Traditional weddings cost $30,000 on average across the US, and much higher in certain locations. For example, prices in Manhattan can be expected around $83,000! The cost to elope brings better news – as couples are spending on things that matter to them over a party and sometimes spending less money than they would on a traditional wedding.

A surprising misconception about elopements is that it is cheaper or couples choose to elope because it is cheaper. However, 90% of our couples choose to elope because it aligns more with who they are.

Our research includes actual numbers and detailed breakdowns that show what your elopement might cost in 2025. We’ll guide you through permit fees, venue costs, photography packages and travel expenses to help you plan the perfect intimate ceremony within your budget.

How much does an adventure elopement wedding cost?

After running the numbers and interviewing dozens of couples on their elopement costs for 2025, the range is between $11,000 to $30,000.

In 2023, we conducted a similar anonymous survey asking couples various questions about their elopements, one of those being what they spent on their elopement in total, and the total costs varied from $5,000 to $30,000.

The reality is you can elope for as little as $100 or you can elope for over $100,000 – it all comes down to what you value and what type of experience you plan to share with your partner.

In full transparency, we eloped in 2021 and we spent $8,500 on our 6 day backpacking elopement. To be honest with you, I wish I would’ve spent more to get longer photo coverage. Yes, I am a photographer, but truthfully it is the only thing I would have changed about our experience. Our elopement cost was only for the elopement, as some couple’s cost includes some of their honeymoon cost as well. We did that two years later. We also shared a celebration with family 1 year later, which cost us $5,000.

The numbers vary so greatly because every elopement is different!!

Real Elopement Cost Breakdowns

Or as I like to call this – transparency behind the images….. This can give you an idea of the total cost and the varying elements for an elopement day.

Mt Baker Elopement Cost Break Down

Month: Mid-September

Location: Mt Baker region/Deming, WA

Total Number of people: Just the couple

How long to plan: 2 months

Photography: Custom 8-hour package $7900 (included planning + Officiant)

Day before wedding Tattoos: $200

Attire: $500 estimated

Travel: $950 estimated

Stay: $650 estimated for 3 nights

HMUA: $500 estimated

Permit: N/A

Marriage paperwork: $62

Pizza for the wedding night: $30

Total: $10,792

Bishop, California Elopement Cost Breakdown

Location: Bishop, CA

Month: mid October

Total Number of People: 25

Time to plan: 10 months

Photography: Full-day package, $8600

Officiant: Free (a friend)

Permit: $50 (LA Land)

Marriage paperwork: $57

Park Rental/Venue: $600

Food Truck: estimated $1000

Stay for 3 nights: $400

Attire: estimated $1800

Travel + Misc items: estimated $2700

Total: $15,207

Juneau, Alaska Elopement + Honeymoon Cost Break Down

Date: Late August

How long it took to plan: 8 months

How many guests: 4 guests (bride’s parents, groom’s best friends)

Photography package: 6-hour elopement package $6900

Video: $2500

Dress: Daci gowns (cost $4500)

Group Activity for the ceremony: Seaplane ride (cost $3500)

Private activity for the couple: Private heli, 1 hour of time (cost $3000)

Honeymoon: The couple eloped in the middle of an Alaskan cruise which also served as their honeymoon. ($3000 per person)

Marriage Paperwork: $60

Permit: $35 (Permit needed to reserve NF land)

Drinks before boarding the ship + for toast at ceremony: $65

Total cost: $27,200

Sedona Elopement Cost Breakdown

Location: Sedona, Arizona

Month: mid-October

How long it took to plan: 8 months

Airbnb: $1400 (for four nights, but would be split between everyone)

HMUA: Free bride did it herself

Photography: $7900(Full Day package, including officiant)

Jeep Rental: $550

Permit: N/A

Dinner catered/pickup + cocktails served by the groom: $500 (estimated for 12 people)

Marriage License: $98

Attire: $500 (estimated based on average brand cost)

Flights: $500

Regular rental car: $350

Estimated Total: $12,000

How much does an Elopement Photographer Cost?

Professional elopement photographers charge between $1,800 – $40,000. You may be thinking, wow thats a big gap! It is, but let’s break it down so you can understand the costs between elopements photographers.

Things that effect the cost of your elopement photographer:

• Hours booked for – Likely a 2 hour elopement is $1,800 and a $40,000 package is a multi-day elopement.
• Location (Are you going somewhere really remote? Somewhere that requires a lot of travel?)
• Have they been awarded a lot of awards around their artistry?
• Are they an established business Or newer??
• Are they high in demand?
• Is photography all they offer in their services or are they also taking on a great deal of planning?

Due to the nature of photographing elopements, many elopement photographers take on the role of being your co-creator to your day, helping you along the way in planning, making vetted vendor recommendations, and answers to many of the questions that you have. Keep in mind the average cost of a wedding planner alone is between $2,000 and $5,000.

Another important reference to make to help you understand the cost of an elopement photographer is that for every hour an elopement photographer spends on location photographing a couple, they are spending 6-10 hours on their day. For reference, most of our couples book our full-day 12-hour package, which means per client, we spend an average of 96 hours in total dedicated to their day.

When choosing the right elopement photographer for you, be sure you are picking someone you can see yourself spending your elopement day with, plan with and that you love their work. It is also important to read their reviews!! You want to book with someone you can fully trust.

Elopement Photography Packages

Each photographer sets their own package options + rates. So we can only speak to our own packages here.

Our packages range from a half day, full day and multi-day. However, we do offer custom packages when it would be a better fit our couple’s needs. We are multiple times over, international award winning elopement photographers with 6 years of experience under our belts. You can can see more about our packages below.

Essential Expenses for Every Elopement

You’ll need to cover some basic costs whatever location or style you choose for your elopement. A clear understanding of these core expenses will help you create an accurate budget for your special day.

Marriage Licenses

License fees vary heavily between states and counties. In all of the states we photograph elopements in the cost varies between $38 and $100. Most states want both partners to show up with a valid photo ID, and the licenses stay valid for 30 to 365 days. Sometimes there is a waiting period of one or more days, so be sure to know the details of the state you’re looking to elope in!

Travel/Accommodation

Travel costs make up much of elopement budgets outside of vendors. Flights in the US cost $300-$2000 per person, based on where you’re heading. Your accommodation options include:

• Airbnbs (we recommend staying in an airbnb over a hotel for more room) they can cost anywhere from $250 per night to $1000 per night.
• Camping/Glamping: Starting at $15 per night and can go up to $250 per night.

Elopement Attire Costs

Wedding outfits are a big investment, even for small ceremonies. Your attire could cost….

• Wedding dresses usually cost $200-$2,000
• Alterations add $100-$1,000
• Suits typically run $200-$500

We are several tips and advice on saving money on wedding attire here.

Permits

You’ll need a Special Use Permit for many outdoor elopement spots. It is also important to know each park is different, some only issue one per day and some only issue one for every 2-hour time slot. National parks, state parks, and BLM land all have different fees, but here are a few examples of Special Use Permit costs at some of our favorite elopement locations:

• Yosemite: $150
• Mt Rainier: $250
• Dead Horse Point State Park: $60

Do you always need a Special Use Permit for an Elopement?

The short and quick answer is no, you do not always need one.

Some locations do not require permit fees which can help you with the overall cost in a low-impact way. Here are a few locations that do not require permits as long as you have no set ups (think arches, tables, floral arrangements) and you are under a certain total count of people:

• Sedona, Arizona
• Moab, Utah (On BLM land as we as your photographer holds a permit that covers you.)
• Mt Baker National Forest
• Olympic National Park – under 5 people total
• Knik Glacier in Alaska

Where to save money on your elopement?

Smart planning and the right choices help create your dream elopement without breaking the bank. Let’s look at proven ways to make the most of your budget while keeping your special day amazing.

Elopement Vendors

Hiring hair and make-up for an elopement wedding can be costly due to starting at early hours before sunrise and travel needs. You can save a lot of money by doing your own hair and make-up. You can decide if hiring someone or doing it yourself is for you here.

Florals can be costly, but there are ways to save on flowers other than just not having them. You could make your own bouquet from dried or wooden flowers. Or if you are eloping in WA state or somewhere else that has an open market you can purchase them cheaper. For example, at the Seattle Pike Place market, you can get a stunning bouquet for $35 or less.

Elopement photography is the one place we highly recommend not cutting costs on as they are your right hand man through the entire experience and capturing your memories to be cherished and keep the moment alive forever. Capturing those moments is the one thing you can not change or get back once the day is gone.

Cost of Backup plans/bad weather

Bad weather can affect outdoor elopements, so backup plans are vital. You might want to book an Airbnb or vacation rental that could work as a ceremony location if needed. Before selecting accommodation, check with hosts about small ceremonies – some properties don’t allow events and photography.

As another thing to keep in mind, selecting a location where there are multiple amazing locations nearby is a very helpful bonus. Keep a list of alternative outdoor sites that don’t require permits. 

Additionally, this can be where having a lot of vendors becomes more costly, as they may not have the flexibility.

We personally offer flexibility for all of our couples as we know this is your BIG day, and Mother Nature chooses rain or shine.

Money Saving Tricks

Here are some tested ways to cut costs while keeping the experience special:

• Attire Savings: Find the dress style you love at boutiques, then look for it on pre-owned wedding dress sites. Many dresses listed are brand new, which means big savings. Etsy offers custom dresses that cost less than designer gowns. One of our favorite secret weapons for shopping for dresses is to shop via Brides for a Cause.
• Food and Celebration: Food trucks can be a great alternative to traditional wedding catering. Just know that adding venue rental and catering for a post-elopement celebration can drive up your budget. Or cook your own food – it can be a fun connective activity for you two and/or your family.
• DIY Elements: Handle some things yourself, like making your bouquet or running the beverage service, but keep professionals for vital elements like photography. Your elopement won’t need much decoration, especially in scenic outdoor locations.
• Travel Costs could actually be free if you use flight miles or hotel points! Planning ahead for your travel by travel hacking can be super helpful!
• Leave the family at home – The stark reality is, the more people, the more money. Just you two elopements are by far cheaper than including guests. The more people, the more travel costs, food and stay and typically time needed in your elopement package.

Where to Elope based on Cost

If you haven’t noticed yet, you really can not talk about the cost of eloping without talking about – where are you eloping?

The best thing to do to determine elopement costs based on location is to first check the travel cost difference to locations you are considering.

Abroad elopement costs

Eloping internationally comes with higher travel costs in some situations, mostly due to the flight cost. However, eloping in places like Thailand, Vietnam and Mexico can be cheaper all together for more luxury feeling experiences.

Some of our favorite elopement locations abroad like Norway and New Zealand can be more expensive than the US due to travel expenses and the us dollar exchange rate.

Southwest / Desert Elopement costs

Overall eloping in the desert tends to be cheaper than mountain locations. However, within the desert costs vary. For example, we find eloping in Sedona can be more expensive than in Moab. A lot depends on how you are traveling and where from. Outside of that the bigger cost come form stay and food which is always more in Sedona than Moab.

Places Las Vegas can also be cheaper as there is a major airport with a lot of traffic meaning cheaper flights. Endless hotels and stays to choose from to access nature just about 30 minutes out of the city. All depends what vibe you want for your overall experience.

Alaska Elopement Costs

Recent data shows Alaska weddings average $17,361 – about half the national average. Alaksa elopements typically are more expensive than the lower 48 because of travel + food costs. However, a lot of people are drawn to elopements in Alaska due to helicopter access which is definitely entering luxury elopement territory.

Outside of the draw to helicopter elopements, in general people often do not realize that

Washington elopement costs

If you are looking for a mountain elopement locations, I can tell you that the PNW can be cheaper and easier than other options like Colorado or Glacier.

An elopement in the PNW varies greatly in cost depending upon where in Washington you are eloping, vendors you book and how many people you bring.

The cheapest options for an elopement in Washington are Olympic National Park and the Mt Baker area. Leavenworth and Mt Rainier can be more expensive due to stay costs or permit costs.

Conclusion

It is important to remember everyone’s budget is different for their wedding day. If this is your first time ever looking into the cost of getting married or eloping the numbers could be different than you imagined.

Our biggest advice when it comes to elopement planning is to take your time, do you research and do what is best for you and aligns with how you want to start off your marriage the most.

Using a spreadsheet system in Google or Notion can help you stay organized in your planning and budgeting.

Did you just start planning? More resources here!

If you are eloping you may be traveling to your wedding location! As an elopement photographer, 90% of our couples fly or road trip to their elopement. Traveling for your elopement is a little different than traveling for a typically trip as you have a few important things with you that you do not normally have.

In this blog you will find tips and information about flying with your wedding dress and other important things to consider in your travels.

Before traveling with your wedding dress, it is important to consider what type of dress you are getting. There are specific elements to eloping that may effect your dress choice. Just like if you have to travel via airplane it may effect the type of dress you get.

I highly recommend reviewing our blog on The Best Elopement Wedding Dresses before purchasing your dress to see where to shop, things to consider and more tips!

(P.S. – To be the most helpful, this blog does include a few affiliate links for items you may need during travel)

Airline Policies to know when Flying with your Wedding Dress

Delta’s Dress Policy

Your beautiful gown counts as one of your carry-on items on Delta flights. While closet space might tempt you, remember it’s primarily reserved for medical devices and wheelchairs. Your dress needs to fit into a bag sized: 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

Alaska Airlines

“Follow these steps if you choose to carry your dress onboard the aircraft, which Alaska Airlines strongly recommends. If there is room, the flight attendants may offer to hang your dress in an onboard closet, but keep in mind that space is limited. Have confidence in traveling with your gown – if you follow these instructions, your gown will be perfectly safe for the duration of your flight.” – Alaska Airlines

Your bag must be 22 in x 14 in x 9 or smaller and fit overhead or under your seat.

Flying United with your Dress

Dreaming of stress-free dress transport? United Airlines shines with their wedding dress wisdom. Their planes feature hanging closets – perfect for keeping your gown wrinkle-free at 30,000 feet! Just remember those magic numbers: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (23 cm x 35 cm x 56 cm), wheels and handles included.

Southwest Carry On Info

“We recommend that you carry on your wedding gown assuming it can fit into a garment bag that fits our carryon bag dimensions of 24” (L) + 16” (W) + 10” (H). We do not have closets onboard for usage, so garment bags must be stored in an overhead bin. “ – Southwest

American’s Easy Guidelines

“You’re allowed to bring 1 personal item (like a handbag or laptop) and 1 carry-on into the plane. Carry-on bags shouldn’t be any larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches / 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters (including handles and wheels). When you get on the plane, your items should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.” – American Airlines

Here’s your handy size guide across the friendly skies:

Ready for the smoothest dress journey possible? Call your chosen airline beforehand if you have questions or concerns- they’ll love helping you plan this special part of your adventure. Pack your dress in a travel bag that fits these measurements, and you’re ready to soar toward your big day!

When it comes to international travel you need to check the airline’s requirements, but also the general requirements for that country when it comes to air travel. For example, when we flew to New Zealand we had to re-arrange all of our bags because the airline info was different than what the general airport/country’s restrictions were.

Preparing Your Dress for Air Travel

Remember that magical moment when you first tried on your wedding dress? Turn that stoke into care when it comes to preparing to fly with your dress.

Your Dress Deserves First-Class Treatment

Just like you wouldn’t leave your hiking gear to chance on a mountain expedition, your wedding dress needs special care. Keep your precious gown close – always choose carry-on over checked baggage. Here’s why your dress belongs by your side:

Why you need to carry your wedding dress on

• You can keep an eye on it at all times, no chance it will get lost!!!
• Safe from rough baggage adventures
• Less steps within the travel experience for your dress to go through
• Smooth out wrinkles before they settle in

Finding the Perfect Travel Garment Bag for your Wedding Dress

Like choosing the perfect campsite, picking the right garment bag makes all the difference. Here’s what space you’re working with:

Your ideal garment bag should feel like a cozy cabin for your dress. Look for:

1. Sturdy Protection
   • Weather-ready exterior
   • Fresh-air-friendly fabric
   • Rock-solid zippers and handles
2. Smart Design
   • Hidden treasure pockets for accessories like your wedding day jewelry, veil and so forth
   • Reliable hanging system
   • Gentle hug from compression straps

Before your journey begins, double-check those measurements to make sure your dress will fit, but also that it will pass the size requirements for your flight. Remember those handles and wheels count too! This tiny detail can save you from unexpected surprises at the gate.

Still looking for the right bag?? Check out our recommendations here:

• Heavy Duty Premium Bag (can fit a dress + a suit)
• Classy, stylish Duffle Bag option (works for a dress or a suit)
• Cute Bridal Bag, easy for carry

Storing your dress during flight

The moment we board the plane, our wedding dress’s safety becomes our biggest concern. Let’s look at the best ways to protect our precious gown during the flight.

Overhead Bin Storage Methods

When using overhead storage lay your dress flat and make sure nothing is put on top of your dress bag.

You may be able to store the dress at your feet under the seat, depending on the type of carry on bag you purchase to carry your dress in.

Pro tip: Keep your dress in the bin right above your seat, we recommend a first class or priority ticket so you can board the flight as early as possible to get the most storage options.

Storing your wedding dress in onboard closets

Different airlines offer varying closet space options for wedding dresses:

United Airlines stands out by offering dedicated hanging space, making it a great choice to transport dresses. Delta and Alaska have closets too, but they can’t guarantee space since these areas are reserved for assistive devices.

