To me, one of the most beautiful things about life is seeing how hearts can connect in the most extraordinary ways. As a wedding and elopement photographer, I’m lucky to witness this magic unfold before my eyes. Elopements are where grand adventures and intimate moments collide, making for a celebration like no other. If you want to honor your love through eloping, you’ve come to the right place! I made this guide for you. This comprehensive article teaches you how to elope step by step, answers some frequently asked questions and offers the best tips and tricks to help you have the seamless and low-stress experience you deserve. 

What is Eloping?

When you search for the definition of “elope,” the first thing that pops up is “running away secretly to get married.” This traditional understanding is losing traction in our world today — and it’s for the better!

The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all definition because, today, elopements can be whatever the heck you want them to be. At its core, elopement is all about embracing the freedom to celebrate your love in a way that genuinely reflects your unique identity and story. It’s a chance to bypass the stress and expectations that often come with large weddings and instead focus on what truly matters: your love and commitment. Generally speaking, elopements are known to be more intimate, often having fewer than 30 people at the ceremony or no guests at all.

Why Should I Elope?

Eloping offers many incredible benefits if you’re looking to tie the knot on your own terms. These advantages include:

• More intimacy: Elopements can provide a more private and intimate setting, if you choose, allowing you to focus solely on your connection and commitment to each other. It gives space for couples who want a “just us” experience.
• Flexibility, control, and freedom: You can choose when, where, and how to exchange your vows. You also have control over who can attend this special day. There are no rigid schedules or obligations — unless you want there to be!
• Less stress: I’m not saying that planning an elopement won’t bring up any stress. But generally, these ceremonies tend to be less overwhelming than large weddings. 
• Cost-effective: While it will still cost money to elope, it can be cheaper than planning a big wedding with hundreds of guests. Eloping offers the opportunity to spend as little or as much as you desire and focus on the aspects that matter the most to you.
• Saves time: Don’t get me wrong, elopement ceremonies still take time to plan. However, because of its more intimate and laid-back nature, you can spend less time figuring out logistics for big venues and guest lists and more time planning your ideal day.
• Opportunities for adventure: Elopements provide the chance to venture off the beaten path, explore stunning destinations, and do exciting activities. This flexibility allows you to experience picturesque mountaintops, serene beaches, charming cityscapes, or anything else that makes you feel alive! Keep in mind that elopement adventures don’t have to mean adrenaline-fueled activities. If stopping at your local bakery and having a picnic in your favorite park makes you feel alive, seize that opportunity! Eloping is for everyone and every skill level.

If these eloping benefits strike a chord with you, it might be time to discuss these possibilities with your partner. Whether you’re both on the same page about how you want to honor your commitment to each other or still need to find a middle ground, starting these conversations early can ensure that when it’s time to plan, you’re in alignment — it’ll make the celebration that much more seamless!

Types of Elopements

Since eloping can carry many different meanings, here are some common types to give you some context of what yours can look like:

Courthouse Eloping

If you seek simplicity and efficiency, courthouse eloping provides a quick and fuss-free option. Here, you exchange your vows at a local courthouse, often with a few witnesses, friends or family present. 

Outdoor Eloping

My personal favorite! Nature lovers and romantics alike are drawn to outdoor elopements because of the breathtaking backdrops that add to the entire experience. Picture saying “I do” amidst stunning landscapes like lush gardens, majestic forests, scenic mountaintops, or pristine beaches. Outdoor elopements offer the opportunity to be present in nature and with your partner — the perfect recipe for the perfect day.

Adventure Eloping

Outdoor elopements can be adventure elopements if you want them to be. Keep in mind that “adventure” has many meanings. Whether you desire a thrilling escapade on a remote island, want to take a hot air balloon ride, or simply engage in everyday activities that make you happy, the thing that defines this type of elopement is your perspective of adventure. In other words, if your idea of adventure is getting up early to go to your favorite cafe and then taking a stroll in the forest before you exchange your vows, that’s just as much an adventure as hiking up a mountain!

Small Venue Elopement

For those who want the perfect blend of intimacy while still having a dedicated space, a small venue elopement may be the ideal choice for you. Small venue elopements are sometimes called micro weddings and usually have fewer than 30 guests. The idea is to allow you to have a booked venue for a select number of guests while creating the perfect atmosphere to focus solely on your love. In many cases, you can even have these elopements close to nature. For example, some national parks, like Glacier National Park, have lodges or small venues to accommodate your celebration.

