WHAT HAPPENS AT AN ELOPEMENT?

The short answer is: WHATEVER YOU WANT. The tricky part about that: the options are SO endless that it's hard to know where to start!

Eloping offers so much flexibility and freedom to create a day that truly reflects your personalities and interests. Whether you want to have a small, intimate ceremony in the mountains or exchange vows on a secluded beach, the possibilities are endless. Some couples even choose to incorporate cultural or religious traditions that are meaningful to them.

Another benefit of eloping is that it can be much more budget-friendly than a traditional wedding. Without the need to accommodate a large number of guests or book a venue, couples can focus their resources on the things that matter most to them, such as photography, food, or adventure activities.

Ultimately, the beauty of eloping lies in the fact that it allows couples to focus on their love and commitment to each other in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. Whether you choose to keep it simple or go all out, your elopement day is an opportunity to create a truly unforgettable experience.

ELOPEMENT PLANNING STEPS

Planning an elopement can be a breeze if you break it down into simple steps. Here are three steps to get you started:

STEP 1: BOOK LODGING AND VENDORS

Once you've decided on your elopement location, it's time to secure your lodging and any other vendors you'll need. I will research vendors and recommend ones in the location you chose. I recommend:

• Hair and makeup
• Florist
• Videographer
• Officiant (or friend get ordained)
• Musician
• Cake/Custom Cookies

STEP 2: GET NECESSARY PERMITS

If your elopement location requires a permit, make sure to obtain it before your big day. I can help you navigate the permit process and ensure you have all the necessary paperwork. The fees are not included but I'll do a lot of the leg work for you!

STEP 3: PLAN YOUR EVENTS & DETAILS

Whether you plan to have over the top details & adventures or only minimal additions to your day, you want to plan ahead to ensure you can book, make or order & receive everything on time.

I love adding adventures to elopements! They are AMAZING!! A few favorites are: boat ride, hiking to an epic view, having a musician, going on a hot air balloon ride to name a few!!

One of my favorite (and so affordable) details is custom vow books. You can get them for under $30 on Etsy and they are such a beautiful addition to your gallery instead of your phone or a folded piece of paper. Further down in this guide I'll give you more tips on details & adventures and how to prepare.

STEP 4: ENJOY YOUR SPECIAL DAY

On the day of your elopement, relax, soak in the breathtaking views, and savor every moment. This day is all about the two of you, and it will be even better than you could have imagined.

By following these steps, you'll be able to plan a stress-free elopement that allows you to focus on what truly matters - celebrating your love and commitment to each other.

WEDDING ATTIRE

BRIDE

Every bride deserves to feel stunning on her big day! When it comes to elopements, the dress code is flexible so if you want something different go for it! Some couples opt for casual outfits while others go all out. Many of the brides I work with choose dresses from popular brands like Reclamation or Grace Loves Lace but I've had some killer Amazon and Lulu dresses too! I have even had a black wedding dress and a jumpsuit. ALL were awesome. So, there is no right or wrong here, go for what's right for you!!! And you can even consider buying used or renting!! SOOO much more affordable and you won't mind getting it dirty.

GROOM

As for the groom's attire, there are tons possibilities to add a personal touch. Consider wearing colorful socks (one of my grooms was an eye doctor and had eye chart socks!), a printed bow tie, a fun bolo, custom chucks, or suspenders for a unique touch that will look great in detail shots. Also I love colors on the suits, too! That alone can be a game changer! Whether it's a fun emerald, earthy rust or even a light tan for beach weddings, all are fun and make a huge impact on your gallery. Reach out if you want ideas for your location!

FOOTWEAR

Choosing the right footwear is essential for a comfortable elopement. Depending on the season and location, you may need to wear snow boots, hiking boots, or no shoes at all. Remember that comfort is key, especially since elopements often involve walking and movement. If hiking or even walking please pack walking shoes. Blisters on your big day is a huge mood killer!

MAKEUP AND HAIR

Whether you hire a professional makeup artist or do it yourself, experimenting with different looks beforehand is key to finding the right style for you. As for hair, I'm a sucker for wind blown hair!! I'll be there to help fit it when it gets crazy too. You can also accessorize with a flower crown, a veil, or other stunning hair accessories.