Working with Flight Attendants

Flight attendants are a great way to get help protecting our wedding dress. Here’s how to make the most of their assistance:

• Communication Tips:
  • Greet them warmly upon boarding
  • Tell them about your wedding dress
  • Ask about storage options
  • Thank them for their help

Important Note: Flight crews want to help but must follow airline rules and safety guidelines. They’ll help find alternatives if closet space isn’t available.

It’s worth mentioning that flight attendants handle many special requests each day. A patient and understanding approach usually gets better results. Even airlines without closets, like Southwest, have staff who often suggest helpful ways to protect dresses during flights.

What to do after your flight with Dress

Arriving at our destination is just the start of our wedding dress care experience. We needed to focus on keeping our gown in perfect condition until the big day.

The dress needs proper storage space once you reach your accommodation. A cool, dry area away from direct sunlight works best. You can hang the dress in a bathroom while running a hot shower to release minor wrinkles naturally.

To take good care until the wedding day:

• Hang the dress up in a temperature-controlled room (be sure to hang the dress from the hanger straps and not the dresses actual straps)
• Keep it raised off the ground
• Avoid storing near heating vents or windows
• Maintain the dress in its protective covering
• Steam the dress

If you need to steam your dress this is the perfect travel steamer or you could go with a more cost effective steamer that still travels well.

In the event that you need more help with your dress upon arrival, I recommend reaching out to your photographer (hey there!!!) to see if they have an local recommendations.

Your Elopement Planning Guide

Skip the theatrics of a traditional wedding + focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love story in an epic way that feels 100% authentic to you!

Traditional weddings can feel overwhelming and unauthentic. Guest lists, vendor coordination, pleasing everyone else’s expectations… suddenly your day becomes more about managing logistics than celebrating your love story and being intentional with how you start your marriage.

“Full send” elopements are what we celebrate here…

We believe your wedding day should be an intentional adventure that reflects who you are as a couple. Whether you dream of exchanging vows on a mountain peak at sunrise or sharing intimate moments in a hidden desert canyon – your elopement can be exactly what your hearts desire.

After helping countless couples craft their dream elopement experiences in places like Alaska, Moab, and the North Cascades, we know the key elements that create an unforgettable celebration. From scouting epic locations to handling all the practical details, we’re here to guide you through planning an elopement that feels true to your love story.

You get to focus on the moment, we will focus on the details. Ready to start crafting your perfect adventure elopement? Let’s hit the trails together!

Is an elopement right for you?

Let’s get real… Modern elopements aren’t those rushed, secret ceremonies from the past. They’re purposefully planned celebrations that let you authentically celebrate your love story – and adventure elopements are next level – matching your wedding day to the adventures you two love to share.

Eloping could be right for you if..

• Your relationship thrives on epic adventures together
• You believe in investing in experiences over things
• Your hearts skip a beat thinking about sharing private vows in nature
• You want a stress-free celebration focused purely on your love

We, Traci + Bill owner’s of Adventure and Vow, experienced this feeling heavily on our 74 mile, 6 day backpacking trip to our own elopement ceremony on the Wonderland Trail in Mount Rainier National Park. That raw, profound connection in nature showed us exactly why couples choose to elope. We got go through a challenge together, supporting each other “down the aisle” and we enjoyed stepping away from the everyday to immerse ourselves into just being together.

What to Do First

What should I do first? – This is a question we see asked over and over. The answer is truly simply, you may not even expect it.

Step one: Nothing, simply enjoy being engaged.

Seriously, being engaged is an incredible time period in life and in your relationship. It is a time of giddiness, togetherness and possibility. It is a time of celebrating together, but also planning. It goes by quick. This transition period deserves some time to just soak it all up. It can also be easy to get swept away in ideas when you are first engaged that may not really align, so take your time.

Step two: Day Dream

Once you are ready plan a date night, no really I mean it, get together intentionally with carved away quality time. Sit together and just day dream – What does your elopement look like without having to plan it?? Ask yourself the following questions:

• Where do you see yourself?
• Is it warm, brisk or cold? This can help you decide when.
• Who is there? Do you just see you two or a few important people to you?
• What is MOST important to you on this day?
• What has been some of your favorite dates, travels or adventures so far together? Any common patterns?
• Is there somewhere that means a lot to you two already and your story?
• What is on each of your bucket lists?

The important thing here is that you are not limiting yourself or putting yourself in a box. Keep an open mind – logistics are what we are here for (Hi, from your elopement photographers!)!!

Step by Step How to Plan an Elopement

Now that you have step one completed, what does elopement planning look like from here? Below I will list out the steps for planning an elopement. Do not get overwhelmed, as you can take each of these one step at a time and you do not have to do it alone.

We tell our couples, planning an elopement is like planning simply an epic day together! Yes, you are going to get married on this day overall, but this is not stressful. This is fun, connective and easy. We are here for you every step of the way.

1. Day Dreaming
2. Research photographers + hop on consult calls
3. Book your photographer (date/general location decided)
4. Answer planning questionnaire
5. Review location guide with specific details
6. Decide specific location
7. Book stay
8. Build/Approve timeline with photographer
9. Book other vendors needed/desired
10. Attire shopping (clothes, shoes and accessories)
11. Pull permit if required by Public Lands
12. Apply for marriage paperwork (online or in person pending state)
13. Fill out ceremony questionnaire
14. Start writing vows
15. Book travel
16. Approve ceremony
17. Pack
18. Travel
19. Pick up any local items needed
20. Arrive and settle into your stay
21. Relax ENJOY your elopement

This timeline is greatly based on our planning process with our eloping couples. However, in general this is a very good flow for your planning.

How long does it take to plan an elopement?

When it comes to planning an elopement honestly we find that there are no rules. In general, we see couples plan their elopements in 10 months. However, we have had couples book and start planning their elopements 14 months out to 1 month out.

We really think the sweet spot is to start planning your elopement 6-8 months out, enough time to plan without stress, but you aren’t waiting too long to live the day!! Now, the more people, vendors and details you have for your day the more time you need to plan, take for example Lauren + Matt’s 3-day elopement in Alaska, we planning for 14 months. On the other hand, we planned this beautiful elopement with Carmen + James in months.

We have planned full elopement experiences with just two weeks time in Mt Baker and in Sedona. When planning on the shorter timeframe you want to consider locations that do not require permits. Often, pulling a permit requires planning at least 45 days in advance. No matter the time you have for planning, we can help you through it.

Planning an Elopement from a Financial Perspective

Before you dive into details and booking your vendors, it is a good idea to get an idea of your budget.

An adventure elopement gives you the freedom to invest in what matters most. While traditional weddings often cost $30,000+ most of our couples create their dream elopement experience for around $15,000 based on our research.

Elopement Cost Breakdown

Here’s what we typically see couples prioritize for their full send elopement:

• Photography + Video: $6800 – $12,000
• Adventure Attire: $250-$1,500 for their elopement dress, $100-$700 for suit
• Basecamp (Accommodation): $100-$350+ per night
• Officiant: $400-$1500 (included in our cost)
• Florals: $150-$500
• Hair and Makeup: $500 – $1000
• Travel

Making It Official

Let’s handle the legal details so you can focus on the adventure. Marriage licenses typically cost $30-$150, depending on the state and you’ll need:

• Valid photo ID
• Birth certificate
• Social security numbers
• Previous marriage docs (if applicable)

Pro tip from the trail: Some states have waiting periods (like Washington state) between getting your license and saying “I do,” while others let you tie the knot same-day. Research these requirements early in your planning journey as it can effect your travel costs.

Elopement Permits

Not all elopement locations require special use permits, a permit that allows you to get married on public land, but some locations do! Mostly, National Parks and State Parks require permits while National Forest lands do not. If you have to apply for and pull a permit the cost can be between $50 – $300 typically. We can help you navigate pulling permits as needed.

Hiring the right vendors to bring your elopement to life

You get to focus on the moment, we will focus on the details. Finding the right team of adventure-loving vendors makes all the difference in crafting your perfect elopement experience! Hiring vendors for an elopement though is quite different than planning a traditional wedding.

Finding Your Perfect Photography Team

Unlike planning a wedding, the FIRST vendor you want to book for your elopement is your photographer. Might I add, an elopement photographer specifically.

I recommend researching photographers you really like as far as their images, editing style and personality based on their website and social media. From there narrow it down to 1 to 3 to schedule zoom calls with to meet and interview for the big day! Booking too many consult calls with vendors can muddy your clarity and make it hard to decide.

Your photographer(s) become more than just artists behind the lens – they’re your adventure guides, location scouts, and planning partners. Look for a team who:

• Lives for epic outdoor adventures (Your photographer should be comfortable with the adventure you have chosen for your day!)
• Knows the hidden gems of your chosen location
• Brings backup gear for any weather
• Helps craft your perfect timeline + general elopement vision
• Someone you jive with, as you’re spending an intimate day with them
• Someone trusted, read their reviews!!

At the very basic, your elopement photographer should:

• Be ensured
• Be Leave No Trace aware
• Have a solid back up system while photographing AND for your images after
• Have 1-3 full galleries they can share with you.

And if you are wondering – can I ask them about this? The answer is YES.

Your photographer for an elopement becomes your right hand man and you want the best by your side.

Other Elopement Vendors

Outside of an elopement photographer you may consider booking with:

• Hair and make up artist – book 6-12 months out
• Chef – book 5-7 months out
• Florist – book to 9 months out
• Decor Rentals – book 7-10 months out

When it comes to elopements – you really do not need any other vendors outside of a photographer if you do not want. We are 70% of the time the only vendor our couples have on their day. The reality is for an elopement the more vendors you have the more complicated it can become in the event you have to go into back up mode due to weather or life in general.

However, that being said, if you want these other vendors, book them!!! These vendors can make your day feel even more special and magical.

Putting your Elopement Day Together

Connected. Real. Intentional. That’s how planning should feel! We craft your timeline about 2-3 months before your date. What really brings to life a timeline though is the amount of intention you have put into the day.

The beauty of eloping? Freedom to craft a day that feels 100% you! Here’s what gets our hearts racing. Eloping looks different for everyone so keep that in mind when reviewing ideas.

Pro tip from the trail: Choose 2-3 meaningful activities that let you slow down + soak in every moment. Remember our 74-mile Wonderland Trail elopement? Those quiet moments at camp planning the next days trail and stopping to take it in became some. of our moments.

Here are some ideas our past couples have done:

• Made breakfast together at their Airbnb
• Did a feet washing in honor of their religion
• Read letters from loved ones
• Exchanged gifts
• Prayed
• Read together
• Wrote vows at a picnic where they ate home made soup, the same from their first date
• Tied the knot literally during their ceremony from old climbing rope
• Went sliding down the natural water slide and cliff jumping, what they would be doing together if it wasn’t their wedding day
• Went on a night climb to stargaze, combining their two favorite things
• Recreated their first date

This isn’t just about saying “I do” – it’s about crafting an intentional celebration that reflects your love story. Together, we’ll create an unforgettable adventure that feels uniquely, authentically you.

You come up with the ideas and share your story – we will help you craft it into a timeline.

The days leading up to your elopement

The day before and days leading up to your elopement matter a lot in how your elopement experience goes. These are our pro tips when it comes to preparing for your big day:

• Travel into the area you are eloping two days prior at least. This gives you time to check into your stay and not have to rush organizing and un-packing.
• Run all of your errands as early as you can – picking up last minute items, flowers and groceries.
• Lay out everything you need day of or pre-pack the items you need to take with you day of. You may need to steam your dress if you traveled far.
• Keep your space tidy and clean – especially if you are having getting ready coverages.
• Relax, go easy on drinking. You want to feel your best on your elopement day.

FAQ

When should I book my travel for my elopement?

If you are flying I would recommend booking your travel 3 months in advance. If you are traveling abroad I would recommend 6 months in advance, if possible. To save on your flight expense see what airlines hub at the area you are flying and book them. For example, for SeaTac this would be Alaska Air and for Sedona/Phoenix it would be Southwest.

Should I plan to tip my elopement vendors?

Tip who you want, how much you want.

No rules on who you should, shouldn’t tip. Vendors should be charging the rate they’re comfortable being paid for your services with or without a tip.

If you feel that your vendor went over and beyond for you and you want to tip them to thank them for what they’ve done for you and your day DO THAT.

A way that you can show gratitude for a wedding vendor that is not a tip – leave a review. Writing a 5-star raving review for your service providers on their google, social accounts and other wedding platforms means so much to them and helps them book future couples.

There isn’t a vendor that’s going to complain to you at the end of the day if you didn’t tip. It’s a kind gesture that’s always appreciated as wedding vendors truly do pour their hearts into their work and providing the best service they can for your day, but it’s not required.

That being said – always read your contracts! Make sure you know for each vendors contract what’s required of you on your end of the deal.

How long should I plan for my elopement ceremony to be?

Our couples ceremonies tend to range from 15 minutes to one hour. The ceremony is the core of the day so do not shy away from a longer ceremony if that is what you want. You can learn more about elopement ceremonies here.

Do I need an Elopement Planner?

Nope! At least, not in our opinion. We assist heavily with planning, really guiding your thought the process. The only time we recommend getting a planner or a day of coordinator is if you have a lot of guests, which means you likely need a venue and/or if you have a lot of vendors that need to work together.

When should you book your elopement photographer?

As soon as you have found the right one! Certain dates will book out faster than others, but if you have a photographer you know you want to work with, do not wait. Some couples book us 12-14 months out and some within 1 month of their wedding, but it all comes down to our availability. Get in touch with us to see if we are available for your date.

More Elopement Planning Tips

Epic Alaska Helicopter Elopements: Your Ultimate Adventure Wedding Guide

Picture this – exchanging vows while standing on a massive glacier, surrounded by towering peaks that stretch endlessly into the horizon. This isn’t just another wedding venue – this is Alaska, home to 664 glaciers and endless possibilities for couples ready to embrace the ultimate adventure elopement!

When to Plan Your Helicopter Elopement in Alaska

Let’s get real about timing your epic day! June may be the very best month to consider for your Alaska helicopter elopement. Helicopters can not fly in wind over 45 miles per hour and must have visibility. So when deciding when to elope via helicopter anywhere, weather matters. According to Outbound Heli, in Palmer, Alaska, they have to reschedule the most during late August and early September. However, that does not mean you can not fly then or that it is a bad time for a flight – most of the photos in this blog were captured the first week of September!!

Finding the Perfect Helicopter Company

We’ve explored Alaska’s vast wilderness and connected with the very best helicopter operators who truly understand the magic of elopement adventures. We have flown in Juneau, Seward and Palmer with various pilots and this is who we would recommend:

• Outbound Heli (Palmer) – Masters of the stunning Knik Glacier
• Seward Helicopters (Seward) – Your gateway to mountain and glacier magic
• Coastal Helicopters (Juneau) – Perfect for wild coastal adventures

You do not want to work with just any heli company, you want to work with companies that fly often in the are you are visiting with good reviews and the best pilots! Not only will picking the right team keep you safe, but they can take you to the best locations as glaciers change every day, week and month so you want someone that has eyes on the glacier often.

Alaska Helicopter Mountain Elopement

The Chugach Mountains stand out as one of our absolute favorite spots for helicopter elopements, especially to see the fall colors. Within this area you are overlooking the Knik glacier. Just imagine sharing your vows in complete privacy surrounded by vibrant glacier pools, ice walls and mountains. These peaks will give 360 glacier, lake and mountain views. Using a helicopter to get to the top of a mountain for your elopement saves you so much time and energy, especially in Alaska, as the trails there can be quite steep.

Coastal Mountain Elopement in Alaska

For couples craving that perfect blend of sea and sky, Juneau and Seward offer something truly special. What sets these coastal elopements apart? Picture this – one moment you’re soaring over lush rainforests, the next you’re spotting whales breaching below, and finally, you’re landing on an ancient glacier.

Our absolutely favorite place for a coastal elopement is off of the Bear Glacier in Seward, Alaska. Here, you can kayak around the massive glaciers that have fallen off and are making their way to sea. Not only can you stay for a quick visit, you can stay overnight in a yurt here watching sunrise and sunset. Or you could go to a second location high up in the mountains or to your own private beach where waterfalls meet the sea.

Alaska Glacier Helicopter Elopement

There are so many glaciers you can visit in Alaska via a helicopter. So far our favorites have been the Knik Glacier (dating all the way back to the Pleistocene Ice age) and Herbert glacier (just a young 3000 years old!). Glacier elopements offer a lot of diversity with the ability to land near glacier pools, glacier walls, caves and mountain top overviews. You can do a cold plunge into the glacier, drink the glacier water or kayak within the pools. Oh wait, did I mention Ice Climbing!!???!

Recommended Glaciers in Alaska to visit via helicopter:

• Knik
• Herbert
• Mendenhall
• Bear Glacier
• Matanuska

Your Guide to Planning an Epic Helicopter Elopement

After capturing countless couples saying “I do” from various aircrafts and remote locations, we know exactly what makes helicopter elopements truly unforgettable. Time to dive into the nitty-gritty details that will make your day absolutely perfect!

Real talk – timing is everything with helicopter elopements! While some adventurous souls book their elopements just weeks ahead, for a flight tour we recommend booking earlier than that. Helicopter tours, especially in Alaska, are popular and can book out in advance.

How much time do you need for a helicopter elopement?

When booking your flight tour it is important to know the tour time includes the time to fly, so you need to calculate flight time there and back to know how much time you’re giving on the glacier or at the landing location.

We recommend no less than a 2 hour helicopter tour for your elopement if you are booking photo + video. If you are doing the ceremony you will want even longer. Truly, this is not an experience you want to rush. Every couple we photographed on a helicopter glacier elopement has said “this was the best day of their lives,” you do not want to rush that….

