Wanderful Vows https://wanderfulvows.com/ Washington Elopement Photographer Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:12:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://wanderfulvows.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Boot-Black-150x150.png Wanderful Vows https://wanderfulvows.com/ 32 32 How to Choose Your Elopement Location https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-choose-your-elopement-location/ https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-choose-your-elopement-location/#respond Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:02:50 +0000 https://wanderfulvows.com/?p=637 So you’ve decided you want to elope but have no idea how to choose your elopement location? Not to worry, this blog details everything you should consider when trying to figure out WHERE you want to elope to.

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oregon coast elopement photographer

So you’ve decided you want to elope but have no idea how to choose your elopement location? Not to worry, this blog details everything you should consider when trying to figure out WHERE you want to elope to.

Table of Contents

Have an Elopement Brainstorming Date

First things first, I’ve talked about this before, but it’s absolutely crucial to having a truly unique and memorable elopement day. Think of this date as a “trial run” of how you both hope to get married. This is the time where you both can sit together and really figure out what you want out of your day.

Furthermore, everything from the sights, sounds, and the things you do on your elopement will be mostly figured out on this brainstorming date. So take your time and HAVE FUN with it. I mean, let your imaginations run wild. Dream up the most incredible day you both could imagine, and write it down. Ask each other questions, take turns imagining the feelings and sensations you want to experience.

Often times, what you both think up here can surprise each other. It’s also a great time for the two of you to feel included in the major decision making.

north cascades elopement photographer

Narrow Down Your Must Have's

Now that you’ve come up with a giant master list of ideas and possible wants you both have for your elopement day, it’s time to narrow it down. With the list narrowed down, it’ll make it easier to figure out how to choose your elopement location. This is when you see what is most important to you both. What sorts of things are a must, what isn’t that important, and what activities you would both really want to do together. Having all of these details written down will make it easier when it comes to the next step…RESEARCH.

washington coast elopement photographer

Time to Research

This is one of my favorite parts of the whole elopement planning process. Now is the time to take your top 3 wants and figure out how you can make it happen. This is the time to let your imaginations run wild and get a feel for the spots that make your heart flutter. Write down the locations that exhilarate you to imagine getting married at. Once you’ve compiled your list, look at the places that have the most common features. Chances are, that’s where your heart is leading you. Lastly, if this all seems a little hard to imagine doing on your own, rest assured I’ve got you covered. I can help you location scout and find the spot that will fit your needs best. Read on for more things to consider during your research phase.

Things to Consider When Deciding How to Choose Your Elopement Location

Do you want to involve friends and family?

Next you’ll have to think about whether you want to include family and friends on your elopement day. Figuring this out will help you to eliminate elopement locations that are not easily accessible to large groups. There are a lot of different ways you can choose to include your family in your elopement, even if they don’t attend your actual elopement day. You can choose to break up your wedding day into times when family will be with you and other times of day where it will be a private time for you both.

If you’re struggling on how to include family and friends  on your elopement day check out my blog here for more ideas to help you get started.

What kind of scenery do you want to be surrounded by?

The kind of scenery and landscape you want to be in plays the biggest role in finding your elopement location. I mean, you don’t want to dream about a rocky southwestern wedding, while looking at places local to the Pacific Northwest.

In addition, when you figure out the general area that checks off your main wants, you can look at the activities that are common in that area. So, if you want to go kayaking, does the area you want have a lot of lakes and rivers you could choose from?

Also, if flying in from another state, you’ll also need to consider how close the destination is to airports and lodging. Do you want to be close to major airports or do you want to make a bit of driving part of your elopement adventure?

Consider the Seasons

Finally, you’ll want to think about what kind of weather you want for your elopement day. Are you both dreaming of a spectacular alpine view where you can meander through trails and see wildflowers galore? Or are you hoping for a winter wonderland full of snowy adventures? Taking the time to decide what time of year you want to elope in will help you decide which elopement location is best during that season.

