How to Elope

If you’re considering an elopement, you’re thinking about creating a wedding day that’s designed around what matters most to you as a couple. Whether that means saying “I do” at sunrise on a secluded beach, having an intimate ceremony in a field of wildflowers near a mountain, or simply having a chill day filled with food and activities, this guide will walk you through the planning process so that you can create a day that feels completely authentic to your love story.

What is an Elopement?

Eloping means having an intimate wedding ceremony focused on what’s most important to you, typically with just the couple or a small group of loved ones. Modern elopements can include travel, adventure activities, and personalized touches—they’re about designing a day that reflects your relationship and values.

Some couples elope because they prefer intimate settings. Others are drawn to unique locations or want to focus their budget on experiences rather than a large reception. There’s no single reason or right way to do it.

For an in-depth explanation of what eloping is, check out my What is an Elopement blog.

Step 1: Decide If Eloping Fits Your Vision

This might be one of the most important conversations you’ll have as a couple. Take time to really think about what would make you both happiest on your wedding day.

Do you both light up when you imagine having uninterrupted time together, or do you thrive with lots of people around you?

When you picture your perfect day, are you exploring somewhere new together, or are you most excited about celebrating with a big group?

Do you find yourselves more energized by intimate conversations or by being the center of attention?

Would you rather invest in an experience you’ll remember forever, or in creating a celebration for lots of people you care about?

There’s no right or wrong answer to any of these questions. Some couples realize they’ve been planning the wedding they thought they should want instead of the one they actually want. Others discover that a big celebration really is their dream. Both are completely valid.

If you’re feeling torn, consider that elopements can include the people who matter most to you—it doesn’t have to be just the two of you. The magic happens when you design a day around your relationship and values rather than trying to meet everyone else’s expectations.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

Location shapes the entire feel of your day. Consider what environments make you both feel comfortable and happy.

Popular adventure elopement settings include:

Mountains: Alpine meadows, scenic overlooks, hiking trails, ski lodges

Coastlines: Beaches, cliffs, lighthouses, seaside towns

Forests: Wooded trails, waterfalls, cabins, national parks

Deserts: Canyons, rock formations, wide open spaces

Think about accessibility, weather, and what activities you might want to include. Some locations work better for certain seasons or require more planning than others.

Most importantly, really take the time to think this through. Close your eyes and imagine what your dream day feels like. What does paradise look like to you?

If you’re stuck in this part of the process, no worries. As an adventure elopement photographer who travels extensively and has photographed every type of scenery, I can also help guide you to the right location that fits you based on your story and values.

Step 3: Select Your Date

Choosing your date is about more than just logistics—it’s about finding a day that feels meaningful to you as a couple.

Maybe you want to honor the anniversary of your first date or the day you got engaged. Perhaps there’s a season that holds special meaning in your relationship, or a time of year when your chosen location looks most beautiful to you.

If you’re inviting family or friends, consider their schedules too. Are there family members who would need to travel? Does your date conflict with other important events in their lives? Finding a balance between what’s meaningful to you and what works for the people you care about can take some thought. This is a great time to coordinate with guests about their schedule if you choose to invite any.

Practical considerations also matter:

Weather patterns at your chosen location 

Daylight hours for photography and activities
Tourist seasons and crowd levels

Vendor availability and pricing

A mountain location might be stunning in autumn but inaccessible in early spring. Beach ceremonies can be magical at sunset but might face afternoon storms during certain seasons. Researching typical conditions helps you plan for the experience you’re hoping for.

Weekdays often mean fewer crowds and sometimes lower vendor rates, while weekends might work better if guests need to travel or take time off work.

Step 4: Find Your Photographer

Your photographer becomes much more than someone who takes pictures—they’re often your primary planning partner for the entire elopement process.

Look for photographers who:

• Provide detailed location guidance based on your vision
• Help navigate permits and logistics
• Offer resources like custom packing lists and timeline curation
• Have experience with your type of location and understand unique considerations
• Make you feel comfortable and excited about your day

The right photographer will be with you throughout your entire day, helping with flow and timing, suggesting meaningful moments, and ensuring you can focus on each other instead of worrying about details.

Many couples find that this level of support makes the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling confident about their plans. When you’re researching photographers, look for someone whose work resonates with you but who also offers the planning partnership that makes elopements successful.

For more about my photography service, visit my pricing page. To learn more about me to see if we vibe, visit my about page.

Step 5: Arrange Accommodations

Where you stay becomes part of your story, and it’s worth putting thought into what would make you both happiest.

Are you someone who loves waking up cozy and warm before heading into an adventure? A cabin with a fireplace might be perfect for getting ready together. Do you prefer having everything taken care of so you can focus on each other? A nice hotel with room service could be exactly right.

Maybe you want to wake up already surrounded by your ceremony backdrop—camping or glamping puts you right in the heart of your location. Or perhaps you’re a road trip person who loves the flexibility of taking your home with you in an RV.

Think about the morning of your wedding day. Do you want space to get ready separately and have a first look? Or do you prefer getting ready together? Do you want to cook breakfast together, or would you rather have someone else handle the details?

