There’s something pretty magical about saying “I do” with the wind in your hair, the earth beneath your feet, and maybe a few curious squirrels as your witnesses. Nature elopements are for the couples who feel most at home outside. If this sounds like you, I created this guide to walk you through the steps for planning your dream day. As a queer elopement photographer who’s been lucky enough to document love stories in some truly stunning outdoor spots, I’ve seen firsthand how freeing and joyful this kind of elopement can be. And I want to share that with you!

What is a Nature Elopement?

A nature elopement, or an outdoor elopement, is exactly what it sounds like: an intentional, intimate celebration of your love in a natural setting. Nature elopements are usually smaller (less than 30 people or sometimes just the couple and their photographer) and are deeply personal. 

Eloping outdoors is for everyone. No matter what vibe you’re drawn to, like a mountaintop, beach, or forest, nature has no shortage of places to fit everyone’s preferences.

Benefits of Outdoor Elopements

Okay, so why should you have a nature elopement to begin with? Here are some of the benefits of eloping outdoors (some may surprise you!).

Listen: The Scientific Benefits of Eloping Outdoors

1. Boosts Your Well-Being

Spending time in nature literally makes you feel better. Like, science says so. One study found that just two hours a week outdoors improves both physical and mental health. And guess what? You’ll probably spend way more than that during your elopement.

2. Reduces Stress (Especially in Forests!)

If you’re like me, a feeling of calm comes when walking through a forest. Turns out there’s a reason for that. Forest settings have been shown to reduce stress, boost immunity, lower blood pressure, and even increase creativity.

3. Deepens Connection With Your Partner

When you’re surrounded by nature, it’s easier to slow down and be present. You get to focus on your partner, your vows, and the moment. Whether you’re spiritual, non-religious, or somewhere in between, nature offers a grounding, judgment-free space to celebrate your love exactly the way you want.

4. The Views are Unreal

Sure, floral arches are cute, but can they compete with a mountaintop at golden hour? Or a moody forest with morning mist? In my opinion, nature comes with built-in backdrops that no venue could ever match.

5. You Make the Decisions

Most traditional venues come with a long list of rules. Outdoor elopements give you way more flexibility—just make sure to follow local guidelines and Leave No Trace principles. You’ll have way more creative freedom to design a day that feels like you.

Read More: Leave No Trace for Elopements

6. It’s Easier on the Wallet

Eloping generally means fewer guests. And fewer guests usually means less money spent on catering and food, and more money on what matters to you (like your dream location or a photographer who truly gets you). 

7. It’s Great for Queer Couples!

I know that finding inclusive venues in the traditional wedding space can be quite exhausting. So, why not move the celebration into nature? In most cases, you won’t have to worry about judgmental venues or weird vendors, especially if you find queer-affirming professionals (like me!). 

8. You Control the Guest List

If you’ve got complicated family dynamics, as I know can be the case for many queer folks, including myself, eloping in nature can take that pressure off. Invite only those who truly support you—or don’t invite anyone at all. It’s your day, and nobody else gets to make that guest list but you.

9. No Need to Entertain

Worried about playing host? Don’t be. With a small guest list (or no guests at all) in the middle of nature, you get to focus on each other, not on timelines, speeches, or cake-cutting logistics. You’ll also likely remember more of your elopement because you get to be more present with the experience.

10. Built-In Adventure

An outdoor elopement can often double as a mini-vacation. Whether you hike to your ceremony spot or just stay a few extra days to explore, eloping gives you the perfect excuse to turn your celebration into an adventure.

How to Elope Outdoors: Step-by-Step

Planning an outdoor elopement doesn’t have to be complicated, but it can feel like a lot when you’re first starting out. Trust me, I know! If you’re not sure where to begin, this step-by-step breakdown will walk you through the whole process.

Step 1: Brainstorm

Start by dreaming big. Ask yourself some open-ended questions:

• What kind of scenery are we drawn to? For example, mountains, forests, beaches, deserts, or waterfalls?
• Do we want to hike or keep things more chill?
• Are we imagining a quiet, just-us-two moment or a small group of close people?
• What kinds of activities sound fun? Picnicking, kayaking, hot spring soaking, star gazing?
• Is there a place that already holds meaning for us?
  

You don’t need to have all the answers yet. This step is about throwing ideas onto the table and seeing what stands out. I also want to remind you that there’s no such thing as a “silly” idea in the brainstorming phase. You never know which random Pinterest pin, memory, or inside joke will lead to the most meaningful plan.

Pro tip: If you’re visual, try creating a shared Pinterest board or mood board to help capture the vibe you’re going for. 

Step 2: Pick a Vibe, General Location, and Tentative Dates

Now that you’ve got some ideas floating around, it’s time to start narrowing things down just a little. 

You don’t need to have your exact ceremony spot picked yet, but choosing a general region and vibe will help you figure out logistics and start researching. Ask yourself things like:

• Are we open to flying or driving somewhere?
• Do we want to stay close to home or make this a destination adventure?
• What type of landscape fits our dream vibe?