Here in Northwest Washington, summers are typically mild and you will have access to the best mountain views and trails. Whereas, during the winter, the Southwestern states like Utah and Arizona or even Florida and the rest of the Southern states will give you a much milder temperatures.

oregon coast adventure wedding photographer

Wrapping it Up

In the end, wherever you choose to elope will be magical. You just always need to remember to put your values first and not worry about the rest. If you feel like you need some help planning and finding the perfect location for your elopement, feel free to hit that inquire button. I absolutely love helping all of my couple’s find and plan the best elopement day ever.

Contact Me Here

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]]> https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-choose-your-elopement-location/feed/ 0 How to Include Loved Ones in Your Elopement https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-include-loved-ones-in-your-elopement/ https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-include-loved-ones-in-your-elopement/#comments Wed, 15 Mar 2023 16:03:08 +0000 https://wanderfulvows.com/?p=520 Table of Contents So you may be thinking of eloping but you’re torn on how to include family in your elopement. Don’t worry! A lot of couples have those same concerns before they choose to elope. In this blogpost I’ll cover a few ideas and tips on how you can have a private elopement and […]

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wildflower elopement

Table of Contents

So you may be thinking of eloping but you’re torn on how to include family in your elopement. Don’t worry! A lot of couples have those same concerns before they choose to elope. In this blogpost I’ll cover a few ideas and tips on how you can have a private elopement and still include your loved ones!

Include Loved Ones in Your Planning

First things first, even though you may choose to not have friends and family present in your elopement, you can definitely have them involved in the planning process. Believe me when I tell you that there is a lot of planning that can go into an elopement, so having help and advice can be a welcome change! By including your loved ones in the planning process, you’re giving them a chance to feel included and important.

You can invite them to help you find the perfect wedding attire or even have them give you advice on finding the perfect wedding gift for your partner. Sometimes, just by keeping them “in the loop” is enough. Remember, as much as it’s sweet to include your loved ones in your elopement, you don’t have to. Your elopement day is a day to make both you and your partner happy, not everyone else.

loved ones in your elopement

Top 5 Ways to Include Family in your Elopement

1. Have Loved One's Write Letters to You

how to include loved ones in your elopement

First of all, I think this may be my favorite way to include family in your elopement. Call me a romantic, but I think that reading a handwritten letter is such a special thing. In this age of technology, having someone take the time to write you a special note about your elopement is absolutely heartwarming.

You can take the time to slow down on your elopement day to read these letters to each other. I promise, it’ll be such an emotional experience. Not to mention, you’ll be able to save the letters for years to come and can even make a tradition of rereading them every year.

2. Wear or Bring a Momento to your Elopement

larrabee state park elopement

Another fun way to include your friends and family in your elopement is to bring something special from them to your elopement ceremony. This can be jewelry that is special to your loved ones that you can wear on your day.

Another idea would be to make or have a quilt made of fabrics that each of your family members have chosen. They can even write something special on each piece of fabric and you can use it to have a picnic on, or cuddle together! Imagine the heirloom piece that you’d have for years to come!

3. Have a "We Eloped" Party

mountain elopement

This is another great way to include family in your elopement! A lot of times couples want to elope in a private ceremony, but they have a small “We Eloped” party for their most closest friends and family after saying their vows.

This celebration is a great way to bridge the gap between having a personal and private elopement ceremony and having loved ones still be present on your day. There are so many creative ideas you can do here, feel free to be as creative and personal as possible! Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Reserve a brewery to celebrate after your elopement ceremony
  • Rent out a few cabins and have a weekend “summer camp” style celebration full of fun and get togethers
  • For star lovers, you can invite friends and family to have a catered meal under the stars or even in a planetarium

4. Incorporate Important Colors into your Ceremony

Next, this is an idea I love because it’s a way to make your bouquet and florals have some extra pops of color and some added personality! Just have your loved one’s pick their favorite ribbon or string/lace/etc. and add it wherever you see fit!

You don’t even have to add it to just florals, you can make a super personal handfasting ribbon to use during your ceremony. Another way to use colored ribbons to include your family into your elopement is to have special braided bracelets, headpieces/bands, or even having a knit shawl or socks in their chosen colors to wear on your elopement day! This is a funky way to bring a little whimsy into your elopement.