GEAR

Since elopements often involve outdoor activities, packing a backpack for both you and your partner is crucial.... I mean, who doesn't love free hands when hiking? ;)Be sure to include extra layers, picnic supplies, vow books, water, and your marriage license for a seamless and comfortable elopement experience. This is also easy storage for your change of shoes and bouquet.

PLANNING FOR THE DAY

ADVENTURES & MOMENTS

Soon you will receive a questionnaire from me outlining all of the options we can incorporate in your day so I have an idea of what you'd like. One of my FAVORITE parts of elopements is helping you choose what "traditional" aspects you'll incorporate and what adventures we can add to make the most amazing day. No two elopements are the same and thats for a good reason, everyones perfect day looks a little different. So, consider what you both love, things you're dying to do together, or things/people that make you happy or you've always dreamed of as part of your wedding. Do you picture your dad giving you away or have your perfect first dance song picked out? Awesome, done! Just because you elope doesn't mean you can't incorporate all/some of those special moments of a wedding into it. Then from there, we brainstorm how to bring that to life (don't worry, this is mostly my job). Remember, these parts of your day are constructed to make your day as perfect for you as we can. Here are a few items to consider for your big day (many many more to consider!):

LEGAL DOCUMENTS

If you are getting married local this will be pretty standard and simple for you to do, but if you decide to get married in a different state or country be sure to do your research to see what documents you are going to need. However, in order to avoid the hassle a lot of couples get married legally where they live and have their destination elopement ceremony be symbolical! Hiring an officiant to the area you are getting married is a huge plus if you want to legally get married at the location because they know the laws of their state and most likely will take care of sending out all of the forms after.

OFFICIANT

This correlates to the above and if you decide to have a symbolical ceremony or not! I have seen it done both ways and they both work out beautifully it’s just a matter of your own personal preference.

WITNESSES/FAMILY

Some people choose to have their closest family and friends to celebrate with while other choose for it to be just the two of them! When couples elope they usually aren’t trying to leave people out, but they want to have an intimate experience and maybe a party in the future or even just send a wedding announcement. If you have questions on how to include those that are not there reach out, I have many ideas!

MUSIC

Just because you are eloping doesn’t mean you can’t have music or a first dance! I LOVE when my couples hire a live musician! It is seriously magical to walk down the aisle to acoustic music and then have a first dance with the most epic views. It makes for such a special and romantic moment between you two after your ceremony. If that's not for you you can get a portable speaker on Amazon super easy and play your own music. Seriouly, such an easy thing to do and makes for great memories either way!

RINGS

PLEASE don't forget these ;)

VOWS

Take a moment to decide if you want to do personalized or traditional vows! I strongly feel personal vows are amazing but it's not for everyone! If you have an officiant be sure to keep them in the loop either way.

WEDDING DETAILS

Elopements are all about the details that make your special day unique and unforgettable. Here are some wedding details you can consider for your elopement:

BOUQUET

A stunning bouquet is a beautiful addition to any elopement. Whether you prefer a simple or elaborate arrangement, a bouquet is a great way to personalize your elopement. Check out our guide to 12 different types of bouquets for inspiration.

BOUTONNIÈRE

Why should the ladies have all the fun? A boutonnière is a perfect way for the groom to add a pop of color and sophistication to his outfit.

CUSTOM VOW BOOKS

This is a must and so affordable. Whether you do custom ones with your name or postcards from your location and write on the back, both are SO EASY and you can keep forever!! Click here to check out some vow books I love: DETAIL LINKS

ACCESSORIES

Accessories like earrings and necklaces and can really enhance your look and complete your outfit. A stylish watch and custom cufflinks can make the groom look sharp and elegant.

CEREMONY DECOR

There are many possibilities for ceremony decor, from a floral arch to a boho rug or a stunning mountain backdrop. The cooler the backdrop the less you need! Remember, the little details can make a big impact on your elopement, so take your time and choose the ones that best reflect your personal style and vision for your special day.