Whether it’s a state park in your home state or a national park across the country, it’s helpful to start envisioning where this could happen.

It’s also a good idea to choose a tentative date to structure your planning around. Do you want a cozy winter elopement, spring blooms, summer sunshine, or fall colors? Think about what kind of weather you’re comfortable with and what works with your schedules.

Pro Tip: When you inquire with me, you don’t have to have your exact location picked right away. Fill out my form with a general region or vibe, and we can scout out specific locations together that match what you’re looking for!

Step 3: Take Care of Legalities

Okay, time to talk paperwork. It’s not the most exciting part of eloping, but making your marriage legal is kind of important—unless you’re planning a symbolic ceremony only, which is also totally valid. But if you do want to make it official, here’s what you’ll want to think about:

• How and where to apply for a marriage license
• Whether you need an appointment or can walk in
• If there’s a waiting period before the license is valid
• Whether an officiant and/or witnesses are required
• If your state allows for self-solemnization (getting married without witnesses or an officiant), and if that option interests you. Some states that allow this are Colorado, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Montana.

If you plan to elope internationally, I recommend doing the legal paperwork at home and having a symbolic ceremony abroad. Unless it’s for residency or immigration reasons, it’s not worth the complex processes.

 If you’re getting married on public land like a national park or forest, you may also need a special-use permit. These vary a ton by location, so double-check the rules for your specific spot early in the process (this is something I can also help with!). 

Read More: Legal Considerations for LGBTQ+ Elopements

Step 4: Plan Your Budget

One of the biggest benefits of eloping is that you get to choose what’s worth investing in. So, before booking vendors or buying different items, take a moment to figure out your overall budget and priorities.

For example, start with the big picture. Ask yourselves: What are the top 3 things that matter most to you? Is it the location? The photos? The activities? Pick a few key areas to invest more in, and feel free to go simple on the rest.

Pro Tip: Budget for spontaneity. Nature can be unpredictable—in the best way. Leave some wiggle room for unexpected detours, extra snacks, or that cute local place you stumble across on your hike.

Read More: Creating an Elopement Budget

Step 5: Book Vendors

Once you’ve set your budget, it’s time to start locking in your dream team, starting with your photographer.

You might be asking why your photographer should be one of the first vendors you book. For most nature elopements, the experience and the memories go hand in hand. Since you probably won’t have a big crowd watching or a wedding video crew documenting every second, your photographer becomes a pretty central part of the day. And not just for the photos! A great elopement photographer will help with:

• Location ideas and permit guidance
• Timeline planning that takes in lighting considerations
• Scouting epic but accessible spots
• Helping you feel comfortable and yourself on camera
• Capturing the candid, quiet, in-between moments that make elopements so special

Read More: How to Choose the Right LGBTQ+ Elopement Photographer

Depending on your vision, you might also want to bring in a few other people to help make your day extra special. Here are a few possibilities:

• Officiant (or a friend with the credentials if your state allows it)
• Florist (for bouquets, flower crowns, or pocket boutonnieres)
• Hair and makeup artist (who’s down to travel or do touch-ups on the trail)
• Planner or elopement coordinator (especially helpful if guests are involved)
• Videographer (if having film coverage matters to you)

You don’t need a huge vendor list to make magic happen. But, here’s what I will say: Having the right vendors? That can make all the difference.

Step 6: Decide On Your Outdoor Elopement Venue/Location

In step two, you decided on a general vibe and location. Now it’s time to lock in and decide on a specific spot, which your photographer can also help you with!

When it comes to choosing an outdoor elopement venue, the beauty is in the options. An outdoor elopement venue also doesn’t have to be a place you formally “book” with a coordinator or venue manager. 

So, what are your options? Pretty much any location that lets you (legally) celebrate in nature—whether that’s a national park, a secluded beach, a mountaintop, or even your backyard. Here are a few to consider:

• National or State Parks: National park elopements are almost synonymous with nature elopements, offering stunning landscapes and sometimes built-in amenities like shelters, parking, and restrooms. Just keep in mind that some parks require permits and have specific regulations on where ceremonies can take place.
• Hidden Gems: Think quiet lakesides, tucked-away waterfalls, or cliff edges with panoramic views. These spots may not be as well-known, but that’s always been part of the charm, in my experience! In some cases, you might need to be prepared for a bit more adventure when getting to these places. You’ll also need to research access, parking, and permits.
• Airbnb or Glamping Locations: If you’re looking for a place with both beauty and comfort, consider renting a cozy cabin, lodge, or glamping site. Airbnb elopements mean you get a cute place to stay while also accessing the outdoors for various parts of your elopement day. 
• Your Own Backyard or Local Park: You don’t need to travel far to have an unforgettable nature elopement. A backyard ceremony surrounded by trees or a local park with special meaning can be just as intimate and meaningful as other nature elopement locations.
  