No matter which type of elopement you choose, remember that the most important thing is to ensure it reflects your personalities, preferences, and the unique bond you share as a couple. 

How to Elope (Step-by-Step Checklist)

As I mentioned above, one of the benefits of eloping is that it saves time. While elopements can fall into place much faster than traditional weddings, it’s still a good idea to plan things 5 to 12 months in advance. I’ve laid everything out step-by-step to help you through this exciting journey. The earlier you start, the less pressure and stress you’ll feel!

1. Let Your Dreams Run Wild

I invite you to close your eyes for a moment. When you imagine standing with the love of your life, looking deep into their eyes, and exchanging your vows, what do you see? Who’s there? What’s the environment like? What noises do you hear? What are you feeling inside? Start by doing this exercise individually to tap into your unique thoughts.

Then, get cozy, grab your favorite drink, and sit down with your partner with a pen and paper to explore your visions and brainstorm. Consider the following questions:

1. If we could celebrate our love anywhere, where would it be and why?
2. What vibe are we going for? Adventurous? Quiet and cozy? A new adventure? Something familiar?
3. How do we want to feel on the big day? Do we want to have a fun experience or feel super relaxed with just the two of us?
4. What are our individual and shared interests? Do we want to incorporate these into our day?
5. Is there anyone we want at our elopement? If so, what kind of space do we need to accommodate them?
6. What time of year do we want to elope? Do we have a shared favorite season?

Once you have jotted down ideas, identify your non-negotiables, flexibilities, and common desires. After you’ve picked out some themes, you can begin getting inspiration and creating a mood board. Save photos or ideas that speak to you, whether you see them online, in a magazine, or from other couples.

2. Choose Your Date and General Location

Now that you’ve dreamt your wildest elopement dreams, it’s time to pick a date and general location! Start by researching potential regions or vibes that fit your visions. These can include:

• Mountains
• Beaches
• Forests
• Places that hold sentimental value for you as a couple
• Anywhere else your beautiful hearts desire!

At this stage, it’s essential to focus on a general region or area instead of anywhere too specific. As your photographer, I can help you narrow it down to a particular spot, depending on logistics. For example, it’s a fun idea to want to get married at the Grand Canyon; however, logistically, this spot is less than ideal because of the constant crowds. So, you don’t need to have an exact location picked out to inquire with me — we’ll figure it out together! 

Think about the season and weather conditions that would enhance your elopement experience. Are you drawn to the vibrant colors of spring, the warm golden hues of autumn, or the snow landscapes of winter? Keep in mind that some regions may have different climates and peak seasons, so consider whether you prefer a quieter time or don’t mind sharing the space with other visitors. 

To finalize your date, consider your own availability and preferences. As a general pointer, weekday elopements can be cheaper and easier to plan, which many couples find appealing, but the decision ultimately depends on your priorities. Once you feel everything aligns with your schedule, it’s time to mark the big day in your calendar!

Finding Queer-Friendly Spaces and Locations for Your Elopement

The reality is that there are still many places out there that are less than accepting of 2SLGBTQ+ identities. As you research your dream locations, remember that your safety is also a priority. Your elopement day deserves to be full of happiness without the worry of feeling judged or getting into uncomfortable confrontations. Search for known queer-friendly spaces, or reach out to people you trust who may have information on the general attitudes in your desired region.

As an LGBTQ+ elopement photographer, I also have some insights on safe spaces and locations and will be happy to share these with you!

3. Plan Your Budget

While eloping can be a cost-effective option compared to big traditional weddings, planning and establishing a budget is still important. This will help you better understand how much you might need to save and how much money you can dedicate to your priorities. Here are some tips for planning your elopement budget:

1. Determine your priorities: Sit down together to identify the elements of your elopement that matter most to you. This can include location, accommodation, photography, or other specific aspects. By clarifying these priorities, you can allocate more of your budget to those key areas.
2. Research costs: The cost of elopements can vary depending on where you are and what you decide to do. Consider travel expenses, accommodation, transportation, attire, photography, and other services or items you wish to include.
3. Set a realistic budget: Based on your research and financial situation, create a realistic budget that covers essential elements while leaving room for unexpected expenses.
4. Create a saving plan: If you don’t yet have the funds for your entire budget, discuss how much money you need to put away each month and how long it may take to get there.
5. Track your spending: To ensure you’re staying within budget, track your spending in a spreadsheet. Include estimated and actual costs for each category and write down any important due dates or timelines.