5. Have a Viewing Party

Lastly, you can host a photo viewing party with all of your loved ones! This is such a great way to, not only relive the moments of your elopement, but to share all of the feelings you felt that day with others of your choosing. I mean, you can make a whole night of it! Imagine setting up a projector, surrounding your backyard area with comfy seating, eating some yummy food, and sharing your emotional elopement pictures with your most important friends and family!

Wrapping Up How to Include Family in your Elopement

There you have it, a few of my most favorite ways to include family in your elopement, even if they’re not physically with you. If you’re ready to start planning your own elopement day, feel free to hit that inquire button below and I’d love to help you on your elopement planning process. You can also check out my blog on How to Choose Your Elopement Location for more elopement planning help.

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]]> https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-include-loved-ones-in-your-elopement/feed/ 1 Artist Point Elopement https://wanderfulvows.com/artist-point-elopement/ https://wanderfulvows.com/artist-point-elopement/#respond Sat, 25 Feb 2023 01:28:26 +0000 https://wanderfulvows.com/?p=521 Table of Contents Here is the ULTIMATE Artist Point Elopement Guide, so you can have an amazing elopement filled with adventure and meaningful moments. I have filled this blog post with everything you’ll need to know before you have your adventure elopement day. So get out a pen and paper so you can jot down […]

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artist point elopement

Table of Contents

Here is the ULTIMATE Artist Point Elopement Guide, so you can have an amazing elopement filled with adventure and meaningful moments. I have filled this blog post with everything you’ll need to know before you have your adventure elopement day. So get out a pen and paper so you can jot down some notes, or save this post for reference!

artist point elopement

Things to Know before Planning your Artist Point Elopement

First off, getting married in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is not as hard as you think it would be! I think the hardest part is figuring out where and when to have your elopement. That being said, there are a few guidelines to follow before planning your Artist Point Elopement.

  • You DO need to have a permit to have a wedding in the National Forest, it’s not hard to get though! Typically you need to apply a minimum of 3 weeks in advance for Fall/Winter elopements and 6-8 weeks in advance for Spring/Summer elopements
  • Most trails are limited to only 12 heartbeats in attendance, so for example…4 people and 1 dog are counted as 5 separate heartbeats. This is just to keep gatherings very limited so that no one starts going off trail and damaging the alpine vegetation.
  • In Washington state, you need to apply for your marriage license at least 3 business days in advance. (So a Saturday wedding needs to be applied for at the latest on Wednesday.)

  • You also need to have an officiant and two witnesses to sign your marriage license. Technically the witnesses can be people you find on the trail, they don’t necessarily have to be at the vow exchange itself. P.S. I offer complimentary officiant services to all my couples, if wanted!

How to Get to Artist Point

If you’re coming from out of state, your best bet would be to fly into Seattle Int’l Airport and either drive the 3 hour trek to Mt. Baker or take a connecting flight to Bellingham. From Bellingham, it’s only a little over 50 miles to get there. The drive from Bellingham is absolutely beautiful. You can stop in a few cute towns and breweries. The mountain roads are gorgeous, winding and are definitely worth the drive up.

When Should you Get Married at Artist Point?

ANY time of year is a great time to get married at Artist Point. But, I also know that there are some days that can be a bit more magical than others. Here is all you need to know about the different times of year you can have your own Artist Point Elopement.

Spring Elopement Ideas:

Spring is a beautiful time of year here because the days begin to get longer, and are more mild in temperature. Flowers are blooming everywhere and you can feel the hum of brand new life around you. When it comes to elopement activities think: snowshoeing in the backcountry trails, skiing and snowboarding in much milder and sunnier days. Spring is actually one of the BETTER times to have a snowy, winter-like elopement because the spring days are much calmer and less temperamental than winter days. In turn, you’ll have much more predictable weather for your wedding day.

Think:

Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, and more chances to see wildlife that are emerging from winter hibernation.