To choose the right spot for your outdoor elopement, the key is to think about what feels right for both of you. Think about the scenery that resonates the most with you, as well as any practical considerations, like weather, accessibility, activities, and guests.

Read More: How to Choose the Right Outdoor Setting for Your Elopement

Read More: Places to Get Married Outdoors in Minnesota

Step 7: Book Lodging and Transportation

When planning an outdoor elopement, lodging and transportation can sometimes get a bit tricky, especially if your venue is remote or in an unfamiliar location. Whether you’re eloping locally or traveling abroad, getting these details sorted early will help reduce stress as your elopement date approaches.

Lodging

If you’re eloping away from home, it’s important to figure out where you’ll stay before and after the event. Think about renting a cozy cabin, booking a nearby Airbnb, or even camping. For something a little more luxurious, glamping options are a fun way to combine comfort with nature.

Transportation

How you get to your elopement location is key. For remote sites, you may need a 4×4 vehicle, or you might consider renting something that fits the terrain. If you’re traveling by plane, make sure you account for how to get from the airport to your destination. Will you rent a car, hire a shuttle, or need a guide to help you? Factor in the time it will take to get to your location, especially if you’re hiking or off-roading to reach the perfect spot.

Step 8: Invite Guests (Only if You Want!)

An outdoor elopement gives you total control over your guest list. Whether you want a quiet ceremony with just the two of you or a small group of loved ones, it’s up to you. If you want guests, though, consider their ability to travel and plan accommodations accordingly. 

Read More: Do You Have to Invite Guests to Your Elopement?

Step 9: Create an Itinerary

While your outdoor elopement gives you plenty of freedom to be spontaneous, having a loose itinerary helps keep things organized and ensures the day goes smoothly. Here are some things to consider building into your itinerary:

• Key moments like your ceremony, vow exchange, photo time, and any other personal traditions you might want to incorporate 
• Photo logistics, such as the best time of day with light for the best photos
• Other logistics. For example, if you’re in a popular location, what time should you arrive to avoid crowds?
• Include time for breaks and meals 
• Time to be present with each other without your photographer
• Elements like getting ready (will you need extra time for hair and makeup?)
• Traveling to the ceremony location
• Any special activities, like a picnic or a paddle on the lake

Remember, your elopement day doesn’t have to follow a strict schedule. Try to build some flexibility into your itinerary. That way, if something runs behind, it’s okay. 

Step 10: Order Outfits and Accessories

When it comes to outdoor elopement outfits, comfort is just as important as style. You’ll want to make sure your attire works with your chosen location, whether it’s a beach, forest, or mountaintop. Think about how you’ll move—will you be hiking in your dress, or do you need something lightweight for a beach elopement? Consider breathable fabrics and layers if you’re planning on being outdoors for long periods of time to account for changing weather conditions and perspiration.

Outdoor elopement shoes are also something to think about. Hiking boots or flats may be more practical for certain venues (like a forest or mountain trail), while sandals or even barefoot could be perfect for a beach or garden elopement.

And don’t forget about accessories, which provide a great way to personalize your outfit. You could even incorporate elements that match the natural surroundings, such as flower crowns, rustic jewelry, or a shawl for colder weather. 

Read More: Unique Elopement Outfit Ideas

Step 11: Create a Packing List

Packing for a nature elopement is quite a bit different from a traditional wedding. You’ll need to think about both the ceremony essentials and the outdoor elements you might face, like weather changes or terrain. Here’s an example of a packing list with some of the essentials:

Step 12: Create a Plan B

While nature is beautiful, it can also be unpredictable. That’s why having a backup plan for your outdoor elopement is crucial to ensure everything goes smoothly. First and foremost, check the weather forecast leading up to the big day. If you’re in a location that’s prone to sudden weather changes (rain, snow, or extreme temperatures), it’s especially important to have a backup plan in case the weather doesn’t cooperate.

For outdoor ceremonies, you’ll want to have a covered shelter option or a nearby venue that you can transition to if the weather takes a turn. I usually recommend that couples rent a cozy and aesthetically pleasing cabin or Airbnb for this very reason! Just make sure they allow events in the space (you can usually filter for this option or just inquire directly).

Another part of your Plan B should be about your vendors. If you’re relying on people like photographers, officiants, or other professionals, confirm that they have backup plans in place. It’s also worth discussing contingencies with your photographer, in case you need to shift the timeline or location for the day.

Read More: How to Make an Elopement Backup Plan

Ready for Your Dream Outdoor Elopement?

If there’s anything I want you to take away, it’s that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to outdoor elopements. It’s all about what makes you and your partner feel most connected to each other and the space around you. Nature provides the perfect stage for this kind of celebration—one that’s as unique and beautiful as your relationship.

If you’re ready to start planning your nature elopement, feel free to reach out! As an elopement photographer, I can help you with planning and, of course, capturing beautiful photos to keep the memories forever. I can’t wait to meet you!