So you’re wanting to get married in a non-traditional way, but you don’t know how to elope. Eloping isn’t just about running away to Vegas anymore (unless that’s your vibe, in which case — do it!). These days, elopements are less about escaping and more about choosing. Choosing intimacy, adventure, and a wedding day that actually feels like you — cinematic, meaningful, and real.

But here’s the thing: when you strip away the traditions, the venue packages, and the expectations of everyone else, you’re left with… a blank page. That’s exciting, but also a little overwhelming. Where do you even start?

That’s what this guide is for. I’ve photographed couples in deserts, forests, mountaintops, and oceanside cliffs, and every elopement has looked completely different. But the one thing they all have in common? Each couple made intentional choices about what mattered to them.

Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to elope and create a wedding experience that feels like a memory and a movie all at once.

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Step One: Dream Without Limits

Before you get tangled in the logistics of how to elope (permits, Airbnb rules, vendors), take a breath and just dream.

This is where you ask yourselves:

• How do we want to feel on our wedding day? Excited? Calm? Wild?
• If our love story was a film, what genre would it be — road trip adventure, moody indie, romantic fantasy, swoony-worthy musical or coming of age, a cozy slice-of-life?
• What does “unforgettable” mean to us? Is it watching the sunrise together, or skinny-dipping under the stars?

Close your eyes and picture it. Not the outfits or florals just yet — the vibe. Do you hear waves, wind through the trees, or desert silence? Do you see lanterns glowing at night, or a Jeep kicking up dust on a backroad?

To learn how to elope, you need to unlearn what society has told you weddings “should” look like. Because there’s no timeline police, no one telling you what comes after the kiss, and definitely no “this is the right way to elope.”

💡 Pro Tip: Make this fun. Have a date night where you pour a drink, put on a playlist you love, and just talk. Write down every wild or cozy idea you can think of, no matter how unrealistic. You’ll narrow it down later.

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Step Two: Decide Who’s There (and Who Isn’t)

The guest question is often the first fork in the road.

Elopements can mean:

• Just the two of you (the purest form of eloping; private, simple, no distractions).
• A handful of your closest humans (think under 10 people; parents, siblings, or your ride-or-dies).
• A tiny micro-wedding (20–30 guests max; more of a wedding vibe, but still intimate).

The key question: does their presence add to the experience, or take away from it?

If you want privacy but still want family involved, you can:

• Have them write letters you read during your vows.
• Do a quick Zoom or FaceTime toast after the ceremony.
• Throw a post-elopement party when you get home (yes, you still get cake).

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Step Three: Pick Your Backdrop

Here’s where it gets fun. Your location sets the tone of your whole elopement — it’s basically your set design for the movie that is your day.

Think about landscapes first:

• Coastal: Wild cliffs, misty beaches, tidepools. (Cannon Beach, Samuel H. Boardman, Ruby Beach).
• Forest: Redwoods, mossy trails, quiet groves. (Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Olympic National Park).
• Desert: Epic rock formations, starry skies, golden sunsets. (Moab, Joshua Tree, Zion, Page, Sedona).
• Mountains: Big views, alpine lakes, dramatic skies. (North Cascades, Tetons, Glacier).

Now layer in vibe questions:

• How private do you want it to be? Are you okay with hikers in the background, or do you want total seclusion?
• How much effort are you willing to put in? A five-minute walk from the car, or a full day of road-tripping between spots?
• Do you want your Airbnb to be part of the photos (getting ready, cozy evening shots)? If so, pay attention to interior design – it’ll be part of your story.

💡 Pro Tip: You can usually only pick two out of these three: privacy, accessibility, epic views. A spot might be stunning and private, but requires a Jeep, a hike, or a longer drive to the middle of nowhere. Or it might be epic and easy to access, but crowded. That’s part of the trade-off when deciding where and how to elope — and where a photographer who knows the area can help.

Still figuring out where to elope? Check out this blog post.

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Step Four: Think About Seasons

Seasons can totally transform the same location.