Summer Elopement Ideas:

Next we have summertime. I think, by far, summer is the most popular time of year here in the Pacific Northwest. The summer temperatures are warm and inviting, also bringing amazing views of the Mt. Baker and Mt. Shuksan peaks. The weather is typically MUCH more predictable during the summer as well. At this point, the snow has already pretty much melted away and left only the tops of the mountain peaks coated in white snow. Summer also brings lush and vibrant colors in the alpine meadows and boasts incredible, blue-green lakes from the river and glacial runoff.

Think:

Camping, hiking and backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and river rafting

Fall Elopement Ideas:

I feel like Fall in itself is a whole vibe. I mean the Pacific Northwest is not super well known for its fall colors…BUT, it does NOT disappoint. Glowing oranges and fire reds are all over the Mt. Baker meadows. The days are a bit shorter and you can begin to feel that crispness in the air. Most of the summertime activities can be still done in the fall, but you can add in blueberry and huckleberry picking as well. You’ll also definitely have more rain and that moody fog that the PNW is known for.

Think:

Camping, hiking and backpacking, rock climbing, mountain biking, river rafting, and mushroom foraging

Winter Elopement Ideas:

Winter in the Mt. Baker area is absolutely beautiful. The mountain peaks here are home to world class skiing, and they have some of the highest snowfall in the world. The major highway leading into the Mount Baker Wilderness area is prone to road closures, so it’s definitely something to keep in mind. Winter weather can be pretty unpredictable and harsh, so being used to alpine winters is super helpful. But if you love winter wonderlands, Mt. Baker has so much to offer.

Think:

Skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, winter fishing, low elevation hikes, and eagle watching

Mt. Baker Elopement Photographer

What to Pack for your Artist Point Elopement

Okay, this is such an important topic, so I’m going to do my best to not be too overwhelming. First and foremost, planning ahead is going to be absolutely key. You can’t have a memorable Artist Point Elopement without taking some time to plan what you need to take with you. Well…I guess you can, but it won’t be memorable in the way that you want it to be. 😉

5 Must Have Essentials:

1. The Right Outerwear

  • Depending on the time of year you choose to elope in the Mt. Baker National Forest, or anywhere else in Washington, outerwear is going to be your BFF. Make sure to pack raincoats, extra jackets, hats, and mittens. Washington is known for its mild weather but if you’re going to be in the higher elevations for either sunrise or sunset, you want to be prepared for colder weather. Plus, you can find SUPER cute coats and even cardigans that will compliment your elopement and make it that much more special.

2. Comfortable Footwear:

  • There’s nothing worse than planning to be out all day in the elements and having the WRONG shoes. Trust me, been there…done that. It’s not fun! You’re going to want to look for comfort and footwear that will have the traction and support you need when hiking those narrow, winding trails. Also make sure that if you’re buying new boots for your elopement, break them in first. Take some time to really walk around in them so that on your wedding day, you’re not worried about blisters.

3.Layers, Layers, Layers

  • Pack wool socks, long sleeve thermal shirts, and even leggings and tights. Consider purchasing tights that are nude toned. This will help them stand out less and still give you some warmth and coverage. Here are two different brands to help start you off, these non-fleece lined one’s have the MOST range in skin tones, and these fleece lined one’s are much more limited but provide pretty good warmth for a good price point! (I’m not affiliated or sponsored by either of these choices.)

4.Snacks

  • Food is maybe something not up too high on your elopement day packing list, but it’s so important! The last thing you want is to be mid-hike and getting “hangry” at the world! Packing a few of your favorite items is a good idea, especially when you’re going to be out in the wild. Some good ideas of small items to pack are: protein bars, fruit sauce packs, jerky, granola bars, trail mix, even a thermos of hot coffee if you’re hiking up at sunrise!

5.Water

  • Finally, I feel like this goes hand-in-hand with the snacks, BUT having enough water for your elopement day is important. Even if you’re not having a long hike, having water can help prevent dehydration and lessen the effects of altitude sickness. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin clear and fresh looking too!