Popular areas often book up 6-12 months in advance, especially during peak seasons. The sooner you can secure your accommodations, the more options you’ll have and the easier your other planning becomes.

If you’re bringing family or friends, think about whether you want to stay together or have your own space. Both can be wonderful—it just depends on what feels right for your relationships and your day.

Step 6: Plan Activities

Activities transform your elopement from just a ceremony into a full experience you’ll remember for years.

Think about what makes you both feel most connected and alive together. Are you the couple who loves early morning adventures? Watching the sunrise together from somewhere beautiful could be the perfect way to start your wedding day.

Maybe you’re foodies who love discovering new places together. Planning a picnic with local specialties or booking a cooking class could add meaning to your celebration.

Some couples are happiest when they’re active together—hiking, kayaking, or exploring new trails. Others prefer slower moments like stargazing, reading together by a lake, or having long conversations over good wine.

Consider your energy levels too. Will you want to do something active after your ceremony, or would you prefer to relax and savor the moment? There’s no right answer—just what feels authentic to you as a couple.

Don’t forget practical considerations: if you’re including your dog, make sure activities are pet-friendly and safe. If family is coming, think about what everyone can comfortably participate in.

Common adventure elopement activities:

• Hiking to scenic viewpoints. Include your pets where it’s allowed.
• Having a picnic, visit a restaurant, or hire a private chef
• Water activities like kayaking or paddle boarding
• Horseback riding
• Book a private boat tour
• Stargazing or watching sunrise/sunset

Some couples choose one main activity, while others include several smaller moments throughout the day. Base your choices on what feels fun and manageable for you both.

Step 7: Create Your Timeline

A timeline isn’t about rigid scheduling—it’s about giving yourselves permission to relax and be present instead of constantly wondering “what’s next?”

Start with the moments that matter most to you. Do you want to watch the sunrise together? See golden hour light for photos? Have a long, leisurely dinner? Build your day around those priorities.

Think about your energy patterns too. Are you early birds who love morning light, or do you come alive in the evening? Do you need time to decompress after emotional moments, or do you prefer to keep moving?

Consider practical elements:

• Realistic travel time between locations (and add buffer time)
• When you’ll be hungriest and need breaks
• How long your ceremony and vows might take
• Time for the photos that matter most to you
• Space for unexpected moments or weather delays

Remember that some of the most beautiful moments happen when plans change. Maybe it rains and you end up having an intimate ceremony inside your cabin. Maybe you discover an amazing viewpoint on your hike and decide to stop there longer than planned.

Build flexibility into your timeline so you can embrace whatever the day brings.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by building a wedding timeline, I got you. As an adventure elopement photographer, I’ve basically built timelines for all of my couples. My timeline building process helps you breathe, avoid worse cases, and most importantly they reflect things you value out of your day. 

Step 8: Consider Additional Vendors

Think about what would make your day feel most special and complete for you.

Some couples want fresh flowers because the beauty and scent make everything feel more ceremonial. Others prefer to let the natural landscape be their decoration. Both choices are perfect.

If getting your hair and makeup done makes you feel confident and pampered, especially for outdoor conditions, it might be worth including. If you prefer your natural self or enjoy doing your own, that’s equally beautiful.

Consider what would make your celebration feel complete. Would having live music during your ceremony give you chills in the best way? Would a private chef creating a special meal make your day feel more luxurious? Would having video help you remember the way you both laughed during your vows?

Here is a list of common elopement vendors:

• Hair & makeup artists familiar with outdoor settings
• Private chef or caterer for a post-ceremony meal
• Musicians or officiant
• Videographer
• Florals (bouquets, boutonnieres, ceremony pieces)

The key is choosing people who enhance your day. Look for vendors experienced with intimate weddings and outdoor locations. They’ll better understand the logistics and be prepared for the unique aspects of elopements.

Step 9: Plan Your Attire and Gear

Your wedding outfit should make you feel amazing and confident in your chosen setting.

Think about what makes you feel most beautiful and authentic. Do you love getting dressed up, or do you feel most comfortable in something you could hike in? Do you want to honor tradition with formal attire, or does casual elegance feel more like you?

Consider your activities and location. If you’re hiking to your ceremony spot, you’ll want comfortable shoes and perhaps layers you can add or remove. If you’re on a beach, flowing fabrics that move in the wind could be perfect.

Don’t forget about comfort and practicality:

• Shoes that work for your terrain and won’t leave you miserable
• Layers for changing weather or temperature
• A backup outfit for different parts of your day
• Items that will help you feel prepared and confident

Many couples pack things like:

• Comfortable walking shoes and more formal shoes for photos
• A jacket or wrap for changing temperatures
• A small backpack for essentials during activities
• Headlamps or flashlights for early morning or evening adventures

If a packing list feels daunting to you or maybe you don’t even know where and what to shop for right now, I also offer personalized packing list creation for my couples. 

Step 10: Handle Legal Requirements

The legal side might feel overwhelming, but it’s usually more straightforward than it seems.

Every location has different rules, and research is your friend here. Some states let you get married the same day you apply for your license. Others require waiting periods. Some need witnesses, others don’t. A few places even let you officiate your own ceremony.