• Oregon Coast in summer: Blue skies, golden sunsets, more crowds.
• Oregon Coast in fall: Foggy, moody, and cinematic, but you might get rained on.
• Moab in winter: Gorgeous light, way fewer people, but chilly nights.
• Rockies in spring: Still snowed in. Summer doesn’t really start until July.

Ask yourselves:

• Do we want warm golden light, or fog and drama?
• Are we okay with rain or snow, or do we want sunshine?
• Do we want sunrise (soft, private, magical) or sunset (golden, romantic, moody)?

💡 Pro Tip: Build flexibility into your plans. Weather changes fast. I’ve had couples who got fog when they expected a view — and the photos were even more epic because of it.

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Step Five: Symbolic + Commitment Ceremonies

Talking about how to elope wouldn’t be complete without talking about your ceremony. Let me let you in on a little elopement world secret: a lot of the time when you see couples eloping just by themselves, it isn’t actually their legal wedding day. Like, it’s really common.

Why? Because separating the legal part from the meaningful part makes things so much easier if you’re wanting to elope solo.

Why Couples Do It This Way

• Stress-free: No scrambling to find two random strangers in a trailhead parking lot to sign your license as witnesses.
• Flexibility: You can say your vows anywhere, anytime, without worrying if the spot is “technically” legal.
• Privacy: Some couples want their vows to be completely private, without an officiant or witnesses standing by.
• Less paperwork stress: You can handle the legal stuff at the courthouse before or after, then focus on the experience during your elopement.

The Legal Side

Most states require:

• An officiant.
• Two witnesses.

If you do hire an officiant, they can often bring one witness along — and I’m always happy to be the second witness if needed. But if you want your elopement to be completely private, a symbolic ceremony gives you that freedom.

The Emotional Side

Here’s the thing: your vows are what make your wedding day sacred, not a piece of paper. Many couples choose to treat their elopement as their real wedding day — the day they’ll celebrate and remember — while doing the legal stuff quietly on another date. It doesn’t make the moment less “real.” If anything, it makes it more intentional.

Want to learn more about symbolic ceremonies? Click here.

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Step Six: Lock in the Logistics

Dreaming is the fun part of deciding how to elope — but now it’s time to make sure it all actually works. This doesn’t mean your elopement suddenly becomes a spreadsheet (unless you’re into that). It just means thinking ahead so your day feels easy instead of stressful.

Where to Stay

Your lodging is more than just a bed — it’s part of your story. Getting ready photos in a cluttered hotel room? Not the vibe. Getting ready in a light-filled A-frame cabin in the forest with a hot tub? Instant movie scene.

Things to keep in mind:

• Airbnb vs. VRBO: Airbnb bans “events,” while VRBO tends to be more flexible for groups. Always double-check with your host. VRBO has a search filter where you can find event-friendly rentals.
• Design Matters: If you want photos in your Airbnb, pick a space that feels inspiring. Think: natural light, unique design, cozy textures, wood that isn’t orange.
• Proximity: Don’t book something an hour away from your ceremony spot unless road trip vibes are part of the plan. Long drives can eat into your experience.
• Double Check Before Booking: Make sure your vacation rental host is okay with a photographer coming and taking photos. Some may charge a small fee and not allow it at all.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re inviting guests, book a bigger VRBO for them and keep a smaller Airbnb for yourselves. That way you get privacy and guest comfort.

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Permits + Rules

This is the unsexy but important part of how to elope. Almost every national park, forest, or state park requires a permit to have a wedding ceremony or even to take professional photos.

• Always assume a permit is needed. Some are cheap and simple, others are more detailed.
• Print a physical copy. Rangers can (and do) check.
• Leave No Trace: Most permits include LNT guidelines (no confetti, no sparklers, stay on trail, etc.). It’s about protecting these places for future couples.

💡 Pro Tip: Your photographer (👋) should help you navigate permits — it’s part of the job. Don’t let this stress you out.