Props + Florals at your Artist Point Elopement

I’m going to try and keep this section short and sweet. The reason for this is, when you’re choosing adventure by having an Artist Point Elopement, you’re choosing to forego all of the traditional wedding day customs. A few of these big customs are having extravagant florals and props/arches. This topic also goes hand in hand with Leave No Trace principles, so if you need any tips on how to have your own LNT elopement, check out that blog here. >>>>> LNT Tips

Generally, it’s safe to assume that most (if not all) props are highly discouraged and not allowed to be brought into the national park. The reason is because most of the typical props are big and can really damage the fragile alpine vegetation. All of the gorgeous wildflowers you see in the meadows are SUPER delicate and take years to recover from damage. So, it’s better to just stay away from props and arches in most national parks.

A Note on Florals

It’s hard to imagine a wedding day without some kind of floral piece, like a bouquet. And the good news is, you CAN bring a bouquet or other small arrangement with you on your wedding day. The general guidelines are:

  • Floral arrangements that are WEED FREE (flowers that are generally considered “weeds”) + SEED FREE (so no flowers that have seed pods or any seeds that can be dropped) are okay to bring
  • Fake flowers are also okay to bring with you on your wedding day

Now this can be a great time to work with local florists to get flowers that are native to the area and have the seasonal colors that you may be hoping for as well. If anything, it’s also a great time to be a DIY’er and find some gorgeous silk flowers from your local craft store to make the bouquet or other flower arrangement of your dreams! I’m all about the do-it-yourself spirit!

artist point elopement guide wedding ring hidden in florals

Nearby Towns + Places to Stay

There are a few different towns to choose from in the area, each having their own special charm! Here are a few places to think about when planning your elopement. I have no affiliation with any of my recommendations here, it’s just a general list to get you started on your search!

  • Glacier, Washington– This is a tiny mountain town with the perk of being right at the gateway to the Mount Baker Wilderness area.
  • There are a lot of cute cabins in the area as well but I love this A-Frame cabin. >>> Rustic Cabin

 

  • Maple Falls, Washington- This town is about 15 minutes to the foot of the National Forest area and is very cute with small town charm.
  • Here is another absolutely adorable A-Frame cabin in the area to check out. >>> Wander A-Frame

What to Eat + Catering

So, now onto the topic of FOOD! What’s a wedding day without some good food to eat?? This is definitely going to require some creativity because there are not a lot of food options once you reach the top of Artist Point at Mt. Baker. BUT, it doesn’t have to be just some granola and trail mix either. Here are my top suggestions on what to pack for your elopement day:

CHARCUTERIE BOARDS

  • I LOVE charcuterie boards. They can be as simple or as fancy as you want them to be. So many places make them and they can bring a touch of whimsy to your elopement day. Plus they’re super easy to pack and can be a great “picnic” type option. Throw in some local craft beer and you’re SET! Plus, bringing a charcuterie board is a great way to support small businesses and sample local meats, cheeses, and even seasonal produce. Lastly, charcuterie boards can be a unique and elegant way to have your first meal as a married couple. Here are a few companies you can check out!

Yeah Baby Boards : Located in Ferndale, WA

Graze and Gather : Located in Lynden, WA

Twin Sister’s Creamery :Located in Ferndale, WA

artist point elopement

More Food Ideas:

PIZZA

Now while eating pizza on your wedding day may not seem like an option, it definitely is! Listen, if you’re not both fancy people who want a big spread, then don’t! Your wedding day should be what you and your partner want, not what you think is “expected.” Here are a few restaurants in the area that you can check out.

Chair 9 : Located in Glacier, WA

The North Fork Brewery : Located in Deming, WA

POST ELOPEMENT PRIVATE CHEF:

  • Okay, I know this one is the COMPLETE opposite of the laid back pizza suggestion I gave you earlier. BUT, hiring a private chef to cook for you on your elopement day is one way to make it ULTRA memorable. I think we all deserve to have that something extra on our wedding day. I mean, imagine coming back to your cozy cabin to a delicious meal for two?! Add, dancing under the stars after your meal and you have one of the most EPIC days ever.
artist point elopement, couple running together after saying their vows

If you’re ready to start planning your elopement at Mount Baker, SO AM I! Choosing WHERE to elope is the hardest part, but choosing your photographer, shouldn’t be. I try and make the process as simple as possible! So hit that contact form below and we can start planning the Artist Point Elopement that is totally and uniquely, you.