The longest flight tour we have done with a couple was a 7 hour tour, with 4 landings and honestly, it flew by. It was the perfect amount of time for them to share vows and do a few other activities while enjoying the locations we landed at. During the planning process we will help you decide how many hours to book with the heli company based on several planning factors.

For more information on elopement planning timelines check out these real examples.

Weather and Helicopter Tours

Helicopters need visibility, so that means they have to be back by sunset or won’t fly out until sunrise. This is something to consider when coming up with your entire elopement day plan.

Mountain weather loves to keep us on our toes. We spend a lot of time virtually and in person scouting locations that are close by the helicopter companies take-off points to always have a plan b + c in the back of our minds and ready if needed. This is also why we block off additional time for each elopement to ensure flexibility if your flight tour needs to be/can be rescheduled.

What to bring with you for a helicopter elopement

Prepping properly for your adventure ensures a good time! Fun fact: for every 1,000 feet up we go, the temperature drops 3-4 degrees Fahrenheit. Time to channel your inner mountain goat and pack smart!

Essential gear for your epic day:

• The Official Stuff: Marriage license, permits, ID and payment method for your tour
• Comfort is Key: Layers on layers, cozy socks, solid boots so you can easily attach and walk around in your provided crampons
• Emergency Essentials: hand warmers and clear umbrellas in case of rain
• Celebration Must-Haves: Vows, rings and champagne
• Looking Fresh Kit: Touch-up makeup kit, tissues and hair touch up items

Epic Helicopter Elopement Destinations Beyond Alaska

Ready to explore some seriously jaw-dropping alternatives to Alaska? Let’s dive into locations that make our adventure-loving hearts skip a beat! After photographing elopements across these incredible spots, we can’t wait to share why each one holds a special place in our hearts.

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours for the Grand Canyon mostly fly out of Vegas and most of them are simply fly over tours, but there are some landing locations. Elopement permits for the Grand Canyon are also quite challenging to pair with the Grand Canyon special use permits.

If you do want to elope and include a Grand Canyon helicopter tour I would recommend eloping in Las Vegas and then exploring after.

Instead of the Grand Canyon I would really recommend considering a helicopter elopement from the Page, Arizona area. Did you know you can elope at the top of a butte towering in the middle of Lake Powell!?

Moab Helicopter Elopement

Let us tell you about Moab – this place is pure magic for couples seeking big adventures among the red rocks! We’ve fallen head over hiking boots for the canyons, slots, and mesas here. Taking a helicopter out in Moab is sure to be an incredible experience seeing everything from above and landing at your own private desert oasis to share vows. Driving to various locations in Moab can often take hours because of how vast the land is, but via helicopter – more places in less time means more epic adventures to experience! We would recommend working with locals, Pinncale Helicopters. Trust us, your photos will look like they’re straight out of another planet!

New Zealand Helicopter Elopements

New Zealand is quite literally one of the most magical places to visit! It is a great place to elope abroad as planning travel there is quite easy, being there is easy AND their Summer is in our Winter.

New Zealand offers a lot of great opportunity for helicopter elopements. You can take a helicopter from the Mt Cook area to visit the mountains glaciers and remote landings. You can also visit the ever famous Fox Glacier on South Island. Or you could head to the Milford Sound area and take a helicopter to the top of Mitre Peak, the famous peak center of attention in the Sound!!

There are also various options on the North Island for helicopter tours that land at the top of volcanoes or that do sight seeing tours.

Finding Your Perfect Helicopter Elopement Photographer

We love helicopter elopements! Each we have gotten to capture has been such a special experience.

What Makes Helicopter Photography Different?

Photographing elopements from the sky requires a totally unique skillset. Working with someone with prior experience is important to knowing what lenses to bring and what rules there are for photographing in and around helicopter. Even more so glacier travel etiquette if you are flying to a glacier landing.

What sets the true adventure helicopter/mountains photographers apart from a general wedding photographer:

• We understand mountains and weather so you do not have to solely rely on the tour company to provide you information.
• We’ve built solid relationships with multiple heli companies and tour guides.
• We are not afraid to do what it takes to get the right angle. We have our own experience on glaciers and with ropes giving us extra abilities to get the shot.
• We know mountain safety like the back of our hands and are WFR-certified. We come prepared to all elopements with first aid.
• We understand how light plays differently at 9,000 feet and are comfortable photographing in any and all lighting conditions.

Alaskan Helicopter Elopement Photographers

The team here at Adventure and Vow are all outdoor enthusiasts who have been photographers for a combined 30+ years. We are based in WA state, just a short flight away from Alaska.

We love capturing helicopter elopements and the incredible remote locations that open up to you when using them as transit to your elopement location.

A helicopter flight is definitely an out of the norm experience, but it is a unique and memorable activity to include on your wedding day. We 10/10 recommend and are stoked to assist you in planning + capturing the magic!

Get in touch!!

Check out this incredible 3-day helicopter elopement video

FAQs

How much does a helicopter elopement in Alaska typically cost?

The cost of a helicopter elopement in Alaska can vary widely. Base pricing for a private helicopter elopement experience typically starts at $3,000 and can range up to $15,000, depending on the chosen package and additional services. Prices for a helicopter rental for your elopement depends on the hours needed, amount of landings and how many people will be in the helicopter.

Are there good alternatives to Helicopters?

Helicopters can be a really great for accessing glaciers and remotes areas. The helicopter experience is also a lot of fun and unique. However, they can be expensive and the fewer people the better. Good alternatives depending on the location could be a Seaplane, small crop plane, taking the Alaskan train to a glacier or a small private boat ride. You can find more ideas specific to Alaska here.

We’d Love To Hear More About Your Helicopter Elopement Plans!

Elopement Wedding Dresses + Shopping Tips

I am SO excited you are here, because that means you are eloping!! I am so happy for you.

Now you are wondering, how do I select a wedding dress for an adventure elopement???

In this blog post I will share with you all the secrets I have gained from previously being an adventure bride myself, photographing over a hundred elopements in different locations! When I was shopping for gowns I found that I have a huge love for wedding dresses. All of their textures, colors and fabrics always catch my eye. I hope this elopement dress guide helps you in finding the perfect gown!

If you have any questions at the end please drop them in the comments!!

Or feel free to reach out to us about your elopement, I would love to capture your day and help with the planning along the way!

What makes a great Adventure Wedding Dress?

Adventure elopements often involve hiking, kayaking, getting in and out of helicopters, off roading, climbing and beyond. When shopping for a wedding dress in general you may consider:

• Is the dress comfortable
• Does the dress go with my venue/vibe of wedding
• Can you dance in it??

These are all things you may still consider when shopping for an elopement dress.

However, these are the important factors specific to what makes a great elopement dress:

Is the dress practical for the type of adventure you are going to be doing?

For example, if you are going to be hiking is the dress comfortable with a pack on? Can you pick up the skirt easily if needed?

If you are rock climbing consider how it fits with a harness on and will it make climbing harder?

If you are kayaking, riding in a helicopter or anything that involves big movements, can you do those things?

The biggest mistake you could make is buying an elopement dress that holds you back from the adventure you plan for your wedding. You want to have fun, be relaxed and feel beautiful. Not be worried about logistics!

Dress Fabrics

Fabric is really important for an elopement wedding dress. You want something comfortable to wear, light weight for mobility and you may want a fabric that is flowy for those awesome dress in the wind shots.

Some of the best fabrics for an elopement wedding dress are:

• Tulle
• Chiffon
• Crepe
• Types of Silk

The dress below is a great example of an elopement dress as it is easy to hike in due to how light it was and how easy the fabric was to move around. This dress is a hand painted silk gown by House of Savin.

A dress that is secure

Considering that you will be adventuring around all day in your beautiful elopement dress. You really want to be comfortable and able to move around! We recommend getting a dress with some sort of strap or sleeve unless you have a strapless wedding dress that is really secure and that will work with your elopement plans. If you get a dress with long sleeves be sure to purchase it with enough time to get it altered, as most sleeves will need to be fitted to your arm/shoulder to not restrict your arm mobility.

Elopement Wedding Dress Cost

You purchase an elopement wedding dress anywhere from $75 to $10k+ it just depends your budget + where you shopping/the brand. My advice is to spend what you are comfortable spending on a dress they may get dirty or get a rip in it. You do not want to be worried on your elopement day about keeping the dress perfect because of what you paid for it. That number will vary from bride to bride.

Top 10 Elopement Wedding Dress Designers

There are so many incredible designers out there! Below is a list of our favorite designers specifically in regards to designing elopement dresses that bring all the elopement dreams to life! Be sure to check out their websites to see their dresses + learn where to shop for their gowns.

Daci Gowns – perfect boho elopement dress!

Daci gowns are all custom made, extremely flowy with unique texture and they are stunning. The designer is based in Idaho, but you can also connect with her online. You can also consider renting one of her gowns for a cheaper option.

Daci Gowns

Instagram – Daci Gowns

Jenny Yoo Elopement Dress

Jenny Yoo is a long standing name in the bridal industry for tradional wedding and elopement dresses. Her dresses are minimalist and classic. This is a great designer to consider if you are doing a hybrid of an intimate wedding with an adventure!

Jenny Yoo

Instagram – Jenny Yoo Nyc

Rue De Seine – another epic boho elopement dress option!

Another absolute favorite for eloping brides, especially for our desert brides! The colors, textures and boho fit are so amazing!! This brand has long been associated with elopements and for good reason. You may also know them for their iconic, unique, detailed veils. Some of their dresses have color, but not all of them!

Rue De Seine

Instagram – Rue De Seine Bridal

Watters Elopement Dress

Watters or even more specifically Wtoo or Willowby by Watters is another excellent and popular choice among eloping brides. We love this brand because they have a large array in pricing, but also in styles. There is something here for almost any bride! You can also shop for this brand in a lot of place!

Watters

Instagram – Watters

Leanne Marshall – love these for a mountain elopement dress!

This one might be my personal biased favorite as this was the designer of my own elopement dress! Leanne Marshall stopped producing wedding dresses last year, however, you can still buy her wedding dresses at used shops. Also, she still creates AMAZING gowns – though they might have some color, which isn’t a bad thing. These wedding dresses are the queens of flow.

Leanne Marshall

Instagram – Leanne Marshall Official

Grace Loves Lace – beautiful simple elopement dresses!

This Australia based brand focuses on comfort and sustainability, however, that does not mean their wedding dresses are not absolutely gorgeous. And yes, you can still shop the designer here in the States

Grace Loves Lace

Instagram – Grace Loves Lace

Lillian West

Lillian West by Justin Alexander has a lot of different styles making it a perfect brand to shop for no matter your elopement. A lot of our brides that have worn Lillian West get a dress with some detail to the top and a flowy skirt from the waist down – the perfect in between of detail + functionality.

Lillian West Website

Instagram

Calla Blanche Elopement Dress

If you are looking for a luxury look and brand that ha elopement friendly options – this is it! Choosing one of these dresses would be a unique elopement dress option! Be careful which dress you choose as some of them can be very tight around the legs, loosing mobility to hike.

Calla blanche Bridal Gowns

Instagram – Calla Blanche Dress

All Who Wander Elopement Dress

All Who Wander is a fitting name for an elopement wedding dress, don’t you agree!? We love their unique sleeve options on some of their wedding dresses, making a bold statement and still being easy to move in! Lots of variety here!

Instagram – All Who Wander

Dreamers and Lovers Elopement Dress

Romantic and Boho is exactly this brand to a T. Their elopement dresses are also quite affordable, most of them ranging between $2,000-3,500. You can easily shop online or find a store!

Instagram – Dreamers and Lovers

5 More Designers you Should Consider

These designers may not be as well known, but we are obsessed with the flowy fabrics they use, modern designs and simple perfection. They are definitely worth considering!

• Nordeen Bridal
• Truvelle Bridal
• Mywony Atelier
• Rish Bridal
• Sarah Seven

Where to Buy an Elopement Dress?

If you are shopping for a dress in person our personal favorite shop is Brides for a Cause. They are based in Seattle, Tacoma, Portland, San Deigo and Sacramento. We love this shop because dresses are donated by past brides, other shops and designers and all profits are donated to women causes. We also love that their dresses are affordable and that you get to shop at your own speed without pressure from a sales person.

Research online first the styles you like and shops that carry those dresses through Pinterest or Instagram. See if the bridal stores you are considering carry the designers you are drawn to. Then consider the shopping experience they offer. Is it what you want? Some stores are pushy with sales, some stores are extremely hands off. Some stores have limitations on how many people you can bring with you so just do your research by calling or reading previous brides reviews. I personally found that I prefer stores that are super hands off and give you space.

No matter where you shop, before booking an appointment check out:

• What brands they carry
• Reviews
• How long they require for you to order a dress ahead of time

Where to shop online for an elopement dress?

Since a lot of eloping brides plan their wedding on a much shorter timeframe than traditional brides you may need to consider shopping online. These are the best places we have found for shopping online:

• Anthropologie’s BHDLN – a must option among elopement brides!
• Lulu’s – this is actually one of our top recommendations if you need a second dress for climbing elopements.
• Azazie’s – we see our brides wearing these dressings a lot!
• Still White – resale
• ASOS
• Reformation
• Shop Gossamer – vintage elopement dress options

Elopement Dress Shopping Tips

• When you shop bring with you any undergarments you think you may want to wear day of and if you already them, the shoes you plan to wear. This is very important for fittings, but can be helpful when shopping too.

• If you need to order a dress for your elopement day then you want to shop at a minimum 5 months beforehand as you need time for it to get in and alterations. If you are shopping off the rack you can go whenever, but do keep some wiggle room for alterations if needed with your timing.

• Be prepared for alterations, especially if your dress has sleeves. You can ask your shop where they recommend to go. A tip someone shared with me that I have personal experience with is I looked for someone on Facebook. I made a post and a wonderful lady on a local Facebook group replied and she altered my dress in only three days for $75! I’m not saying you’ll find a deal quite that good, but be mindful that it is an option.

• Date the dress. Do not feel like you have to buy something while shopping. Spend some time in it to make sure its comfortable, envision wearing it on your day.

• 100% you need to make sure that your elopement dress is wear-able for the adventure you plan to have on your elopement day.

Elopement Accessories

While accessories are never required to be a part of your elopement look, they can for sure be fun to play with. Below are some of our tips on where to shop, what to purchase and more!

Elopement Bridal Shoes

For sure your most important accessory is your shoes for an adventure elopement! You want to be the most comfortable and prepared you can be on this day. Always pick a shoe that is safe for what you are doing, you like the look of and is comfortable. Remember, you can always change into a different shoe for the ceremony or some portraits. For hiking shoes specifically our recommendation is to shop online or go to REI and try on shoes in person. Personally, I LOVE Blundstones for hikes under 5 miles. Be sure you can get them broken in before the elopement day. You may also even consider getting them embroidered!

Elopement Veil

Veils are a great touch for windy shots, to add something special to the ceremony or for those dreamy under the veil photos. The trick with veils is to purchase one that is either Chapel or Cathedral length. If you purchase a veil, remember you make the rules in elopements. You can wear it all day or for just part of the day.

Don’t be afraid to pair your veil with another accessory like a hat, a flower crown or another head piece. Or you can skip the veil for one of these options. One of our favorite alternatives is a cape or wings. This gives you a very similar look to a veil, but you avoid something flowing in the wind coming from your head.

Places to shop for a veil:

• BHLDN
• Lamnhi Studio (Etsy)
• Grace Loves Lace
• David’s Bridal
• Amazon
• Twigs and Honey
• Rue De Seine

Bonus: Consider getting your veil personalized.

In the horizontal photos below one bride added to her veil their first date day at a coffee shop +their wedding date. The bride in the second image had “veil wings” with each one being a unique tribute to her father who was no longer with us as away for him to still walk her down the aisle.

Bridal Jacket

Often for elopements we are starting before sunrise or ending after dark which means it can get chilly. Even so, we are out in the elements and having a jacket on hand is crucial because you want to be comfortable for your wedding day.

We recommend a practical jacket that will keep you warm and that is a good fit for the adventure you have planned and that you are happy to be photographed in. A lot of our brides simply bring and wear their puffy jacket which you can purchase at an REI or through any outdoor gear store. We have also seen brides choose something made from wool like Abby’s Pendleton Jacket – perfect for a very cold elopement day.

Otherwise you can totally have a “bride” jacket for your day! We have seen these as something that is just white or something that you get bride painted/printed on. Here are some of our favorite places to shop for a bridal jacket:

• Rue De Seine for something unique
• Heirloom Bridal Company
• Etsy

Elopement Wedding Dress FAQ

Will my dress get dirty during my elopement?

Most likely, yes! This is not a huge deal because after a dry cleaning it will be back to normal in most elopement locations! Now, if you are eloping in Sedona or Moab it could stain depending on the fabric of your dress. There is a chance of your dress getting torn, getting sticks or cacti in it so be mindful of that potential.

If you are eloping somewhere like Alaska or other wet mountain regions your dress could get wet or dirty from the dirt on the trail or the melting ice on the glaciers. This type of dirty is usually pretty easy to clean, but it is avoidable depending how much you pick up your dress.

A lot of our Olympic Coast brides truly go for it on the shore getting their dresses quite wet + dirty from the ocean water. It is important to know the dress will get heavier when wet and some fabrics can stretch or tear when wet. Others that are made out of things like tulle are perfect for this. The trick to cleaning it is soak it in the tub with water, dry and repeat as needed. It takes a lot to ruin a dress, good care after your adventure can do wonders.