4. Book Vendors

This step is near the beginning of my elopement checklist because vendors often book months to a full year in advance. So, securing your spot ahead of time is essential to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience. While elopements often require fewer vendors than weddings, here are some you might consider to enhance your day:

• Photographer
• Videographer
• Officiant
• Hair and makeup artist
• Florists — ensure you and the vendor know what florals are and are NOT allowed at your elopement location.

It’s essential to take your time researching and finding the perfect vendors. These individuals will be part of your special day and can make or break the experience. Research is especially vital for 2SLGBTQ+ folks. After all, we only want to work with people who accept and celebrate us for who we are. Queer vendors can provide the space you need to genuinely enjoy your day without worrying about judgment or misunderstanding. To find the perfect vendors:

• Get recommendations from friends or family and do online research.
• Take note of any reviews or testimonials.
• Review their portfolios, websites, and social media: Do the vendors align with your style and beliefs? Are they advocates of diverse representation?
• Schedule a consultation with shortlisted vendors. This is your opportunity to get to know them, ask questions, and gauge their responsiveness and compatibility.
• Ask your photographer for recommendations. Photographers often have a network of contacts. Personally, I have lists of queer-friendly vendors that I can share to help narrow down your search!

5. Choose a Specific Location

As I mentioned in step two, when you book with me as your photographer, you don’t need to have a specific location chosen. You can literally fill out my form with “somewhere out West” or “somewhere in the mountains,” and we’ll go from there. After we’ve decided we’re the right fit for each other, we can scout your ideal location within your chosen area. In this stage, we’ll consider logistics like permits, accessibility, and crowds. Here, you can lean on my expertise to help you decide where to tie the knot.

We’ll also decide on some backup locations in case of unexpected hiccups. I’ll talk more about backup plans in a later section.

6. Get the Necessary Permits

Depending on the chosen elopement location, you may need to get permits or written permission to legally and responsibly hold your ceremony. The last thing you want is to be kicked out of a place because you don’t have the proper paperwork. Elopement permits exist to ensure appropriate practices and use of the space, which protects others and preserves the environment. This is where the principles of Leave No Trace come in handy — I will speak more about this in a later section.

As a rule of thumb, I always assume permits are necessary unless explicitly stated by the location. There are different kinds of permits you may need to obtain. For example:

• Photography Permits: Many popular elopement locations, like national parks, state parks, or privately-owned venues, often require photography permits. This lets professional photographers capture your special day in these designated areas, ensuring everything follows specific guidelines.
• Special Use/Ceremony Permit: This documentation ensures that the location or park’s office knows your elopement is happening. It holds you accountable for taking care of the space. Keep in mind that most places won’t block off areas from other visitors, especially if it is a publicly-shared area and not a small private lodge or venue. 

Researching permits for your chosen location is essential, as policies may vary from place to place. Keep in mind that there may be an application fee, and it can take months to process and approve, so this should be a top priority in your elopement planning journey. As your photographer, I’m happy to walk you through the permit stage if it all feels too overwhelming!

7. Book Lodging, Transportation, and Travel

If you want to stay in a super cute place that matches your vibe for the day, keep in mind that the best accommodation spots often book up the fastest! With that said, it’s important to take a moment to do your research and consider the following:

• Proximity to the ceremony location
• Amenities 
• Reviews
• Pricing

This is also the time to consider how you’ll get to your elopement location. If you’re traveling a long distance from home, you’ll need to book flights, rental cars, or other forms of transportation. To find the best deals, use travel apps like Hopper or Skyscanner.

8. Invite Guests (If You Want)

One of the best things about elopements is that you have the choice to invite guests or have an intimate ceremony with just the two of you. Here are some things to remember:

• It’s okay not to invite anyone! Being a guest at your ceremony is a privilege, not a right. Besides, there are many benefits to having this day for just the two of you, like focusing solely on your connection instead of accommodating others simultaneously. 
• Communicate openly about your intentions with those around you. While it’s natural for family and friends to feel upset if you don’t invite them to this big day, simply expressing the reasons behind your decision can make a huge difference! 
• You can celebrate with your family and friends later. If you choose to elope with just the two of you, you can always plan a gathering afterwards to celebrate, whether it’s a dance party, backyard barbecue, or casual brunch.

