Eloping isn’t about skipping the planning—it’s about creating a day that feels fully yours, free from the overwhelm of a traditional wedding. Whether you’re planning a destination elopement, an all-day adventure, or a multi-day experience, preparation is the secret to a day that’s intimate, intentional, and deeply connected.As an elopement photographer, I’ve helped couples craft experiences that feel cinematic and unhurried, from quiet forest hideaways to windswept coastal cliffs. Here’s how to set yourself up for an unforgettable elopement.
1. Decide Who Will Be There
Your elopement is your story, so think carefully about who to include.
- Just the two of you: Pure intimacy, total freedom, and fewer logistics.
- A handful of loved ones: Most couples keep it under 10 people—this allows for meaningful participation without crowding the moment.
Remember, the people you invite should enhance your day, not create stress. If someone’s attendance feels obligatory, it’s okay to honor your boundaries and keep the day small.
2. Permits and Legal Considerations
Depending on your location, you may need:
- Marriage license: Every state has its own requirements—check timing and validity.
- Permits for locations: Many parks, beaches, and historic sites require a permit for ceremonies, especially if you have any decor, more than a couple guests, or plan to use professional vendors.
Planning ahead ensures a stress-free day and allows you to focus on the moments, not paperwork.
3. Choose Your Location Carefully
Location sets the mood, defines your adventure, and tells your story. Consider:
- Landscape & season: Mountains, forest, coast? Think about what feels like you, and how seasonal conditions might impact accessibility, light, and comfort.
- Privacy: Do you want a tucked-away trail or a dramatic but more public overlook?
- Travel & logistics: Make sure you account for drive times, parking, and safety when choosing remote or adventurous locations.
Your location can become part of the narrative, so choose somewhere that inspires awe and connection.
4. Timing and Season
- Golden hour lighting: For cinematic photos, plan your ceremony around sunrise or sunset.
- Weather & crowds: Some seasons are busier or wetter than others. Check historical weather patterns and consider weekdays for quieter experiences.
Adventure pacing: All-day or multi-day elopements allow you to spread moments across morning coffee, hikes, golden hour vows, and intimate evening rituals—without feeling rushed.
5. Create an Intentional Experience
Elopements are about more than the ceremony—they’re about how you feel while it’s happening. Slow down and infuse intention into your day:
- Write your own vows or letters to each other.
- Include meaningful rituals—lighting a candle, sharing a private meal, or a hike to a favorite spot.
- Build unstructured time for connection—coffee, journaling, quiet walks, or stargazing.
Document it thoughtfully—your photographer’s role is to capture these unscripted, intimate moments authentically.
6. Practical Planning Tips
- Pack layers for unpredictable weather.
- Bring snacks, water, and any adventure gear you might need.
Consider hiring an elopement photographer who also guides you through logistics and permits—someone who can make the day seamless while capturing cinematic, soulful images.
Your Elopement Is Your Story
Preparation isn’t about rigidity—it’s about giving yourself the freedom to show up fully, connect deeply, and live your story intentionally.Whether it’s a destination elopement, an all-day adventure, or a multi-day celebration, careful planning allows you to create moments that are cinematic, raw, and deeply you.
xoxo,
Sidney
Where Love Roams Photo