These are just risks you take when choosing to have the most epic wedding day possible. If you are concerned with your wedding dress getting dirty it is best to change into the dress after the hike and carry the bottom of the dress as much as possible.

Where will I change into my Wedding Dress during my elopement?

This really depends on a lot of things like, where are you eloping? What are you doing as far as an adventure? Do you want to get the dress dirty? Can you adventure in your dress? Some couples change at their Airbnb and hike in the dress. Some change at the top of the location where they plan to get married via a changing tent or hiding behind a tree or bush. Some brides change at the trail head in the car or bathroom. It all really depends on what you’re envisioning, but be assured there is no shortage of possibility here!

Can I do a first look in my dress if I am eloping?

Of course!!! First looks are not just for the big traditional weddings. You can share a first look on the top of any mountain peak. The great thing about elopements is that the day is truly all about what you two want to do and the experience you want to have. If you want your partner to help you get ready, great! If you want to get ready separately and have that surprise moment together, great! We can make it happen.

Are there tips for hiking in a wedding dress?

Hiking in your dress can be easy, can be hard – depends on the dress. You can carry you dresses extra layers, but that is only ideal for a short distance. We like to utilize our bride’s packs when helping them hike in their dress. You can also make modifications to your dress on the inside layer to create a way to pick it all up and carry it. More tips for hiking on your elopement day can be found here.

Can a wear an alternative to an elopement dress?

Nope, not one bit!!! You do not have to wear a white dress if you do not want to. We have had brides wear pink dress, blue, yellow and black dresses! Some of the designers we mentioned above offer elopement dresses that are not white!

To be even more specific, you do not even have to wear just one dress! We have had brides that had 2 dresses and we have even had a couple brides with 3 or 4. This is your day, do it your way. You also. do not even have to wear a dress, you can wear a bridal romper/jumpsuit!

How do I fly with my dress?

Yes, you can 100% fly with your dress and we recommend you fly with it as a carry on. For more information about flying with your dress please review this guide – it details carry on sizes for each airline, pro tips and more.

Hey there! Traci here – owner, marketing agent + lead photographer for the Adventure and Vow team.

Bill + I hiked 74 miles for our backpacking elopement and then some a couple of days later to backpack with our cat, Indy! I have been in your shoes as an adventure elopement bride + photographed over 100 brides in various locations + dresses. We are here to help, we want you to have the best elopement day imaginable.

Part of that is feeling your best in what you are wearing.

Our team is with you every step of the way when it comes to planning your elopement, even helping you decide on a dress and helping you on the elopement day with your dress! We would love to connect with you + hear about the adventure you have in mind!

Get in Touch!

We’d Love To Bring Your Elopement Dreams To Life!

This resource will serve as a comprehensive guide, into all the choices to make as you prepare your look for your adventure elopement. We will answer all the common questions our couples ask us and share our top tips and secrets as folks who have photographed almost 200 elopements.

We also asked one of our favorite adventure elopement hair and makeup artists to chime in with some of her input. Crystal of Wild Bride Backcountry strictly focuses on doing hair and makeup for brides saying ‘I Do’ out in the backcountry. Not only is Cyrstal very talented, professional and fun to be around, she also understands what most elopement brides ae looking for within their look. We love that she will come on the adventures with you too as a helping hand and for touchups! This inside look and advice will help you look and feel your best on your day!

How long does Hair and Make up take?

It’s crucial to have a realistic timeline to ensure everything flows smoothly on our big day, especially if we’re aiming for those dreamy sunrise photos by the mountain lake or a serene evening ceremony. Here’s a breakdown to help us map out the day perfectly:

Timeline for Hair and Makeup

Typically, in our experience hair and makeup artists have asked for 50-70 minutes each for hair and makeup. However, these times can vary depending on the complexity of the chosen styles.

If we’re planning a sunrise ceremony, it’s essential to start early. Brides can start with their hair and makeup artist anywhere from 12:30am-4am for a sunrise start. Always discuss the timeline with your hair stylist and makeup artist to ensure they have ample time to travel and set up without rushing.

In consideration with how we build our timelines, you want to make sure the artist knows exactly what time you need them to be 100% done. If you want hair and makeup photography coverage, we typically capture the final touches. So if we arrive at 2pm, we will typically ask the artist to be done 15 minutes after we arrive so we are only capture the end of the stying and start with other getting ready moments.

For a smooth and stress-free morning, consider the following tips:

• Set a detailed schedule: Having a clear plan for who needs to be where and when helps avoid any last-minute chaos. Be very clear with your artist on the time to be completed.
• Location logistics: Communicate about where you are getting ready. Eloping brides get ready in a variety of places. For example, a common glamping stay like Under Canvas, does not have any electricity. If you are staying in an Airbnb send the stay link to the hair and makeup artist so they can see what space they are working with.
• Buffer time: Always include extra time in our schedule for unexpected delays. A little buffer can help keep the morning relaxed and enjoyable. The honest reality is hair and make up can often run behind schedule.

Coordination with Other Vendors

It is important to communicate between your vendors so they can all work together smoothly ensuring a relaxing day and beautiful elopement gallery.

Often when booking your hair and makeup the artist will ask for a start time, but often when you book your other vendors there is not a timeline for your elopement day yet. The best thing to do is book the artist, tell them the location (if you do not know the address of your stay yet you can tell them the area) and if you know if your elopement will start at sunrise or mid-day.

As soon as we build a timeline you want to communicate the start time with your artist.

The other two vendors you may want to connect is your florist and hair and makeup artist. For example, a florist we work with in Moab, often creates hair pieces or will provide extra flowers for the bride’s hair. Crystal once sewed florals into a braid for one of our brides on a really windy day in Moab and they stayed the entire evening! It is important to connect these two vendors for communication in this situation to plan for the right amount of time for styling, but also so the artist can be prepared for how to put together your look.

Choosing Your Elopement Bridal Look

When you embark on the journey of choosing your dream look for an elopement, it’s crucial that the style reflects YOU. Whether we’re ascending a mountain at sunrise or exchanging vows on a secluded beach, our hair and makeup play a pivotal role in enhancing the experience and ensuring we look our best in every snapshot. You want to feel your prettiest and confident.

Inspiration Sources

Selecting the right hair and makeup style starts with understanding your daily style preferences. Are you inclined towards a natural, understated look, or do you prefer something more glamorous? You can gather inspiration from bridal magazines, Pinterest, and from following hair and makeup artist on Instagram. Watching Youtube or Tiktok can also be helping in getting help and inspiration for applying your own hair and makeup. Creating a mood board with images of hairstyles, makeup looks, and even hair accessories and lip colors that catch our eye helps in visualizing the final outcome.

Communicating with Your Hair and Makeup Artist

Once you’ve gathered your inspiration, it’s vital to effectively communicate your vision to the hair and makeup artist. During trials or consultations, discussing what you like and dislike about certain looks helps the artist tailor their approach. If specific details, such as winged eyeliner or a particular lip color, catch our eye, we should mention these preferences. It is also important to share with the artist more about your elopement day. Knowing if you are going to be hiking, climbing or camping overnight for your day will help them in making choices on perfecting your look.

Should You Do a Hair and Makeup Trial?

Conducting a trial run is highly recommended usually for brides, but typically for an elopement bride you are traveling quite far for your day. Trials allow you to experiment with different looks and make adjustments without the pressure of the wedding day looming over us. Ideally, artist schedule a trial about 2-3 months prior to the elopement, but there are cases where our brides have gotten to do their trial when they have arrived for their trip. If you are not able to do trial communicating early on with your artist is ideal to help learn enough about you and your vision to be the best prepared.

Pros and Cons: Professional vs. DIY

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Hair and Makeup Artist

Artist are trained specifically in the best products, methods and can get your hair and makeup done for sure on the big day. They know how different products interact with light and how they photograph.

Moreover, a professional artist uses high-quality products that enhance durability, ensuring our look remains flawless throughout the day—through tears, hugs, and even a bit sweat. The peace of mind that comes with not having to worry about your makeup smudging or hair unraveling is priceless. Additionally, having a professional means we can relax and enjoy the morning of our elopement. Imagine sipping champagne while someone expertly transforms you into the best version of yourselves—it’s an indulgence that adds to the magic of the day.

Working with an elopement specific hair and make up artist

As a photographer that specializes in elopements, I will always tell you it is important to work with vendors familiar with elopements at the very least. Sure, you are getting married and that is the constant, but overall adventure elopements are wildly different than a tradional wedding day/experience.

Here is what Crystal says….

“Sturdiness is not a word that sounds pretty in the context of bridal styling which is why we’ve spent a lot of time balancing sturdy with airy and beautiful so that our styles can hold up through any conditions involved in an adventure elopement. Our makeup is meant to hold up to sweating, hiking, emotions and potential rain. We have also tailored our aesthetic to cater to our target audience; outdoor loving, natural, easy going couples. We want you to feel like the most beautiful version of yourself, but still have all your features in your photos. We define it as “enhanced natural, or Mountian Makeup”, but we’ve spent years working with this genre of photographer to really see how we can enhance their work.

We work primarily with out of state brides, so the first meeting is our video consultation. These typically go about 30-45 minutes where we rally dig into the details of what the bride’s vision of the day looks like.  We collect about 3-5 inspiration photos for both hair and makeup and one photo of them from head to toe in their dress or attire so we can begin to design from the head down rather than just shoulders up. This way the entire look is cohesive and proportional. 

The morning of the elopement starts about 2 hours before the photographer arrives (which for sunrise elopements can be anywhere from 1am to 4am). Our only expectation of the bride is that they are upright and in our chair. The decisions and designing have already been made, they can be downing coffee, rewriting vows or drifting back to sleep. For brides choosing our adventure bride package, we then join them out on their adventure. From behind the photographer we are making sure they look amazing in every shot, but we are also keeping tabs on their comfort at all times. We are the Mary Poppins, MacGyver, Snack Sherpa of the day. Included in the Adventure Bride package are all day touch ups and a second look if desired.”

Working with artist that are used to not having trials, that understand the conditions you will be getting married in and what hair styles will hold up to that is so vaulable. Less thought about, is also working with someone used to going into remote areas. You do not want to have to worry about your artist getting lost because they aren’t used to being without cell service or because they didn’t wake up for their early start time. You want a professional, you can trust.

Average Cost of Hair and Makeup

Elopement bridal hair and makeup can cost more than your average bridal hair and makeup. This includes a variety of services from basic styling and makeup application to more intricate designs that may require premium products – but with elopements, there are a lot more considerations. Based on the costs our past brides have told us, we average the cost of elopement hair and make up to be between $600-1200.

Crystal says…

“While certainly more expensive than going into the salon, and a bit more expensive per person for a single bride/no attendants than HMUA’s that travel to you for a traditional wedding, the traditional traveling HMUA has a base price to show up on location. However, while we are generally only working on one person, we offer an all day assistance package while you are adventuring. “

It’s also crucial to factor in potential extra costs that might not be immediately obvious. Remember, some beauty professionals might charge an extra fee for early morning start times or for extending their hours beyond the usual. Other things to consider for cost for hair and makeup artist is their travel. Depending how remote your elopement location is they may need to configure over night accomodations.

Lastly, we shouldn’t forget about gratuities. It’s customary to tip our beauty professionals, typically between 15% and 20% of the total service cost. Some contracts might include gratuities, so it’s a good idea to review these details beforehand to avoid any surprises.

By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, can ensure you achieve the look you want without any surpises during planning.

How to Hire a Hair and Makeup Artist

We strongly recommend only hiring vendors with a trusted reputation. As we mentioned earlier, it is very important to at least consider hair and makeup artist that work with elopement brides. Do not be afriad to ask for recommendations from your photographer, personally, we provide our clients a list of trusted vendors for the area they are eloping in. Once you have found a few options to contact read their reviews, look at their work on social media. Make sure they sound like a good fit to you!

Be sure to reach out to them and communciate what you are thinking look wise, where your elopement is, date and a “estimated” time. Do not give a specific time until you have your timeline to avoid confusion. Be clear you are not sure on start and finish time until you are.

Depending on the area and season artist can book out quickly. We recommend reaching out arond the 4-6 month range, but once you know your date and location you can get started in seeing who is available.

Deciding to Do Your Own Hair and Makeup

On the flip side, opting for DIY elopement hair and makeup has its own charm and advantages, particularly for anyone who cherish control and personal touch. Doing our own makeup allows for you to essentially have a trial since you can practice your own look. You can experiment with styles that truly represent your style.

Doing your own look can also be significantly cost-effective, which is a considerable an advantage. However, it’s important to consider you skill level and stress tolerance. If the idea of doing your own hairn and makeup feels daunting, it might detract from the overall joy of the day. For those of us confident in our beauty skills, it’s crucial to practice the look several times to ensure everything goes smoothly on the big day.

In conclusion, whether you choose to hire a professional or embrace the DIY route for your elopement hair and makeup, both options offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences and needs. The key is to choose what feels right for you. There is not a right or wrong way to do it as 50% of our brides do their own and 50% hike a professional.

How to do your own elopement hair and make up

If you decide to do your hair and make up yourself, or decide for a guest to do it for you, be sure to practice! A lot of our brides do not wear makeup in their daily life or if they do it is minimal. Keep in mind for photos you want it a little heavier then your everyday wear. Do your research into a look you like then start playing! Research which products will be best for your skin, longevity and for being photographed (Key here: being photographed in natural light).

1. Preparation is Key: Begin your beauty routine months in advance. Establish a skincare regimen that includes hydration and sun protection, especially if you’re planning an outdoor elopement. On the day, start with a hydrating moisturizer and a primer to create a smooth canvas for your makeup.
2. Practice Makes Perfect: Conduct several trial runs of your hair and makeup. This not only helps in perfecting your look but also gives you an idea of how long the process will take, ensuring you’re not rushed on the big day. Remember to practice with any accessories like veils or hairpieces.
3. Applying Foundation and Concealer: Use a foundation that provides enough coverage but still feels light on the skin. Apply concealer under the eyes and on any blemishes. Blend well to avoid any harsh lines or color discrepancies.
4. Eye Makeup and False Lashes: Enhance your eyes with neutral or dramatic shades depending on your ceremony’s style and time. False lashes can significantly boost your look, making your eyes pop in photos. Practice applying these beforehand to ensure a smooth application on the day. This also helps with feeling comfortable in the lashes!
5. Lip Color and Blush: Choose a lip color that complements your overall makeup and adds a touch of elegance. Apply blush to bring a healthy glow to your cheeks, blending upwards towards the temples.
6. Setting Your Look: Finally, set your makeup with a light dusting of setting powder and a spritz of setting spray. This will help your makeup stay in place throughout the day.
7. Hairstyling: Depending on your preference and the elopement location, choose a hairstyle that will hold well and complement the natural elements. If you’re in a windy location, consider an updo or a style that can gracefully handle the wind.
8. Take a photo in natural light of your look to make sure you can get an accurate visual of the work you have done!

By taking control of your elopement hair and makeup, you not only tailor your appearance to your personal preferences but also enjoy the intimacy and authenticity of preparing yourself for such a significant moment in your life.

Pro Tip: No matter if you are doing your own hair and makeup or if you are working with an artist wear a button down or overalls, something that you can easily take on and off without messing up the hair and makeup.

Pre-Elopement Care

Embarking on the journey toward our elopement day, you must give our hair and skin the tender love and care they deserve to ensure you look absolutely radiant. Let’s dive into some essential pre-elopement care tips that will set the foundation for a stunning appearance.

Daily Skin Care

Your skin care routine should start long before the elopement day. Regular facials, ideally starting six months prior, are crucial as they help resurface and smooth the complexion.

It’s also vital to manage your expectations; understanding that your skin will always have texture helps in creating a realistic and effective skin care plan. Avoid introducing new products or treatments in the weeks leading up to the wedding to prevent any adverse reactions. Instead, focus on hydration and soothing ingredients that calm the skin, providing the perfect canvas for our wedding day makeup.

Daily skin care also means making sure you are not getting too much sun, you do not want sun burnt going into your elopement day.

Prepping Your Hair for Your Wedding Day

When it comes to hair, the groundwork we lay before the event can make a significant difference. Washing our hair the day before, not the day of, ensures it has the right texture and volume needed for any style. If you want to change your hair for your elopement, say a new color or cut, be sure to do it well in advance to be able to make changes if you are not happy with the change.

Bridal Look Concerns

As you approach our elopement day, it’s natural to worry about the unexpected. However, with some foresight and preparation, we can handle any last-minute hiccups gracefully. Here, we’ll explore common problems that might arise and how to swiftly manage them, ensuring our day remains as perfect as planned.

Common Problems and Fixes

One of the most daunting issues is the potential no-show or underperformance of vendors. To mitigate this, always choose reputable vendors with many positive reviews and clear contracts. If a vendor fails to show, don’t panic and see if there is anyone that can help you or start doig your own hair and makeup – ask a guest to hop in, reach out to your elopement photographer, look up other stylist in the area.

Emergency and Touch up Kit Essentials

To ensure you are prepared for any situation, you can create an emergency kit sailored to our specific needs. Some artist will gift you at touch up kit, but not all so be prepared. Essentials include:

• Makeup Touch-Ups: Pack items like blotting papers, lipstick, and concealer. Consider asking our makeup artist to provide small samples of the makeup used for easy touch-ups. Tissues are great to have or a bandanna for tears and sweat.
• Hair Fixes: Include a mini hairspray, bobby pins, and a portable styling tool. Personally I think it is great to also always carry a hairtie in case it gets windy and you want to put your hair up on the hike down or espically if any rappelling is involved in your elopement day.
• Fashion Fixes: Stock up on safety pins, a mini sewing kit, de-wrinkle spray and fashion tape to handle any dress emergencies.
• Health and Comfort: Include items like band-aids, pain relievers, and antacids. A mini deodorant and breath mints will also ensure we stay fresh throughout the event.
• Miscellaneous Must-Haves: Always have a portable phone charger, snacks like granola bars for quick energy boosts, and water to stay hydrated.