9. Take Care of Legal Necessities

This step is highly dependent on your intentions and preferences as a couple. Here’s what to do in different scenarios:

• If you want to make your marriage legal at your elopement, you must obtain a marriage license before the ceremony. Depending on where you are, the next steps can differ. In most cases, you’ll need two witnesses and a licensed officiant present on the big day to sign your license. However, some states may allow self-solemnization, which means you don’t need a third party to make it official.
• If you don’t want to make your marriage legal on your big day, you can always go through the paperwork process before or after and still experience your elopement adventure as planned.

10. Choose Activities 

Now we’re getting into the fun stuff! After handling the more complex logistics, you can decide what to do during your elopement to make it unforgettable. There are so many different directions you can take this. Here are just a few ideas:

• Infuse your elopement with adrenaline-pumping activities like hiking or kayaking.
• See the local sites.
• Plan intimate moments, like private picnics, sunset walks, or stargazing.
• Do something meaningful for your relationship, like returning to where you had your first date.
• Write and exchange private vows.
• Reflect on your emotions through journaling.
• Make breakfast together.
• Book a spa treatment.
• Write time capsule letters and seal them to be opened on a future anniversary.
• Plan different photography sessions throughout the day.

This day is all about you, so let yourself run wild with your dreams and come together as a couple to decide which elopement activities will make the experience the most memorable. Once you’ve narrowed down your list, you’ll get a better idea of how to structure your day. Keep in mind that depending on what you choose to do, you may need to book activities ahead of time, and some may cost more than others.

11. Create an Elopement Day Timeline/Itinerary

If you’ve reached this point, give yourself a massive pat on the back! Now you can begin planning your exact timeline for the big day. Some key things to budget for when creating your itinerary are photography sessions, travel, nourishment, and relaxation time. There are millions of ways you can structure your elopement. Here’s one example:

• 6:00 AM: Make a cup of coffee and watch the sunrise.
• 8:00 AM: Have breakfast together or with your loved ones.
• 10:00 AM: Getting ready (together or separately) shoot — even the small moments deserve to be captured!
• 12:30 PM: First look.
• 1:00 PM: Travel to your elopement location.
• 1:30 PM: Hike to the ceremony spot.
• 2:30 PM: Exchange your vows and have the ceremony.
• 3:30 PM: Couple or group photos.
• 4:00 PM: Hang out, have a snack, and breathe it all in.
• 5:00 PM: Travel to the next photo destination. If you have guests, they can go home at this time.
• 5:30 to 7:30 PM: Couple portraits and sunset watching.
• 8:30 PM: Celebratory meal at Airbnb.
• 9:00 PM: Bonfire, drinks, and cozy time.

12. Order Outfits and Accessories

Once you have a solid idea of how your elopement day will look, you can bring your attire dreams to life. The secret to feeling good is putting together an outfit that reflects your personal style. I won’t even attempt to provide specific outfit ideas — you’re all beautifully unique in your own ways. Instead, here are some general tips to keep in mind:

• Embrace the location vibes: Let your location inspire your outfit choices. If you’re eloping amidst breathtaking mountains, this might call for something different than a laid-back lakeside vibe. 
• Express your identity: Whether traditional wedding attire is up your alley or you prefer to wear something never seen before, all that matters is that it expresses who you are!
• Coordinate with each other: While not mandatory, color or style coordination can make your elopement photos aesthetically pleasing.
• Order ahead of time: If any items need to be ordered, tailored, or made from scratch, plan ahead to ensure everything’s ready for your elopement day.

During this step of the planning process, it would also be a good idea to decide how you’d like to symbolize your commitment. This can include traditional rings or alternatives like tattoos, family heirlooms, or other symbolic tokens. Or, if all the symbolism stuff isn’t for you, do what feels most comfortable for you and your partner!

13. Create a Packing List

For peace of mind, the best way to stay organized and prepared for the big day is to create a packing list. Here’s an eloping packing list that you can modify based on your unique needs:

Always Have a Plan B

While you may have meticulously planned your elopement, it’s important to remember that things can happen. A backup plan ensures that your special day can still be beautiful and memorable, regardless of unexpected hiccups. Here’s how you can plan for potential challenges:

