaska
Colorado
Sedona, AZ
100 mile wilderness, ME
Mammoth Lakes, CA