By packing these essentials, you ensure after any adventure you can still look great. With a well-prepared emergency kit, you can focus on the beauty and excitement of the moments.

How long will hair and make up last on my adventure elopement?

Crystal answers this commonly asked question:

“The hair side of elopement styling has its unique strategies. We encourage our clients to work within the framework of their natural hair texture to achieve lasting styles and looks that feel authentic on them. Hair that is not beaten into submission will withstand the elements so much better than hair that is altered with heavy products and lots of heat styling. We also approach our foundations with very hearty techniques. Foundations created with elastics and braids are so much more structurally sound than a wispy texture that is loosely pinned. Can we still achieve these airy, effortless styles? Yes, but will they withstand miles of hiking? Also, yes

The makeup we use for elopements has been literally field tested for long wear adventures as well. We’ve done the homework through sweat, rain, sun and snacking! When we get to the mountain top, the goal is to have very little that actually needs touching up, even though that’s our job when we get out there. Typically the specific areas I’m working on are blotting off shine, sometimes doing a little blend of the eyeshadow (often one of the mot overlooked but very oily areas of the face) and adding gloss on top of the long wear lip color now that its set.”

Check out the photo below, this bride got her hair and makeup done, but after the first look they decided to get into the waterfalls for some fun! While we were worried how this would effect her make up, she came out basically only needing a lip touch up! That is how good the products are the professionals are using, espcially, if they know your plans for your elopement day and can do your make up accordingly.

FAQs

1. Is it advisable to hire a professional for makeup and hairstyling for an elopement?
Yes, we recommend hiring a professional hairstylist and makeup artist for your elopement or micro wedding if you are not 100% confident in doing your own.

2. What is the appropriate amount to tip for bridal hair and makeup services?
Typically, you should tip between 15% to 20% of the total service cost. For example, if your hair and makeup services amount to $500, a 15% tip would be $75, while a 20% tip would be $100. If the service provided was exceptional, considering a higher tip might be appropriate.

4. Who should cover the cost of hair and makeup for guests?
Some elopements have guests which may include mothers, sisters or best friends. Some brides choose to cover the cost of their guests to also have their hair and make up done as a thank you for attending the special day. Truly, this is up to you and your guests if they need hair and make up done and who covers it. Just have an honest conversation together about it!

5. Will it be hard to find a makeup artist for my elopement?

Likely, no. We provide all of our couples with recommendations for other vendors as apart of our packages. Typically, in popular elopement regions the make up artist are quite used to early am start times and traveling to Airbnbs or even remote camping areas to do styling.

6. Should I get a spray tan before my elopement?

As a photographer, I can tell you that some spray tans can leave your skin looking more orange in edits and visibly unlike what your natural skin may look like. Crystal answer this question for us to help give some pointers if you do want to have a spray tan:

“My advise here are a couple easy guidelines, 

Be specific. Instead of slathering self tanner all over your face “willy nilly” consider taking a fluffy foundation brush and small blender brush to tap then blend the self tanning foam into the areas of the face where you would normally contour. I would specifically choose a purple based self tanner if this is a technique you would like to try.

Go easy, do less. I understand we all feel like we glow in the dark in early season, but your best look is really the one where you look and feel the most like yourself

Take a picture with your fiancé. The biggest problem the photographers face seems to be less that you are orange but more that you don’t match in tone with your partner (tone=think on a scale of blue to orange, not dark to light). Photos can be adjusted for warmth and coolness, but not as a spot treatment. So you just want to make sure you don’t go so far that the two of you look like you’re from different planets.

Blend! I love a foaming self tanner applied with the mitt. I love it because the application goes on super blended and the mitt covers your hands so it’s not immediately obvious when someone looks at your fingernails that you’ve used self tanner. 

Go Purple! I’ve also found a few brands (St Tropez, Be Tan etc) that make purple based self tanner, which I highly recommend if you have found yourself feeling orange from self tanners in the past. Game Changer!”

Elopement Hair and Makeup Artist whose work is featured in this resource:

• Wild Bride BackCountry | Colorado + Moab
• Sedona Beauty Team | Sedona
• Skagit Bridal Hair and Makeup | North Cascades / Mt Baker
• Jireh Artistry | Yosemite National Park
• Pacific Brides | WA State
• Glammed by Victoria | Seattle

No matter if you are currently planning your elopement or if you already eloped and are looking to plan a celebration with all your loved ones, we are here to help you to decide how and what is right for you to celebrate your union with all of your loved ones!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect post elopement soirée. From defining your celebration style to choosing a stunning venue and crafting the ideal guest list, we’ve got you covered with creative post elopement party ideas. We’ll also explore invitation wording, dress options, and personal touches to make your party truly one-of-a-kind. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to celebrating your elopement – it’s all about honoring your love story, your way.

It is so important to remember, no couple is the same, no elopement is the same. There are no rules when it comes to how you define elopement, elopement celebration or how you decide to get married. Planning with an open mind can help you craft a day that is true to you two and forever memorable.

Defining Your Post Elopement Celebration

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of planning your post elopement party, let’s define what it actually is.

A post elopement party is essentially a celebration after your intimate elopement ceremony. It’s an opportunity to share your joy with loved ones who weren’t present at your actual elopement adventures.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to post elopement parties. You can host it whenever and wherever you like, whether that’s a week after your elopement or on your one-year anniversary. The beauty of eloping is that you get to do things your way, so embrace that freedom when planning your celebration!

Unlike, tradional weddings, where there are a lot of protocols or ettiquettes, that doesn’t exist here. The protocal is to do what is right for you two.

When to Host Your Post Elopement Party

The timing and location of your post elopement party are entirely up to you. Some couples prefer to keep the celebration fresh and host it shortly after their elopement, while others may wait a few months to settle into married life first. Here are some of the most common times we have seen elopements celebrations happen:

• The same day as the elopement, the morning portion is just the couple and then the evening is with their loved ones. You can see an example of a day like this by viewing Carmen + James’ elopement day stroy.
• Some couples choose to book a two day elopement celebration. Day 1 being their adventure elopement and Day 2 being a more tradional wedding celebration or party in the same area or within 3-5 hours of travel. You can view an expample of what this looks like by checking out Reanna + Roxy’s elopement stroy.
• Some couples choose to have their elopement celebration 3-6 months after their elopement at home.
• Some couples choose to celebrate their elopement day after their tradional wedding, remember, no rules!

For Bill and I personally, we eloped on a 6 day backpacking trip and then on our 1 year anniversary went to the Great Smokey Mountains Naitonal Park to hold our mini elopement reception with 12 of our loved ones. We decided to wait one year for a few reasons: time to save money, spread out the celebration and our general schedule with ideal weather.

So let’s talk about it, how do you decide when is the best time for you two hold your elopement party? These are the main things we recommend considering:

• Budget
• Venue, if you need a venue, securing a date may dictate a lot of your choices
• Time of year/ideal weather if you are planning out outdoor event
• Turn around time for photo and video from your elopement day. You may want to share these with your loved ones at your reception. For example, we turn around photo in 5 weeks and video in 8 weeks so most of our couples that celebrate after the elopement day will plan 6-9 weeks past their elopement date.
• The time that you have to plan + stress management. You do not want to elope and then immediately have to go into a big event. Consider how much time you want between the two and what works for you.

Where to host your post elopement celebration

As for the venue, your options are endless. Picking the right location may have a lot to do with when you choose to host your elopement celebration. When picking the right location for your celebration consider:

• Budget
• Guest count
• Overal desired vibe/experience
• Weather

We have been honored to actually attend and photography some of our couples elopement parties and these are some of the locations we loved:

• Eastside Bivy – located in Bishop, CA. The couple eloped on a hiking elopement just them and then hosted a dinner + party the next day at their stay here. It was such a beautiful setting and walking distance to the bar after! The day after the reception the couple hosted everyone on a hike into the mountains.
• Red Earth Venue – located in Moab, Utah. We have had several couples use this venue. All of the couples have done a full day adventure elopement and on day two done a more tradional wedding where they hold the formal ceremony, dinner and dancing.
• Camp Saturna – located in the Mt Baker, Washington area. We had a couple share their private vows in the morning and then in the evening held their ceremony here, canoed into the reception where dancing and dinner happened. Everyone was also able to stay on the property.
• At an Airbnb – A lot of our couples choose to host a dinner the same day as their elopement or another day. We ourselves hosted our entire weekend at an Airbnb. It is important to get permission from the Airbnb host if you are going to go this route. We have had seen couples use Airbnbs in Joshua Tree, Yosemite National Park, Washington State and Sedona for this.
• Your backyard or a family members porperty – This is a recipe for affordable, laid back and fun! Hosting at a place you do not have to rent saves you money, but also allows you more flexibility in your plans.

Visit our recommended guide for 40 Small Wedding Venues located in Adventurous Regions.

Unique locations to consider for an elopement party:

1. A State Park
2. A county park
3. A campground
4. On a house boat!! (Did anyone say Lake Powell??)
5. On a Cruise
6. Vineyard/Brewery
7. Art Gallery or Meausm

Remember, there are no rules – choose a location that feels special and enjoyable for you and your partner.

Detailed Planning Guide for Elopement Reception

Now that you have some ideas on when, where and overall vibe of the elopement reception you wish to host, let’s dive into planning it out!

Setting and Invitations

First, consider the overall vibe you want for your post-elopement party. Will it be a casual backyard BBQ or an elegant evening soirée? This will help determine your invitation style and wording.

When crafting your invites, be clear that you’ve already tied the knot and this is a celebration of your marriage. However, how you celebrate is up to you two. This may just be a party, this may include a typical reception activities, or it could even include a formal ceremony. If there are formal events happening you may want to consider listing them on the invite, this could help your guests determine what type of attire to wear.

When to send invites for a post elopement celebration?

When to send invites partly depends on when you decide to tell people you have or plan to elope. We recommend sending invites at least 3 months in advance so your guests can plan ahead. However, if it is during Summer when people typically plan their vacations + travel you may want to send them 6 months in advance.

Where to get elopement party invites?

You can order invites online at a place like Minted or Vista Print. However, you can also use an online resource to save money + paper product. This option is great because you can also share more information more easily with your guests. We recommend using: Zola or With Joy.

What to wear to your Elopement Reception

Ah, I am always team wear the wedding dress as much as you can!! However, you can wear whatever you want! Here are some things we have seen our couples do:

• Wear the same thing you wore on your elopement day.
• Wear something new, a secondary dress, suit, typically it is something fun or slightly more casual.
• Wear something cute and dressy, but not wedding related, maybe a Summer dress?
• Your everyday attire, depending how casual the event is.
• Consider something personalized like a jacket or shirts.

Some places we love for shopping bridal attire that is affordable for a second dress/bridal look:

• Lulu’s
• For the Love and Lemons
• Etsy
• Second hand shops online or in person

Budget and Allocation

Next, establish your budget. Post-elopement parties can be as simple or extravagant as you’d like, so figure out what’s most important to you as a couple. Will you splurge on a live band or prioritize a top-notch caterer? Allocate your funds accordingly.

When budgeting for your elopement reception some common things to consider budget for are:

• Stay
• Food
• Decor
• Cake/dessert
• Photography
• Other vendors (You may consider hair and make up, DJ, chef, florist)

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to your celebration. You can host it whenever and wherever you like, whether that’s a week after your elopement or on your one-year anniversary. The key is to stay true to yourselves and what will make you happiest.

If you are unsure of a budget or what is realistic my advice would be to reach out to a few options you are considering or browse websites to gauge how much funds you may need for what you envision.

Essential Elements of an Elopement Party

When planning your post elopement party, there are a few essential elements to consider that will make your celebration truly unforgettable. Let’s dive into the key aspects that will elevate your event and create an incredible experience for you and your guests.

Entertainment

One of the most important elements of any party is the entertainment. Consider hiring a band or DJ to keep the dance floor packed all night long. If you’re looking for a more laid-back vibe, plan some fun games like lawn games, board games, or even set up a projector to show your elopement photos and video. The key is to choose activities that reflect your personalities and will keep your guests engaged and having a great time.

Having music of some sort also presents you the oppurtunity to share a first dance together or with your parents. Again, this is a great way to provide the guests the ability to feel apart of the wedding experince, but not something required or even needed. Just an idea!

Here are a few first dance songs we love:

“Harvest Moon” by Neil Young

“Rivers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart

“Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift (Acoustic Version)

“Ho Hey” by The Lumineers

“Bloom” by The Paper Kites

“Lover” by National Parks

Food and Beverage Choices

No party is complete without delicious food and drinks! You have so many options when it comes to catering your post elopement celebration. Consider hiring a food truck to provide your favorite eats, or work with a local restaurant to create a custom menu. If you’re hosting a more casual affair, a BBQ or potluck can be a fun and affordable option. And don’t forget the drinks! Set up a bar with signature cocktails that represent you as a couple, or keep it simple with beer and wine. You can have a bartender or you can set out ice chests with drinks. For special cocktails without a bartender consider making it bulk.

Guest Experience

Above all, your post elopement party should be a reflection of you as a couple. Think about ways to personalize the experience for your guests. Some ideas include:

1. Create a custom playlist with songs that are meaningful to you
2. Set up a photo booth with props that match your theme
3. Provide favors that guests will actually use and enjoy
4. Include personal touches like handwritten notes or a slideshow of your love story
5. Display photos from your elopement day so they can see and hear your story.

Remember, there are no rules when it comes to celebrating your elopement. Wear your wedding attire again, re-read your vows, or plan a weekend getaway with your closest friends and family. The most important thing is that you do whatever feels authentic and enjoyable to you. Remember you can make this event feel like a wedding type celebration, but it can also just be a gathering of everyone you love casually.

By focusing on these essential elements – entertainment, food and drinks, and the overall guest experience – you’ll create a post elopement party that is truly unforgettable. So let loose, have fun, and revel in this exciting new chapter of your lives together!

Personal Touches to Enhance Your Elopement Celebration

Now that you’ve nailed down the essentials of your post elopement celebration, it’s time to infuse it with personal touches that reflect your unique love story. These special elements will make your party truly unforgettable for both you and your guests.

Share your Elopement Images

One meaningful way to personalize your post elopement party is by sharing photos and videos from your intimate ceremony. This allows guests who couldn’t be there to feel like they were part of your special day. Consider setting up a slideshow or creating a video montage to showcase your elopement highlights.

You could even incorporate your elopement photos into the party decor. Print out your favorite shots and display them on tables or hang them on a memory wall for guests to admire. This is a great conversation starter and helps everyone feel connected to your journey. Depending how far your reception is after the elopemetn considering having a full ablum printed and displayed so they can flip through the day and unfold the full story.

Second Ceremony Options

If you want to include your loved ones in your union, consider having a second ceremony at your post elopement party. This could be as simple as reciting your vows again in front of your guests or incorporating traditional elements that are important to your families.

You could also ask a close friend or family member to officiate the ceremony, adding an extra layer of intimacy. This is a beautiful way to blend the private commitment you made during your elopement with a public celebration of your love. You can make it serious, tradional, fun or extremely untradional.

Check out our guide for elopement ceremonies for more ideas.

Customized Keepsakes

Create custom favors or keepsakes for your guests to take home as a reminder of your special day. Some ideas include:

1. Personalized candles with your elopement date or initials
2. Small jars of local honey or jam from your elopement location
3. Customized postcards with a photo from your elopement
4. Miniature potted succulents or plants native to your elopement spot

You could also set up a guest book alternative, like a wishing tree or time capsule, where guests can write their well wishes and advice for your marriage. This interactive element encourages guests to share in your joy and creates a meaningful memento for you to cherish.

Also, keep in mind it is not mandatory to give a gift.

Conclusion

Eloping is a beautiful way to celebrate your love story on your own terms. Whether you choose a scenic destination or a sentimental spot, the key is to stay true to yourselves and what makes you happiest as a couple. A lot of couples choose to elope because they want to seperate the intimacy of the ceremony and the party aspect of the reception. In this case planning the party can be a lot of fun. However, many couples choose to elope because they do not like to be center of attention. Remember, just like your elopement, when it comes to your reception, stay true to you two and do what feels right to you two.

When it comes time to celebrate with loved ones, a post elopement party is the perfect opportunity to share your joy and revel in this exciting new chapter. Focus on creating an experience that reflects your unique personalities, with personal touches like custom cocktails, a meaningful playlist, and photos from your elopement day. Above all, embrace the freedom and flexibility that comes with doing things your way – because in the end, all that matters is your love for each other.

FAQs

1. How do you organize a celebration after eloping?
To plan a post-elopement celebration, consider these 8 creative ideas:

• Choose a specific theme or style for the party.
• Select the ideal venue that suits your taste.
• Display your elopement photos for guests to see.
• Hire a professional photographer to capture the event.
• Incorporate some of your favorite wedding traditions.
• Wear an outfit that you feel great in.
• Hire a DJ or a live band to provide music.
• Make a toast to celebrate the occasion.