• Weather: Research typical weather patterns for your chosen time and location. Have a backup indoor venue or sheltered area in mind in case of rain, extreme heat, or other unfavorable weather conditions. Your plan B area could even be at your Airbnb or lodge, which is why picking somewhere cute and cozy has its benefits.
• Vendor communication: Maintain open lines of communication with your vendors leading up to the elopement day. Discuss potential challenges and alternative arrangements with them and ensure they’re aware of your backup plans in the event of last-minute difficulties.
• Keep essentials handy: Pack an emergency kit that includes items like umbrellas, extra layers, bug repellent, sunscreen, and any other supplies that may come in handy during unexpected weather changes or other minor emergencies.
• Location alternatives: One of the reasons I encouraged you to choose a general region in step two is so that we can scout out multiple locations within that vicinity together. That way, we can keep your top spots in our pockets for backup. I recommend having alternative sites that are relatively close by if you need to pivot quickly but don’t have the means to travel far from the original spot.
• Trust your team: Resorting to a backup plan can be stressful if you handle the situation alone. Rely on the expertise and experience of your vendors — they’ve likely encountered unexpected hiccups before and can offer guidance and support.

Best Elopement Practices (Tips From An Expert)

As a photographer who has done countless elopement sessions, I have some tips and tricks that might help enhance your experience from start to finish. Here are my top recommendations:

Take Care of Yourself

If you’ve reached this point in my guide, you might see how elopement planning can be an absolute whirlwind of different emotions. While my intention is to help make the process easier, there may still be overwhelming moments — and that’s understandable! Amidst all the joy, anticipation, and other feelings, remember to take care of yourself. After all, you deserve to feel like your best self during this exciting time.

Whether it’s during your elopement day or sometime during the planning process, make sure you:

• Prioritize rest
• Have nourishing meals that make you happy
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. The best time to hydrate is yesterday!
• Take mini breaks
• Lean on others if you need to

Plan Intentional Moments

This magical journey is all about celebrating your love and connection, so make the most of it by planning special moments on your elopement day. Take the time to look at each other, breathe in your surroundings, or do something that makes you feel closer. 

During this day, you can even turn off your phones to be more present. Feel free to schedule some time alone with each other without photographers, vendors, or guests. Do whatever makes you feel grounded with each other!

Leave No Trace

If your elopement has you venturing into the beauty of the outdoors, remember the principles of Leave No Trace. Preserving landscapes and protecting the environment is essential for the health of our planet and for future generations to enjoy the same unforgettable experiences as you. Some practices you should follow include:

• Respecting wildlife
• Leaving everything the way you found it
• Disposing of waste properly
• Opting for biodegradable or eco-friendly products 

Take the Plan Seriously, but Don’t Overthink

During your elopement day, you might feel like you forgot something or didn’t think parts all the way through. But that’s why we did all this planning ahead of time, so we can feel as ready as we can be! Once you get to your big day, it’s important to embrace the flow of things and try not to second guess yourselves. Worrying at this point won’t drastically change the outcome of the day. If there is a bump in the road, try your best to stay present. We can find a workaround in most cases! 

Photography Considerations

When capturing the best lighting for the perfect photos, timing is essential. If you’re craving that soft, early morning light for your vows, the backdrop plays a huge role. The way the light hits will be different on top of a mountain compared to at the foot of it or in a pass. If you want to be on a mountaintop, be prepared to wake up early and start hiking in the dark — that’s how we’ll make those magical dreams come true! Just be sure you’re up for it, and pack plenty of coffee.

During your shoots, whether it’s a getting ready or sunset shoot, my biggest tip to you as a couple is to stay connected in some way at all times. For example, if you’re looking at the beautiful view, can you hold hands or rest a head on a shoulder? If you’re facing each other, could your arms softly grasp each other instead of letting them hang at your side? Taking advantage of any connection point that feels right to you makes the experience less “posed,” more carefree, and ultimately, more natural-looking.

Elopement Inspiration

Here are just a few examples of the amazing eloping couples I’ve worked with. While I’m sure you’ll have your own unique spin on things, these can act as points of inspiration!

Taking the Next Step Towards Your Dream Elopement

And just like that, you know how to elope! Whether you’re curious about eloping or are already knee-deep in the planning process, give yourself a massive high five — this was a lot of information to take in. I created this comprehensive guide because I wanted you to have a step-by-step process that would make planning feel simpler and less daunting. If you feel even slightly at ease, I’ll say I did my job! 

If you’re looking for a photographer to join you on this journey, I’d be honored to come along for the ride. When you book your elopement package with me, you’re signing up for more than stunning photography — I can also help guide you through the entire planning process. Whether you need queer-friendly location recommendations, advice about structuring your day, or photoshoot preparation tips, I’m here to help you embrace the perfect day of love and celebration. Ready to get started? Reach out to me today — I can’t wait to hear your story!

Your Ultimate Elopement Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions About Eloping