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Travel Timing

If you’re flying, give yourself at least three days buffer before your elopement. Trust me — jet lag, altitude, or delayed luggage can mess with your flow. Also, some states require you to pick up your marriage license a minimum of three days in advance. (This can sometimes be waived with a small fee depending on the county.)

• Altitude matters. If you’re eloping in the mountains, give yourself time to acclimate.
• Pack smart. Put the essentials (dress, suit, rings, vows) in your carry-on in case luggage gets lost.
• Plan for downtime. Build in time for naps, wandering, or grabbing coffee in town. That relaxed energy will carry into your photos.

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What to Wear (and Pack)

Elopement attire isn’t just about looking good — it has to work. You’ll likely be climbing over rocks, walking trails, or cozying up in unexpected places.

Clothing tips:

• Test it out: squat, spin, sit, climb a few steps. Can you move?
• Break the rules: white dress not your thing? Wear color. Full tux feel stuffy? Try suspenders or linen pants.
• Layers are your friend: elopements often span sunrise to stars, and temps shift big time.

Shoes:

• Look for good tread + flexibility.
• Break them in before the day (blisters are not romantic).
• Hiking boots with a suit or dress? Surprisingly stylish.

Other Gear:

• Backpack (for snacks, vow books, water, touch-up supplies).
• Refillable water bottle.
• Headlamps or lanterns (for those dreamy night shots).
• Cozy extras like blankets or jackets that still look good in photos.

💡 Pro Tip: You want to know how to elope? Definitely don’t underestimate snacks. A couple granola bars and some trail mix can keep your energy (and mood) steady.

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Step Seven: Book Your Vendor Team

Unlike big weddings, you don’t need a dozen vendors for an elopement. But the right handful can take your day from cool to unforgettable.

Photographer

I’m biased, but choosing an elopement photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. You want someone who:

• Knows the landscapes + locations.
• Helps with timelines, logistics, and permits.
• Gets your vibe (and doesn’t try to make you fit into stiff poses).
• Will capture both the big cinematic moments and the quiet, in-between ones.

Florals

A bouquet or boutonniere instantly adds a wedding feel, even if you’re barefoot on the beach. Bonus: flowers look amazing in photos.

• Choose hardy blooms that can handle the outdoors (florists who specialize in elopements get this).
• Think beyond bouquets: flower crowns, pocket florals, or even floral accents on your backpack.
• Make sure your florist avoids invasive species that could harm the environment.

As with all things regarding how to elope, if you don’t want florals, you don’t have to get them!

Hair + Makeup

Even for low-key elopements, professional styling can help you feel your best. Just keep it you.

• Skip the over-glam look—it won’t feel authentic outdoors.
• Test your style beforehand.
• If you’re doing sunrise, consider DIY (with a practice run or tutorial) since stylists don’t always work at 3 a.m.

Food

This is a celebration — feed yourselves!

Options include:

• Private chef: They come to your Airbnb and cook a custom meal. Super intimate, super fun.
• Catering/takeout: Easy if you’ve got guests.
• Pizza: Technically still takeout, but it deserves its own bullet point. Elopements and pizza are just meant to be. 🖤🍕🫶
• Picnic: Pack champagne, charcuterie, or even fast food if that’s your vibe.
• Cake or dessert: Yes, you can still cut a cake while barefoot in the sand.

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Other Vendors to Consider

• Videographer: Perfect if you want motion + sound (especially for sharing with family).
• Officiant: Required in most states, unless you’re somewhere self-solemnizing (or I can officiate).
• Event Rentals: In case you’re imaging a tablescape for your elopement dinner.
• Musician: Acoustic guitar on a cliff? Goosebumps.
• Guides: For activities like Jeep tours, canyoneering, helicopters or hot air balloons.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t hire vendors because you feel like you “should.” Only bring in people who actually add to the experience you want.

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Step Eight: Make It More Than Just a Ceremony

Here’s the secret to the best elopements: they’re so much more than a quick vow exchange + photos. They’re about the entire day. Think about it like this — your wedding day should be one of the best adventures of your lives, not just a 30-minute event.

