Welcome to the exciting world of eloping in Minnesota! While some may view this state as an icy tundra land, I assure you that it’s a spectacular location to tie the knot in a more intimate and personal way. In fact, an elopement in this beautiful place can provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience. So, let’s take a journey together through the process of how to elope in Minnesota to help you see the abundant possibilities this state has to offer.

Why Minnesota is the Perfect Place to Elope

While Minnesota may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of a dream wedding destination, this hidden gem of the Midwest has so much to offer. It has something for everyone, from breathtaking natural scenery to unique and charming locations. Here are a few reasons why Minnesota is the perfect place to elope:

1. Natural Landscapes

Minnesota is known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” for a reason. With over 11,000 lakes, the state offers stunning water views, including majestic waterfalls, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear rivers. If you prefer a more forested setting, Minnesota also boasts vast stretches of woodland, kissed with wildflowers, wildlife, and tranquil streams.

2. Unique Elopement Spots

This state is home to a range of one-of-a-kind elopement spots. Whether you’re looking for an intimate ceremony in a cozy cabin or an adventurous mountaintop elopement, Minnesota has you covered.

3. The Beauty of the Four Seasons

Minnesota experiences all four seasons, each offering a unique experience for your elopement. Spring brings colorful blooms and mild weather, while summer offers warm temperatures and long days of sunshine. Fall yields the stunning colors of changing leaves, and winter boasts a magical wonderland of snow-covered landscapes. You can’t go wrong at any time of the year!

4. Easy Accessibility

With two major airports and a convenient network of highways, getting to and around Minnesota is a breeze. Plus, many of the state’s top elopement locations are just a short drive from major cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul.

Legal Requirements (Making Your Minnesota Elopement Legit)

Before you can elope in this beautiful location, you must meet the state’s legal requirements. Unfortunately, unlike some states, Minnesota is not self-solemnizing, meaning you need a marriage license and an officiant present. Here’s what you need to know:

Marriage Officiants

The good news is that it’s relatively easy to be ordained as an officiant. So, if you have someone in mind who is special to you and your partner and is 21 years or older, they can apply to become an officiant through the Universal Life Church. Keep in mind the following items:

• The officiant must file with a Minnesota county. Each jurisdiction might have variations in processes and paperwork, so do your research beforehand.
• The process of getting ordained and filing the paperwork may take two to three weeks to complete, so ensure your officiant plans well ahead of the wedding date.

Your other option is to hire or outsource your officiant. There are many great places on Google to find one. The Officiant Directory, for example, offers some awesome options in Minnesota!

If you want to keep your elopement small and intimate, I am also ordained through the Universal Life Church and can legally be your officiant — I’d be over the moon to be part of your special day! If you’re a queer couple, learn more about finding a queer-friendly officiant in this post.

Marriage License Paperwork

The first step to getting married in Minnesota is obtaining a marriage license. You and your partner must apply for this in person at a county licensing office. The application fee is typically around $115, and you usually get your license the same day of your appointment.

• Pro Tip: If you are thinking about eloping outside of Minnesota, it is always an option to make the paperwork official here and still hold your full ceremony in another spot out of state! You can also elope out of state and then do the paperwork afterwards.

Once you have your marriage license, it’s only valid for six months from the date stated. If you don’t get married in this timeframe, you’ll have to re-file and pay $115 again — and no one wants to do that!

• Pro Tip: If you complete 12 hours of premarital counseling before filing your marriage license, you’ll only pay $40 instead of the whopping $115. This is a pretty neat benefit on top of the advantage of strengthening your partnership and preparing for lifelong happiness! There are plenty of resources for finding relational help. For example, Psychology Today has a cool resource for finding therapists and counselors based on your specific criteria.

Finally, two witnesses must be present at the official ceremony to sign your license and state they were there. This happens with traditional weddings and elopements alike! Your officiant then has five days to submit the signed and completed certificate to the same county where the license was first obtained. Then, you’ll get a copy of your marriage license.

Elopement Permits in Minnesota

Picture this: you’re in a beautiful Minnesota park. The sun is shining, and the birds are singing. The police sirens are a ringin’… wait… what?!

Trust me, it has never happened in my personal experience, but I have heard about people getting kicked out of places for not filing the correct paperwork through the state or county. I know it may be tempting to think that no one will know if you’re getting married, especially if it’s a small group or you’re in a low-traffic area. But, it is best to be safe and take the necessary steps to obtain elopement permits and permissions so everyone can breathe easier and be present on your big day.