2. What is a post-elopement celebration called?
A post-elopement celebration can be referred to in various ways including a reception, a post-elopement party, an evening celebration, or even a “Happily Ever Afterparty.” The choice of name depends on your personal preference; there’s no right or wrong term. Here are a few ideas for you:

• Adventure After Party
• Happily Ever After Bash
• Just Married Soirée
• Post Vow Party
• Newlywed Adventure
• Just Hitched Bonfire

3. How should you announce your marriage after eloping?
When announcing your marriage after eloping, you can use formal messages such as:

• “[Name] and [Name] were married in a private ceremony in [Location] on [Date].”
• “Announcing the new [Name] and [Name], married at an intimate wedding ceremony on [Date].”
• “We are delighted to announce that our [Relation], [Name] married [Name] on [Date] in [Location].”

It is really up to you! When Bill and I personally eloped no one knew except our closest folks. We simply annouced on our social media platforms with photos and our account of the experience.

4. How can you involve family and friends after eloping?
To include family and friends after eloping, consider hosting a reception back home. This allows you to celebrate your marriage with loved ones in a way that does not necessarily have to follow traditional reception norms. This gathering can be tailored to reflect your personal style and preferences. As we have mentioned earlier in the blog you can include them by doing first dances, toasts, re-read vows or hold a simply or fun formal ceremony. We have seen couples even toast to their guests, explaining to each why they are important to them and their story. Do not be afraid to do something creative or different!

Your Elopement Photography Team!

We believe couples really can have it all. The intimate moments just for themselves and the stress free celebration with friends and family.

We are by your side every step of the way and we’re always excited to help with any planning that brings you each step closer to your full dream elopement experience.

Let’s chat about your day!

In an era where the average wedding costs are soaring, many couples find themselves dreaming of a memorable day without the daunting price tag. A budget wedding does not mean compromising on the essence or beauty of your special day; rather, it’s about smart planning and prioritizing what truly matters.

It is also important to keep in mind “budget” means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Some people’s budget may be $500 and some budgets may be even $20,000.

There are myriad ways to celebrate love without breaking the bank. Smaller weddings such as elopements, intimate weddings, back yard weddings ad so forth not only alleviates financial stress but also allows couples to invest in what they value most, be it wedding photography, a honeymoon, or kicking off their marriage with the adventure of a life time.

This article will guide you through various strategies to keep your wedding costs in check while still sharing an unforgettable ceremony with your partner. You will learn how to set your priorities straight, select a venue that aligns with your vision and budget, manage your guest list effectively to ensure an intimate celebration and explore how to infuse the best of your relationship into this day. Additionally, we will delve into how to choose wedding attire that doesn’t cost a fortune, create DIY decorations that add a personal touch to your wedding, select entertainment that keeps your guests engaged if you’re having them, and design invitations and stationery that are both beautiful and cost-effective. By following these wedding planning tips and considering wedding alternatives, you can embark on the journey of marriage with financial confidence and create a day that reflects your love story uniquely and authentically

How much do weddings cost?

According to varies sources on the internet a tradional wedding can cost $35,000-90,000, averaging around $40,000 on the West Coast.

Based on our own research interviewing past eloping couples the average elopement wedding can cost between $8,000-25,000.

When wedding budgeting, couples are often starting from ground zero. This means that most couples don’t have any idea the average costs and what a typical wedding budget should be. There are many articles online with wedding expenses breakdown’s, lists of wedding of expenses, and wedding budget percentages. As you start to pour over the mounds of content about how to make a wedding budget it can all start to become overwhelming, which is the last thing you want to experience while planning your day.

Before we dive into all of the details of planning a budget wedding, we want to go over a few key questions that are common for wedding budgets to dispel long standing myths.

What is a must have on my wedding budget list?

When you’re planning a dream day centered around you and your partners love story, the honest answer is no list can provide you with what is important to you. As you and your partner sit together sharing date nights, the “must have” details will come to you. Don’t let others pressure you into believing anything is a must have.

When you’re wedding budget planning, the most important thing you can do is stay true to who you are. No wedding budget checklist is going to fit the box of your unique relationship, and that’s truly what wedding planning should be about. Curating an epic day to kick off your next phase in life as newly weds!

Why you should not choose a budget photographer

In our professional opinion, we highly recommend not skipping out on a budget for a good photographer. After your wedding day is gone and for years to come you will look back on your photos to remember the day, tell the story of the day and relive it. Your photographer makes a huge impact on your day from the experience day of and how you remember it.

You know the phrase, “you get what you pay for?” This is SO true when it comes to booking a photographer for your wedding or elopement. We have re-photographed a couple’s wedding photos before because their photographer’s card corrupted mid wedding and they did not have a two card camera slot, or a back up camera so there were no photos from their wedding day. We have also heard stories from couple’s where their photographer no-showed or canceled on them last minute. It is so important to hire a professional photographer.

It is not un-common for our eloping couples that 50-85% of their budget is photography. You would never know this from their photos, because you can save greatly in other areas planning your wedding day and it will not effect the beauty of your images.

Setting Your Priorities for your Wedding

To ensure a budget wedding that still captures the essence of your love story, setting your priorities early in the planning process is crucial. This approach not only helps in managing the wedding costs effectively but also in making decisions that align with what matters most to you and your partner.

Identify what’s most important

1. Open and Honest Communication: Begin by having an open and honest discussion with all parties involved in the wedding planning about what is most important to each of you. Whether it’s the location, attire, or activities, identifying these priorities upfront allows for a focused allocation of your budget. What we hear from our couples all the time is they’d like a stress free wedding day, and we absolutely agree that’s the best kind.
2. Top Three Priorities: After discussions, pick your top three priorities and agree to allocate a little extra money for them. This ensures that the elements of your wedding that matter the most are not compromised.
3. Elopement as an Alternative: For couples considering cost-effective alternatives, eloping offers a deeply personal and intimate celebration of love without the significant expenses associated with traditional weddings. This can be particularly appealing for adventure-loving couples who prioritize intimacy and authenticity over grandeur.

Decide what you can cut or minimize

1. Assessing Indifference: Look through your wedding plans and identify items or services you are indifferent about. Glamorous details on these items can spike costs without adding significant value or enjoyment to your day. By freeing yourself of the pressure to upgrade, you can make honest choices that reflect your true desires and significantly reduce costs.
2. Guest List Management: One of the most effective ways to save on wedding expenses is to cut the guest list. A smaller guest list not only reduces the cost of meals, rentals, and every other detail, but also allows you to possibly include wish list items previously deemed unaffordable. This shift towards a smaller, more intimate wedding or an elopement can significantly enhance the quality of the experience for you and your guests.
3. Consider no guests: Our belief is that a couples wedding day is about their love story. We have family and friends that we love, but we decided to elope just us on a backpacking trip in Mt. Rainier, and we are so glad that we did. We held a reception with guests a year later, so we maintained a budget wedding while also including loved ones down the line. It was truly the best of both worlds.
4. Cost-Effective Alternatives: Explore cost-effective alternatives in areas that are lower on your priority list. This could include renting clothing instead of buying, opting for minimalist to zero decor, or even considering a less expensive venue. Holding a wedding ceremony on many public lands is free! National Park weddings do require a permit, but they’re extremely cost effective and you have stunning nature as your backdrop. Each of these decisions can contribute to substantial savings without sacrificing the overall vision of your wedding day.

By setting clear priorities and being willing to make compromises where necessary, couples can plan a beautiful and memorable wedding or elopement that stays within budget. This strategic approach not only ensures that the most valued aspects of your celebration are highlighted but also guards against unnecessary financial stress, allowing you to embark on your marriage with confidence and joy.

Venue’s for a Budget Wedding

Choosing a Non-Traditional Venue

A non-traditional wedding venue may be a city park, a farm, a friends place or a state park. These locations can offer you little to no fees compared to the cost of a venue. Some State Parks we might recommend which can be incredibly affordable are:

• Dead Horse State Park in UT
• Smith Rock State Park in OR
• Lake Wenachee State Park in WA
• Obstruction Pass State Park in WA

Holding the Ceremony and Reception at the Same Place vs Not

Hosting both your wedding ceremony and reception at the same venue can simplify your planning process, save time, and reduce costs.

However, popular option for eloping couples with guests is to elope out on public land and then to return to a private space where all of their family and friends are staying (think one big house!) to celebrate and share dinner, dances and toasts. If you have important loved ones who have mobility limitations, many venues offer package discounts for hosting both events in one place, further helping to manage your budget. Dividing the two events can be less stressful and make costs go way down.

Consider A National Park Wedding

National Park weddings present a budget-friendly and intimate alternative for couples. These venues are often much less expensive than traditional ones and can offer the freedom from decoration and arrangement. Hosting your wedding in an iconic national park like Arches or Mt. Rainier brings an inspiring element to the ceremony and allows for a smaller, more personal guest list. This setting also enables pet-friendly weddings, adding a special touch to your day. Emotionally, national park weddings can be a place you return to over the years, allowing couples to celebrate in a place of continued significance. The flexibility in date availability and the potential for significant savings make national park weddings an appealing option for those planning a wedding on a budget.

Incorporating elements of elopement, such as an intimate setting and a focus on personal values, can further enhance the appeal of these venue choices, aligning with the broader theme of seeking alternatives to traditional, expensive weddings.

Wedding Guest List Management

Managing your guest list is a pivotal aspect of planning a budget wedding, especially when considering elopement-style weddings as a cost-effective alternative. A smaller, more intimate guest list not only helps in reducing wedding costs but also fosters a more personal and meaningful experience for the couple and their guests. Below are strategies to keep your guest list small and intimate and guidelines on managing plus-ones.

Keep the Guest List Small and Intimate

1. Define Your Inner Circle: Start by identifying your VIPs. This might include immediate family members, close friends, or important mentors, along with their plus-ones and/or children. Remember, a smaller guest list allows for a more personal and meaningful interaction with each guest.
2. Communicate Your Vision: Early in the planning process, let parents or any contributing parties know about your plans for an intimate event. Setting expectations early helps in managing requests for additional guests and maintains the focus on a more meaningful celebration centered around your relationship.
3. Venue Capacity as a Natural Filter: Selecting a venue with a smaller capacity can naturally limit your guest list. Many venue locations on public lands have limits of 8 guests, while some allow up to 75 (we recommend a private venue space for anything over 15 people total). This approach not only helps in keeping the event intimate but also in managing costs more effectively.

Limit Plus-Ones

1. Establish Clear Plus-One Guidelines: Offer plus-ones only to guests who are married, engaged, in your wedding party, or in a serious long-term relationship. This helps in keeping the guest list manageable without the need to extend a plus-one invitation to every single guest.
2. Personal Decision on Children’s Attendance: Deciding whether to invite children is a personal choice. If opting for an adults-only celebration, ensure this is communicated clearly on the invitation by only writing the names of the adults.
3. Be Consistent and Upfront: Maintain a consistent policy on plus-ones and communicate this clearly from the start. Avoid extending plus-one invitations to casual partners or friends to keep the guest list intimate. This consistency helps in managing expectations and avoids misunderstandings.
4. Navigating Plus-One Requests: Should guests inquire about bringing a plus-one, consider their relationship status and your relationship with them. If a guest’s relationship has become more serious recently, try to accommodate their partner if possible.

By employing these strategies, couples can manage their guest list effectively, ensuring a memorable and intimate celebration. Whether opting for a small wedding or an elopement, the focus remains on celebrating love in a way that is most meaningful to the couple, without the stress of managing a large guest list.

Affordable Food and Drinks for a Wedding

Planning a wedding on a budget often means getting creative with every aspect, including the food and drinks. By exploring different catering options, considering DIY food ideas, and opting for signature drinks instead of an open bar, couples can significantly reduce their wedding costs while still providing a memorable experience for their guests. Below are strategies to help manage the food and drink expenses without compromising on quality or guest satisfaction.

One thing to note as well would be that you do not have to have your wedding in the evening. A morning or early in the day wedding can help you save on food costs. Feeding people dinner is more expensive often than breakfast or lunch food items.

Explore Different Catering Options

1. Consider Non-Traditional Caterers: Look into hiring food trucks or ordering from a local restaurant to cater your wedding. Food trucks offer unique menus and can be a cost-effective alternative. Restaurants often offer catering services at a fraction of the cost of traditional wedding caterers.
2. Buffet and Family-Style Meals: Opting for a buffet or family-style meal instead of a plated dinner can save on costs. Buffets allow guests to serve themselves, which can also add an interactive element to the dining experience.
3. Have Family Prepare the meal: This option is a great way to maintain the intimacy of the wedding day. If you and your partner are out having epic portraits captured up in the mountains (Mt. Baker maybe?), family and friends can be back at your private rental space preparing food and drinks for celebrating into the night. In our experience, the guests always love having something to do that’s important and hands on.
4. Have a picnic: You can pre-pack or make a picnic to bring along with you! This feels more intimate, can be cost effective and fun! Picnics can work great for just you two elopements or for small groups.

DIY Food Ideas

1. Bulk Store Purchases: Buying finger foods in bulk from wholesale stores and presenting them buffet-style can keep costs low. This method eliminates the need for a wait staff, further reducing expenses.
2. Daytime Weddings: Hosting a daytime wedding and serving brunch can be more affordable than a dinner reception. Breakfast foods like eggs and potatoes are generally less expensive than meats required for dinner menus.
3. Potluck Weddings: Encouraging guests to bring a dish to share can create a sense of community and significantly reduce food costs. This approach works best for smaller, more intimate weddings.
4. Pre-Made Meals from Grocery Stores: Many grocery stores offer deli and prepared food sections where you can order entire meals, like rotisserie chicken with sides, that are ready to serve.

Opt for Signature Drinks Instead of an Open Bar

1. Cost Savings: Offering wine, beer, and one or two signature cocktails can be more cost-effective than hosting an open bar. This approach requires purchasing fewer types of alcohol and mixers, leading to savings.
2. Personal Touch: Signature cocktails can add a personal touch to your wedding, reflecting the couple’s tastes and creating a memorable experience for guests.
3. Simplified Service: A limited bar menu speeds up service, ensuring guests aren’t waiting long for their drinks. Signature cocktails can be pre-mixed in batches for even faster service.

By carefully considering these strategies for affordable food and drinks, couples can enjoy their special day without the stress of overspending. Whether through creative catering choices, DIY food options, or thoughtful drink selections, it’s possible to host a beautiful wedding that reflects the couple’s style and values while keeping costs in check.

Affordable Wedding Attire

Consider Pre-owned Dresses or Rentals

Opting for a pre-owned wedding dress can be a budget-friendly and eco-friendly choice for brides. Reputable online sellers and consignment shops often feature stunning gowns at a fraction of their original price. It’s essential to inspect the dress thoroughly to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Renting a wedding gown presents another fantastic opportunity for brides to wear a designer dress without bearing the full cost. Many bridal boutiques and online rental services offer a wide array of beautiful gowns. This option also alleviates the worry of dress storage or preservation post-wedding, allowing the dress to create memories for another bride.

A non-profit bridal boutique that we love which is also very budget wedding friendly is Brides for a Cause located in Portland, Seattle, San Diego and Sacramento. We recommend you check them out!

Simplify Groom and Bridal Party Outfits

1. Rent or Borrow: Not just for brides, renting or borrowing wedding attire extends to grooms and the bridal party. Rental services cater to a wide range of wedding dresses, suits, and formal attire, making it an excellent choice for those looking to cut costs without compromising on style.
2. Opt for Simple Elegance: Choosing classic, timeless designs over ones with excessive embellishments can significantly reduce costs. Such simplicity often exudes an understated elegance that remains memorable.
3. Minimal Accessories, Maximum Impact: Instead of splurging on numerous accessories, focus on a few key pieces. Statement jewelry, a unique veil, or elegant shoes can elevate the wedding attire without a hefty price tag.
4. Coordinating the Wedding Party: For a cohesive look, consider simple coordination strategies such as matching the bridesmaids’ dress color with the groomsmen’s ties. This approach ensures the wedding party looks unified without the need for perfectly matched outfits.
5. Allowing Personal Style: Giving the wedding party the freedom to choose their outfits within set guidelines can ensure they feel comfortable and express their individuality. This method can also be cost-effective, as they can select outfits within their budget that they would wear again.
6. Consistent Details for Cohesion: If giving the wedding party freedom in their outfit choice, maintaining a few consistent details can help achieve a cohesive look. This could include specifying the dress length for bridesmaids or the shirt and suspender combination for groomsmen.

By considering pre-owned or rental options and simplifying the outfits for the groom and bridal party, couples can significantly reduce wedding attire costs. These strategies not only offer a budget-friendly approach but also allow for personal expression and eco-friendly choices, aligning with the values of those preferring an intimate or elopement-style wedding.

Hair and Make up Cost for a Wedding

Hair and Make up costs is probably where most of our couples get sticker shock when it comes to vendor costs. On average for an elopement wedding hair and make up can cost $600-$1000.

Our biggest tip for saving money when it comes to hair and make up is to do it yourself if this service is not super important to you. If you are going to do your own hair and make-up be sure to practice beforehand to really nail down the look you want so the day of the wedding it is effortless for you to do. If you wanted, you could include a friend or family member in this process to help you and make it a fun connective activity day of with a loved one. We once had a mom that did her daughter’s hair and make up for her wedding!

If you know 100% you or someone you know can not do your hair and make up then you may want to consider making an appointment for hair and make up at a location like Ulta or a beauty bar.

DIY Decorations

Simple and Cost-Effective Decoration Ideas

While we focus on intimate weddings that are crafted around a couples relationship, you may be looking for a way to have budget wedding friendly decor if you’re going a more traditional route. Our motto would be, skip the stress over the small details and instead pursue an adventure packed with meaning and intimacy. With that idea as the center point of any wedding, big or small, everything else that follows is there to enhance it. So here are our tips for cost-effective decoration ideas.