Build in Activities That Feel Like You

This is where your personalities and quirks get to shine. Your activities can be simple or wild, spontaneous or planned.

Ideas for your day:

• A sunrise hike to start the morning in golden light.
• Road-tripping along the coast, pulling over at hidden spots.
• Reading your vows on a cliff and then jumping into the ocean.
• A slow morning in your Airbnb, making coffee in your pajamas.
• A cozy evening with champagne and a campfire.
• Stargazing with lanterns or a telescope.
• A hot tub session under the stars, complete with snacks.
• Writing vows together before the ceremony.
• Kayaking, horseback riding, or even taking a helicopter ride.
• Serenading your partner if you sing or play an instrument.

The point isn’t to make your day look epic for Instagram — it’s to make it feel like you. Maybe that’s dancing barefoot in the sand, or maybe it’s sharing takeout on a cabin porch.

💡 Pro Tip: Think of your elopement as a “choose your own adventure” book. You don’t have to cram in everything — you just need the handful of moments that will make you look back and think, “that was so us.”

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Step Nine: Craft a Timeline That Breathes

If you want to know how to elope, you should know you do need a timeline of some sort. Not a rigid, minute-by-minute schedule — but a flow that gives space for spontaneity while making sure you don’t feel rushed.

Why a Timeline Matters

• Light changes quickly (especially at sunrise/sunset).
• Travel between locations can eat more time than you think.
• Activities (like picnics or vow readings) feel better when you’re not stressing about the clock.

Sample Elopement Flow (Full-Day)

• Morning: Slow breakfast, getting ready photos, reading letters from family.
• Midday: Road trip to your first location, first look, private vows.
• Afternoon: Exploring, snacks, maybe a picnic.
• Evening: Ceremony at golden hour, portraits in epic light.
• Night: Champagne, stargazing, hot tub, fire pit, night photos.

Tips for a Great Timeline

• Build in breathing room — don’t schedule things back-to-back.
• Be realistic about drive times (Google Maps is often optimistic).
• Factor in how much you like being in front of a camera. (Don’t worry — my style is hands-off, so it won’t feel like a photoshoot marathon.)

💡 Pro Tip: Give yourself at least one “buffer” activity. That could be an extra spot we may or may not stop at, depending on energy and light. It keeps things flexible and stress-free.

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Step Ten: Expect Imperfection (and Embrace It)

Here’s the truth: no elopement day goes 100% according to plan. And that’s not a bad thing.

Clouds might roll in and cover your sunset. A trail might be closed. Your champagne pop might spray sideways instead of up. But those little imperfections? They become part of your story.

I’ve seen couples laugh their way through rain, dance in the fog, and pivot from Plan A to Plan C — and those moments always end up as their favorites.

Mindset Tips for the Day

• Let go of “perfect.” Focus on connection, not control.
• Stay hydrated + fed. Nobody wants hangry vows.
• Build in breaks. Sit, breathe, take it in.
• Have a backup plan. And trust that it’ll still be incredible.

💡 Pro Tip: Some of the most cinematic photos happen because of weather shifts. Fog, wind, even a sudden downpour all create atmosphere. Don’t fight it, lean into it.

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Step Eleven: Pack Smart, Stay Comfortable

The practical stuff about how to elope can make or break how your day feels.

Must-Haves:

• Marriage license + permits (and copies).
• Vows (handwritten in a book looks amazing in photos).
• Rings.
• Layers (jackets, blankets, gloves if needed).
• Snacks + water.
• Phone battery pack.
• Headlamps.
• Tissues (yes, you’ll probably cry).

Optional but fun:

• Champagne or your favorite drink.
• A playlist + portable speaker for your first dance.
• Cozy extras like a throw blanket, hats, or funky sunglasses.
• Adventure gear (hiking poles, crampons, swimsuits—whatever your plan calls for).

💡 Pro Tip: Put all the most important stuff (rings, vows, license, attire) in your carry-on if you’re flying. Luggage gets lost—your elopement essentials shouldn’t.

