How to Plan an Elopement Wedding
Learn how to plan an elopement wedding to create a day that screams, “This is so us!”
So… you’re thinking about eloping? First of all—heck yes! But if you’ve already done a little Googling, you’ve probably noticed this. A lot of the “how to plan an elopement wedding” advice out there still sounds a lot like planning a traditional wedding.
I get it—eloping isn’t about following traditional wedding rules, but it’s also not as simple as just showing up. There’s real planning involved to create a day that feels like you, even if it defies all the usual standards. I believe you deserve to feel informed, supported, and genuinely excited every step of the way.
As an adventure elopement and intimate wedding photographer, I’m here to walk you through the essentials (minus the overwhelm) to help you plan the elopement of your dreams.
So, let’s break it down!
1. Dream it up before choosing a location
The first part of planning an elopement wedding comes before choosing a location. Instead, I want you to consider how you want to feel on your elopement day. Do you want adventure? Does traveling make your heart scream yes? Is there a certain time of year that feels like home?
What would make this day feel unforgettable to us? Think about the vibe, the views, the feelings you want to soak in. This is your foundation.
Once you know the vibe, we can build a location around it.
Need help narrowing it down? I offer all my couples custom location recommendations based on the scenery they’re dreaming of.
2. Choose the Location
Eloping often means thinking beyond traditional venues. So, you may be wondering, “How to plan an elopement wedding when there are a million locations to choose from?” Instead of thinking narrowly, think broadly at the beginning. Think national park, a state forest, a mountaintop, or a unique Airbnb with stunning views.
Start by doing a little light research on locations that pull at your heart. What does your dream backdrop look like? Is it exploring a brand new state together? Revisiting a place you already love? Or maybe it’s somewhere that holds deep meaning for the two of you.
Pro Tip: Consider the time of year when planning your elopement wedding location. Some spots are only accessible during certain seasons, like high-elevation trails that are snowed in during the winter, or desert areas that get dangerously hot in the summer. You’ll also want to consider crowd levels, weather patterns, and how the landscape changes throughout the year. Choosing the right season can make all the difference.
3. Know the Legal Stuff
Yes—you still need a marriage license! And depending on where you’re eloping, you may also need a special use permit (especially in national or state parks). It might sound intimidating, but I promise it’s totally doable—and I help all my couples through this step.
If you’re considering a national park elopement, this National Park Service website is a great place to start for permit info and location rules.
Each state has different legal requirements. These are important must-knows when asking yourself how to plan an elopement wedding. Some states are self-solemnizing (yes, you can literally marry yourselves!), while others require an officiant and witnesses. Knowing the rules ahead of time will help make sure your “I do” is both magical and legal.
Looking for extra assistance? I help my couples navigate permits, licenses, and any other logistics—so they can focus on the fun stuff.
4. Build a Timeline Around How You Want to Feel
Unlike traditional weddings, elopements are entirely yours. When thinking about how to plan an elopement wedding, consider building your elopement timeline with these few key things to make the day feel totally you!
Start with how you want to feel:
Do you want a slow, peaceful morning? Or a sunrise hike that ends with vows on a cliff? Let the emotion of the day guide the flow, not a rigid schedule.
Build in buffer time:
Add extra time between activities for breathing room, snack breaks, or spontaneous moments.
Think about lighting:
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) is perfect for dreamy, soft lighting. I help all my couples plan around natural light so every moment looks as magical as it feels.
Factor in travel time:
Whether it’s a short hike, a drive to a second location, or time to change outfits—make sure it’s all included in the flow so nothing feels crammed.
Make space for just you two:
This day is about your love. Build in quiet time to soak it all in together—whether that’s a private vow exchange, a slow breakfast, or dancing under the stars.
Don’t be afraid to stretch it out:
Who says elopements have to be short? Make it a full-day or even two-day experience if that feels right. This is your story—you get to write it however you want.
5. Decide Who’s Coming (If Anyone)
A frequent question I receive when a couple is asking how to plan an elopement wedding is, “Will the location, timeline, and logistics like travel and accommodations be affected by guests?” The simple answer, yes. Whether you want to elope just the two of you or include a few loved ones, make that decision early to help make the planning easier.
There’s no right or wrong—only what feels right to you.
6. Book Your Dream Team
Even with a smaller celebration, having the right vendors by your side makes all the difference when planning an elopement wedding. Here are some important vendors to consider including:
– Photographer (oh, hey it’s me!)
– Hair + Makeup
– Officiant
– Florist
– Planner (optional, but helpful for intimate weddings and elopements)
When you hire me as your elopement photographer, you’re not just getting someone who shows up with a camera—you’re getting a guide, a location scout, a timeline builder, and a story-obsessed creative who’s all in on your vision.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone!
Eloping is all about freedom, but that doesn’t mean you have to figure it all out by yourself when it comes to how to plan your elopement wedding.