1. Repurposing Ceremony Decor for the Reception: A smart way to save on decor is by repurposing items. For instance, a floral garland used on the ceremony arch can be relocated to adorn the sweetheart table, making for a beautiful focal point both during the ceremony and the reception. Similarly, bridesmaid’s bouquets find a second life as elegant decorations on cocktail tables or as part of the dessert display, adding a personal touch without additional costs.
2. Utilizing Reception Centerpieces in Multiple Ways: Reception centerpieces don’t have to be single-use. They can line the aisle during the ceremony for a cohesive look, then be moved back to guest tables for the reception. This not only saves on floral arrangements but also ensures the decor elements are fully utilized throughout the wedding day.
3. Incorporating Home Decor: Selecting items that will serve both as wedding decor and as additions to your home decor is a practical approach. Opting for a large piece of art or a photo as a guest book allows guests to leave their well-wishes, and later, it becomes a cherished keepsake in your home.
4. Candle and Dried Flower Centerpieces: Candles offer a cost-effective alternative to floral centerpieces. A mix of tapers, votives, or floating candles creates a warm ambiance. Pairing them with dried flowers, such as sun palm leaves, can achieve a stunning bohemian look that’s both affordable and stylish.

Reuse and Repurpose Decor Items

1. Morning After Brunch Decor: Extend the life of your wedding decor by using centerpieces at a post-wedding brunch. This not only adds a special touch to a next-day gathering but also ensures that the beauty of your wedding decor is enjoyed for a little longer.
2. Donating Centerpieces: Donating your centerpieces to nursing homes or other community spaces is a wonderful way to repurpose your wedding decor. It brings joy to others and ensures that the beauty crafted for your special day continues to bring smiles.
3. Home Decor Repurposing: Bold-colored vases or glassware from your wedding can be reused for home dinner parties, adding a pop of color against a neutral backdrop. Similarly, tablescape elements like beautiful vases, glasses, and even napkins can be creatively integrated into your home decor, serving as a daily reminder of your special day.
4. Sustainable Decor Choices: Opting for sustainable decor elements such as plants and greenery not only adds an organic touch to your wedding but also allows you to reuse these items in your home afterward, contributing to a more eco-conscious lifestyle.

You can also re-sale your wedding decor in local Facebook groups, this is also a great resource for purchasing used decorations.

Flowers

Flowers can range from anywhere up to anywhere, no really. Fresh flowers can be extremely expensive especially if they are not locally sourced or not in current season.

If you want fresh flowers, but do not want the cost of a florist, we recommend getting your flowers at a market or going straight to the source by purchasing from a farm or the market where the florist purchase their own goods.

By focusing on simple, cost-effective, and sustainable decoration ideas that can be reused and repurposed, couples can create a beautiful and memorable wedding day without overspending. These strategies not only ensure a visually stunning celebration but also align with the values of eco-consciousness and practicality, making them ideal for those considering elopement-style weddings as a cost-effective and intimate alternative.

You can also consider no decor, a lot of our eloping couples choose to elope just them two, no decor and really you do not need it as the locations are so beautiful and the day is more about you two and your connection.

Affordable Wedding Entertainment

Budget-friendly Entertainment Options

When planning a wedding on a budget, entertainment can play a pivotal role without breaking the bank. Solo musicians and singers offer an elegant touch or a traditional sound for both the ceremony and cocktail hour, with violinists, pianists, and soul singers stirring guests’ emotions at an affordable rate. For a more relaxed ambiance, a classical guitarist can set a peaceful atmosphere, while a high-energy saxophone player can elevate the mood during the cocktail hour.

Incorporating fun activities like Instax cameras with funny masks, beer pong tables, or Giant Jenga can provide memorable entertainment at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional options like photo booths or live bands. Sure you can rent these items, but you can likely, more cheaply make them and re-sale them after the wedding day or keep them for your home.

Utilizing a Spotify playlist for music is another excellent budget option, allowing for personalized music selection without the need for a DJ. For those with connections to bands or musical friends, inviting them to perform can add a unique and personal touch to the wedding entertainment.

Using Playlists or Local Talent

Creating a must-play list with your partner ensures that the music reflects your shared memories and love story. Including songs memorable between friends and family can also make the playlist more inclusive and enjoyable for all guests.

Our take: Conventional planning may suggest that it’s crucial to balance personal taste with guest preferences, incorporating a variety of genres to appeal to different age groups and ensuring the playlist includes both upbeat and slow songs. But we’re here to encourage you to make the playlist your own! This is your day to be celebrated, and every aspect of it should reflect that.

For couples opting for a more DIY approach to music, using Spotify with a premium subscription allows for downloading playlists to avoid streaming issues. Having a friend or family member act as an MC can help with announcements, making the experience more personalized and engaging. If you’ve cut down the guest list to a handful of your must-have people, a bluetooth speaker or two is completely sufficient to carry the ambiance for the evening.

By considering these budget-friendly entertainment options and leveraging playlists or local talent, couples can create a memorable and enjoyable wedding experience for their guests without compromising their budget. Whether it’s through hiring solo musicians, incorporating interactive games, or curating a personalized playlist, the right entertainment choices can enhance the celebration and reflect the couple’s personalities and love story.

Invitations and Stationery

Go Digital Where Possible

In the spirit of elopement-style weddings, which prioritize intimacy and authenticity, going digital with wedding invitations is a savvy and modern approach. By building their own wedding website, couples can direct guests to their site for comprehensive details about the wedding plans and activities, eliminating the need to list everything within the physical invitation suite. This not only reduces the amount of information needing to be printed but also the number of cards, ultimately saving money. Fewer cards mean lighter envelopes, which can help keep postage costs down. Additionally, opting for digital RSVPs offers a convenient and cost-effective alternative to traditional mail-back cards, saving on the expense of first-class stamps for every RSVP envelope.

DIY or Printable Invites

For those who still cherish the tangible aspect of wedding invitations but are mindful of budget, DIY or printable invites present an excellent middle ground. The least labor-intensive option involves finding an editable digital template online, with companies available to print the invitations. Online marketplaces like Etsy host hundreds of wedding stationery suppliers who can assist with DIY printing, whether at home or through a professional printing shop. Platforms like Canva offer countless free templates and design tools for creating digital wedding invitations, catering to those who prefer a more hands-on approach. For individuals not adept with digital tools or who prefer crafting by hand, making wedding invitations from scratch is a rewarding option. This method allows for complete customization and personalization, aligning with the unique vision of each couple.

When considering DIY invitations, it’s crucial to have a clear vision of the desired theme, colors, materials, and tools needed. Practice is key to ensuring confidence in the final design before committing to creating multiple invites. It’s also important to be realistic about what can be achieved without professional help, setting realistic expectations to avoid disappointment. Time management is another critical factor, as making invitations in bulk can be time-consuming. Enlisting additional help for proofreading is advised to catch any potential errors, ensuring the invitations are correct before sending them out. Finally, when planning to mail invitations, consider the durability of chosen materials to ensure they travel well and arrive in perfect condition.

By embracing digital solutions and DIY options, couples can significantly reduce costs associated with wedding stationery without compromising on style or personal touch. Whether opting for a fully digital approach or incorporating handmade elements, these strategies support the broader theme of cost-effective, intimate, and authentic wedding celebrations.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, we have journeyed together through various strategies and considerations for planning a stunning wedding or elopement while remaining mindful of the budget. From prioritizing elements that truly reflect the couple’s personality and love story to choosing cost-effective alternatives that don’t compromise on quality or significance, the emphasis has been on creating a day that celebrates love in the most authentic and intimate manner. Particularly, we have explored elopements as a meaningful alternative to traditional weddings, highlighting its appeal not only for its cost-saving potential but also for its ability to focus intimately on the couple’s unique story and values.

As we draw this guide to a close, let us reiterate the essence of choosing an elopement or a budget-conscious wedding. It’s not merely about saving money, although that is a great advantage. It’s about emphasizing the core of what a wedding should be—a celebration of love, commitment, and the start of a lifelong journey together.

Whether you choose to elope or plan a small, intimate wedding, remember that the day is ultimately about you and your partner’s shared love and joy. We encourage you to consider these alternatives as a way to start your marriage on a note of authenticity and personal significance, setting the tone for the beautiful chapters to come in your life together.

Your Elopement Photography Team!

Hey there! We’re Traci and Bill, a husband and wife photography team.

We believe in kicking off a marriage in the most authentic way possible, and that often means getting rid of all the minor details in favor of the big picture. When it comes to planning assistance, we have years of experience under our belts and know all of the tips for crafting a day built on sharing an intimate, unforgettable experience. Reach out and lets talk about planning a day that is centered around you and your partners love story.

Let’s Connect!

We’d love to chat more about your vision for your wedding day

FAQs

How Can I Have an Elegant Wedding Without Spending a Fortune?

To plan a luxurious wedding while staying on budget, consider these strategies:

• Extend Your Engagement: Longer engagements allow more time to find deals and book services early.
• Be Date-Flexible: Choosing your wedding date wisely can save costs.
• Select a Unique Venue: Unconventional venues can be more affordable and memorable.
• Consider Exotic Locations: Sometimes destinations can offer more value.
• Forego a Sit-Down Dinner: Opt for alternative dining options like a brunch menu.
• Incorporate Greenery: Use greenery for decorations as a cost-effective yet elegant choice.
• Be Smart About Flowers: Knowing which flowers are in season can reduce costs.

What’s the Most Economical Way to Get Married?

The most budget-friendly option for getting married is often a registry office wedding or a court house elopement. This choice is particularly appealing for couples looking to save on their wedding expenses. Other ways to save is to hold the wedding on private property and DIY for all the decor, food and other services you would typically book.

When it comes to deciding between elopement vs weddings, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s all about understanding what truly resonates with you as a couple. Weddings are often grand affairs, filled with a multitude of guests, while eloping offers a more intimate and personalized experience, tailored to your preferences, shared only with your nearest and dearest.

In recent years, elopements have been gaining popularity, embodying the essence of adventure and freedom in choosing a unique path to say “I do.” The allure lies in the chance to exchange vows in stunning locations that hold special significance for the couple. Whether it’s a mountaintop ceremony at dawn or a peaceful beach retreat, elopement embraces spontaneity and individuality.

As adventure elopement photographers, we’re here to guide you through the decision-making process between planning a traditional wedding or opting for an elopement. It’s essential to consider the key differences that define each experience. From financial aspects to the size of the guest list and the overall atmosphere, understanding what each choice entails can help you align your celebration with your dreams and values.

The Key Points

• Elopement vs. Wedding Choice: Focuses on personal preference between traditional, larger weddings and intimate, personalized elopements.
• Elopement Characteristics: Intimacy, spontaneity, and the flexibility to choose unique locations, often involving adventure and a smaller guest list.
• Wedding Elements: larger gatherings, incorporating family and friends, traditions, and creating lasting memories through formal or casual settings.
• Cost Comparison: Elopements are generally more affordable, with costs significantly lower than the traditional wedding average ($30,000).
• Location and Personalization: Elopements offer greater freedom in choosing meaningful settings, allowing for a celebration that reflects the couple’s individuality.
• Decision Making: Choose based on what resonates most with you, highlighting the benefits of elopements for a more personalized, less stressful celebration.

What is an Elopement?

Eloping offers a refreshing departure from traditional weddings. It’s about a couple choosing a deeply intimate and personal ceremony, often in a spontaneous or adventureous location. Elopements focus on the pure love and commitment shared between the partners, eschewing the grandeur of a typical wedding.

Characteristics of an Elopement

• Intentionally intimate: Elopng is all about the couple’s connection and love for each other, with an emphasis on their bond rather than external factors.
• Spontaneous and quiet: Eloping is typically planned without telling many people or on short notice, adding an element of surprise and spontaneity to the occasion.
• Personalized experience: Couples can tailor every aspect of their day to reflect their unique relationship and preferences, creating a deeply meaningful and personalized ceremony.
• Focus on love: The focus is the celebration of love between two individuals, making it a romantic and heartfelt experience.

Modern Interpretations of Elopement

In today’s world, eloping has transformed from merely secret weddings. It’s now about so much more than that. Picture this: exchanging vows on a breathtaking mountaintop or saying “I do” on a tranquil beach. These elopements allow couples to pick a spot that truly speaks to who they are and what they love. It’s elopement vs weddings – a choice between tradition and adventure, between conformity and freedom.

Why Choose an Elopement?

Elopements offer couples a chance to create a wedding experience that truly mirrors their relationship. Whether it’s escaping the pressures of a traditional wedding or opting for a more intimate celebration, planning an elopement gives couples the freedom to exchange vows authentically. The choice between elopement vs weddings allows for a more personal and meaningful way to celebrate love and commitment.

Embracing the Spirit of Adventure

Eloping isn’t just about tying the knot; it’s about embarking on a meaningful journey together. Opting for this path allows couples to center on the thrill of launching their next life chapter in a manner that resonates with their true selves.

Capture the essence of your love story with stunning elopement photography. Reach out to me to discuss your vision for your elopement.Let’s get started.

What is a Wedding?

A wedding is a meaningful event where two individuals join in marriage, symbolizing their love and commitment. This special occasion marks the beginning of a new chapter in the couple’s lives. Weddings bring together diverse customs and traditions, crossing cultural, ethnic, and religious boundaries to create a unique tapestry of celebration.

Celebrating Love and Commitment

At the heart of it all, a wedding is a beautiful celebration of love and commitment shared between two partners. It’s a moment where they openly declare their devotion to each other, surrounded by family and close friends who join in their happiness. The vows and rings they exchange symbolize the promises they make to stand by each other through all of life’s ups and downs.

Embracing Traditions and Customs

Weddings weave together unique traditions and customs from diverse cultures and regions. The couple’s attire and ceremonial rituals are steeped in symbolic meaning, reflecting their heritage and values. Whether opting for a formal indoor gathering or a relaxed outdoor bash, weddings serve as a beautiful tapestry of personal stories and shared love.

Creating Lasting Memories

Weddings go beyond the ceremony – they’re a chance to craft enduring memories with those who matter most. From heartfelt toasts to unforgettable dance floor moments, every part of the day weaves a tapestry of shared experiences. These memories become treasured keepsakes, bringing smiles to the couple for years to come.

A wedding isn’t just a legal union; it’s a celebration of emotional connections and shared aspirations that define a couple’s journey. Filled with love, joy, and the promise of a future grounded in respect and partnership, it marks a significant milestone in their lives.

In contrast to the personal intimacy of an elopement, weddings often involve the input of many. However, embracing nature and adventure can infuse the celebration with an authentic, non-traditional spirit. Whether exchanging vows amidst towering trees or dancing under the stars, choosing an outdoor setting can add a touch of magic and wonder to the day.

Freeze the moment in time with compelling wedding photography. Ready to go on an adventure together? Let’s talk.

Elopement vs Wedding: Understanding the Key Contrasts

Both options hold distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences and circumstances. Let’s dig into the key differences between an elopement day and a wedding day to help you navigate through these options.

Definition and Misconceptions

Elopements aren’t just about quick, secretive ceremonies anymore. They’ve transformed into intentional and deeply personal celebrations. Forget the misconception that eloping is all about spontaneity; it’s really about prioritizing intimacy and authenticity over traditional grandeur. This evolving trend embraces individuality and meaningful expressions of love, making it a more personal and desirable choice than a traditional wedding.

With adventure elopements, what we specialize in we see couples diving into what has brought them together from their love for the National Parks to epic adventures together in the wilderness. They are choosing to celebrate in the most true to them way.

Cost Comparison

Last year, in the United States, the average cost of a wedding tallied around $30,000, as per a survey of 12,000 couples nationwide conducted by The Knot. Eloping doesn’t come with a set price tag, but typically, couples invest between $8,000 and $25,000 based on research we ourselves did with couples who eloped. This is a significant contrast to the average cost of $33,000 for a traditional wedding within the United States.

When couples choose to elope, they often prioritize what truly matters to them, letting go of the rest. This may mean allocating a bit more budget to the elements that hold the most meaning Moreover, elopement venues typically come with a lower price tag compared to conventional wedding locations.

Guest List and Intimacy

Adventure elopements usually involve just the couple, or a very small group of up to 10 guests, embarking on a journey to celebrate their love in a breathtaking outdoor setting. These intimate gatherings focus on creating a profound connection between the couple and nature, enhancing the overall experience with a sense of adventure and authenticity. We find that the fewer people you invite to your elopement day, the more you can dive into adventures and spend the day in a way the most intentional and stress free.

Intimate weddings typically include around 20 to 50 guests, allowing couples to share their special day with their closest friends and family members in a more personal setting. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, these weddings offer a unique blend of romance and intimacy, creating unforgettable memories for all in attendance.

In contrast, traditional weddings often have over 100 guests, with a focus on formalities and larger celebrations. While still filled with love and joy, these weddings may not offer the same level of intimacy and connection as smaller gatherings or elopements in the great outdoors.

Location Flexibility and Personalization

Eloping offers a unique sense of freedom by allowing couples to choose unconventional and personalized settings for their special day. 

A few popular choices for elopements:

• National Parks
• Secluded beaches
• Landmarks in cities
• Film locations

The freedom of choice sparks creativity and enables a celebration that is deeply personal and reflective of the couple’s true essence. We highly recommend selecting an elopement location from the heart, rather than searching externally on social media. The more personal your choices are in planning your elopement day the more memorable and you it will be.

Check out a few of our favorite locations to elope in.

Deciding What Fits You: Personalizing Your Elopement or Wedding

When it comes to deciding whether an elopement or a traditional wedding is the right fit for you as a couple, personalization plays a crucial role. Whether you want a big party or you’re looking for an elopement or intimate wedding, here are some key considerations to help guide you in personalizing your big day.

