How to plan an elopement?

Your Ultimate Guide: How to Plan an Elopement

Before we talk more about eloping we should address a very important question. First and foremost we should ask why should you elope? As I like to say, you get to create your timeline not a schedule, choose the scenery not a venue, make your day memorable, not stressful. You can break any traditions that don't fit, and choose adventure that does. Eloping is not running away from it all. It's making this special day intimate, intentional and very YOU.

So you ask how do we start the process? I am here to quickly guide you through the basic steps, and to tell you not to stress. Big weddings take so much time and planning and cost a lot of money. Elopements do not. The best thing about elopements? You can often plan one in a month or less.

Steps How to Elope:

1. Choose a location: Decide where you want to get married. Start with narrowing down to the scenery you love. Then the state, then try getting more specific, but don't worry, your elopement photographer will be there to help you pick the right location. This could be a National Park park, public land, a forest or a destination location.
2. Hire a photographer. Someone who is either familiar with the state (aka local) , or will do a research and location scouting to for your ideal vision. Many photographers work in other states so don't be afraid to hire someone out of state. If you're looking for a photographer that's very knowledgeable say hi!
3. Once you have the photographer, tentative location, pick a date!
4. Check the legal requirements: Make sure you meet the legal requirements to get married in your chosen location. This may include obtaining a marriage license, special use permits, and having an officiant for the ceremony.
5. Once you narrowed down the location to your dream wedding site decide on the details and vendors. Decide what you want your elopement to look like? Do you want a simple ceremony with just the two of you, or do you want to invite a small number of close family and friends? Will you hire hair and make up person, or a florist? Where will you stay? How about your dress, the rings. Any fun hiking adventures?
6. Closer to your date make arrangements: Once you've decided on the details, make any necessary arrangements. This may include booking a airbnb, hiring an officiant, and arranging for any necessary travel. Deciding on a hike with a picnic, hot air ballon ride or any other adventure!
7. Don't worry about the details of how your day is going to go because your photographer should create a timeline that makes the experience smooth and fun.
8. Get married: On the day of your elopement, show up at your chosen location and get married! Make sure you have any necessary paperwork and documents with you, and don't forget the rings! Yay, have the best adventure yet...Have more questions? Make sure to reach out!