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Step Twelve: Trust the Flow

At the end of the day, your elopement is about you two. Not your parents’ expectations, not tradition, not Instagram.

The best advice I can give? Be present. Laugh when things go sideways. Kiss a lot. Remember that the reason you chose to elope in the first place was to have a day that felt like you — not a performance for anyone else.

Your job is to live it. My job is to turn it into art.

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Your “How to Elope” Planning Checklist

Dream the Vision

• Talk about how you want your day to feel.
• If your elopement was a movie, what genre would it be?
• Brainstorm activities + landscapes without editing yourselves.

Decide on Guests

• Just you two? A handful of ride-or-die friends/family?
• Remember: invite only those who add joy, not drama.
• If no guests, consider ways to still include loved ones (letters, video calls, post-elopement party).

Choose the Backdrop

• Mountains, desert, forest, or coast — what’s your vibe?
• Balance accessibility, privacy, and epic views (pick 2).
• Think about whether your Airbnb/cabin will be part of your photos.

Pick the Season + Time of Day

• Golden sunsets, moody fog, snowy peaks — what matches your vision?
• Be realistic about crowds, heat, cold, or rain.
• Sunrise = private + soft light. Sunset = golden + dramatic.

Symbolic / Commitment Ceremonies

• Decide if you want your elopement day to be your legal wedding day or just your vow/commitment day.
• Remember: most states require an officiant + two witnesses for the license.
• If you don’t want to deal with that during your elopement, do the paperwork separately at the courthouse.
• Ask your officiant if they can bring a witness (I can be the second if needed).
• Treat your vows as the heart of your ceremony — the legal part can be just paperwork.
• I can officiate for ceremonies with less than 6 people total.

Lock in Logistics

• Book your lodging (VRBO for groups, Airbnb for cozy solo stays).
• Apply for permits (always assume you’ll need one).
• Build in at least 2 days buffer before the ceremony if traveling.

Plan Your Attire + Gear

• Wear something you can actually move in.
• Break in your shoes.
• Bring layers, snacks, water, and headlamps for after dark.
• Put rings, vows, and marriage license in your carry-on.

Book Your Vendors

• Photographer (not just for photos, but planning + guidance).
• Optional: videographer, florals, hair + makeup, private chef, officiant, musician, guides.
• Only hire vendors who genuinely add to your experience.

Plan Activities

• Road trips, hikes, beach walks, picnics, campfires, stargazing.
• Mix big cinematic moments with quiet, personal ones.
• Don’t overstuff, leave breathing room.

Create a Timeline That Breathes

• Factor in travel + light.
• Build in downtime (coffee breaks, cuddles, snacks).
• Keep one “flex” activity you can add or skip depending on how you feel.

Day-Of Essentials

• Marriage license + permits.
• Vows + rings.
• Snacks + water.
• Battery packs, tissues, layers, cozy extras.
• Offline maps downloaded in advance.

Mindset

• Let go of “perfect.”
• Stay hydrated + fed.
• Embrace weather + surprises as part of your story.
• Be present with each other — that’s what it’s all about.

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Closing Thoughts

Here’s the thing: thinking about how to elope isn’t just about skipping a big wedding. It’s about reclaiming your wedding day as something that’s real, raw, and deeply yours.

Your love doesn’t need a ballroom or a guest list of 200 to be worthy of celebration. It deserves a day where you can breathe, laugh, cry, and be completely yourselves — whether that looks like foggy cliffs at dawn, a desert road trip, or a candlelit Airbnb dinner for two.

At the end of the day, your elopement should feel like art and memory all at once — an experience that’s as cinematic as it is personal. That’s why I do what I do. My job isn’t just to take photos; it’s to help you craft a day that feels alive and true, and then capture it in a way that lets you relive it forever.

So if you’re ready to ditch “supposed to” and plan something unforgettable, know this: when it comes to how to elope, there are no rules. Just you, your love, and the adventure you choose to make together.