Self-Reflection and Priorities

Taking the time for self-reflection and discussing your priorities as a couple can set the tone for the type of celebration that best aligns with your relationship. Consider your values, dreams, and what truly matters to both of you to determine the direction of your special day.

Adventure and Meaningful Wedding Experience

Elopements offer a unique opportunity to prioritize adventure and create meaningful experiences that resonate with your love story. Embrace the chance to focus on memorable moments over traditional formalities, allowing your day to be a true ode to your shared adventures.

Customizing Your Ceremony

Infusing your personalities and unique love story into your ceremony can make your focus of the day exactly what you want. Explore ways to personalize your vows, ceremonies, and rituals to reflect the essence of your relationship and create a moment that is exclusively yours.

Considering Family and Friends: Big Wedding or Intimate Wedding?

While eloping is often an intimate affair, finding ways to involve your loved ones can add richness to your celebration. It’s essential to balance including close friends and family while maintaining the intimacy and authenticity of your big day. This ensures that their presence enhances the significance of your day. Whether you want a small wedding or a large wedding who you want to be there is an important consideration.

We have found that no matter what once you start adding guests to your adventure elopement you will have to start making choices based on your desires and your guest’s needs/expectations. We highly recommend booking a full day or multi-day elopement to ensure the best experience for you two and your guests where you can share quality time all around.

Legalities and Logistics

Navigating the legal aspects of wedding planning is crucial to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. Every destination will have different processes for obtaining marriage licenses, witness requirements and even permits for remote locations or destination weddings, understanding the legalities and logistics involved can help you plan a seamless celebration. 

Obtaining marriage licenses are the same for traditional weddings and elopements, however, special use permits are unique to elopements. We are here to help all of our couples navigate this though and the process is pretty easy.

Your elopement should be as extraordinary as your love. Limited dates are available.Talk to an adventure elopement photographer.

Popular Trends in Elopement Destinations

Couples are embracing unique and personalized ways to say “I do” in stunning locations that truly reflect their love story. Let’s explore some of the popular trends in elopement destinations that are captivating the hearts of adventurous couples worldwide. Remember, it is great to start exploring based on these popular locations, but when picking an elopement location pick somewhere that already means a lot to you or would be a dream destination.

Mountain Escapes and Wilderness Elopements

Escape to the mountains and feel the rush of adventure as you exchange vows in these popular elopement destinations:

• The majestic cliffs of Yosemite National Park
• The forests of the Smoky Mountains
• The stunning lush mountains and forests within Washington State, where we call home.

Beach Elopements and Coastal Charms

Eloping on the beach is a popular and fairly simple way to get married. The tranquil sound of waves and soft sands beneath your feet both add to making beaches an excellent location for tying the knot.

Surrender to the allure of the sea with these enchanting beach elopement locations:

• The pristine shores of Maui, where the gentle lull of waves sets the stage for a dreamy ceremony
• The white sandy beaches of the Bahamas, providing a picturesque backdrop for an intimate exchange of vows
• Our personal favorites would be the Oregon coast or the coast of Olympic National park!

Urban Elopements and City-Chic Celebrations

Experience the lively and stylish side of eloping in the city, where modern couples can celebrate their love in the heart of a bustling city. Whether you choose a busy cityscape or a hidden urban gem, these locations blend contemporary charm with cultural richness for a unique and chic celebration.

Immerse yourself in the urban charm of these city-chic elopement destinations:

• The bustling streets of New York City, where the iconic skyline adds a touch of glamour to your celebration
• The hidden courtyards of Barcelona, offering a blend of modern sophistication and historic charm

Adventurous Elopements and Worldwide Destinations

Ignite the spirit of exploration with a destination elopement. Celebrate your love in a new and captivating setting, creating unforgettable memories as you embark on a travel-filled adventure together. Whether it’s a charming European village or a tropical paradise, destination elopements promise a fusion of romance and discovery. Eloping abroad can also be a great way to combine your wedding and honeymoon all in one.

Adventurous elopement destinations around the world:

• Eloping in New Zealand! Did you know Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world? Come here to enjoy a slower pace, the wine and adventures from incredible mountain hikes to stunning lakes.
• Enjoy climbing together on the coast of Greece with a romantic sunset ceremony overlooking the coast.
• Visit the land of Fire and Ice, Iceland of course! From Ice cave tours, horse back rides on the coast to chasing the Northern Lights if it is the right time of year.

There are so many beautiful places to elope the list could be endless. Discover some of the best spots with our list of the best places to elope in the US and worldwide.

Is it better to elope or have a wedding?

We would recommend on going with the option that means the most to you. The reasons to do one or the other range from family expectations, budget constraints, and a hundred other reasons that could affect your decision. You have to go with the option that just feels right for you and your partner, and understand that there could always be problems going one way or the other.

Our personal recommendation is to elope because it’s going to be more personalized, less stress and all around more intentional for your relationship. Embrace what makes your relationship unique and cherish the moments that hold the most significance to both of you.

Elopements are about the journey, not just the destination. Let’s capture your adventure together. Talk to an adventure elopement photographer.

Just starting out and want help in the beginning stages of planning an elopement? Reach out for a free consult!

Picture this: a breathtaking mountain vista as your backdrop, the crisp air filling your lungs, and your hearts beating in tandem with the pulse of nature. This is the magic of an adventure elopement – a unique and intimate way to make your elopement truly reflect who you are as a couple.

If you’re considering eloping and want to make it an unforgettable wedding day experience, filled with adventure and personal touches, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore ideas for how to make your elopement into a day that is as special and individual as your love story.

As adventure elopement photographers, we will walk you through everything to make your elopement day special. From selecting the perfect location that speaks to your soul to incorporating meaningful rituals that celebrate your journey together, we’ll dive into the details that will elevate your big day from a simple ceremony to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. So, grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s embark on this exhilarating journey to make an elopement of your dreams.

Choosing the Perfect Elopement Destination: How to Make Your Ceremony Special

When planning an elopement, choosing the perfect destination is crucial to creating a memorable and personalized experience that reflects your unique bond as a couple. By considering your shared passions and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, you can find a setting that truly speaks to your love story.

Considering Your Shared Passions

Think about what activities bring you joy and what locations hold special meaning for both of you. Whether you both love hiking in the mountains, relaxing by the beach, or exploring quaint towns, incorporating these shared passions into your destination elopement can add a meaningful touch to your day. Consider how you can infuse elements of your hobbies and favorite pastimes into the location choice, creating a backdrop that resonates with your personality.

For example, when Bill and I ourselves eloped we chose Mt Rainier National Park because it is where Bill knew he wanted to marry Traci and where Traci had many personal connections. Together though, the park is home to what was a bucket list hike for us both – the wonderland trail.

Many of our couples also have made a location choice based on shared connections or interests. For example, one of our couples got engaged in Yosemite National Park on a big hike, something they go to the park to do yearly. So when it came to getting married they chose a new hike in the park, equally as challenging as the one they got engaged on!

Planning an Elopement: Researching Off-The-Beaten-Path Locations

To make your elopement truly unique and intimate, consider exploring lesser-known destinations or hidden gems. This will provide a ceremony location that aligns with your vision of a special and unique elopement. Look beyond the popular tourist spots and delve into places that offer a sense of adventure and seclusion. Research online resources, such as travel blogs, forums, and local recommendations, to uncover hidden treasures that match your criteria for a special elopement location. Embrace the journey of discovering off-the-beaten-path spots that will make it feel like your elopement is an unforgettable adventure.

For example, Horseshoe Bend is a very popular location for tourists to visit in Arizona. Often couples elope here, however, eloping here means no privacy. However, one of our couples decided to elope at the bottom of Horseshoe Bend on a multi-day kayaking experience. It was so much fun and immersive. Plus, it offered a private ceremony.

Need a few ideas on where to start in picking a location? Check out our list of the Best Places to Elope in the US and Worldwide.

Personalizing Your Elopement Experience: Best Elopement Ideas

Planning an elopement opens the door to a world of endless possibilities to craft a truly unique and personal celebration of love. Personal touches are what make your elopement day truly special and memorable. Here are some creative ideas to help you infuse your elopement with unique elements and heartfelt moments.

Make Your Elopement Extra Special: Crafting Personal Vows and Rituals

Writing your own vows is the absolute best way to personalize your elopement ceremony. Take the time to express your feelings and promises to each other in words that are meaningful and heartfelt. Consider incorporating personal anecdotes or memorable moments from your relationship to make your personalized vows even more special.

Additionally, creating unique rituals or ceremonies that symbolize your commitment can add a profound and personal touch to your elopement. Whether it’s a candle lighting ceremony, a handfasting ritual, a sand unity ceremony, or just sharing love letters on the top of a mountain, these meaningful gestures can make your day truly unforgettable.

There is no right or wrong way for an elopement ceremony to be done or even vows. We have seen couples tell stories through their vows, we have seen couples say a line then the next person says a line, and so on throughout their vow reading. We have seen couples read stories of the loved ones they invited instead of reading their vows publicly. Do it your way, do not shy away from being creative.

Unique Elopement Ideas: Incorporate Personal Elements

Infusing your elopement with unique elements is a fantastic way to make your celebration one-of-a-kind. Consider incorporating themed decor that reflects your personality or interests. Whether it’s a bohemian-inspired setup, a vintage theme, or a modern twist, let your imagination run wild. 

Another way to help you make your day feel more special is to think about including interactive experiences for you and your partner. From personalized scavenger hunts to surprise performances, interactive elements can create unforgettable moments on your special day.

Remember, your elopement is an opportunity to celebrate your love in a way that resonates with your unique relationship. Embrace creativity and personalization to make your elopement day as special as your love story and individuality.

Tailored Elopement Attire

Choosing the right attire for your elopement is not just about style; it’s about comfort and practicality, especially for adventurous elopements. Select outfits that not only reflect your personal style but also suit the location you’ve chosen. Whether it’s a majestic mountaintop or a serene forest setting, let your attire complement the surroundings while staying true to who you are as a couple.

Another way to celebrate your unique story is by expressing your personality in your attire. One of the best ways to look your best is to feel your best. Make sure you choose attire that reflects your individual style or opt for something with sentimental value.

We love seeing custom suits with a Milky Way pattern on the inside, We’ve even seen portraits of couples’ pets embroidered on a groom’s shoes, and we have seen bolo ties from passed down generations. It can be uniquely you, or sentimental to honor your loved ones! For our brides, we highly recommend checking our wedding dress guide for what is most functional and photographs best for an adventure elopement.

Let’s turn your elopement dreams into reality. Reach out now to discuss how we can create magical memories together. Talk to an elopement photographer.

Best Practical Elopement Ideas

When planning an elopement, incorporating unique and personalized touches can make the day even more special. However, you also want things to be practical. Here are some practical elopement ideas to help couples create unforgettable memories:

Adventure Elopement Activities

Embrace the spirit of adventure by planning exhilarating activities for your epic elopement celebration. Consider hiking to a secluded mountaintop for your vows, kayaking in a serene lake, taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise, or simply stargazing under a blanket of stars. Adding adventurous experiences to your elopement will not only create lasting memories but also infuse excitement and spontaneity into your whole day.

Some of our favorite adventures we have captured in the past were:

• Rock Climbing
• Canoeing
• Backpacking
• Star Gazing
• Horseback Riding
• Tennis Match

Intimate Dining Experiences

Set the mood for romance with intimate dining setups that cater to your preferences. Opt for a picnic-style meal in a picturesque meadow, indulge in a beachside dinner as the sun sets over the horizon, or elevate your dining experience and hire a private chef. These intimate dining experiences will enhance the atmosphere of your elopement celebration, allowing you to savor each moment together in a magical setting. Do not worry, we are here to help you connect with all the right people in the area you choose to elope in to offer you the best experience.

Personalized Keepsakes and Mementos

Capture the essence of your elopement day by incorporating personalized keepsakes and mementos. Consider exchanging custom-designed rings that reflect your unique bond, gifting engraved items that hold sentimental value, or exchanging handcrafted treasures that symbolize your love story. These personalized touches will serve as cherished reminders of your elopement day and the profound commitment you share. Some may opt for sharing these items during a first look to make the moment even more memorable.

When Bill and I got engaged I started a journal that I wrote in every single day just a line or two until the day we got married. I gave it to him that morning in the tent and we read through it after our ceremony. This was something so special to our life that we still look at every once and a while. We’ve seen other couples do something similar, exchange gifts or create something new together! One of the neatest things we’ve seen a couple do was create their own soil from where each of them are from in Canada. Then they planted a cactus in it, that they named after where they were eloping, during their ceremony.

Adventure awaits! Get in touch to discuss how we can document your unique elopement journey with stunning photography. Limited dates are available.

Make Your Elopement Special: Capturing the Moments Forever

Embarking on the journey of elopement offers many couples the opportunity to craft a truly unique and intimate experience. One of the most treasured aspects of this momentous occasion is capturing the essence of each part of your day through photography. Here are essential steps to ensure you have everlasting memories to cherish and share.

Elopement Photography: Research and Connect with a Photographer

When planning your elopement, take the time to research and connect with photographers whose style resonates with your vision. Explore their portfolios to ensure their aesthetic aligns with the vibe you wish to capture on your special day. Once you identify potential photographers, reach out to discuss your expectations, share shot ideas, and pinpoint your preferred locations.

Establishing a rapport with your chosen photographer is key to ensuring a seamless experience and authentic results. Building a comfortable relationship will create an atmosphere of trust and collaboration, allowing them to capture the raw emotions and special moments that unfold during your elopement.

When looking for the right elopement photographer we recommend looking at their:

• Google reviews (See what past clients are saying!)
• Look at their photography! Make sure you like the style and moments they capture
• Check out their IG captions + posts to get an idea of their personalities and what is important to them in their work.

Hi! You can get to know us here

Planning for Intimate Photoshoots

To make the most of your intimate elopement photoshoots, consider planning beforehand to outline your preferences and ideas. Communicate openly with your elopement photographer about the elements that are meaningful to you and the moments you want to immortalize through their lens.

Discussing logistics such as timing, lighting, and potential details can help set the stage for a personalized and memorable photo session. Whether it’s a post-ceremony shoot at golden hour or a candid capture of your adventurous spirit, expressing your desires can lead to a more tailored and authentic collection of images that reflect your unique love story.

By selecting a skilled photographer who understands your vision and values, you can entrust them to document the essence of your elopement day. Choose a professional who excels in capturing the adventure and intimacy of your journey, allowing you to relive the magic of this significant milestone for years to come.

Here at Adventure and Vow we do not treat your elopement day like a photoshoot, but as an intimate experience we are telling the story of. We want you to look back and feel the day, relive it, and be proud that it is a reflection of how you two are. Through getting to know each other in the planning stages we achieve a flawless, meaningful time in front of the camera.

Start your elopement journey today. Get in touch with an elopement photographer. 

Embracing Excitement: Make Your Elopement An Adventure Elopement

Elopements are an opportunity to infuse your special day with a sense of adventure, creating unforgettable memories that reflect your shared love for excitement and exploration. By choosing adventure-friendly destinations and incorporating thrilling elements into your ceremony, you can craft a truly unique and remarkable elopement experience that resonates with your individuality as a couple.

Choosing Adventure-Friendly Destinations

When planning an adventurous elopement, selecting a destination that offers a range of outdoor activities can elevate your experience to new heights. Consider destinations known for opportunities like hiking through majestic landscapes, kayaking on tranquil waters, or soaring above scenic views in a hot air balloon. Research safety precautions, local regulations, and reputable resources to ensure a smooth and secure adventure.

Some of our absolute favorite places that leave lasting impressions + offer epic adventures are:

• Moab, Utah
• Washington State
• New Zealand
• Alaska

Ceremony Ideas: Adding a Touch of Excitement to the Ceremony

To add an element of surprise and excitement to your elopement ceremony, think outside the traditional wedding box and embrace unconventional experiences. Imagine exchanging vows during a scenic helicopter ride over breathtaking vistas, embarking on a sunset hiking elopement to a secluded spot for an intimate ceremony, or sailing into the horizon on a private boat tour. These adventurous additions can infuse your elopement day with an extra dose of magic and create lasting memories that truly reflect your shared spirit of adventure.

As you plan your adventurous elopement, remember that the key is to tailor the experience to suit your comfort levels and preferences as a couple. Whether you prefer adrenaline-pumping activities or serene nature escapes, there are endless ways to customize your elopement day to reflect your unique love story and sense of adventure. Dare to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the thrill of the unknown as you embark on this extraordinary journey together.

Let us help you make your elopement day special!

Hi there! We are Traci and Bill, a husband and wife elopement photography team. We believe your elopement day should feel like you, it should be free of judgment and stress. We are here to help you every step of the way when it comes to bringing the vision to life.

Day of? We are there capturing all the magic happening from the adventures to the tender moments.

We can not wait to connect with you both and hear your story!

Let’s Chat!

Our elopement day came and we had zero stress or anxiety because I knew they would help us have the best elopement day ever! They helped us navigate the busy area in the morning for our first look photos, and gave us more private areas for our vows and sunset/star photos. We received our sneak peaks that evening and were completely in love with them! Now that we have our full album, I find myself looking through them so often, and our friends and families are always speechless looking at them!

Traci and Bill, we can’t thank you enough! We could write an entire book of a review to say how thankful we are to have worked with you on our elopement day. We hope to be in your area in the future to meet up again for some fun and anniversary photos!

Taylor + Clayton | Flagstaff, AZ Elopement