Permits and Permissions Can Vary

Permits can change based on where you decide to get married and the type of land it is. Higher-traffic areas such as national parks may have a few more hoops to jump through, whereas a state park, like Lake Bemidji State Park, may only require a call and reservation fee for spaces like the pavilion or amphitheater.

Due to the process variations, it’s essential to do your research beforehand. For example, Voyageurs National Park has a page that can give you a feel for what applications can look like. Depending on the location, you’ll likely have to fill out a special use permit. If there’s also a requirement for a commercial photography permit, as your photographer, I will fill this out for you and help you work through the entire process. In fact, I can contact the park and rangers and help you handle most of this permit process to ensure we follow all the rules and that you can celebrate your day stress-free!

Keep in mind that it can take up to three to four weeks (or more!) to process a permit and some extra time based on the kind of decor or number of guests you’d like to bring.

Leaving No Trace

As you plan your elopement in Minnesota, it’s important to remember the principles of Leave No Trace. This means minimizing your impact on the environment and preserving the state’s natural beauty for future generations to enjoy. Here are a few tips for leaving no trace during your elopement:

• Stick to established trails and campsites to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems when exploring Minnesota’s natural landscapes.
• Bring a garbage bag and pack all your trash, including food scraps and wrappers.
• Opt for biodegradable products, like soaps and toiletries, to minimize environmental impact.
• Observe wildlife from a distance and never approach or feed them.
• Leave what you find and resist the urge to take home souvenirs or mementos from your elopement location. This includes rocks, flowers, and other natural items.

For more tips on sustainable and earth-friendly eloping, check out the guidelines outlined by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.

Choosing the Perfect Elopement Location in Minnesota

So, where do you elope in Minnesota? You’re dreaming about a beautiful adventure with your honey and can’t wait to find the perfect spot to celebrate your love. Luckily for you, I’ve started an ever-growing list of outdoor locations right here in Minnesota. When choosing, here are some questions to ask yourselves:

• What kind of backdrop do I envision? For example, do I want a serene lakeshore or a majestic forest?
• How much time do I want to spend hiking? Do I want the hiking experience, or would I rather just have the epic view?
• Do I want to have guests present? Do we need a bigger space?

Other Considerations

• The time of year and season: As I said earlier, Minnesota is beautiful all year round. While the winters can be majestic, it’s totally understandable if cold and snow aren’t your thing. But that still leaves you with May to at least early October to get married outdoors. I recommend planning your elopement date during the elbow times of season changes. For example, mid-May will likely be less busy and crowded than mid-June. However, keep in mind that during a time like this, the weather can be more unpredictable. 
• Accessibility: If guests are attending your elopement, consider how accessible the location is for them. Will they need to hike a long distance or navigate challenging terrain?
• Budget: Some locations may require more travel or permits, so ensure you factor in additional costs when selecting a location.

Stunning Locations in Minnesota

Minnesota is full of stunning natural landscapes perfect for an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to check out the list I mentioned above for elopement location ideas. Here are some general suggestions to help you start planning:

1. North Shore of Lake Superior: With its rugged cliffs, pristine forests, and stunning lake views, the North Shore of Lake Superior is one of Minnesota’s most iconic locations. Choose a secluded spot on the shore to exchange your vows or hike to a scenic overlook for a breathtaking backdrop.
2. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness: For those seeking a true wilderness experience, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness offers unparalleled natural beauty. Paddle out to a secluded island or set up camp on a pristine lakeshore for a private and unforgettable elopement.
3. State Parks: Minnesota has over 70 state parks, each with unique beauty and charm. Popular parks for elopements include Gooseberry Falls State Park, Tettegouche State Park, and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.
4. Minneapolis and St. Paul: If you’re looking for an urban elopement experience, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul offer plenty of outdoor options, like the many city parks.

Read More: The Best Places to Elope in the Midwest

Read More: Top Places for LGBTQ+ Couples to Get Married in the Midwest

Planning the Details of Your Minnesota Elopement

I get “how to elope” questions all the time. Getting down to the details of your Minnesota elopement can be both exciting and overwhelming — and that’s okay! Here are some tips to help you navigate the process and create a memorable experience. For more detailed pointers on planning your Minnesota elopement, check out my ultimate guide:

What to Bring

Pack the essentials. Depending on your location and activities, this may include comfortable shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, a small first aid kit, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Consider also bringing a picnic basket with snacks and beverages to enjoy your celebration. Don’t forget to bring any necessary permits and paperwork. One of the benefits of booking your Minnesota elopement with me is that I’ll provide you with a customized packing list, so you can feel more prepared on your big day!

