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