Let's Plan my Artist Point Elopement!

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]]> https://wanderfulvows.com/artist-point-elopement/feed/ 0 How to Elope in Washington State https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-elope-in-washington-state/ https://wanderfulvows.com/how-to-elope-in-washington-state/#respond Wed, 18 Jan 2023 22:11:34 +0000 https://wanderfulvows.com/?p=402 What is an Elopement + How to Elope in Washington State There is is something truly exciting about eloping. Unfortunately, there are so many socially ingrained ideas of what it means to elope and how to elope in Washington State. When you choose to elope you’re choosing a path a little less traveled. You’re choosing […]

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how to elope in washington state

What is an Elopement + How to Elope in Washington State

There is is something truly exciting about eloping. Unfortunately, there are so many socially ingrained ideas of what it means to elope and how to elope in Washington State.

When you choose to elope you’re choosing a path a little less traveled. You’re choosing to forego the most well known traditions surrounding weddings, by crafting your own. A true elopement is taking your wedding day and filling it with all of the most important things and experiences.

Imagine the best date you and your partner ever had, I mean, really think about it. Think about the things you did and places you went that truly allowed yourselves to experience each other. Think about the moment you first realized you loved each other, the feeling you had at that moment, and amplify it to the max– that’s what your elopement could be. To elope is to get married intentionally and celebrate your love in its purest, most sincere form.

 

Now, let's get into what an elopement is not...

how to elope in washington state

An elopement is not a whirlwind, spur of the moment decision a couple makes in secret. I mean, don’t get me wrong, the way you plan your elopement day can be a secret decision made between you and your partner, but it doesn’t have to be. Chances are, if you’re thinking of eloping, it’s not because you don’t care about having an important and meaningful day. More so, it’s because the thought of having to share such a momentous experience with people other than your partner, is not something that fills you with joy. Furthermore, it’s not the “old days” anymore where people thought that eloping was something done out of shame or necessity.

 

Simply put, an elopement is the celebration of the love you and your partner share for each other. The way you choose to celebrate that is 100% up to you.

So How do I elope in Washington State?

A lot of couple’s don’t know all of the ins and outs of how to elope–and that’s okay! In reality, it’s really not as complicated or different than a “traditional” wedding. Here in Washington State you need to apply for your marriage license a minimum of 3 days in advance. In addition, you need to have 2 witnesses to sign your marriage license, but they don’t “technically” have to be at your ceremony. However, each state and county has their own official way of doing things so its best to find out legalities of where you want to elope specifically. Lastly, you need someone that is ordained to say those legal words to officially declare you hitched. But no worries, I offer complimentary officiating services to all of my couple’s!

 
how to elope in washington state, couple holding hands

Here are my top 5 reasons to Elope:

  1. First and foremost, my all time, most favorite reason to elope is simply the freedom you have to be your authentic selves. You don’t have to worry about trying to make sure you’re catering to other people’s expectations. Truthfully, being 100% honest in your love for each other should be enough and IS when you choose to find your own traditions and elope.
  2. Secondly, I love elopements because of the creativity you can put into them. You really can make your elopement day as unique and fulfilling as you can imagine it. Be romantic and adventurous and center it around everything you both love doing together!
  3. Let’s face it, there are SOO many of us out there that hate being center of attention. The beauty of eloping is no one has to be around to watch you. You don’t have to deal with awkward family dynamics, inviting people you don’t talk to, or anyone at all. However, you definitely can invite your closest family and friends, but the choice is yours.
  4. Chances are, if you’re here, you love the outdoors, you love adventure and you love to travel. More importantly, when you elope you can bring that wanderlust with you. Elope in the beautiful, wondrous sights that you love.
  5. Lastly, eloping is cost effective. I know, money isn’t a romantic part of planning your future marriage, but its definitely important. The average wedding costs thousands of dollars and that doesn’t even count the honeymoon. In contrast, couple’s typically spend just a fraction of that when they choose to elope.