Start by looking up the marriage license requirements for your ceremony location. You’ll typically need:

• Valid identification
• Completed application
• Payment for fees
• To meet any waiting period requirements
• Appropriate witnesses and officiant (if required)

If you’re getting married in a national or state park, you’ll likely need a special use permit. These usually involve a fee and application process, so don’t wait until the last minute.

The process might feel bureaucratic, but remember—this is what makes your commitment legally recognized. That’s worth celebrating too.

Don’t hesitate to call the relevant offices if you have questions. They’re usually happy to walk you through the requirements and timeline.

A bonus: I’m ordained, which means I can officiate your wedding and/or be your witness.

Step 11: Add Personal Touches

This is where you can add the details that make your day uniquely yours.

Write or refine your vows: Even jotting down a rough draft beforehand can take the pressure off. That way, when the day comes, you’re not spending hours sitting there thinking of what to write in your vows.

Practice a few poses together: Don’t worry—your photographer will guide you on the day. But playing around at home can make you feel more relaxed in front of the camera and even spark some laughs.

Create a playlist: Music can instantly set the tone. Whether it’s for getting ready, hiking to your ceremony spot, or your first dance under the stars, a playlist makes the experience even more memorable.

Pack keepsakes: Things like vow books, polaroids, or any extra sentimental items are great additions to bring. They will help your photographer take detailed photos and flat lays.

Write letters to each other (or from loved ones): Tucking a letter into your backpack and surprising your partner during the ceremony or dinner adds an intimate, unexpected moment.

Prep a day-of kit: Snacks, hydration, tissues, sunscreen, bug spray—little things that save stress later.

Think about what would make you smile or feel more connected to the people and memories you care about. Maybe it’s wearing your grandmother’s earrings, bringing a photo of someone who can’t be there, or including a reading that perfectly captures how you feel about each other.

Choose additions that feel meaningful to you rather than things you think you should include.

Step 12: Your Elopement Day

This is the day you’ve been planning and dreaming about. Trust that you’ve thought through what matters and prepared well.

However your day unfolds—whether everything goes exactly as planned or takes beautiful unexpected turns—focus on being present with each other. Notice the little moments: how your partner’s hand feels in yours, the way the light falls during your ceremony, the sound of their voice when they say their vows.

These are the details you’ll remember long after the day is over.

Remember that the goal isn’t perfection—it’s celebrating your commitment to each other in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you both.

Environmental Considerations: Leave no Trace

When you choose to celebrate in natural places, you become a steward of those environments for future couples and wildlife.

Following Leave No Trace principles helps preserve the beauty that drew you there:

• Stay on designated trails and durable surfaces
• Pack out everything you bring in
• Leave natural and cultural features undisturbed
• Observe wildlife from a respectful distance
• Be considerate of other visitors

It’s a small way to give back to the places that make your celebration possible.

Congrats, you did it!

You’ve got the roadmap – now let’s bring your elopement vision to life!

I know there’s a lot to think about after reading through all these steps, and that’s completely normal. Take your time to let it all settle, talk it through with your partner, and dream about what your ideal day might look like.

When you’re ready to move from dreaming to planning, I’d love to help you make it happen. Through five years of travel photography and countless solo adventures around the world, I’ve learned the ins and outs of planning unforgettable experiences in incredible locations. I’ve worked with couples to create intimate celebrations everywhere from remote mountain peaks to hidden beaches, and I’ve developed an approach that takes the stress out of elopement planning while keeping all the excitement intact.

I’m here to guide you through every detail – from finding the perfect location that matches your vision to handling all those logistics that can feel overwhelming when you’re doing it alone. There’s something magical about watching couples create a wedding day that’s completely true to who they are, and I get genuinely excited about being part of that process with you.

Your love story deserves a celebration that feels as unique and authentic as your relationship. If an intimate, intentional wedding day sounds like exactly what you’ve been hoping for, let’s chat about making it reality!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do we choose where to elope? Consider what environments make you feel happiest and most comfortable. Your photographer can suggest specific locations based on your preferences and vision.

What are the legal requirements? You’ll need a marriage license from your ceremony location and must meet local requirements for officiants and witnesses. Research these early as rules vary widely.

How many people can we invite? Elopements can include just the couple or small groups of family and friends. Choose based on what feels right for you.

Do we need a wedding planner? Many photographers provide planning guidance for elopements. For complex logistics or larger groups, a planner can be helpful but isn’t always necessary.

What if the weather doesn’t cooperate? Have backup plans for indoor locations or covered areas. Many couples find that dramatic weather creates beautiful and memorable photos.

How much does eloping cost? Costs vary widely based on location, travel, vendors, and activities. Elopements can range from very budget-friendly to luxury experiences.

Final Thoughts

Eloping is about creating a wedding day that reflects your relationship and priorities. Whether you’re drawn to adventure, intimacy, unique locations, or simply a more relaxed celebration, there’s no single right way to approach it.

The planning process can be as simple or detailed as you prefer. Focus on the elements that matter most to you and don’t feel pressured to include traditions or activities that don’t resonate with your vision.

Your elopement day is ultimately about celebrating your commitment to each other in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you both.