Hiring Vendors

While elopements are typically more intimate celebrations, you may still want to hire vendors to ensure your day goes smoothly. This can include a photographer (like me!) to capture your special moments and an officiant.

Creating a Budget

Consider what is the most important to you and allocate your funds accordingly. Keep in mind any costs associated with permits or travel to your chosen location.

Using Local Resources

Minnesota is home to many talented artists and makers, so consider supporting local businesses when planning your elopement. From locally-sourced florals to handmade jewelry, there are many ways to add a personal touch to your day while supporting the local community!

Make it Personal

One of the benefits of eloping is the ability to make your day truly personal and unique. Consider incorporating elements meaningful to you and your partner. This can be a special song or ceremony reading or a favorite activity like hiking or canoeing.

Tips for an Unforgettable Minnesota Elopement: What to Do On Your Big Day

If you’re interested in eloping, chances are you don’t just want to get married and leave. Minnesota offers endless possibilities for a memorable experience. Here are some tips and ideas to spice up your day and make the most of your time:

• Take a long hike (as your photographer, I can come along and capture it all!)
• Canoe or kayak
• Take a scenic drive
• Stay in a really cool Airbnb and have a celebration with select guests. I consider myself an Airbnb enthusiast, so I can help scout some awesome spots for you! Check out the next section on where to stay or search on Airbnb based on your date and location.
• Pack a picnic — did someone say champagne and cupcakes?
• Personal chef, anyone?
• Camp out
• Have a bonfire
• Go rock climbing or bouldering
• Reserve a spot at a local restaurant
• Find adventurous things to do in the area, like ziplining
• Embrace the local culture. Minnesota has a vibrant arts and cultural scene — consider visiting one of the state’s many museums or galleries or catching a show or music performance.
• Plan some downtime. Try a spa day or a leisurely bike ride.

Where to Stay When You Elope in Minnesota

When planning your Minnesota elopement, finding the perfect accommodations that fit your needs and budget is essential. Luckily, this beautiful state has a wide range of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin in the woods or a luxury resort experience. I’ve created a list of places on Airbnb that could make for a super memorable getaway and stay during this special time! Here are some other options to consider:

• Cuyuna Cove: An unforgettable “cabin in the woods” experience.
• Bluefin Bay: For a luxury lakeside resort experience.
• The Shire in the Woods: A quiet forest retreat emphasizing sustainability — also perfect for a wedding location!

Example Timeline For Your Elopement in Minnesota

• 11:00 AM: Start getting ready at your Airbnb
• 1:00 PM: First look and portraits
• 1:45 PM: Travel to location
• 2:15 PM: One-mile hike to the location with photos
• 3:45 PM: Ceremony and vows
• 4:30 PM: Celebration picnic
• 5:30 PM: Hike to next location
• 6:45 PM: Sunset and portrait session
• 7:35 PM: Hike back
• 8:30 PM: Travel back to Airbnb
• 9:00 PM: Bonfire, drinks, and party (whatever “party” means to you!)

Keep in mind that this is just one of a million timelines you can create — and I can help you brainstorm ideas too! Of course, this itinerary will change based on what activities you want to do, where you want to hike, and whether or not you have guests present with you.

Pro Tip for Your Elopement Photos

I recommend adding some photo time before you start getting ready (bubble bath or tea time, for example). Or, you can add a honeymoon session the day after your elopement. If we’re already in a stunning location, we may as well keep the magic going, right?

How I Can Help Make Your Minnesota Elopement Memorable

I want to preface that I’m an elopement photographer, not a certified guide or planner. However, I love offering a helping hand when it comes to eloping in Minnesota. I can provide you and your boo with plenty of resources and support along the way. So, here’s what you can get if you book your elopement with me:

• Photography services
• A package customized to your day
• Location recommendations and tips
• Elopement tips and packing lists
• A personalized timeline leading up to your day and the day of
• Your stunning wedding photos, of course!
• A heckin’ good time!

Elopements might seem like the latest trend at times, but to me, they’re so much more than that. It’s about creating a day that’s uniquely yours — a day that captures your love story in all its wild and beautiful glory. As a passionate LGBTQ+ photographer who loves nothing more than connecting with others, I’m so excited to help you make your elopement dreams a reality!