But how can you make the most out of your elopement day?

So now that you’re hooked on the idea of eloping, you’re probably wondering how to get started. What goes into an elopement? Isn’t it just saying your vows? Most importantly, how can I fill up an entire day like I was reading about earlier?

DO NOT WORRY! I live for the planning portion and can help you figure all those things out. To clarify, it’s WAY simpler than you’re probably imagining.

First off, I love to tell my couple’s to make a date night out of the planning process. Crack open a beer (or bottle of wine) order in and dive in! Sit down together and really try and get a feel of what you want your elopement to feel like. Think about how you want it to look like, imagine sights and sounds you want to experience. Think about your likes and dislikes and how those can play into your elopement. Do you want warm weather or cool weather? What has been your most favorite vacation you’ve been on together?

couple hugging after eloping in washington state

Here are a few more questions to help you get started:

  • What is your favorite thing to do together?
  • Do you like adventurous hikes or would you rather a more laid back experience?
  • If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
  • What’s something new you would both like to experience together?
  • Lastly, what’s a bucket list idea or place you’ve both always wanted to do or visit?

Those are just a few ideas to get your mind rolling. Planning out what to do on your elopement is the best part of it all! For example, I’ll show you a real timeline I’ve put together for an eloping couple.

Sunrise to Sunset Elopement Timeline

Remember…this is just a simple outline of what your elopement day could look like. Times and events would be customized to suit your needs.

4 AM: Get to BNB and get ready to head to XX Trail

4:45 AM: Arrive at XX Trail and begin .75 mile hike

5:15 AM: Look for perfect ceremony spot along the trail

5:35 AM: Ceremony begins during Alpen glow

6 AM: Explore and take portraits

7:15 AM: Head back down to car

8:30 AM: Have breakfast picnic at XY

9 AM: Read family and friend’s letters

10 AM: Head back to BNB, morning coverage wraps up

——-Rest + Reflect——-

3 PM: Meet at XX for Jeep tour of XX trails

6:30 PM: Head back to BNB for private chef’s dinner

7:30 PM: Eat 1st dinner as newlyweds

8 PM: Start campfire for dancing under the stars

9:30 PM: Start taking star portraits

10 PM: Photo coverage wraps up

***Locations changed to protect client privacy

Here are some common questions people have when thinking about eloping:

  • Is eloping legal?
  • YES! An elopement is a legally binding marriage, as long as you follow the rules of the state and county you’re eloping in. Don’t worry, it’s not hard to figure those laws out and I can help walk you through the process if you need!
  • Do I need an officiant?
  • Sometimes, depending on the state you’re eloping in you may need to hire an officiant to perform the legal ceremony for you. But, not all states require this AND I’m officially ordained and able to perform such ceremonies.
  • What if I don’t want to get officially married on my elopement day?
  • You don’t have to! As a matter of fact, a lot of couple’s choose to do the official marriage paperwork before their elopement just so they don’t have to worry about the legal stuff day of.
  • Can I invite friends and family to my elopement?
  • Most definitely! There are so many different locations that are perfect for inviting your loved ones. I do tend to recommend keeping it closer to 25 people or less.
  • Can I elope in one state but file my marriage license in another state?
  • Absolutely! You can definitely already be married in your home state and still choose to elope somewhere else completely. Remember, your elopement can be a symbolic union solely for the purpose of creating those everlasting memories with each other.

 

Ultimately, the way you choose to get married is up to you.

I think the hardest part about eloping is just figuring out what you want to do! Most importantly, there aren’t any hard and fast rules when it comes to your elopement day. If the thought of eloping is exciting and you want to know more, reach out below and I’ll help you plan the most memorable elopement day ever.

 
Help me Plan my Elopement Day!

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